Letters to the Editor, Oct. 24, 2025

This post includes several letters to the Editor in support of candidates in the upcoming Nov. 4 election. They also appear in our special election section print edition.

BOE did not share documents before voting on mental health services 

To the Editor:

On Oct. 8, the Bedford Central School District Board of Education meeting voted to forgo the following services for the BCSD community by deciding not to join the Northwell School Mental Health Partnership:

— Real-time consultation support for BCSD staff and faculty working with at-risk students and students in crisis.

— Comprehensive crisis intervention support.

— Comprehensive post-crisis support.

— Integrated school-provider coordination.

— Same-day mental health crisis appointments.

— Significantly reduced wait times for standard mental health appointments.

— Reduced insurance deductibles.

— Co-pays maxed at $50.

— Adjusted fees and insurance assistance for uninsured patients.

— Comprehensive care coordination.

— Free monthly parent programs.

— Free ongoing staff training (with CEUs).

Without BCSD’s participation in the partnership, students in the district are free to engage with the new behavioral health center as an outpatient private practice, but they cannot access any of the benefits listed above. Currently, the BCSD community simply does not have access to Northwell Behavioral Health Center crisis intervention and support, priority appointments, or deeply reduced fees.

Documents clarifying these differences were shared with board members in advance of the Oct. 8 meeting. When Board President Gilian Klein and Trustees Prasad Krishnan, Steven Matlin and Betsy Sharma failed to vote for this partnership and Klein claimed that “our students still have access,” they had all received a description of what they were giving up. The public had not; no supporting documents were included in the agenda.

Robust scientific literature demonstrates the impact of mental health on academic performance.

Adolescents are experiencing a sharp increase in mental health conditions and six in 10 teens report difficulty getting the help they need. Our community deserves a robust, open discussion about the benefits of partnership, centered on our district’s needs, and informed by BCSD’s clinical and counseling staff.

Erica Charpentier

Mount Kisco

Not all will have access to mental health services after BCSD vote

To the Editor:

As elected officials, the voting public should be allowed to hold members of the BCSD BOE accountable to their votes. I applaud the members who were not afraid to voice their opinions regarding the mental health clinic, even those who voted in dissention, but I question those who abstained.

The mental health clinic is not just a goodwill gesture during a contentious election season. It is a resource for all students at BCSD — those who easily have access to mental health services, and those living in poverty who may not. That is how you truly reach out to all students. To claim that without the contract students still have access is true, is disingenuous — the differences are glaring. As a minority growing up in poverty I can attest to a myriad of reasons why students who live in poverty do not have the same access to mental health care as other students. This contract, although not perfect, would have bridged that gap.

The year-long contract was not just an olive branch. It is a resource for those who are struggling internally, and a way to ensure that our students are thriving, not just surviving. Mental health affects all, not just the student concerned. It is an investment in our future as well as ourselves. The risk, which was qualified as “low” or “very low,” was well worth the reward and should have yielded a “Yes” vote.

If we want to be a leading school district, we can not be afraid to do things that neighboring school districts have already done successfully. Fiscal responsibility demands prudence not fear — and the cost of the contract is a drop in the bucket, but the potential of saving lives and supporting our students is priceless. 

Eric Florio

Mount Kisco

Writer: Board of Ed inaction abandons at-risk students

To the Editor:

Bedford Central school board rejected a mental health service partnership for school children, at every level of service offered by Northwell Health, at its most recent meeting. “Not a good contract” was the reason given by Trustee Matlin, based on “my legal mind.”

Similar contracts were agreed to by 64 districts, including Byram Hills, Chappaqua and Briarcliff. The partnership now serves 409 schools, and 277,000 students.  

But not BCSD.

As to the services that Bedford Central Schools will miss, Northwell clarified: 

“While students can still access the outpatient practice part of the facility without district [partnership] participation, they would not benefit from the reduced costs, quicker appointment access, insurance assistance, extra educational/support resources, or coordinated care features included in the partnership. Families without the partnership might experience [sic] limited crisis support.”

Families with students in BCSD schools are therefore being told by the school board that it’s too risky to help with coordinated care, reduced costs, and crisis support.

In the last board election, there were those advocating for improved ranking of the Bedford district and protecting property values. Does rejecting mental health services — during a bipartisanly-acknowledged youth mental health crisis — services that are provided in Armonk and Chappaqua schools, neighbors of Bedford Corners and North Castle, improve the district ranking, and increase property values? Or the opposite?  

This mental health services vote was a repeal of the approval of the prior school board’s budget decision to fund the clinic partnership. Moreover, Trustee Steven Matlin said, the board needs to look at everything added over the last two to three years. 

This directive points to a new phase of austerity overall. Other items to be considered for future reversal and budget cuts, under his directive, include: elementary coordinator teachers (ECTs), nurses, and librarians.

Robert MazurekBedford Hills

Lewisboro writer praises Gonçalves’ leadership

To the Editor:

As a resident and advocate for the Oakridge Water District, I have often been one of the loudest critics of town government. I also believe in acknowledging effective leadership when it benefits our community, and Tony Gonçalves has delivered exactly that.

In recent years, Oakridge has seen major improvements to its water infrastructure, ensuring higher quality water for all residents. Even before taking office as town supervisor, Tony took the initiative to lead upgrades at the water and wastewater plant, bringing together the operator, consulting engineers, and government partners. His steady commitment led to the largest investment in our water system in two decades: the expansion and enhancement of our treatment plant to address PFAS contamination. Thanks to Tony’s efforts, Oakridge is among the few districts that have proactively tackled water safety challenges ahead of regulatory mandates.

Equally important, Tony secured major federal and state grant funding, which significantly minimized the cost burden for district ratepayers. Collaboration with the Westchester County Department of Health, engineering consultants, and our legislative representatives at the state and federal levels has been instrumental in bringing this project to near completion.

Beyond water quality improvements, Tony has worked in partnership with NYSEG to harden our electrical infrastructure in Vista, resulting in a substantial reduction in community outages.

Public service at its best means ownership, follow through, and results that improve daily life. Tony Gonçalves has shown what that looks like and he has earned the community’s support.

Erica Agro

South Salem

Voter says Lewisboro needs functional town office space

To the Editor:

Our residents and employees deserve accessible and functional town office space.

As 33-year residents of Lewisboro, we have seen numerous town boards try to address the lack of permanent office space for our employees. The Town House on Main Street opened in 1950, and served our town for many years. Built in 1870 as a single-family house with limited space, it was never suitable for town offices. With the lack of space in the Town House, we have seen town departments camp out at the Onatru farmhouse, in the basement under the supermarket in Cross River, and in classrooms and trailers at the old Lewisboro Elementary School — while we are paying some of the highest taxes in the state.

We are grateful for the leadership of Supervisor Gonçalves, along with Deputy Supervisor Mary Shah, and Lewisboro will now have modern and affordable permanent office space owned by the town for our Town Court, police, and other employees. At the same time, we have been disappointed by those on the board who have delayed and blocked a responsible fiscal path for suitable space. Republican candidate Andrea Rendo would rather play politics than deal with the critical task at hand. At a time when we need leadership that is focused and dedicated, Rendo has pushed to reduce the library budget and deny funding and resources for treasured community events like Pride in the Park and Juneteenth. 

We all know who shows up for our community and who works to get the job done. Tony and Mary have earned our support for another term, as well as Julia Hadlock whose service and commitment to our community through the KLSD school board and Boy Scouts is admirable. 

Eleanor and Paul Dennis South Salem

Reelect librarian Mary Shah for Lewisboro Town Board

To the Editor:

As a community that values libraries, how could we do better than to reelect librarian Mary Shah to the Lewisboro Town Board? Not only is she deeply committed to ongoing support for the varied resources and programs of our local library, she embodies the skills of a profession centered on public service. Personable, diligent, organized and trained, like every librarian, to help people access information no matter how challenging the search, her position as a medical librarian and archivist gives her skills particularly suited to government service. Adept in finding data on a wide range of health topics, she has spent decades drawing together people researching similar fields.

This focus on building connections through forums, talks and teaching has given her a strong ability both to identify common interests among differing community groups, and to see how town programs can best interact for the good of the town. Now deputy town supervisor, Mary Shah combines her commitment to public service with outstanding analytical skills, rigorous preparation for town meetings, careful consideration of the topics at hand and a steady focus on both financial and public health. 

Let’s keep librarian Mary Shah on the Lewisboro Town Board!

Christina A. Rae and Linda S. RaeCross River

Pound Ridge writer says Avellino will bring ‘fresh perspective’

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my support for Peter Avellino for Pound Ridge Town Board. In all the years that I’ve known Peter, volunteerism is at the foundation of his character. As a volunteer in many different capacities over the years, Peter understands the value of volunteerism, and how it is the core strength of our community. 

He believes that listening to residents and giving them opportunities through open forums and discussion at Town Board meetings is a vital part in making inclusive decisions in order to plan to meet the collective priorities and goals for the town and its residents. 

As many committees and organizations are always looking for volunteers, Peter will foster that participation by listening to residents’ interests and concerns and encourage them to become an active part of our community to make progress and reach those shared goals. 

Peter will bring a fresh perspective that we need on the Town Board. Someone who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo, who will advocate for all residents, and who truly believes that government should work for the people.

Peter has my vote.

Christopher Boey

Pound Ridge

Writer asks, is the Pound Ridge Party really Republicans?

To the Editor:

Don’t let their blue signs fool you. The “Pound Ridge Party” should be called “The Pound Ridge Republican Party.” 

Ron Asaro is a longtime Trump donor who has also contributed to the campaigns of two of the biggest Trump cronies in New York state, Lee Zeldin and Elise Stefanik. Peter Avellino calls himself an “independent,” but in his last campaign for Town Board, he ran as a Republican. And Jock McCown? He identifies rather dryly and lawyerly as a “registered Democrat” but from 2004-2017 donated over $12,000 to Republican candidates. Since then, he’s only given about $1,200 to Democratic candidates. One does wonder why McCown was 10 times more enthusiastic about electing Republicans than Democrats. 

But in any case, it’s easy to see why these candidates don’t want to run under the banner of the party led by Donald Trump in a town that overwhelmingly rejects what Republicans are doing to our country. 

But let’s get real. If the “Pound Ridge Party” were a drug, the manufacturer would be fined by the FDA for a misleading label. That is, before the Trump administration gutted it.

John Long 

Pound Ridge

Unconvinced with Hansan’s response about mailer

To the Editor:

Supervisor Hansan’s Oct. 17 letter failed to provide any explanation for the two material inaccuracies that were the focus of my Oct. 10 letter. I’m left to assume apparently he saw no problem with what was, most definitely, a deceptive graph in his campaign ad. As I noted in my letter, I directed advertising for Mastercard. I would never think about running an ad that had a factual inaccuracy, let alone multiple material errors. 

The supervisor’s letter argued my letter was “misleading and omits important context,” but it failed to prove his point. The “important context” he referenced was his view that legal expenses related to defending two lawsuits are why the town wasn’t in compliance at the end of 2024 with the 16.67% unassigned funds to expenses minimum. However, that assertion doesn’t hold up. One lawsuit wasn’t filed until two months into 2025. The other lawsuit was filed in late 2024. Any bills associated with this other lawsuit likely came in 2025. He brags about the NYS comptroller’s 2024 Fiscal Stress Monitoring Report. In a vacuum the 6.7 score on a scale to 100 seems good. But this score is just about solvency, not a current issue. More than 1,100 municipalities in N.Y. have lower — meaning better — stress scores than Pound Ridge. Is there anything to brag about being behind almost all other towns in N.Y.? 

This isn’t the first time the supervisor has been fast and loose with statements that are readily verifiable as false. He seems to believe he can create his own alternative facts and not be held accountable. We deserve better. I encourage everyone reading this to reflect on the misstatements coming out of this administration and join me in voting for the Pound Ridge Party slate in this election. 

Debra Coughlin 

Pound Ridge 

Writer: Candidate Avellino ‘understands our future’

To the Editor:

I have witnessed Peter Avellino’s unwavering dedication to our town, his integrity, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for the community he has served for decades.

For 33 years, we have called Pound Ridge home, raising our two daughters here, and embracing the sense of connection and shared responsibility to preserve what makes this town so special.

Peter’s community service starts from his early years with the Pound Ridge Volunteer Ambulance Corps, countless hours devoted to town affairs by attending Town Board and Planning Board meetings, co-authoring the town’s environmentally-sensitive lands and steep-slope ordinances, leading the Environmental Steering Committee to launch our first Environmental Day, to his current volunteer work as a Repair Café coach and a Comprehensive Plan Committee member. His collaborative spirit and valuable contributions make Pound Ridge stronger.

Professionally, Peter is a seasoned senior-level executive with over 30 years in health care, recognized for delivering transformational results and strategic leadership across finance, operations, compliance, revenue growth, private equity, and mergers & acquisitions.

What does this mean for our town? Peter understands our future depends on strong leadership, fiscal responsibility, transparency, community involvement, and environmental stewardship. He’ll utilize his expertise to strengthen finances, ensure sound decisions, prevent wasteful spending, and protect taxpayers and the environment so Pound Ridge remains a place we can all thrive in and afford to call home. He believes in including residents’ voices, open dialogue on the Town Board, balancing growth with preservation, and smart planning so our town remains vibrant, resilient, collaborative, and rooted in its natural beauty.

I urge residents to look beyond today and think about future generations. With Peter’s leadership, we can control taxes, strengthen fiscal oversight, and complete vital strategic planning to guide sustainable future growth that protects what we cherish most.

Join me in this shared vision by supporting Peter Avellino for Town Board on Nov. 4.

Melinda Avellino

Pound Ridge

Pound Ridge voter: leadership begins with listening

To the Editor:

I have known Peter Avellino for many years and his belief and mine coincide in that good town leadership begins with listening to constituents. No one should feel intimidated or dismissed for sharing their views. 

Transparency, fiscal responsibility, and putting residents’ concerns are not just slogans for Mr. Avellino. He is focused on stopping wasteful spending, investing wisely in infrastructure and making public safety a top priority. He will do this while preserving the character that makes Pound Ridge a very special place. 

Peter is committed to having respectful, open dialogue and is receptive to honest debate — a foundation for a healthy democracy. 

He is the kind of leader we need — thoughtful, respectful and ready to put residents first. 

Join me in supporting Peter Avellino for Town Board this Nov. 4. 

Peter Marchetti

Pound Ridge

‘Wholehearted support’ for Asaro for Town Board

To the Editor:

I have known Ron Asaro and his family for more than 25 years through our shared connection at St. Patrick’s Church. When Ron and Angela moved to Pound Ridge in 2019, it felt like welcoming an old friend home. From the start, Ron brought with him a deep sense of community, humility, and service, the same qualities that have always defined his life and work.

I am writing to offer my wholehearted support for Ron’s candidacy for the Pound Ridge Town Board. Ron’s decision to run is not about politics; it’s about commitment. He’s someone who listens carefully, studies the facts, and acts with integrity. During his long career with GE Healthcare and his volunteer work with the Pound Ridge Historical Society, Ron has shown that he understands how to manage complex projects, bring people together, and solve problems thoughtfully.

Ron’s genuine concern for others is evident in every conversation, his motivation clearly comes from a sincere desire to make life better for everyone who calls Pound Ridge home.

Ron believes in transparency, accountability, and collaboration, values that our local government needs now more than ever. I trust that he will bring those values to every meeting, every decision, and every resident interaction.

Please join me in supporting Ron Asaro for Pound Ridge Town Board this November. I believe he will lead with fairness, compassion, and a true understanding of what makes our town so special.

Louise M. Paolicelli

Pound Ridge

Former finance director supports McCown, Avellino, Asaro

To the Editor:

I am writing as a resident and former director of finance of the Town of Pound Ridge. I have over 25 years of experience serving under Republican and Democratic administrations.  

The supervisor is the chief fiscal officer of the town. I am dismayed as to how he permitted the backlog of late financial audits.   

While now current, they are missing the required “Project Length Schedule.” It is a schedule that lists authorized capital projects with accumulated expenditures and revenues such as bonds and grants. This spreadsheet, if provided, would itemize the fund‘s deficit of $4,799,296.  

Of this deficit, $3,480,000 is attributed to bond anticipation notes, which is correct. The remaining $1,319,296 is an unassigned deficit which the town must plan to fund. Supervisor Hansen dismissed it at the audit presentation. The question is what projects are unfunded? Why? How will the deficit be funded? This omission, intentional or not, is a major audit item and not in the spirit of transparency!  

This deficiency was also cited on the 2024 independent auditor’s report to the board dated July 25, 2025, Page 11. 

Additionally, without current financials, the town could not apply for a municipal credit rating to get a municipal bond to replace the maturing notes, This resulted in a noncompetitive statutory installment bond payable over seven years instead of a municipal bond amortized over the life of the assets. 

In plain language: The debt service budget for 2026 is going to increase sharply simply due to the accelerated principal payments over seven years and funding the $1,319,296 capital deficit. This reflects poor financial oversight and debt management.  

We need a change in course! For these reasons, I encourage support for McCown, Avellino and Asaro to provide true transparency and long-term financial planning.     

Brenda Jeselnik

Pound Ridge 

Questions purchase of Old Pound Road property

To the Editor:

How do the Pound Ridge Town Board and supervisor make investment decisions? It is a simple question, but one that has not been satisfactorily answered in recent years.

The answer cannot simply be that a purchase, such as the 7 Old Pound Road property, is “a once in a generation” opportunity, as Supervisor Hansan claimed during the League of Women Voters candidate forum. Taxpayers are entitled to more substance than that. 

What financial assumptions supported the decision to purchase a non-income producing asset with no clearly defined use? (And, no, paying rent to yourself does not count as income.) 

Financial models are the foundation of all investment analysis, and those models require clearly stated reality-based numbers. What return on investment did the town’s financial model generate for the Old Pound Road property? What were the cost of capital and discount rate assumptions? Was there even a model? 

Stewards of taxpayer money have a duty to apply rigorous analysis before making investment decisions. Anything less is inexcusable. John McCown, Peter Avellino and Ron Asaro understand this responsibility and that is why they have my vote.

Graham Goldberg

Pound Ridge

Old Pound Road purchase ‘an amazing deal’

To the Editor:

I have been a member of the Water/Wastewater Task Force since 2018. I joined after Dick Lyman, a founding member of the task force, and friend of mine, vacated the seat. He and Ali Boak created the task force to find a solution to the problem that has been plaguing our business district for 50-plus years. I initially proposed the purchase of the property to members of the task force as a potential underground septic disposal site, much like each resident has on their home property. The land has a habitable ranch house on 2.2 acres, a corner piece of land .25 acres, and a pristine 18-acre parcel, all for $1,250,000. It was an amazing deal in my view. The Town Board members, to my recollection, focused on the opportunity to save the property from development, expanding the Town Park and trails to possibly make walkable connectivity between the business district, Town Park, the hamlet and the Halle Ravine. 

The potential underground septic system was not a top consideration for the town board. In 2021 the Old Pound Road Committee was formed to explore the potential uses for the property. The Trails Committee is also very involved. I am a member of the OPR Committee, and I update the committee on the potential for an underground septic disposal system as well as participate in trail and connectivity discussions. In 2024 the engineering firm Tighe & Bond provided a wastewater feasibility report and is available to anyone who wishes to read it. OPR was a smart purchase and the notion that it’s costing each residence $1,000.00 per year is just absurd!

Max Mosolino

Pound Ridge

Writer: Hansan ‘delivered real, positive change’ in Pound Ridge 

To the Editor:

I’m writing in strong support of Kevin Hansan’s reelection as town supervisor. Over the past few years, Kevin’s steady leadership and creative drive have delivered real, positive change for our community.

Most recently, our town secured a vital state grant to bring clean water to the business district — a milestone that was years in the making. This achievement didn’t just happen overnight. It required careful planning, persistence, and the dedication of many hardworking residents and town officials, all guided by Kevin’s strong and visionary leadership. Clean water isn’t a luxury for our business district — it’s an absolute necessity for economic growth and public health.

Yet, the opposition fought every step of the way. They went so far as to sue New York state in an attempt to block Pound Ridge from receiving $7 million for these much-needed infrastructure upgrades. It’s hard to understand why anyone would oppose something so essential. Our community shouldn’t have to endure misinformation and divisive tactics. Pound Ridge deserves better than this kind of politics.

Kevin’s leadership goes far beyond infrastructure. He recognized the opportunity to transform a long-neglected, tax-delinquent property — an eyesore and environmental hazard — into the Village Green, creating a vibrant new gathering space for residents of all ages, in every season. He also launched Food Truck Friday, bringing together both new and longtime residents to enjoy local food and music. That simple idea didn’t just build community here; it inspired similar events in neighboring towns.

When young families moved in during COVID and our schools were at risk of closing, Kevin welcomed them and helped Pound Ridge grow into a more dynamic, inclusive, and welcoming town. He sees what our community can be and works tirelessly to make it a reality.

We need a leader — one invested in our future, not someone who stands in the way. I urge my fellow residents to vote for Kevin Hansan and choose progress, vision, and true community-minded leadership.

Susan D. Grissom

Pound Ridge

Writer: McCown ‘can be trusted with the town’

To the Editor:

John (Jock) McCown, a Democrat, founded the Pound Ridge Party to encourage Democrats, Republicans and Independents to work together on issues of importance to the town. His collaborative approach is one of inclusivity, free of crippling big party prejudices that impede neighbor-to-neighbor understanding and cooperation. He is running for town supervisor and can be found on the “E” line of the ballot.

In his professional life, Jock co-founded a shipping company, brought it public, and headed up the transport sector of a major hedge fund. He is a consultant to media and members of Congress and a national speaker on shipping concerns, ports and tariffs.  He serves his country as a senior fellow at the Center for Maritime Strategy, the think tank of the Navy League. Throughout, he has served on a number of industry, real estate development and company boards.

What does all that have to do with his run for supervisor? It has everything to do with it. The supervisor is the CEO and CFO of the town. Leadership with proven strategic and financial acumen is essential for the town’s long-term stability and success. Jock’s life work, in its different forms, has been about identifying, analyzing, managing growth opportunities and risks. He is a numbers guy, committed to fact over fiction. He has years of success in financial stewardship and reporting, in managing a work force and diverse constituencies, in overseeing growth while minimizing risk. His professional experience has taught him that radical transparency, inclusive and open-door leadership delivers best results.  

As for his personal life, Jock has a deep understanding of the town and what makes it unique, having lived and raised a family here for 28 years. He can be trusted with the town. I should know. I have been married to him for 37 years.

Kathleen C. McCown

Pound Ridge

Supports incumbents Hansan, Briggs and Paschkes

To the Editor:

I am writing to express my deep appreciation for the incredible transformation our town has experienced under the current leadership. Not long ago, we were facing a very different reality — empty storefronts, crumbling sidewalks, scarce community events, and a lack of transparency that left me, as a new resident, feeling disconnected and challenged to meet other residents.

Fifteen years later, that has all changed. Our town is vibrant and welcoming, yet it has retained the charm that makes it special. Storefronts are filled up, sidewalks are repaired, and there are community events bringing neighbors together like never before. Perhaps most importantly, residents now feel included and informed. The current administration has prioritized transparency and engagement, and it shows in the renewed sense of pride and participation throughout the community.

As we approach the upcoming election, it’s disappointing to see that those running against the current leadership offer little in the way of real ideas or solutions. Instead, their campaign has been marked by misinformation, fear-mongering, and empty rhetoric. Our community deserves honest, constructive dialogue — not scare tactics.

The progress we’re experiencing didn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of thoughtful, proactive leadership. Let’s continue to build on that momentum.

Please vote for Hansan, Briggs and Paschkes to keep our town vibrant and a truly great place to live!

Jodi Elkins 

Pound Ridge 

Lifelong Democrat will vote Pound Ridge Party

To the Editor:

The general election in Pound Ridge on Tuesday, Nov 4, really comes down to one question.

What is the purpose of town government?

Is it fun and games with lots of festivals, flowers, flags, and pot, or is it staid governance with lines of credit paid on time to local stores, finances reported on time to the state comptroller, our seniors respected, our highway department respected, open meetings laws adhered to on questions of pot stores and large water infrastructure, recommendations followed from the Westchester County Department of Health and the EPA on treatment of PFAS, and a rare and beautiful tree protected rather than cut down on Earth Day?

If we elect people focused on the latter, perhaps fewer of our fellow citizens would feel the need to sue.

A lifelong Democrat, I have had enough. I am voting for the Pound Ridge Party.

It’s your choice. Make it a good one.

Ellen Kearns

Pound Ridge

Pound Ridge Party’s ‘facts’are anything but

To the Editor:

Pound Ridge Party’s “Key Issues” are riddled with opinions, assumptions, hypothetical scenarios, baseless accusations, misleading statements and inaccuracies.

They claim “annual tax increases consistently above the 2% cap.” False. “2% cap” is a misnomer; specific adjustments are allowed under New York state law. They complain of rising taxes, ignoring that residents voted to raise taxes for the Fire District. Yet Pound Ridge has not exceeded the tax cap the last eight years.

They misunderstand the town’s role in school taxes, supporting the tax assessor, yet blaming the supervisor for assessments, filings and the state’s equalization rate calculation, while unaware of relevant timelines.

They cling to the “Secret, Off-the-Books Decision Not to Opt-Out” of the cannabis law that never happened. The Town Board discussed it in at least two public meetings. Rather than admit their doom prediction was wrong, they continue pushing fallacies (and a lawsuit), ignoring significant tax revenue we now receive from an inconspicuous business.

They suggest we “Form a Drinking Water Project Oversight Committee composed of residents with expertise.” We already have the Water/Wastewater Task Force, other boards and commissions, and state reviews once the project moves forward.

Their grant stance is troubling, supporting a lawsuit that jeopardized $7.6 million Water District funding (plus $3 million in federal financing) and suggesting revisiting a $250,000 trails grant, one of many reducing taxpayer burden. They question its feasibility, demonstrating they don’t understand the grant at all. 

They claim “no discussion or community input” regarding Old Pound Road. False. Extending trails was initially cited as one of many potential uses. BANs were part of the financing strategy and unrelated to audit timing. The recreation survey top result was trails, and the grant application documented widespread public support. There’s ample opportunity for public input via open Town Board meetings and OPR Advisory Committee meetings. 

PRP claims “lack of transparency.” Seems more like a lack of understanding by the PRP.

More shocking, John McCown deleted his Facebook post with my similar commentary,  a disturbing move from a candidate running on “real transparency.”

Nicole Shaffer

Pound Ridge

Bedford voter says McCaine has ‘earned our trust’

To the Editor:

As a Bedford resident for 28 years, I’ve seen our town evolve into a vibrant, forward-looking community — thanks in large part to leaders like Stephanie McCaine.

Under Stephanie’s leadership, Bedford has expanded opportunities for residents of all ages. From programs for seniors and events like Food Truck Fridays to new activities at the Bedford Hills Community House and the opening of small businesses, our town board is fostering connection and progress.

Stephanie meets challenges head-on, listens to every voice, and works collaboratively to find real solutions. She combines vision with attention to detail, always focused on results that matter to people’s daily lives.

We are fortunate to have a leader who is approachable, effective, and deeply committed to our community. Stephanie is exactly the kind of representative Bedford needs — thoughtful, practical, and dedicated.

On Nov. 4, please join me in voting to reelect Stephanie McCaine to the Bedford Town Board. She has earned our trust and continues to deliver for Bedford.

Jessica Hunsberger 

Katonah

Electing Iorio to Bedford Town Board will ‘benefit us all’

To the Editor:

Fellow Bedford/Katonah residents, in this time of fraught political discourse it is wonderful to be able to write a letter unconditionally supporting Midge Iorio for the Bedford Town Board. 

I work closely with Midge in her role as director of the first Westchester Book Festival scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 8. Her ability to create consensus and get things done is remarkable.

Her experience as executive director of Bedford 2030, as membership director for the Katonah Chamber of Commerce, as treasurer of the Katonah Village Improvement Society and as a former teacher and committed parent means she knows the people, the resources and the needs of our community. 

Midge sees what’s really important, never forgets a detail, and by listening to what others think she is able to find a solution that works for everyone. All politics are local, so please vote on Nov. 4 and please vote for Midge Iorio for Bedford Town Board to benefit us all. 

Lili Lynton

Katonah

Town Supervisor Calves makes Bedford ‘a safer place’

To the Editor:

My family and I live near the Harris/Babbitt Road intersection, which was incredibly dangerous for many years. I spoke with Town Supervisor Ellen Calves, who listened and cared about my concerns. Soon after speaking with her, she shared that plans were in the works to make the intersection safer and explained the timeline. True to her word, this summer the intersection was fixed: an island was removed, the road was leveled to improve visibility, and stop signs were added. The improvements were very quick once begun — and it is better and safer than my family and I could have ever imagined! This is one example of how Ellen listens, communicates, and gets things done to make our town a safer place.

Sallie Sills

Bedford Hills

Mount Kisco writer supports Brown for Village Board

To the Editor:

As a 17-year resident of Mount Kisco, Tammy Brown has shown the kind of commitment, experience, and heart our village deserves in a trustee. Though she has spent her career advocating for union members as counsel for District Council 37 and has extensive experience working in local government in Mount Vernon, that’s not the Tammy I first came to know.

I met Tammy at a local wine tasting, and from the start, she was warm, personable, and genuinely interested in connecting with people. We quickly became friends, and it was clear to me that her kindness and sincerity were matched only by her passion for serving others. That’s why I was eager to canvas for her campaign.

Tammy has tirelessly knocked on doors across the village, taking the time to listen to residents’ concerns and hopes for Mount Kisco’s future. She isn’t running to push an agenda — she’s running to make sure every voice is heard.

With her wealth of professional experience and her caring, down-to-earth personality, Tammy Brown is exactly the kind of thoughtful, dedicated leader we need on our Village Board. I wholeheartedly support her candidacy for Village Trustee.

Anna Fawcett

Mount Kisco

Faith-based housing bill seeks to override local zoning control 

To the Editor:

Our regional Democratic State Sen. Pete Harkham is proposing legislation that would authorize New York State to bypass local zoning codes in order to allow houses of worship to build high-density multifamily low-income housing and housing for the homeless on their properties.

The “Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act” is just the state’s latest attempt to override local control over zoning. It is the latest iteration of the widely unpopular “Pro-Housing Communities Program,” which received support from members of the prior Village Board.

Mount Kisco proper has 10 houses of worship with at least one, the Fountain of Eternal Life Church, sitting on approximately 8 acres. Envision a high-rise apartment building housing formerly homeless individuals placed in the middle of a single-family neighborhood.

Here are just some of the reasons why this legislation would be catastrophic for Mount Kisco:

— Our “fragile and finite” limited water supply level is currently well below average.

— Our sewer system cannot handle further residential development.

— Our elementary school is already bursting at the seams with no room for further expansion.

— Additional strain on our already stressed emergency services (police/fire/ambulance).

— Increased traffic.

— More garbage. 

— Increased hospital wait times and room shortages.

Notwithstanding the fact that our already overburdened physical and human infrastructure cannot support this latest scheme, implementing this intrusive overreach would have a devastating effect on the property values of all Mount Kisco residents.

We are fortunate that the majority of the current Village Board has demonstrated a history of fighting against threats to local control over zoning, including the ill-fated, so-called, Pro-Community Housing Program.

Whether it is prioritizing pedestrian safety, improving quality of life, banning large-scale battery storage plants or the responsible placement of macro cell towers and 5G small cells, Mayor J. Mike Cindrich, Trustee Theresa Flora and Trustee Angie Guerra have consistently fought to protect the residents and to preserve local control over the future of Mount Kisco.

The current Democratic challengers have been noticeably silent on these and other important matters.

Please reelect the Independent Village Inclusive Party candidates Cindrich, Flora and Guerra this election cycle on rows B & E. They have both earned and deserve our support.

Louis M. Terlizzi

Mount Kisco

Mount Kisco writer supports Bryant and Brown

To the Editor:

I strongly support Heather Bryant and Tammy Brown, who are challenging the incumbents, for the Village Board.

Heather and Tammy will serve everyone in Mount Kisco; they have reached out to all ages and every neighborhood across the village. They will work to build solutions, not create problems, using their background in local government and nonprofit organizations. Heather moved to Mount Kisco to enroll their daughter in the bilingual program at the elementary school and is active in school organizations and as president of the Mount Kisco Public Library Board. Tammy, who is a lawyer, worked for local governments in Westchester and for unions. She goes to the Senior Center and is active in the community.

Their opponents have created problems or attempted to address issues with actions that were unconstitutional or, at best, misguided. They have not built on initiatives started by prior administrations or worked to obtain grants for Mount Kisco or band together with other municipalities to fight energy rate hikes. They use fear tactics.

Heather and Tammy are endorsed by our Westchester County Legislator Erika Pierce, Westchester County Chief Executive Ken Jenkins, New York State Assemblymember Chris Burdick and New York State Sen. Pete Harckham. These connections, already well-established, as well as their own experiences and life skills, will help Mount Kisco to address significant issues while controlling costs to taxpayers.  

Heather and Tammy understand the significant challenges to our country created by the Trump administration and ignored by most Republicans. It is important to support Democrats in this year’s election. Please support Heather Bryant and Tammy Brown. Early voting starts Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Mount Kisco Public Library. Mail-in voting is possible. Election Day is Nov. 4.

Jeanine Meyer

Mount Kisco

Erika Pierce has been 'outstanding advocate' for people with disabilities

To the Editor:

I am writing to voice my strong support for the reelection of Legislator Erika Pierce in Westchester County’s District 2. Erika has been an outstanding advocate for people with disabilities and their families, and her work has made a real difference in our community.

One of her most impactful contributions for our family has been her strong partnership with ARC of Westchester and the Ann Manzi Center in Mount Kisco, where she has championed initiatives that directly support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Thanks to her leadership, critical funding was secured for transition coordinators — professionals who help students aging out of high school programs navigate adult services, employment, and independent living. This kind of support changes lives and provides families with a much-needed roadmap during an often overwhelming time.

In addition, Erika spearheaded legislation to raise the income eligibility cap for property tax exemptions, making it easier for disabled residents and seniors to remain in their homes. She has consistently shown up — not just with words, but with action — for our most vulnerable neighbors. When someone calls Erika for help, she does not ask what their political views are; she just listens and acts.

Her commitment to the disability community is just one part of her broad record of public service. From her ongoing support of Muscoot Farm, Lasdon Gardens, and Hilltop Hanover Farm to eliminating the sales tax on home heating, Erika delivers results that matter. Erika Pierce brings heart, integrity, and results to the role of County Legislator. We need her continued leadership in District 2. I encourage my fellow residents to vote for her r-election.

Katherine F. Zapsky

Mount Kisco