To the editor:
I encourage Town of Hamilton voters to elect Carolyn Todd as Town Councilor. Her diverse and active involvement in community organizations proves her to be a valuable member of our town who will bring a fresh perspective to town government.
Carolyn’s work with New Yorkers for Verified Voters shows she cares most about the fair and responsible process of government. I know her to be a thoughtful and energetic person that will serve us well.
Make sure you vote on Nov. 3 and vote for Carolyn Todd.
HARMON HOFF
HAMILTON
Kenneth Kunkel is an excellent leader
To the editor:
My name is Gail Abrams and I retired from the Madison County Sheriff’s as a captain in charge of Criminal Division. I have known Ken for over twenty years. I am writing this letter in support of Ken Kunkel Jr., our 41st Madison County Clerk.
He has been an excellent leader in both the Madison County Motor Vehicle Department and the office of the Madison County Clerk. He has been a civic and community leader and a resident of Madison County since 1970. He has been instrumental in applying for and obtaining grants that have saved taxpayers over $100,000. He has more grants pending.
Ken is honest, sincere and trustworthy. His leadership in his department is above approach. He is focused on customer – friendly and expedient service. I highly recommend the citizens of Madison County in supporting him on Election Day, Tuesday Nov. 3. Please get out and vote.
GAIL E. ABRAMS
WEST EDMESTON
Cerasia, a good choice for the town of Lenox
To the editor:
I would like to introduce myself, my name is Joe Rinaldo. I am a lifelong resident from Canastota. I am writing this letter in support of candidate Ed Cerasia who is running for town of Lenox councilman. I got to know Ed 32 years ago when he asked Jim Giufre and myself to coach Pop Warner Football with him in Canastota. Ed and his lovely wife Caroline had just moved here from Gloversville. At that time Ed exemplified the qualities in a coach that you, the voter, would like to see – honesty, hard working and treating all the kids the same, showing no favoritism, after the fourth football game – I was thrilled to be part of Ed’s team. Ed, Jim and I won back to back championships under Ed’s leadership.
When I’m deciding on who to stand behind in any election, I look for qualities that exemplify a good politician, such as honesty, trustworthy, hardworking (which I already mentioned as a coach) and someone who will listen to the people no matter what your party affiliation. Ed has been in the business world his whole life and would bring that experience to the table. Ed is in for a real tough fight, because two candidates are both incumbents and well known in the township. I would like to remind Independent and Democratic voters to cast their ballot for Ed Cerasia, who will treat everyone fair and lead by example. Ed wants to accommodate all parties, agree to compromise and have a win-win solution for everyone – easier said than done, but this is what Ed is aiming for.
Good luck Ed.
JOE RINALDO
CANASTOTA
‘I urge you to vote for Scott Mills’
To the editor:
This year, the residents of the town of Hamilton have the opportunity to elect Scott Mills as your town supervisor. Scott is uniquely qualified for this vitally important public office. He is extremely bright and knowledgeable about the issues facing the people in the southern part of our beautiful county. He understands how to bring people with different opinions together to improve the area and the quality of life for all who live there, and he does so in a fiscally responsible manner.
As the Madison County Republican Committee chair, I have observed Scott as he worked on some countywide issues. He is diligent in gathering all of the relevant information and he is a zealous and courteous advocate for his community. He attentively listens to the concerns of the people in the town and village of Hamilton and the surrounding areas. He genuinely cares about what any interested person has to say, and he takes those concerns to heart when making decisions that affect the folks in his community.
In short, Scott has the demonstrated leadership abilities and qualities to make him an effective Town Supervisor. I have no doubt that he will continue to serve the people of Hamilton with good judgment, honor and humility.
I urge you to vote for Scott Mills on Election Day Nov. 3.
THERESE WILEY DANCKS, ESQ.
COMMITTEE CHAIR
MADISON COUNTY REPUBLICANS
Carolyn Todd, good choice for Hamilton Town Council
To the editor:
I can offer some unique observations showing why voters in the town of Hamilton should support Carolyn Todd for Hamilton Town Council on Nov. 3.
Carolyn and I worked together for several years trying to convince Madison County to reject touch-screen voting machines and choose the paper ballot-scanner system. After Sandra Carter became too busy with the school board, Carolyn became my primary colleague in the eventually successful work of New Yorkers for Verified Voting in Madison County (see nyvv.org).
Carolyn’s capacities for persistent hard work, effective communication, and friendly human relations were important to our work. She travelled to Wampsville to observe committee meetings whenever we thought decisions might be made that would tilt the balance toward the insecure touch screens. Her background enabled her to offer effective public comment to the Board of Supervisors, whether on proposed budgets or her own experience with voting systems.
Carolyn also attended town council meetings, since we hoped the council would influence the supervisor to take leadership, since hundreds of citizens of the Town had signed petitions for the paper ballot-scanner system. Carolyn’s tact and friendliness were of great value as we met with various supervisors and chairs of committees. Her personal effectiveness deserves much of the credit for our eventual success in getting a resolution for a system based on voter-marked paper ballots adopted in Madison County.
Carolyn Todd’s intelligence, energy, perseverance, tact, and good humor would be of great value on the town council.
WANDA BERRY
DIRECTOR, NEW YORK
VERIFIED VOTING
Miner and Kopp ‘continue to be responsive’ to town’s needs
To the editor:
Signs, signs everywhere there are signs....Vote for me, Elect me, Re-elect me.... Vote for change...etc. etc. As a resident of the town of Sullivan, I count my blessings for the area I live in and also the quality town representatives that we have on the town council. Dave Miner and Tom Kopp both have many years of experience and solid records of community service.
They have been and have promised to continue to be responsive to the needs and desires of their constituency. They are both long-standing advocates of our area. Fiscal responsibility, overall fairness and responsible economic development are common traits they have exhibited based upon community desires.
The very best indication of future behavior is to look at the past. Given the past, there is no reason for change and these two gentlemen should be granted the right to continue to serve by re-election. Dave Miner and Tom Kopp have earned our support.
TERRY MANNING
BRIDGEPORT
Scott Mills ‘does his homework’ for Hamilton
To the editor:
I am writing this letter in support of the candidacy of Scott Mills for town of Hamilton Supervisor. During the past five years of his 12 years of service I have had the opportunity to work with Scott in addressing local issues affecting both village and town residents. What I have observed is an energetic, dedicated public servant with a real sense of responsibility to the citizens he serves. I am particularly impressed with his depth of knowledge on many issues including gas drilling, shared services between municipal governments, and SOMAC support. He always “does his homework” and is often the best informed on these issues. Scott always has the interests of the taxpayers in mind and has been a key contributor to the excellent fiscal health of the Town of Hamilton. He is an assertive advocate for the Town but also has the ability to address contentious issues in a cooperative and bipartisan way. He also continues to be very much aware of his responsibility to insure that quality services are provided in the most efficient way possible. Scott has always been accessible to his constituents…anxious to hear and respond to their points of view.
I urge you to vote for Scott Mills on Nov. 3. We need this young and energetic leader representing us at the county level!
CARL ALBRECHT
VILLAGE OF HAMILTON
TRUSTEE
Allen Riley has ‘professionalism, respect for the community’
To the editor:
When the announcement was made that New Woodstock was going to be the site of a New York State police barracks some 20 years ago, it didn’t come without concern from the local residents. Why did such a small town need such large law enforcement? When it opened, Allen Riley was one of the three officers assigned there along with his k-9 companion, Bernie. The transition was unbelievably smooth not in small part to Allen’s professionalism, respect for the community, and constant communication with the locals which made him one of us. After knowing Allen for 20 years, we are convinced that he is the candidate that will make an outstanding Madison County Sheriff.
JIM AND PETE HOLMES
NEW WOODSTOCK
Miner and Kopp have board experience
To the editor:
This year Town of Sullivan residents will again have the opportunity to elect experienced and qualified town board members on November 3rd. They are David Miner from the Bridgeport-Lakeport area who has served as Town Councilman for nearly 25 years and Thomas Kopp from the Chittenango area,who has been on the Town Board for 12 years.
In addition to his Town Council experience, Dave Miner was Chittenango Central School Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds for 22 years retiring in 2003. During those years he was responsible for the maintenance of the districts 5(five) school buildings. He also worked closely with school personnel and planners in the development of several renovation projects.
Tom Kopp, also has considerable business experience that included long time owner of Kopp’s Canteen Restaurant prior to selling the business in 1999. Later he worked in sales and more recently he and his wife own and manage local commercial and residential real estate.
Both candidates currently as well as in the past serve on various community boards. Also, they are good family men residing a long period of time in the Town of Sullivan.
The Town of Sullivan has developed extensively in recent years. Dave and Tom have been part of it. Some of the improvements the Town Board has undertaken (while both,or at least one, were members)are as follows: extended public water lines to several parts of the town, developed and maintained roads regularly, built a new highway garage, developed new town office spaces including those for local courts, expanded and upgraded emergency services including fire, ambulance and police, recently opened a new parks and recreation building including additional space for senior citizens, and upgraded several parks.
In addition, the town board is now working to extend public sewer services along the south shore of Oneida Lake from Lakeport to Bridgeport. Further, the town board has a history of working closely with the village and school district as they continue to explore the idea of shared services.
The experiences Dave Miner and Tom Kopp have brought to us previously will mean even more in the future.
WARREN “PAT” JEROME
CHITTENANGO
Hoham asks for Hamilton’s support in town council race
To the editor:
I am thrilled to be one of the Republican candidates for Hamilton Town Council. I have been a resident of the town for eight years. I moved here in 2001 to attend Colgate University. When I left home that late summer, I never anticipated that I would become so personally invested in the community. I joined the Hamilton Fire Department as a firefighter and EMT immediately after my arrival in 2001 as a way to serve the Hamilton community. In addition to responding to emergencies, my participation in fundraising and fire prevention efforts has allowed me to get to know many members of our community. After graduating from Colgate in 2005, I made my permanent home here in Hamilton. I have remained involved in local affairs through my work with the village on grant applications and continued fundraising and fire prevention activities.
I first attended a town council meeting soon after my arrival in Hamilton eight years ago to provide input on an issue that was important to me. Ever since then, serving as a councilmember has been a hope and goal of mine. I am dedicated, passionate, and hard working. I believe my fiscally conservative values as well as my past service to the Hamilton community will provide a solid foundation with which to serve. I pledge to continue the great work of past councils by maintaining a balanced budget and protecting landowner rights with regards to zoning. Please extend me your vote on Nov. 3.
LINDSEY HOHAM
HAMILTON
‘It’s clear’ why voters re-elect Dave Miner in Sullivan
To the editor:
Dave Miner is again seeking re-election to the Sullivan Town Board. It is clear why voters in Madison County's most populated town have re-elected Dave to his seat each time he has run for office over the last quarter of a century. He represents those residents well and responds to their concerns.
Dave Miner has consistently been aware of the needs of this community. He has remained a strong supporter of providing Town Highway Superintendent Sonny Centner with the equipment and supplies needed to maintain our roads and keep them safe in the winter.
Dave is a past president of the Rotary Club of Chittenango, for which he also has served as membership chairman. He also is a Paul Harris Fellow in Rotary.
He established the Community Volunteer Scholarship Fund, which benefits area high school students who display a willingness to help others.
His opponent in the town race, Democrat Kerry Ranger, says Ranger’s biggest desire if elected is to bring back government for the people. That’s the big problem now. Ranger’s party has shoved big government right into the faces of the people, and we don’t want that.
He also accuses Dave Miner of not being accessible. If you believe that, call Dave at 633-2980 and watch how quickly it takes for him to get back to you.
Our town board functions better than those in surrounding towns. Change, as we are learning, isn’t necessarily good. So why change if it works well now.
Vote for Dave Miner.
LARRY RICHARDSON
SULLIVAN
Elect Jim Zophy for Madison County Sheriff Nov. 3
To the editor:
It is with great pleasure that I endorse Jim Zophy’s bid for Madison County Sheriff. I have observed Chief Zophy during his 16 years with the Canastota Police Department and I have always been impressed by his expertise in dealing with a diverse population, while maintaining a calm and professional manner.
He has demonstrated his personnel and administrative skills many times, including establishing a good working relationship between the various police agencies in the area. These partnerships have resulted in a significant decrease in crime and drug-related activity in our neighborhoods.
Jim’s military background, education and years of experience in leading and managing personnel are assets we can ill afford to lose-I urge you to vote for Jim Zophy Nov. 3 to keep his talents working for us all.
ROCCO J. DiVERONICA
SUPERVISOR
TOWN OF LENOX
Vote Peter Darby for Hamilton Town Council
To the editor:
I first met Peter over twenty years ago when serving on a school board committee he chaired. He encouraged participation, listened carefully and sought to understand our concerns.
We’ve lived in lovely Earlville for almost 30 years. Peter has been involved in several projects at our home. I’ve always appreciated the preplanning stages of the process, Peter assisting in understanding the full scope and cost of the project before the job was started. He was always able to come up with creative solutions to construction problems, as well as thoughtful consideration and recommendations for the costs involved. I think it’s this kind of creative thinking that will ring loud when it comes to planning for our Town and Villages.
My most recent conversations with Peter have been about geothermal heating and cooling systems. I was impressed with the knowledge Peter sought about this energy saving system, attending classes and working with those who had had more experience with the system. Peter is a collaborator, willing to learn, willing to share information, another important trait for a Town board member. His concerns for our community lands are balanced around understanding the need for progress, conservation, and best practices.
Peter is someone I trust will travel down the road called “because it’s the right thing to do.” I support Peter Darby for Hamilton Town Council, and count on his character to strengthen collaboration and best planning for our communities.
BARBARA GOLDEN
EARLVILLE
Consider your options before Election Day Nov. 3
To the editor:
This letter is for every voter to consider before going to the polls Nov. 3. Before you vote think long and hard about what you are promised but never receive from your elected representatives.
Do you really believe that the wants and needs of the people are actually given the consideration they deserve? Are you treated respectfully if and when your phone calls are returned? Are you angry with those who vote themselves raises shortly after being elected? Do you feel that your tax dollars are being spent on unnecessary bonuses, among other things, to reward those who are doing the jobs they are lucky to have, and paid well to do? Have you noticed all the homes in foreclosure in the papers? Does any of this make sense to you? All, so much to tell and so little space!
My point is don’t keep voting for the same people over and over and then complain about them, vote them out! I’m looking for accountability and I’ll be voting for people whom I feel will provide it, at all levels of government. I feel that people should be part of the solution, not part of the problem. If you want to know who I’m supporting call me or drive by my house, the signs are there. Please vote on Nov. 3.
HELGA CLOSSON
ONEIDA
Elect Al Riley for Madison County Sheriff Nov. 3
To the editor:
As a lifelong resident of Madison County and a retired member of the New York State Police, I strongly recommend that voters cast their vote for Al Riley as Sheriff on November 3, 2009.
During my 32 year career in the New York State Police, I spent 24 years as an Investigator in the Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI), and worked a number of serious criminal investigations, including rape, arson, and murder. I was also called on to investigate non-criminal investigations, such as background investigations for Trooper Applicants. This was a task that I took very seriously, as hiring the wrong person could endanger the lives of citizens as well as the Police Officers that he or she works with. Approximately 27 years ago I was assigned to investigate the background of Al Riley. From the first day of meeting Al, I was impressed. I found that his background to be impeccable. I had no problem recommending him for a position with the New York State Police.
I always kept track of the people that I recommend, as I felt that I was to a degree, responsible for them wearing the grey uniform. I knew the importance of getting the right candidate. Al never let me down. He was quickly chosen to join the prestigious K-9 Unit that historically only took the best State Troopers. Later in his career, he applied for and received the promotion to an Investigator in the BCI. Most of Al’s career was serving the people of Madison County, so I was not surprised to hear that he was retiring to run for Sheriff, to continue service the residents of our County.
Al is a person of the highest integrity. He will raise the level of professionalism to the Madison County Sheriff's Department. We, as County residents should be proud to have Al serve as our Sheriff.
DENNIS DOUGHERTY
RETIRED NYS POLICE
ROTTERDAM JUNCTION
Fred ‘Fritz’ Scherz is a ‘dedicated and personable man’
To the editor:
I have had the pleasure of knowing Fritz Scherz for nine years and worked with him at the Office of the State Comptroller. During the years of our acquaintance, I have known Fritz in many capacities.
Fritz is an intelligent, capable, dedicated, and personable man. He is always quick on his feet, with sensible reactions in all the circumstances I’ve seen him in. I feel confident in saying that he is capable of handling any situation with thoughtfulness and maturity.
Fritz is organized, efficient, extremely competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all ages. His communication skills, both written and verbal, are excellent.
In summary, I highly recommend Fritz for any position or endeavor that he may seek to pursue. He will be a valuable asset as Councilman for the Verona Town Board.
LINDA J. WELLS
VERONA
Give thought to your decision for Oneida mayoral race
To the editor:
I hope the voters of Oneida are giving a lot of thought to the Mayor’s race.
Mayor Hedglon’s administration has managed to have the old high school demolished (finally), as well as the destroyed buildings on Warner Street cleaned up. We are headed in a direction to resolve the space problems at City Hall, as well as satisfy the state court system, much less expensively than the other options to solve the problems. The only cheaper option is to do nothing, and we have had too much of doing nothing in the city of Oneida.
Mayor Hedglon has had the courage to talk to us honestly about the city’s financial problems, both short-term and long-term, and has worked hard to engage our residents in a discussion of what services we want and are willing to pay for. He inherited the consequences of a huge tax rate reduction financed by raiding the city’s savings account. The city’s problems are compounded by the recession. Mr. Hedglon tells the truth when he says there are no easy solutions.
Mayor Hedglon has a record of accomplishment as chairman of the hospital board, as well as his first term as Mayor. Peter Hedglon solves problems as an attorney, a person involved in our community in many ways, and as Mayor. He has had to deal with many problems and never had the luxury of passing problems on to anyone. He means what he says and doesn’t make promises he can not keep.
I have known Peter Hedglon for over 30 years, going back to when he and one of my sons were neighbors at Valenti’s Country Estates. He never pretends to be something he is not. Beneath a professional reserve Peter is a sincere and compassionate person, who cares about the people of Oneida and respects them enough to tell the truth.
There is no point in fixing what is not broken, so a vote for Peter Hedglon will keep the momentum moving forward, as well as promote fiscal responsibility (which we sorely need in this economy).
Mayor Hedglon has earned a second term.
MARY DuCHENE
ONEIDA
Known ‘Frtiz’ for a long time, good choice for Verona
To the editor:
My name is Russ Walker and I have been the next door neighbor to Fritz Scherz for most of my life. From my earliest memories to this very day, I can tell you sincerely that whether it be playing football, baseball, hockey, working on his father’s dairy farm, going to college, or being a loving/devoted father and husband, Fritz has never half-done anything. Not to mention the 30-plus years of commitment to his family Polka band including many benefit performances.
When he sets forth to do anything, you can rest assured that he will have it done and done right. When Fritz first mentioned to me that he was running for Councilman, my first thoughts were “He has my vote. I know he will do it right. Easy decision.” I am proud to call him my friend and hope to call him my councilman.
Please join me in voting for Fritz Scherz on Nov. 3.
RUSS WALKER
VERONA
Faulkner looks for support in Verona as election nears
To the editor:
My name is Scott Faulkner and I am looking for your vote for a Vernon Town Council seat.
I have lived in Vernon Center all my life. Upon graduation from VVS Schools, I entered the United States Navy and served for 6 years. Rome Research Corporation has employed me now for 28 years.
For over 20 years I have been involved in the Vernon Rod & Gun Club, Federated Sportsmen Clubs of Oneida County, New York State Conservation Council and the New York State Outdoorsman’s Hall of Fame. . I have served as an officer or on the boards of each of these organizations. I have worked to represent sportsmen’s and women on Conservation issues statewide. I have fought to keep hunting and fishing a viable commodity in this state.
When I served on committees and boards for the different Sportsmen and women organizations, the one thing I always did was try to represent them when I was asked to vote on something that was a concern for them. I sometimes voted against the majority because it was not going to benefit everyone but only a select few.
I enjoy living in this community and will try to serve the taxpayers in this township to the best of my abilities.
SCOTT FAULKNER
VERONA
Allen Riley, ‘ a true professional, a man of great integrity’
To the editor:
As a retired Senior Criminal Investigator with the U.S. Marshals Service and life long resident of Madison County I am pleased to support Allen Riley for Sheriff of Madison County.
I first met Allen 22 years ago at the then brand new Madison County Jail. I was in charge of investigating
the escape of a Federal inmate who was facing a life sentence in Federal Prison. Allen of the State Police was called to assist, and that he did. His efforts and investigative incites helped lead to the arrest of the fugitive with-in 24 hours of the escape.
Allen is a true professional, a man of great integrity, and just a good down to earth person. He tested for and competed against hundreds, maybe thousands to get in to the State Police. He then went through extensive training at one of the most highly regarded State Police Academies in the Country. He then worked 27 years for one of the most well respected Police agencies in the Country, working his way from Trooper up to Investigator with the BCI. He worked high level and high profile cases, such as the Sarah Ann Woods case, and he will bring those years of experience with him as Sheriff.
I am friends with and personally know many Madison County Deputy Sheriffs, in the Jail Division, the Road Patrol, and the Criminal Division. They need, and we as residents of Madison County need a True Professional as our next Sheriff, and that person is Allen Riley.
RONALD H. McDERMOTT
CAZENOVIA
Fritz Scherz asks for town of Verona support
To the editor:
My name is Fritz Scherz, and I am running for councilman on the Verona Town Board. I have lived in Verona all my life and am proud to be a resident along with my family. Over the past few months as I’ve gone around the town of Verona to talk with residents, I’ve heard from quite a few that they’d like it to be easier to access government information. I’ve previously suggested that town board minutes be posted on the town’s website (as other local governments have done on their Web sites). I’d like to move forward with this, as I feel it’s important that public information be easily accessible. I’ve also heard from some residents that they don’t always feel like their concerns are fully listened to. I want all residents in the town of Verona to know that if I’m fortunate enough to be elected to the Verona Town Board, that I will always welcome their concerns, suggestions, and feedback.
Wherever I’ve been employed or volunteered, I’ve always taken pride in my work, delivered results (independently and/or collaboratively), and have been someone that my colleagues could rely on. With that in mind, I offer the following summary below for Town of Verona residents to consider when voting. More detailed information can be found on my Web site at voteforfritz.com.
In closing, I believe my 25-plus years of overall work experience (including over 13 years of work experience in government and over 12 years working on my Dad’s dairy farm), sense of community, work ethic, and determination makes me an ideal candidate for Councilman on the Verona Town Board. I was very pleased to earn over 500 votes during this year’s Republican Primary, and am hopeful to earn the vote of town of Verona residents on Election Day Nov. 3. I would be honored to be a councilman on the Verona Town Board. Thank you in advance for your consideration.
FRITZ SCHERZ
VERONA
Kenneth Kunkel ‘already knows his way around’ the county
To the editor:
Kenneth J. Kunkel Jr. already knows his way around the Madison County Clerk’s office.
As deputy county clerk of motor vehicle for 11 years and our county clerk for the past four years. Kunkel has been responsible for keeping accurate records, has increased transactions and revenue to Madison County and is committed to strong customer service. That’s the job he has been doing capably for the past 15 years.
Both his past and present position as Madison County Clerk involves attention to detail and organization. The county clerk’s office rarely makes the news headlines, yet the functions in both clerk and motor vehicle offices have a lasting impact on every resident in this county. Timely recording and filing of all records, precise handling of $10.8 million annually and the knowledge of this position makes Ken Kunkel the best choice for county clerk.
Ken measure each day by integrity and honesty and during the past 15 years, he has demonstrated his ability to make good decisions and finds joy in his employment.
This is not the time for “on the job training.”
Please join me in supporting Ken Kunkel for the Madison County Clerk Tuesday Nov. 3.
O. PERRY TOOKER III
ONEIDA
Trueworthy seeks Hamilton votes for re-election
To the voters in the town of Hamilton:
It has been my honor to serve the town of Hamilton as a Councilman since 2002 and I write this letter seeking your support at the polls on November 3. For 20 years I have been employed with New York Central Mutual, currently as a Senior Vice President. I serve as a Lieutenant in the Hamilton Fire Department having been involved in the volunteer fire service 22 years. I also serve on the Village of Hamilton Zoning Board of Appeals. I grew up here and live on Broad St. with my wife and two daughters.
Our town faces real issues in the future concerning affordability. How long will the hard working people and retirees be able to continue to pay the taxes associated with our area? The supervisor and the town board have worked very hard to minimize the town tax portion of the overall property tax burden. We remain debt free, which to me means that our tax dollars go to work and pay for goods and services - not financing debt.
I believe the town has an active role in preserving our outstanding roadways and infrastructure. This can be accomplished through common sense solutions to the issues that may present threats to them, while still preserving the property owners rights to harvest the fruits of their lands.
In my view government walks a fine line between helping and hindering. I want to continue finding common sense solutions to problems and finding ways to take advantage of the unique opportunities we have.
We have much to look forward to; Scott Mills provides energetic leadership, Lindsey Hoham brings a fresh perspective and motivation, Don Marcellus is on top of every mile of our roads and it shows, Don Misch is a fair-minded, well educated Judge. Cathy Hotaling is a hard working clerk and provides consistent hours to the people.
Thank you for taking time to read this and consider the challenges and opportunities we face together. I encourage you to attend town meetings. I appreciate your support on Nov. 3.
TIMOTHY A. TRUEWORTHY
HAMILTON TOWN COUNCILOR
In support of Peter Darby for Hamilton Town Council
To the editor:
Peter Darby has been a friend for fifteen years and during that time he’s shared his wisdom, his home and his craft with my family and I. He would represent the people of Hamilton on the town council with a commitment to strengthening our local economy while at the same time protecting our wealth of natural resources. Peter has demonstrated his leadership skills as a school board president, a local businessman and a citizen of Hamilton. He is an experienced consensus-builder and understands the importance of community dialogue in public decision making. Natural gas development and its potential impact on the region’s economy and environment are important challenges confronting our town. Demand is expected to rise and increased drilling will have both benefits and costs to our community. The town of Hamilton needs to be proactive in preparing for increased natural gas development by protecting its legitimate interests. Peter Darby will work for the people of Hamilton and I urge you to vote for him on Nov. 3.
GREG OWENS
HAMILTON
Hedglon wants Oneida to ‘continue to do better’
To the voters of Oneida:
I run for re-election as Mayor of the City of Oneida because I think we can continue to do better.
As an attorney, consultant, community-volunteer and now as your Mayor I have been involved full-time solving problems since 1977. I find out what the facts and rules are, consider all options, recommend what I think is the best option, and then participate in a full and fair discussion to make a decision on what will be the best choice.
A Mayor has to say “no” some times. As Mayor I have said “no” to individuals who wanted to use a City vehicle for personal purposes on a weekend. I have said “no” to pay raises. I have said “no” to a proposed agreement that I did not think was in the best interests of the City. I learned a long time ago that saying “no” did not make me popular, but also that it can be the right thing to do.
The 2009 City of Oneida Mayoral election is unusual in that both candidates have records as Mayor. The voters can compare the promises made and performance delivered of each candidate. I trust that the voters know that past performance is the best predictor of future performance, and that a leopard does not change its spots.
I am proud of my performance as mayor. The common council now functions as the legislative and governing body of the city, not a rubber stamp for the Mayor. The former school building on Elizabeth Street is no more after standing in disgraceful decline for over twenty years as a visible reminder of our city government’s inability to solve a problem. After more than thirty years of inaction, a plan was presented to solve the space needs of city court and the police department in a way that saves the city millions of dollars.
I have spoken honestly about the city’s financial situation. We have expanded our code enforcement efforts to protect our residents, preserve our neighborhoods and maintain property values. The city is playing a leadership role locally and in Albany addressing Native American issues. Economic development is no longer a one-man show as several groups of businesspersons and the City are working together. City department heads run their departments free of Mayoral micro-management.
My performance as Mayor in 2008 and 2009 predicts that I will work with others to solve problems in 2010 and 2011. It predicts that I will continue to tell you the truth and not make empty promises. It predicts I will not take our City backwards to restore the old ways of “politics as usual” doing personal favors using your tax dollars, sweeping problems under the rug, conducting the City’s business behind closed doors, and more of the financial mismanagement that created a $1.4 million gap between current revenues and spending.
I humbly ask for your vote on Nov. 3 for re-election as mayor to serve our city for two more years.
PETER HEDGLON
MAYOR
CITY OF ONEIDA
In Support of Scott Mills – Hamilton Town Supervisor
To the editor:
I’m writing to express my support for Scott Mills in his bid for election as Hamilton Town Supervisor.
Scott has been a friend and neighbor of mine in Hubbardsville for nearly 25 years but it wasn’t until recently that I recognized his level of involvement and commitment to the town of Hamilton .
I was an independent businessman all my life and am currently a large landowner in the town. As a landowner I discussed with Scott the proposed zoning regulations and the impact on rural landowners. More recently, as a member of the Natural Gas Steering committee, I have approached him on issues of natural gas drilling. It is through these concerns and others that I had the opportunity to consult with Scott. He was fair, honest and actively sought input from all individuals.
Scott demonstrates a terrific energy and a common sense approach to issues. Scott looks out for all parties’ interests, responds timely to any questions and is the first to suggest public meetings to both inform residents of the issues and allow for fair input. He has the vision to balance short-term results against long term goals.
The type of energy and commitment Scott has demonstrated, as Deputy Supervisor will continue to serve the residents of the town of Hamilton well in the future.
As a leader on town council, Scott has led the way in safeguarding the taxpayer and landowner. His leadership through zoning reevaluation demonstrated his tireless dedication to preserving the rights of the landowner while sensibly integrating the changes needed to keep pace with the innovations of our times.
Scott can be found reaching out to folks of all political persuasions, so much so that he leaves some partisans a little confused. His openness to others ideas however is a gift and a benefit for those he represents. We’d like to see Scott as Hamilton’s Town Supervisor, because we like what we’ve seen in Scott as a neighbor and a friend.
NED AND ROBYN LAMB
HUBBARDSVILLE
Re-elect Ken Kunkel for Madison County Clerk
To the editor:
I strongly support Ken Kunkel for re-election as Madison County Clerk. He has proven himself with years of exceptional service heading up the Madison County Department of Motor Vehicles and as Madison County’s Clerk. I am for Ken not just because he is a Republican, but moreover because he is an outstanding public servant who has used his energy, his competence, his integrity and his passion to make the Madison County Clerk’s Office among the best in the State. We could not ask for a more experienced and qualified county clerk.
I have read in the papers that Ken’s opponent feels the job could be done on a part time basis. Any job can be done on a part time basis if you wish to give it part time attention. We deserve more than a part time county clerk, we need to keep Ken Kunkel as the full time and outstanding county clerk he has proved himself to be.
On Election Day, please support Ken Kunkel and return him for another term as our County Clerk.
PETER W. MITCHELL
CAZENOVIA
Vote for Scott Mills for Hamilton Town Supervisor
To the editor:
I am writing to endorse the candidacy of Scott Mills for Town of Hamilton Supervisor. Earlville has been working on a multi-million dollar water system improvement project for the past several years, and we are very encouraged that the groundbreaking is scheduled for early 2010. During this process, Scott has been a key player for town of Hamilton residents that rely on Earlville water for their needs. From step one of developing the Intermunicipal Agreement through the formation of our water district, Scott has been instrumental in this process.
We, the Village of Earlville, have been vigorously working with the Town and Village of Hamilton on shared services, to effectively offer services to our residents with reduced or eliminated costs. Scott has been an energetic principal in this effort, researching ways to improve our service offerings while understanding our budgetary concerns. Scott remains an advocate of a disciplined approach to
Fiscal planning and being debt-free is attributable to the handwork Scott has put in, serving on the board for 12 years – eight of them as the deputy supervisor.
The key to running efficient, successful government is establishing a great team. Walt Jaquay assured himself of that with Scott’s appointment as deputy supervisor. I am confident Scott will be a dedicated supporter of the Town of Hamilton, and more so a sounding board for residents to bring their concerns and suggestions to. I urge you to cast your vote on Nov. 3 for Scott Mills for town of Hamilton Supervisor.
TONI CAMBELL
MAYOR
VILLAGE OF EARLVILLE
