The frigid temperatures this past Monday didn’t stop the large group of locals, family, officials and friends from attending the Town of Montgomery Carl L. Helstrom dedication ceremony at town hall.

Carl L. Helstrom, born in 1926, was a lifelong Montgomery resident often referred to as “Mr. Montgomery.” On top of being the Town of Montgomery elected supervisor, tax collector, councilman and planning board member, he also was heavily involved in neighboring communities and local affairs.

Helstrom was the manager of the Gardiner co-op for years and belonged to the Wallkill Masonic Lodge. For over 50 years, he served as the deacon, elder and treasurer of the Brick Reformed Church. On top of this, he served as president and vice president of the Orange County Supervisors and Mayors Association and belonged to Orange County Farm Bureau 4-H.

His many accomplishments are what led the town to dedicate the building to him. The dedication ceremony included a new sign at the front of town hall as well as two other signs spread across the building. There were also words from multiple town officials.

Village of Montgomery Mayor L. Stephen Brescia noted he couldn’t think of a better person for the dedication.

“Carl was an inspiration to all of us and he was a great leader for a long, long time,” said Brescia.

Montgomery Planning Board Attorney Richard Hoyt also had positive things to say about Helstrom. “Carl was a humble man who was always looking for the betterment of the town but not necessarily for himself,” Hoyt stated.

Among attendees were also family members. It’s stated that Helstrom prioritized his children and grandchildren despite his busy schedule.

Lindsay Higinson, Helstrom’s granddaughter, spoke elegantly about her grandfather. “He was so humble about it all. Everything just seemed so normal. I was 15 years old when he passed and at 15 I didn’t truly understand everything he did for the community.”

Helstrom passed away in 2010 but his family still holds him close to their hearts. “I know you’re somewhere seeing this and we will continue to keep your memory alive,” Higinson said in a speech.

Another granddaughter, Aly Helstrom, wasn’t present at the event, but wrote words that were read aloud to guests in attendance. She referred to Helstrom as “Pop.”

“I’m so thankful to have the privilege of having Pop as my role model,” Aly wrote, acknowledging the many SUNY Oneonta sports games and events that Helstrom attended. “He was always present.”

Helstrom has a list of accomplishments throughout his career, but of those notable is the Neelytown Road construction. This road hosts many successful businesses and is quoted as an “economic engine” by the town.

Town Supervisor Brian Maher also thanked Edward Fowler for jumpstarting the dedication process by giving him a certificate. “[This is a] certificate of appreciation presented to Ed Fowler for being the catalyst to ensure the Town of Montgomery Government Center was renamed to honor former Town Supervisor Carl Helstrom, and for showing dedication to our town,” said Maher.

Following the ceremony was a reception with light refreshments for all to attend.