As a new small business owner in Jeffersonville and aspiring farmer in Sullivan County, living on land that has been a farm since 1820, I have the opportunity to witness first-hand the unique challenges and opportunities that our community faces—and how important it is to elect Paula Kay to meet them. 

My business has difficulty in finding employees, despite paying good wages and benefits. Of those I could find willing to work, I heard from multiple potential employees that they would like to work with us, but could not find accessible housing—and that they would have to drive at least 25-30 minutes on roads that are not well lit or in good shape. (Because of the lack of housing and the ironically high vacancy rates in current housing due to those properties needing so much work, the average person in Sullivan County must drive 28.6 minutes to work. This is both a considerable expense and significant time taken away from family.)

Those I could find who would work did not accept the offer because they wanted access to good physical and mental health care. 

These essential issues not only impact the success of my farm and business, but have constrained greater success for all of us in Sullivan County and the surrounding area. Businesses cannot be as productive as possible if we cannot find talent. Paula will provide relief. 

Paula has a plan to address these issues and has the experience to get them done. For example, she created a public-private partnership in her Adopt an Exit program along Route 17. 

As the candidate in the majority governing party, she is guaranteed to have a seat at the table and be able to deliver much-needed resources to our community. This is especially important as Sullivan County is poised to receive Juul cigarette and opioid settlement money to be spent by the county on behalf of its constituents. 

Further, Paula’s plan to incentivize new-home construction will draw potential employees to my business and farm, as they will have access to safe and affordable homes. She will bring about solutions that are the necessary foundations for our area’s success and so we can remain competitive. 

Paula’s vision will help all of us with farms and businesses and enable us to further create economic growth. 

Most importantly, her commitment to focus on people over politics will ensure she represents all in our community, regardless of politics. 

I am voting for Paula because I care about my village; care about my neighbors; and want to ensure the success of my farm, my business, my family and my neighbors. Join me in caring and vote for Paula Kay for NY-100. 

With hope for the future, thanks to Paula, 

Michael Gallagher
Toast Jeffersonville
Jeffersonville, NY