SAUGERTIES DEMS ARE OFF AND RUNNING

At its April 20th meeting, the Saugerties Democratic Committee unanimously endorsed its search committee’s recommendations for Legislative and Town elections. Democratic chair Mike Harkavy said, “I credit this committee and the Saugerties Democratic Party for creating a climate where talented, community-minded people who want to work in the best interests of Saugerties are always welcomed. In nominating this slate of candidates, we are putting our principles front and center and making it clear that, for us, the goal of elections is open and inclusive government and good public policy.”

For the legislative race, the Democrats are again calling on the talent and experience of Gary Bischoff to lead the team. He is a consensus-builder who has earned countywide respect for his unfaltering leadership on tough issues. Joining Gary on the ticket are Nicole Tucker, Marcy Goulart, and Alverta Jones. “These candidates bring a wealth of expertise in economic development, business management, education, tourism and community volunteerism,” said Harkavy. Gary Bischoff added, “The search committee had a difficult job picking the best candidates. There were other people who wanted to run, and they also would have made excellent candidates. The candidates that were ultimately selected bring a great balance of youth, enthusiasm and experience that provides voters with an excellent slate they can support with confidence”.

For the town race, the Democrats tapped the highly regarded Greg Helsmoortel for a sixth term as Supervisor. Joining Greg on the Team Saugerties ticket are Bruce Leighton, who is seeking his second term, and Jamie Fine, who is making her first run at elected office. “Over the past several years, our town board has put together a tremendous record of achievement, and we look forward to a continuation of this collaborative and effective approach to governing. Greg, Bruce and Jamie have our confidence, our support and our unfaltering commitment to help them succeed,” said Harkavy.

The Democratic Committee also gave a hearty round of applause to Nancy Campbell who will be leaving the town board when her term expires in December. “Nancy told us from the get-go that she was only going to serve one term, and we owe her a debt of gratitude for the extraordinary work she’s done…and continues to do…on behalf of the residents of Saugerties. She will be sorely missed.”