Hauppauge , NY – Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy today named Patrick A. Heaney, of East Quogue, as Commissioner of Economic Development and Workforce Housing.

Heaney, who was Town of Southampton Supervisor from 2002-2007, will join the county June 2 to fill the position formerly held by Chief Deputy County Executive Jim Morgo.

“Supervisor Heaney possesses a unique blend of governmental and administrative experience and business acumen,” said Levy. “Having worked together to finally make the long-planned Hamptons Business and Technology Park a reality at Gabreski Airport, I know first-hand of Skip’s drive, determination and ability to get things done.”

“The CountyExecutive has an ambitious economic development and workforce housing agenda across this county, which requires a strong working relationship with town and village boards and open lines of communication with business interests, trade organizations and the community,” said Heaney.

Heaney served in the elected positions of Town of Southampton Trustee (1989-91) and Town of Southampton Councilman (1992, 1994-2001) before being elected Town of Southampton Supervisor in 2001. As Supervisor, he was chief executive and financial officer for an annual operating budget of over $78 million, and capital budget of over $20 million. In his tenure, Heaney established working partnerships with officials at all levels of government and frequently worked closely with environmental organizations and development organizations, including the Long Island Builders Institute regarding planning matters and land use legislation.
He also instituted management agreements with the Long Island Housing Partnership, served as a contributing member on County Executive Steve Levy’s Workforce Housing Commission, served on the New York State Pine Barrens Commission, the Suffolk County Supervisors Association, and chaired the East End Mayors and Supervisors Association.
Heaney also formed and managed the family-owned Hurricane Fence Company of L.I., from 1975-2002.

Heaney’s appointment is subject to legislative confirmation.