Bio
Leigh-Ann Barde is running for Suffolk County Legislature in District 10 to make county government work for everyone—delivering affordable living, safe roads, clean parks, and responsive services for families. A lifelong advocate, Leigh-Ann has volunteered with the Knights of Columbus “Feed the Needy” event, served in the Central Islip PTA and Special Education PTA, and coached Central Islip Little League since 2014, later becoming Vice President. She has been a tireless voice for children with special needs, including her own. Politically, Leigh-Ann has led on campaigns from President Obama’s re-election to “Suffolk for Biden,” and today serves as Chairwoman of the Islip Town Democratic Committee, fighting for fair representation for all.
Experience
Islip Town Democratic Committee Chairwoman, Former Central Islip Little League Vice President
Campaign Phone
631-560-5103
Suffolk families are being priced out of their own communities. We need a County-led approach to create real pathways to affordable and workforce housing. That means investing in the construction of new affordable units, repurposing vacant and underutilized properties, and working with towns to fast-track approvals for projects that meet community needs. I will fight for at least 10,000 affordable homes across the County—so teachers, nurses, veterans, and working families can live where they work. At the same time, we must pair housing with transit access, childcare, and workforce development, ensuring communities grow stronger and more affordable together.
The County must take the lead in setting clear, enforceable standards for waste reduction while supporting residents and businesses in the transition. We should expand composting and recycling programs, incentivize businesses to reduce plastics and harmful chemicals, and invest in new technologies that keep waste out of our air and water. Waste export off Long Island needs to be addressed regionally with a coordinated plan to avoid piecemeal, expensive solutions. I would lead efforts to build a cohesive County-wide strategy—one that both reduces waste at the source and responsibly manages what remains, protecting our environment and taxpayers.
Residents deserve transparency, not just ribbon-cuttings. I will communicate openly and consistently by creating regular district-wide updates—through newsletters, social media, community forums, and town halls. Importantly, communication must be two-way. I will establish standing advisory committees for parents, seniors, veterans, and young people so that residents can shape policy before decisions are made. I also believe in taking government to the people—by holding office hours in libraries, senior centers, and community hubs across the district. My commitment is to keep residents informed about both challenges and opportunities, and to make sure their voices drive the solutions.
The County must prioritize protecting core services—like public health, public safety, and social services—while stretching every tax dollar further. That means cutting wasteful spending, ending “pay-to-play” contracting, and modernizing systems to save costs. At the same time, we must fight for fair state and federal funding to ensure Suffolk doesn’t shoulder an unfair share of costs. I will work to safeguard funding for programs that directly impact families—such as child protective services, affordable housing, and mental health resources—and ensure shortfalls aren’t balanced on the backs of working families. Strategic partnerships with nonprofits and community organizations can also help us fill gaps without sacrificing quality of care.
First, affordability: from housing to childcare, too many families are being squeezed. I will fight for a Suffolk Child & Caregiver Credit, more affordable homes, and free college and career pathways so every family can thrive.
Second, public safety and mental health: we must expand Suffolk’s Mobile Crisis Teams so mental health-related 911 calls are met with trained professionals, not just police. This keeps residents safe while getting people the care they need. I will work to make Suffolk a leader in balancing safety with compassion and effective services.
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