Vote for Ballot Proposition #1

Voters should vote “Yes” on Ballot Proposition # 1 for the following reasons:

Freeze the number of state senators at 63: There is a convoluted formula in the state constitution that has been used repeatedly during the redistricting process to create additional Senate districts that favor the majority party. This amendment eliminates the ability to create additional districts to secure a majority in the state Senate.

Amend the process for the counting of the state’s population: It is already state law that in the census counts, incarcerated individuals are considered residents of the last place of residence rather than where they are in prison. This memorializes that law in the constitution.

Delete certain provisions that violate the U.S. Constitution: This would clarify that all maps in the future must be drawn on the basis of the full population figures, bringing the state in line with the U.S. Constitution.

Repeal and amend certain requirements for the appointment of the co-executive directors of the redistricting commission and amend the manner of drawing district lines for congressional and state legislative offices:  The 2014 constitutional amendment contains the only party-based voting rules in the constitution. This amendment would permit approval of the commission’s plans with a majority vote not dependent on who controls the legislature. The amendment also addresses the delay in releasing the census data because of the pandemic, to ensure that an orderly election process can occur in 2022.

While there remain improvements to be made in our redistricting process, a “yes” vote would bring us closer to what should be a common goal—a process that is both fair and independent of party politics.

Anne Hart

Liberty, NY

No injunction filed against Bar Veloce

This letter provides information omitted from your reporting on the Tusten Town Board meeting of September 14.

At the September 14 meeting of the town board, during the public comment section, a member of the public asked why Bar Veloce is not yet open, and then stated his understanding that an injunction had been obtained against Bar Veloce by another local business, thereby keeping Bar Veloce from opening. His comments were subsequently included in an article in the September 23-29 edition of the River Reporter.

In the weeks immediately prior to the September town board meeting, we were asked directly, in person, by another member of our community, if we had filed an injunction against Bar Veloce.

We HAVE NOT filed an injunction against Bar Veloce.

It is our understanding that Bar Veloce is not open because they have not yet received a certificate of compliance from the Tusten code enforcement officer.

When the member of the public asked why Bar Veloce was not open, the town supervisor sat silent. It is the duty of town government representatives to provide the facts to its citizens. And at that moment, the town supervisor, possessed of the facts as to why Bar Veloce cannot open, chose not to do that.

Brendan P. Weiden

Kathleen M. Weiden

Narrowsburg Union

Narrowsburg, NY

Endorsing Lisa Emery for Milford mayor

It is with great pleasure and honor that I endorse Lisa Emery for Milford Borough mayor. Lisa is a third-generation Pike County resident who has deep roots in the county. She knows how a small town like Milford should be run; she lived here for many years while the town was run correctly.  

After she and her husband, a 30-year Air Force veteran, retired in 2017, they decided to buy a home in the borough. Of all the places she had traveled in her life, Pike County always held her heart. Lisa knows what it’s like to live in a community like Milford. She has those small-town qualities needed to be a mayor—not only for long-time residents but new ones as well.

I truly believe she’ll represent all the people regardless of party affiliation, something that is very important in the job as mayor. The mayor cannot only be beholden to one party; all the people must be heard and respected. Something that clearly has not been happening with the current mayor.

The number one role of the mayor is to preserve order, enforcing ordinances and regulations and thereby providing safety for the public.  The position oversees the police department, directing their activities. It is not one of control.

While the mayor’s opinions are very welcome during borough meetings, the mayor does not have a vote unless a tie-breaker is needed. The mayor should not control all aspects of borough business. Lisa is committed to seeing that this happens. Lisa is committed to bringing back integrity to the role of mayor for Milford Borough. She wants to have a better, open and transparent form of government. One where no closed-door secret meetings take place in which outcomes are pre-determined.

The time is now for Lisa Emery to get the residents and borough officials back to what made and continues to make Milford a great place to live and raise a family. Elections are approaching fast, and you deserve a say in who becomes your next mayor for four years. I, for one, cannot think of anyone more suited for the job. That’s why I endorse Lisa Emery for Milford Borough mayor and throw my full political support behind her. Vote Lisa Emery, Milford Borough mayor.

Robert “Bo” Fean

Former Milford Borough mayor

Nokomis, FL

Vote for Jerry Stevens for Town of Neversink Supervisor

It’s time for a change, and Jerry Stevens can fill the position of town supervisor seamlessly, with honorability and results!

Jerry has people skills. He has worked with parents and children for 27 years, coaching, and is a fixture in the Tri-Valley school system.

He promises to be inclusive, to listen,  give a professional view and follow through with delivering what the townspeople need.

His experience on the Town of Neversink Board of Assessment, as chair of the Neversink Democratic Committee and as a member of the Sullivan County Democratic executive committee proves he knows how government works and how to get things done.  

Diana K. Weiner

Vice Chair, Neversink Democratic Committee

Grahamsville, NY