Mell Carney is challenging incumbent John Pizzolato for the position of Town of Highland Supervisor, a race that's a re-match of last year's supervisor contest.
"Dear Neighbors,
"Almost three years ago, you first trusted me to lead our town. I’m writing to say thank you, to share what we’ve accomplished together, and to ask for your vote once again on November 3rd.
"Working alongside a skilled and dedicated Town Board, we’ve delivered real results. We secured over $900,000 in grants to improve Town Hall, our commercial center, the courthouse, and our Senior and Community Center, at no cost to taxpayers. We’re expanding access to sustainable healthcare, and we responsibly funded the constable program you voted for.
"When I took office, I promised to fix the disorganization in Town Hall. We found the root causes and put new systems in place so those problems don’t come back. We rebuilt our Code and Building Department with local staff and strengthened our partnerships with neighboring towns so we can share resources and save money. Our 10-Year Comprehensive Plan protects our land, water, and rural character while still allowing for responsible growth.
"I’m especially proud of our finances. We delivered a budget 4% under the tax cap and grew our reserves to more than $3 million through sound investments. And our Highway Department, which works tirelessly to keep our roads safe and paved, has more funding available than ever before.
"This work hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it. I believe our town is best served by leaders who build relationships and solve problems, not by division and burned bridges. Over the past three years, my opponent has directed her energy toward criticizing the board members and employees she would need to work with, and has even tried to have our grants revoked. That approach has strained our relationships with the agencies and representatives who help us. I don’t think it’s what the Town of Highland needs right now or ever.
"We have a choice: take a step backward, or keep moving forward on what matters most to you: safe roads, quality services, fiscal responsibility, and protecting what makes the Town of Highland a place you’re proud to call home.
"I made you promises, and we’ve kept them. I’d be honored to keep working for you. Please vote on November 3rd, and thank you for the privilege of serving our community."
"My name is Mary Ellen—better known as Mell—Carney, and I’m running for Town Supervisor for the Town of Highland. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY but always had roots in this town. My Dad is from Glen Spey and Mom was a Brooklyn girl.
"I’ve seen many changes here over the years. But what is happening now is particularly concerning to me. The law is not applied consistently and our local government lacks transparency.
"My first priority will be to thoroughly investigate our finances. The $900,000 of reimbursement grant projects were subsidized with monies meant to pay off our Highway Garage bond and pay cash for Highway trucks. The interest on those two debts totals $83,000 over the past three years.
"While beautification projects are always welcome and appreciated, so too is fiscal responsibility.
"I’d like to see our high school students be more involved with local government. They have much to offer the community and are an untapped resource. Community socials and a volunteer outreach group for our seniors would be a welcome addition to the town.
"We need to heal and be a unified community again. I hope to make that happen."
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here