Steve Bellone, who spent 12 years as Suffolk County Executive before term-limiting out last year, will be taking a position as an assistant vice president of operations in Northwell’s Western Region, according to a representative of the healthcare system.
Bellone, who lives in West Babylon, will have a longer commute to work now. He will be based out of Staten Island University Hospital.
The news was first reported by Newsday and confirmed by a representative of Northwell.
“We are thrilled to have Steve Bellone join Northwell Health,” the representative said by email.
Bellone served four years on the Babylon Town Board, ten as Babylon Town Supervisor, and then the maximum 12-year term as Suffolk County Executive. Bellone himself signed the legislation that sealed his fate restricting his own ability to run again for the position last year. Former Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine took the executive seat beating challenger David Callone in November. He became the first Republican to become Suffolk County Executive in 20 years, riding the so-called “red wave” into office on Long Island.
Bellone takes on the position as Northwell Health is riding a wave of its own. The healthcare system is merging with Nuvance Health, another major healthcare organization, to create a new health system covering areas in New York and Connecticut. The plan is still pending regulatory approval.
Northwell Health’s western region also includes a number of other hospitals but, according to the hospital representative, Bellone will be focused on hospital projects in Staten Island.
“Steve’s knowledge and years of experience in public service will be valuable in supporting Northwell’s regional operational model to achieve greater efficiency in delivering clinical services,” Northwell’s representative said.