Steve Bellone was sworn in to his second term as Suffolk County executive Wednesday at the Van Nostrand Theater on the Suffolk Community College Brentwood campus.

During his inaugural speech, Bellone spoke about Suffolk's future and how his administration helped end gridlock in Hauppauge.

"Four years ago, we took over a government that was deeply divided, and in many ways paralyzed -- unable to resolve issues and move forward," he said.

Bellone has been praised for spearheading the 2 percent property tax cap, securing $380 million in federal and state aid to install and upgrade sewers, and for championing community projects like Wyandanch Rising and the Ronkonkoma Hub.

The executive's critics have found fault in Bellone's handling of the Chief James Burke civilian beating scandal at police headquarters, the looming budget crisis now estimated to be well over $100 million, and accusations of maintaining a bloated patronage system.

Bellone said he's optimistic about his coming term and asked for support during his speech.

On hand to watch the ceremony were Sen. Chuck Schumer, Rep. Steve Israel and state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.