3-12-10
To the Editor:
Fellow residents, we are fast approaching one of the most important elections in decades, the outcome of which will determine the future direction of our village for years to come.
I was nominated to run for trustee this year, but, after careful reflection, I decided I wanted to devote all my efforts to ensuring our Democratic team has the best opportunity to be elected or re-elected to office.
The problems we face are numerous and affect all aspects of our quality of life. I am going to ask you to come out on March 16, with temperatures still around freezing, perhaps snow on the ground, to vote for four individuals. Hopefully, by the end of this relatively short letter I can convince you that these individuals are worthy of your vote.
Jeff Katz, our candidate for mayor, current deputy mayor and trustee, husband of Karen Katz, father of three who cherishes this village, has an accomplished record that we can be proud of. He has an unsurpassed familiarity with village issues and government.
Through his efforts at finding new revenue, he has kept taxes down, alleviated some of our parking problems, enhanced our library (and has had other municipalities donate more funds), worked with residents to build Badger Park with the village’s first skating rink, ensured 24/7 police protection for our citizens, secured funds for the Gateway Project, fought opposition to keep village property open for our fire department so they could park in a timely fashion when time is critical in an emergency, and many other quality of life situations.
Lynne Mebust our current trustee, wife of Dr. Kai Mebust and mother of three children, is running for a second term, she also has a record of accomplishments. She has spearheaded the fight to restore 24/7 police coverage, fought for our firefighters’ needs and has answered their concerns. Lynne has fought for innovative revenue-raising solutions, helping to keep our taxes in check and helping to pay for projects like Irish Hill. As park chair, she worked closely with residents to secure funds for Badger Park enhancements.
The village desperately needs Lynne to continue to fight for us; she has a proven record and is not afraid to stand up for the village concerns.
Sally Eldred, running for trustee, a mom with two children, Evan and a daughter, Dr. Ann Eldred, and a son-in-law, Dr. Bob Johnson. Sally moved to Cooperstown five years ago to be near her two grandchildren, Emma and Kate, and has been enjoying them in her retirement years. Sally saw the need to help in preserving and enhancing our village principles and quality-of-life issues and knew she could help if she was elected.
She brings an extensive resume and wealth of experience to the table, including being executive director, Greater Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, a long career in public relations and communications, and 11 years on a zoning board of appeals.
Sally has a vested interest in ensuring the quality of life and public safety of our village are maintained and enhanced.
Leslie Friedman, running for village justice, is wife of Dr. Shep Friedman and mother of two children. She is currently deputy village justice, appointed by Mayor Carol B. Waller, with her full support to become village justice. She has worked tirelessly in this position and is exceedingly qualified.
An attorney for 20 years, member of the New York, Pennsylvania and District of Columbia Bars, she has a J.D. degree from NYU and a B.A. from Bryn Mawr College. She is a member of the state and Otsego County magistrates associations.
Leslie is someone who we can be assured will always bring integrity to the village justice position and she will be fair and diligent in her duties.
Not just your ordinary politicians, our Democratic candidates have proven records as leaders with extraordinary backgrounds; neighbors and friends who care about our community. Please join me in supporting these four candidates on March 16 election day.
RICHARD ABBATE
Cooperstown Democratic Chairman
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