A letter from KT Tobin

My name is KT Tobin. I’m a civic-minded working mom who has lived in and around New Paltz for twenty plus years, the past three as a homeowner in the village.  I strongly support Jason West for Mayor of New Paltz because he has values that reflect our community’s character and because he has demonstrated success in implementing positive, progressive change.  In his previous term he created the Landlord/Tenant Council, the Environmental Conservation Commission, and New Paltz GreenWorks; he provided the necessary leadership for the installation of ecologically friendly reed beds at the sewage treatment plant and solar panels on village hall, just to name a few.

Jason West will support our existing businesses and nurture more locally owned businesses to create more local jobs and to keep the dollars spent here right here in New Paltz.  He knows that what is good for our local economy is good for our environment and to look at either with a separate lens creates division and not progress.  I’m confident Jason can lead our community in consensus and collaboration, supporting a strong local economy while protecting our natural environment and scenic vistas.  They are inextricably intertwined as the environment, as well as providing the lifeblood of healthy air and water, is also the backbone of our economy, drawing people and their economic investment to our village.

As a CSA member who believes in the local food movement, I very much appreciate Jason’s focus on family farms and local agriculture.  We need to protect our farms and keep them viable; to provide local food and to preserve our rural character.

Jason has the experience of building a budget with taxpayers in mind – which is critical now more than ever.  He is a smart, creative, energetic person who will keep the interests of seniors, students, and working and low income families as well as business owners and operators in mind during budget time.

Please join me in voting for Jason West for Mayor on May 3, noon to 9 p.m. at the Village Fire House.