Aspiring Town of North Hempstead councilman and Great Neck Plaza resident Peter Fishkind outlined some key initiatives and prominent issues he will look to address if elected this fall.
Fishkind, a 28-year-old who was raised in Roslyn Heights, said maintaining fiscal responsibility, promoting and expanding upon social justice initiatives, helping businesses recover from the coronavirus pandemic, supporting environmental efforts, and providing residents with a transparent government along with continuous “high-quality” programs are among some he is looking to implement or continue doing.
“In the past year we have faced challenges that were previously unimaginable,” Fishkind said via email. “I am running to ensure that our community makes a full recovery and, not only remains a desirable place to live but becomes an even more coveted place to be. I will strive to maintain our Town’s AAA bond rating and utilize my ability to bridge divides to achieve consensus and obtain positive results for our residents.”
Fishkind is running to replace the longtime councilwoman for the town’s 5th District, Lee Seeman, who announced earlier this year that she would not seek re-election. Fishkind, a Democrat, was endorsed by Seeman, New York Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth, along with both the county and town Democratic committees. The 5th District oversees the communities of Saddle Rock, Saddle Rock Estates, Harbor Hills, Great Neck Estates, Great Neck Plaza, Russell Gardens, Lake Success, North New Hyde Park, and parts of Garden City Park and Floral Park.
Town Clerk Wayne Wink, who is running for Bosworth’s seat as town supervisor after she announced she will not seek re-election earlier this year as well, also endorsed Fishkind’s candidacy.
“Peter brings energy to everything he touches. He is a leader at a young age that will give the Town a new view on how we are doing things,” Wink said. “His record of volunteerism and leadership are what makes him a great candidate for Town Council. I’m excited for his candidacy and look forward to campaigning with him this cycle.”
Fishkind graduated from George Washington University in 2013, majoring in history with a political science minor. Fishkind then attended the University of Pennsylvania Law School. There, Fishkind served as president for the law council of student representatives and class officer for his graduating class of 2017, among other roles.
Fishkind also spent time as an intern for the American Federation of Teachers in Washington, D.C. He last practiced commercial litigation at Proskauer Rose LLP in New York City before resigning in April. His work has included complex commercial property cases along with civil and immigration litigation. He also spent time as a legal intern at the Nassau County district attorney’s office.
Fishkind’s leadership has also reached to a variety of American Jewish organizations and other young professional groups.
He is running against fellow Great Neck resident and lawyer David Adhami, the Republican candidate.
“I want to bring my passion for public service and love of our community to town government,” Fishkind said. “If elected to Town Council, I will advocate zealously for our community’s interests and deliver responsive services from our government while being fiscally responsible.”
