Valley Stream Pastor Challenges Nassau County Legislator

VALLEY STREAM, NY — There is a challenger for Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages.

Dr. Bernadin Fleurima announced his candidacy for the third legislative district as a Republican. He is running for the seat on a platform of tax reform and fighting for fairness in reassessment, his campaign said in a statement.

The district includes parts of Lawrence and North Woodmere.

Using his background as a pastor, Fleurima wants to ensure communities get COVID-19 relief funding.

He emigrated from Haiti in 1990 and began his career for a non-profit providing help to people seeking victim services. Fleurima serves as Pastor of Shalom Ministries Foundation Seventh Day Adventist in Valley Stream.

"Throughout my career, I have served God by offering a helping hand and [an] open ear to the members of my congregation who needed it most; however, the time is now to create impactful change in the community through effective government service," Dr. Fleurima said in a statement.

One way Fleurima wants to make a difference is by providing needed tax relief to homeowners.

“With 65 percent of Nassau County property owners receiving tax increases as a result of the County Executive’s reassessment, we need someone who will advocate for the residents of our district," Fleurima said. "I have always considered it a passion of mine to bring people together in order to find common ground that benefits everyone, which is why I am fighting to be the voice for the residents of Nassau’s 3rd Legislative District."

Election Day is November 2.