Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has vowed to appoint 26 residents as new “special councilors” appointed to assist the county in emergencies such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters.
Interim special agents, many of whom are former police officers, military personnel or first responders, are licensed to own firearms and receive firearms training.
“Thank you for stepping up to the plate and contributing to the safety and security of Nassau County,” Blakeman said Monday night at the graduation ceremony in Mineola.
“The primary job of a public servant is public safety, public health, and public welfare.”
Critics charge that the program falls under the jurisdiction of the Nassau County Sheriff's Office and is Mr. Blakeman's private militia.
But he dismissed that statement, saying special councilors complement, not replace, police and first responders, providing coverage at power plants, hospitals and faith-based facilities. did.
Activating them will help police and emergency responders do their jobs, county executives said.
“If there's an emergency, we're not going to scramble,” Blakeman said.
Deputies do not receive compensation unless they begin their activities.
“I hope and pray that I never have to activate you,” he told lawmakers.
