Vision
A Love for Middletown
I was born, raised, and spent most of my adult life residing in the beautiful New Kingston Valley. After graduating from Margaretville Central School, and receiving an Electrical Engineering Degree from SUNY Morrisville, I settled back in New Kingston, married my wife Elaine, and raised our three children here in the Town of Middletown. I have a passion to see our community prosper and remain a desirable place for our families to work, play, and thrive.
Geographically speaking, the Town of Middletown represents a gateway into Delaware County and introduction into the Central Catskills region. Middletown is therefore well-positioned to embrace new opportunities for business and tourism. My appreciation for the diversity and talents of our residents combined with the natural beauty surrounding us is at the forefront of my enthusiasm to want to give back to this wonderful community. As we look to address the challenges we face going forward, communication and collaboration will be key components to building a stronger and vibrant community.
A Background in Leadership
I am proud of my participation and engagement with the business community, not-for-profit organizations, and numerous grass-roots community groups over the years. I am currently the CEO of Margaretville Telephone Company which has recently leveraged over $36M in public / private partnerships to invest in critical broadband infrastructure throughout the region. In addition, we are working diligently to transition the company ownership to a 100% employee-owned business. This multi-faceted transaction will ensure that this important community institution remains locally owned and operated and will continue to provide employment opportunities while keeping investments local. I currently serve on the board of the MARK Project, New York State Telecommunications Association (NYSTA), and have previously served as an elected Commissioner of the Middletown-Hardenburgh Fire District (Margaretville) and as Delaware County Chamber President. I am a member of the Margaretville Fire Department and serve on numerous committees supporting a variety of community organizations. My involvement has given me extensive knowledge and deep appreciation of the community. These meaningful connections are the inspiration to serve Middletown as town Supervisor.
Representation on the County Level
As a Supervisor, I will represent Middletown on the County Board of Supervisors and will advocate for the needs of our community. I strongly believe that regular participation at the County is essential to understanding issues, problem solving, and voting on matters that are important to the residents of the Town. Building these relationships with the Board of Supervisors and other County agencies will be a high priority and crucial for greater support for our Town initiatives.
I want to hear from you—community members, business owners, and organizations. I want to know your concerns, listen to your ideas, and work together to identify needs and approaches to move forward together. I believe that expanding committees and promoting more participation in local government will result in more effective and cohesive communication at both the Town and County level. I aim to make sure Middletown has a clear voice that articulates our needs moving forward.
Vision for the Future
I believe that we need a fresh approach to addressing our challenges and embracing opportunities for our future. I am an advocate for greater communication and transparency. I will engage with the town employees, improve transparency with the Board and community, explore collaborative and working relationships with neighboring municipalities, and rebuild critical relationships with the County Board of Supervisors. I will foster collaborations and connections between our hamlets and villages and build strong connections with our neighboring towns.
I am committed to engagement with the business community and local organizations. I also believe that expansion of committees will help identify, prioritize, and address issues such as healthcare, affordable workforce housing, childcare, expansion of cellular coverage, substance addiction, and ideas to retain the youth in our community. Working together we can identify priority action items, work toward solutions, and look to improve the quality of life for the residents of the Town of Middletown.
I am dedicated to serving the Town of Middletown and will work tirelessly to build upon existing initiatives while embracing new opportunities for a brighter future.