Community Corner

Sound Off: Should the County Rehire Santa Claus?

The county says it can't afford to pay Santa this year; Christmas spirit killer or necessary budget cut in tough times?

Newsday reported Thursday that Suffolk County officials have decided not to rehire a man to play Santa Claus at the county-run this year.

A county spokesman told Newsday that in face of the county's budget shortfall and with layoffs looming for 750 people, the county cannot afford to pay 83-year-old David McKell $660 to play Santa. McKell has donned the big red suit for the past nine years. 

The county is now looking for volunteers to replace McKell. 

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What your take? Should the county pony up the $660 to rehire McKell? Vote in the poll below and share your thoughts in the comments. 


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