My re-election campaign enjoyed a narrow victory on Tuesday, and I would like to thank all of those who worked on my campaign and helped me “get out the vote.” Special thanks go to every Gardiner voter who filled in the bubble next to my name. I very much appreciate your confidence in me, and I will continue to work hard to exceed your expectations.

And thank you to my opponent, Tim Hunter, and to his team, who ran a tough and effective campaign that came close to winning. To these people, and to the hundreds of Gardiner residents who voted for Tim, I say thank you as well. You made your thoughts and feelings known at the ballot box, which, in our democracy, is the most powerful communication tool available. And I heard you!

I understand that we need, at a minimum, to enhance communication between our local elected leaders and our constituents before, during, and after key decisions such as the Awosting Club, the cell tower and Lazy River. I will be exploring ways to do that with the other members of the Town Board and my campaign team. Better communication is key to enhancing transparency, another issue raised during the primary campaign.

Of course, I certainly welcome everyone’s input both formally, during Town Board meetings, and informally, through phone, mail and in-person chats. My door is always open. I would only ask that you offer your feedback and ideas in ways other than on social media. The Gardiner NY Facebook page, for example, has no official relationship to Town Government and, in my humble opinion, rarely enhances important dialogue.

On to November, where I believe we will face a strong Republican challenge. We need all Democrats’ support, and I will work to achieve it.