Mr. Tonna acknowledged that being the presiding officer of the County Legislature may have helped his fund-raising efforts.

His view was shared by Donald R. Blydenburg, the presiding officer of the County Legislature.

Paul Tonna, a Republican from Deer Park who is the presiding officer of the County Legislature, called the increase "an excellent proposal."

"I would say that these initiatives are very solid," said Judith A. Jacobs, the Democratic presiding officer of the County Legislature.

Judith A. Jacobs, a Democrat and the presiding officer of the County Legislature, said she would like to see new deals negotiated.

And Paul Tonna dropped his bid to continue as presiding officer of the County Legislature.

Mr. LoGrande's speech was overshadowed, however, by a loud and divisive fight over who would become presiding officer of the County Legislature.

One rising star, Bruce A. Blakeman, the presiding officer of the County Legislature, had indicated interest in the lieutenant governor's post.

Today's hearing was held by a countywide task force on homelessness appointed by the county executive and the presiding officer of the County Legislature.

Bruce Blakeman, the presiding officer of the County Legislature, said he had "great reservations" about casino gambling as a way to solve an area's economic problems.