Don Kerr
Why did you decide to run for office?
Some people join the military to express their patriotism. Others run for office. As the son of an immigrant, I have always felt the obligation to give back.
What positions/experiences/skills do you believe will make you a competent trustee?
I have a track record spanning over a decade of service on diverse boards and committees, and have always found ways to build bridges when possible and to fight for core principles when necessary.
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing the Village of New Paltz right now?
The ability of people to afford to live and retire in New Paltz, and the need to rein in annual increases in taxes. Consolidation advocates have done a disservice to sound financial analysis via a parade of numbers that have been withdrawn or modified. There is little clarity on the finances for consolidation, and we can’t have good analysis and solid recommendations with the numbers we have. That is scary, and it needs to be remedied.
If elected, what would be your top one or two priorities?
1) One fundamental difference between village and town is that the village has sewers and a wastewater treatment plant. Municipal water systems have been the focus of my New Paltz-based company, Wet-Tek (previously Dow-Tech) for ~20 years. I would be the only member of the village or town board with expertise in water and sewer. 2) There are no small business-owners on the current board. I own a business on Main Street and can bring that perspective to discussions.
Rebecca Rotzler
Why did you decide to run for office?
As a former village trustee, I was asked to attend consolidation meetings. In doing so I found more voices are needed, because inaccurate data was presented to the public. We need trustees who will attend to matters affecting village residents beyond that topic, and I know I can do both. My only regret, if elected, is that I will not be able to make my trips to help Hurricane Sandy victims as frequently. We have neighbors within hours of us who are still suffering greatly, but appreciate all the support New Paltz has extended.
What positions/experiences/skills do you believe will make you a competent trustee?
I spent four years as our deputy mayor, with an excellent attendance record, and thoroughly enjoyed being a liaison to departments and committees. My focused attention resulted in timely contracts with emergency services, new and revamped laws to aid our residents and a well-deserved sense of accomplishment for volunteers. Our award-winning Fire Department still looks great in the uniforms, too!
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing the Village of New Paltz right now?
We have a tremendous amount of energy going into a consolidation plan for our village and town, but every effort needs to be made to ensure that factual data is presented to our voters. There is no denying the dismal state of our economic affairs, but we need to have facts at hand to protect ourselves locally. For example, my friend Warren Shanahan purchased his village apartment a few years ago, and it has plummeted in value since. Our residents need to know that their investments will not be hurt, but rather enhanced by any forthcoming changes. Our neighbors at Woodland Pond need our help to get their facility occupied.
If elected, what would be your top one or two priorities?
My top priority will be ensuring that the quality of life for our residents is not only maintained, but enhanced. I would love to explore ideas that are being embraced and enacted in other communities. Seattle is creating an edible city garden; Boulder has an incredible bike/walk system that I absolutely love. And there is no reason to put up with negligent garbage companies. Why not municipal waste service where recycling/composting is a priority? My second priority relates to our greatest challenge: providing a data-informed process and true evaluation of how to make our government more efficient and effective. I love all of the efficiency measures that are being discussed. Even if we find consolidation isn’t the best for us, let’s go ahead and enact these great ideas!
Jonathan Cohen
Why did you decide to run for office?
I have been a New Paltz resident for 16 years, and have three children attending public school. My wife and I love our community.
What positions/experiences/skills do you believe will make you a competent trustee?
I’ve been a business-owner for 40 years. I believe I have great people skills, a strong sense of fiscal responsibility and am a bridge-builder.
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing the Village of New Paltz right now?
The greatest challenge will be to bring the referendum regarding consolidation to the public for an informed vote.
If elected, what would be your top one or two priorities?
My first priority would be to bring the referendum regarding consolidation to the public. My second priority is safety for all village residents: children, college students, the elderly and everyone! I believe that common sense can help us guide New Paltz to be the best community that it can be for our citizens. I am looking forward to the opportunity to serve as a village trustee, and I thank you for your vote!
