Don Katt.
Kingston Legislator Dave Donaldson is chairman of the county legislative committee with college oversight. In one of his more insightful observations, Donaldson, an elected official for almost 30 years, says that any committee of more than seven people is inherently ineffectual. Donaldson, by title, is a member of the college search committee, as is Legislator Lynn Archer of Accord.
College trustees president and search committee leader Bill Spearman said the college, in seeking broad representation on the committee, is following SUNY administration guidelines. A search firm is expected to be engaged to whittle finalists down to no more than five. The nine-member college board will appoint a president, subject to SUNY review.
Season of giving
Just in time for the holidays, the county executive hosted a fundraiser at swank Diamond Mills in Saugerties last week. Tickets were only $25, much to the relief of attendees. The new year will provide many other opportunities to demonstrate loyalty and appreciation, at prices starting at $95 each.
On Dec. 8, outgoing state Sen. Cecilia Tkaczyk became the first public official to formally to endorse Hein for re-election. Having assumed a near-subterranean profile after her defeat by George Amedore, Tkaczyk did not attend the Hein fundraiser three days later.
Happy holidays
County Legislature Chairman John Parete of Olive can enjoy the season with the almost sure knowledge he’ll be back as chair for a second year come January. Democrat Parete was elected chairman a year ago with the unanimous support of the 10-member Republican minority.
Minority Leader Ken Ronk remains loyal. “As far as I know, my people are supporting the chairman for re-election,” he said. “I think the legislature has done a better job of standing up for itself in recent years. I don’t think there are any specific gripes against John. He listens to us.”
The balloting may not be unanimous. Kingston Legislator Pete Loughran has been canvassing votes.
Preview: Next week, the annual holiday column, this year more nice than naughty.
