So this was the fresh start that Controller Thomas DiNapoli wanted to make with his office?
DiNapoli this afternoon named one-time Assembly colleague and former state Environmental Commissioner Alexander "Pete" Grannis to serve as his first deputy controller. He also announced that current First Deputy Comptroller Mary Louise Mallick will serve as a senior policy advisor.
Both appointments are effective January 20.
“Pete Grannis has built a life-long reputation for vision, leadership, integrity and the ability to get things done,” DiNapoli said in a statement. “We’re facing some of the toughest times in New York State history. Pete's skills, leadership and expertise will help us face those challenges. New York is fortunate that Pete Grannis chose to continue his public service career with the Office of the State Comptroller."
Grannis was unceremoneously dumped by Gov. Paterson's administration in October after he complained about the impact of planned job cuts on his department. His selection as DiNapoli's top deputy is surprising since he doesn't seem to have a financial background.
"Bottom line is he knows state government," said DiNapoli spokesman Dennis Tompkins, who also argued that Grannis served on the Assembly Ways and Means Committee and has expertise in running a large state agency.
Grannis, Tompkins added, was among the candidates for controller when the Legislature chose DiNapoli to replace discgraced ex-Controller Alan Hevesi.
Grannis’s salary will be $165,000. Mallick will be paid $162,000 in her new position.
