FORESTBURGH, NY — A member who has served in the New York State Assembly for more than 20 years will not be running for re-election.

“After much thought and reflection, I am announcing that I will not be seeking re-election to the Assembly in November,” said Aileen M. Gunther (D-100) in an announcement on Friday. “First and foremost, I want to thank the people of this district for placing their trust in me all these years.”

Gunther is a registered nurse with 29 years of experience in health care. She became a national certified infection control specialist and an HIV counselor.

Her life in politics began in 2003, when she won a special election to fill the seat left vacant by the death of her husband, Jacob E. Gunther III. Since then, she has run uncontested.

Gunther’s announcement included a review of her achievements, her thanks to the community, and her plans:

”My greatest goals in office have been to ensure economic opportunity for everyone I represent, as well as to protect the beautiful place in which we live for generations to come. I am proud that our region has one of the lowest unemployment rates on record, and we now have secured ongoing funding for the Delaware River Watershed in the New York State budget.

“As your Assemblywoman — an elected voice for our community — I am wholeheartedly committed to continuing my work securing funding for essential projects, providing resources and meaningful policy for our most vulnerable, our families and our businesses, here and across the state before the end of my term.

“From passing the Safe Staffing for Quality Care Act to securing billions of dollars in funding for mental health services — none of it would have been possible were it not for the advocates and volunteers who dedicate their time to bring positive change to our state, and to all of you, I am eternally grateful.

I’m the daughter of a public school teacher and a police officer, so, while this chapter of my life will close at the end of the year, I will be sure to help serve our community in other ways. I raised my children in Sullivan County; it’s my home. I will do everything I can to ensure our community remains such a great place to live.”

Gunther lives in Forestburgh, where she raised her three children, Mary Alice, Jacob IV, and Caitlin.