Letter to Editor: Massapequa Park Mayor Pays Tribute to Schmitt

The following letter was submitted by Massapequa Park Mayor James Altadonna.

Dear Fellow Residents:

Like everyone who got to know Peter Schmitt personally, I have been deeply saddened by his sudden passing.  Just last Sunday I was with him at the annual Sons of Italy Italian feast where we chatted for hours with people both young and old.

As the presiding officer of the Nassau County Legislature, Peter was unequalled as a committed and dedicated government leader.  And as a friend – a father and husband – he was as fine a man as I’ve ever known.

I had the distinct pleasure and honor to work with Peter since I was first elected mayor in 2001.  Over the ensuring 11 years, I found in him to be a true mentor, generous with his time and support, an unwavering political ally ,and a champion of all that is good in Nassau County.

Peter was an advocate of many great accomplishments in Massapequa Park, from his recent help in our acquisition of land for possible cell tower construction to his support of the re-gentrification and street-scape of Park Boulevard and Merrick Road.

But more than his professional accomplishments, I will remember Peter for the person he was.  His compassion for the people in his life, his willingness to give so much of himself to our community, this is what defined his character.

His passing is a loss to his family and friends and to the greater community that came to appreciate his integrity and leadership.  Peter Schmitt led by example, he lived by his reputation, he earned all of our respect every day.

I ask that you remember him in your prayers today, as well as his wife Lois and his daughter Samantha.

I am proud to have known him and to have called him my friend.  I’ll miss you, Peter.  Thank you for your friendship.

Sincerely,

Jim

James Altadonna 
Mayor, Massapequa Park