Three years ago Neil Gilberg was overcoming his loss in the race for County Clerk to Dan Briggs. Now, Gilberg is one of Sullivan County’s highest ranking non-elected state officials.
If you recall, Gilberg left his job as manager of Kutsher’s after he was appointed County Clerk to fill George Cooke’s term.
Since then, Gilberg has spent the past several years as Business Advocate at the New York State Workers Compensation Board where he has received a wide range of praise for the work he does.
“What I do is help employers in every situation as it pertains to Workers Compensation Insurance. I handle penalties, disputes with carriers, and educational outreach to make small business understand requirements. I am the resource for businesspeople that need help with workers’ compensation and disability matters,” Gilberg said.
Workers compensation is a covenant between employers and their employees, protecting both parties in the event of injury. State law created the Office of the Advocate for Business, and the position’s importance was elevated when Governor David Paterson made improving the state’s environment for business a top priority.
Gilberg travels throughout the state meeting with business associations and chambers of commerce offering them his help. “My office handles about 200 calls a month as well as daily calls from members of the legislature. I assist all of our Assemblymen and State Senators in helping them solve constituent problems. I have worked to make our system a fairer system to the employers of the state.”
“It’s a very complex system. Employers know they need auto and liability insurance, for example, but they don’t always know how important workers compensation insurance is, both for themselves and their employees.” Gilberg said he has helped hundreds of firms obtain coverage.
As the liaison between businesses and the Board, Gilberg has helped close to 2,000 employers since assuming his duties.
“I do a great deal of outreach, talking to employers, hearing their successes and concerns, so I can help small businesses get the most bang for their insurance dollar. I advise them the importance of safety, and when they must file claims or notify the Board of an injury. The independent contractor issue is very hot right now, so I explain to businesses that should be covered by insurance.”
Assemblywoman Aileen Gunter reflecting on her working relationship with Gilberg said, “Neil is a wonderful resource for my office. As always, he’s been very helpful when issues have arisen for constituents. I know that Neil will provide excellent information and probably gives a little extra attention when the issues involve businesses in Sullivan. The Worker’s Compensation Board is lucky to have him.”
We can without a doubt expect the likeable and hardworking Gilberg to move up the ladder in the Cuomo administration.
Gilberg says he is also keeping his options open to once again seek public office.
Keep up the great work Neil.