New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli stopped by for lunch with the Rockland Business Association today. He’ll be interviewed at 3 p.m. by the Editorial Board during an edition of Editorial Spotlight — go to LoHud.com/Editorialspotlight to view live or click “On Demand” for the archived version later.

He was a relatively optimistic and cheerful guy, for someone slogging through the state’s financial mess, dealing with the pension fund shortfalls, an audit of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, examining the financial details of state and local government entities, as well as his own departments, and all other kinds of financial wrangling.

He talked about many issues, but he made clear that he understood the specific needs of the suburban New York area, including Rockland. (He’s a former state assemblyman representing Nassau, and became a member of his local school board at age 18.) He discussed not only the financial pressure the Wall Street meltdown put on New York state and the city, but also the ramifications for the suburbs, where for every one Wall Street job, it’s estimated two suburban jobs are created.

He also acknowledged the heavy burden property taxes, especially to support public schools, play among suburbanites. “The quality of schools … comes at a price, but a very important price,” he said during his luncheon speech at Rockland Country Club in Sparkill.

His view on the current Senate standoff? “It will work out,” he said. He called it a “spectacle” now, and said he hoped that the business of the people would soon resume, pointing to important legislation that faces deadlines, like sales tax “home rule” extension legislation for Rockland and many other municipalities.

He also addressed the need to replace the Tappan Zee Bridge, which he said is key to the region. He called the Department of Transportation-led Tappan Zee Bridge/Interstate 287 Project, with its $16 billion-plus pricetag, “ambitious.” And he lauded the level of community input, through various task forces, including one now forming on seeking funding ideas. But, of course, he added, “We don’t have the money for it.”

There will be more said today during our Editorial Spotlight. Check it out.