Southeast Republicans Recommend Gross to Fill County Legislature Spot

Since , one name has floated around town as a likely choice to replace Southeast Supervisor-elect Tony Hay on the Putnam County Legislature.

Earlier this week, the Southeast Republicans took a step toward making that rumor a reality. On Tuesday, they unanimously voted to recommend Town Board councilman Roger Gross to fill the vacancy. 

"I am truly honored to be recommended by the committee," Gross said. "I want to continue to serve and represent the residents of our town. This position would allow for that, just in a slightly different capacity."

The legislature is slated to make a decision on the term, which expires in 2013, next month. Legislators are slated to earn $35,136 in 2012. To retain the seat, Hay's appointed successor would have to face the voters at the next general election, in November 2012.

"I am energized and excited about the opportunity," Gross told Patch. "I am greatly appreciative of the support the community has given me over the years."

In November, that Putnam's Republican Committee would make a recommendation for the body's consideration.

A LoHud.com story by Michael Risinit posted last week suggested that the Southeast Republican's pick may have the biggest influence on lawmakers' decision. Risinit also reported that it is unlikely local Democrats are making recommendations.

Both Gross and Hay are slated to be — the former to Town Board, and the latter to his new position — at  at noon on Jan. 1. Gross said that if his spot on the Town Board opened up, the process for filling the position would likely include advertisements, as well as interviews by the Southeast Republican Committee.

Eric Cyprus, vice chair of the committee, said that the organization is waiting to see if the Legislature moves forward with their recommendation before thinking about a replacement for Gross.

"It seemed inappropriate for the committee to take action to fill a vacancy that doesn’t technically exist yet," Cyprus said in reference to Tuesday's meeting.