Steve Levy

For more than 20 years now, Suffolk County has had Steve Levy serving the public. In 1985, a 26-year-old Levy won election to the Suffolk County Legislature, a position he held for 15 years. While a legislator, Levy held the top job as presiding officer and was also chair of the Ways and Means Committee. In 2000, Levy set his sights on Albany and got his chance to serve his district in the New York State Assembly. But when former Suffolk County Executive Robert Gaffney decided not to run for re-election in 2003, Levy rolled the dice. He faced down a tough challenge by Bill Cunningham to win the Democratic nomination and then won the general election to become the seventh Suffolk County executive. Levy’s road has not been without the proverbial bumps. A steadfast and determined leader, his brash style has at times conflicted with colleagues and constituents. But much has been done under his watch. Levy cut government spending, he preserved thousands of acres of open space and his administration’s land acquisition program is admired and emulated by other municipalities across the U.S. There is little reason to believe that Steve Levy will not be in public service for many more years to come. As government faces tough times, he is up to the task and has the ability to make difficult—albeit, sometimes unpopular—decisions. Being the top guy is not supposed to be easy. Levy has proven that when it seems toughest, the best comes out in government.

Inducted to the Hall of Fame in 2009