ENDORSEMENT - Maryanne Lee

As a lifelong resident of Claverack, a former Councilwomen and a business owner I’m writing to endorse Kippy Weigelt for Town Supervisor, Mary Jeanne Hoose for Town Clerk and Tax Collector, Doug Colwell and Stephen Hook for Town Council and Louie Lamont for Highway Superintendent.
 
Having had the privilege to serve with the Claverack Republican Team I know firsthand their commitment and dedication to our town. They continue to work in the best interest of the community and the environment. They understand social responsibility.
 
I commend and thank Doug Colwell for running for Town Councilman. Doug’s background in education, years in law enforcement and his willingness to continue to serve his community will be an asset to our Town.
 
As the new Town Hall moves forward the Claverack Republican Team is making sure that SMART principles and energy efficiency are guiding the project. They understand sustainability and fiscal responsibility and continue to actively research grant funding opportunities to offset cost to the taxpayer when possible. 

It has been suggested that the Town of Claverack was not impacted by the COVID pandemic. In fact, it was implied there was no crisis for the town. It’s important to make clear town revenue was seriously impacted. Town officials worked diligently to adjust where necessary so there would be no interruptions during this unprecedented time.
 
There have been concerns the Claverack Town Board could have done something about increased property assessments. Revaluation comes periodically as a mandate from the state. This is not something the Town Board controls. 

Improving the hamlet intersection at State Route 9H and 23B has been an ongoing concern. Our current leaders have worked diligently with New York State DOT to communicate their concerns and present possible solutions to improve this very busy intersection. Numerous letters were written from private citizens expressing their concerns. Unfortunately, it is New York State that makes that final determination. And sometimes, as we are all aware of Park Street, the state may not have the best solution. I have no doubt that our current leaders are working hard to keep the state informed of the ongoing safety concerns.
 
Its easy to make promises and to have big dreams. Attending an occasional Town Board meeting and working in the private sector doesn’t guarantee or qualify an ability to run a town.

The reality is the Town of Claverack needs experienced, knowledgeable leaders like Kippy, Mary Jeanne, Stephen, Doug and Louie. Leaders that understand what measures must be taken to improve the quality of life in our community, maintain a safe community, provide for our elderly, work with developers to provide fair and affordable housing, and value local businesses old and new.
  
As we continue to move through uncertain times its more important than ever that we consider experience and stability when we cast our vote.  

Maryanne Lee
Former Claverack Town Councilmember