The Peru Gazette

LCLGRPB gets $750K; P’burgh-North Country Chamber, $350K

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(PLATTSBURGH – News Release of February 3, 2026) – The City of Plattsburgh is excited to release a full calendar of community events for 2026, which includes many of the community’s favorite events from years past such as the Fourth of July Celebration, Parks Come Alive events, as well as some new introductions! To stay up to date on upcoming events visit www.discoverplattsburgh.com/events.

2026 Event Highlights

What can the public expect for events in 2026? The City will host family-friendly, free events that focus on highlighting regional food, drink, music, art and history. Our community events would not be possible without the collaboration with many community organizations like the Sunrise Rotary Club, the Strand Center for the Arts, the Town of Plattsburgh, SUNY Plattsburgh, 1814 Inc. and many others.

Beloved traditional community events such as the Fourth of July Celebration, Mayor’s Cup Festival and Regatta, Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration and A Miracle on Margaret Street are scheduled for 2026. Parks Come Alive, now in its fifth season, will return, along with Downtown Trick or Treat, the GreenUp Community Clean up & Earth Day Festival and the Lake City Arts Festival. Events like Chill on the Hill Winter Festival, The Memorial Day Parade and Movie Night in the Park debuted in 2025 and will return this year, with Movie Night in the Park expanding to three total movie nights in 2026.

Emma Stewart, Community Engagement Coordinator says “We’re excited to continue growing Plattsburgh’s event programming in 2026. With new events joining returning favorites, this year’s lineup reflects our commitment to creating fun, engaging experiences that bring people together and highlight our community.”

Building Partnerships with Local Businesses

The City is excited to collaborate with many local businesses in 2026. DELLA Auto Group, Microbird, Schluter Systems, UFirst Federal Credit Union, Dannemora Federal Credit Union, Northern Insuring, NorthCountry Federal Credit Union, Stafford Owens, Community Bank, and Happy Camper Pediatric Dentistry, have all partnered with the City to present different events throughout the year. The City’s business partners have not only contributed monetary resources to our community events but are also planning to get their employees involved in volunteering for events. Partnering with our local businesses strengthens relationships in the community and opens the door for collaboration.

Elizabeth Guillette, Recruitment Specialist at Schluter Systems, says “We take great pride and joy in sponsoring the community events of the City of Plattsburgh. It feels good to give back to the community that gives so much to us and means so much to our employees. We cherish the connections, enjoyment, and communal strength that these events foster annually.”

Anna Hewitt-Channell, Business Development and Marketing Manager at Dannemora Federal Credit Union says,“We love the community events because it is a great way to connect, see other families out having fun, meet new people and businesses, etc. I think the happiness is electric at our community events! There is something special about everyone being together in one location like the park or downtown for an Arts Festival. ”    

Colin McCullough, Marketing Director at Northern Insuring Agency says, “As a North Country business, we welcome the shared responsibility of contributing to a strong and vibrant community. These annual events go to the root of our organization’s core values and align with our commitment to support our most valuable resource: the local people who take pride in the North Country and choose to celebrate it.”

Chris Goodell, Pediatric Dentist at Happy Camber Pediatric Dentistry says, “Happy Camper Pediatric Dentistry is thrilled to be able to support events that get families together, outdoors, and having fun. We are excited to see the City of Plattsburgh building on previous years’ events, especially with the addition of several outdoor movies this year. By offering these events, it shows that Plattsburgh is committed to supporting families living in our community and that recreation is a priority for city leaders. Happy Camper shares that commitment and is proud to be able to help bring such family-friendly events to the community!”

2026 List of Events in Full

Visit www.discoverplattsburgh.com/events for event details such as timing, parking, and information about accessibility.

Hosting an Event in Plattsburgh

Community events and gatherings are what makes Plattsburgh an enriching place to live, work and recreate. If you are interested in hosting an event that is on City of Plattsburgh property, you can learn more on the City’s website by visiting www.cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov/holdinganevent. 

The Community Engagement Coordinator is a resource to help the community hold events and gatherings both safely and successfully. You can start the event application process by filling out an online form, by emailing events@cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov or calling 518-536-7510.

Peru  – Pancakes Plus Breakfast, Sunday, February 8, 2026 served by the St. Augustine’s Knights of Columbus, St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. $10 for adults, $5 children 5 to 11, Children under 5 are Free. Take-outs are $10. 

The menu includes Pancakes,Waffles, Strawberry Sauce, Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Home Fries, Real Maple Syrup, and much more. 

The next Knight’s breakfast is March 8. 

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Will this week’s budget hearing provide insight into the state’s plan to salvage its safety net?

Click here for the New York Focus story 

A years long staffing crisis at state-run facilities has taken its toll on incarcerated kids and the workers who watch over them.

Click here for the New York Focus story 

NYS DEC File Photo

Town of New Lisbon
Otsego County
Wilderness Search: On January 28, Forest Ranger Laymon responded to a call for a search for a missing 70-year-old. The missing subject’s husband called at 4:38 p.m. to report his wife missing from their home. Otsego County Sheriff’s Deputies followed her tracks to Butternut Creek. Ranger Laymon went to County Route 12, where the road crosses the creek, and at 7:40 p.m., spotted the missing subject standing in a cornfield. Ranger Laymon wrapped the hypothermic subject in a blanket and walked her to the road where Otsego County Emergency Medical Services was waiting. The subject stated she left the house before 9:30 a.m. to go for a walk and became confused. The patient was transported to Bassett Hospital. Resources were clear at 8:45 p.m.

Town of North Elba
Essex County
Wilderness Rescue: On February 1 at 5:35 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch received a call about two hikers and their dog who were unable to continue their hike on Haystack Mountain. The hikers did not have proper traction devices for the icy conditions and didn’t have headlamps to assist them in the dark. Forest Rangers Jansen and Lewis met the subjects on the trail and escorted them out of the woods. Resources were clear at 8:03 p.m.

Rangers suggest hiking with the 10 hiking essentials, including proper footwear, traction devices, and a light source.

Be sure to properly prepare and plan before entering the backcountry. Visit DEC’s “Hike Smart NY,” “Adirondack Backcountry,” and “Catskill Backcountry Information” webpages for more information.

If a person needs a Forest Ranger, whether it’s for a search and rescue, to report a wildfire, or to report illegal activity on State lands and easements, they should call 833-NYS-RANGERS. If a person needs urgent assistance, they can call 911. To contact a Forest Ranger for information about a specific location, the DEC website has phone numbers for every Ranger listed by region.

Clinton County $74.5 Million +4.4% 

Essex County $42.77 Million +4.4% 

Franklin County $33.21 Million +5.2% 

NYS  News Release of Feb. 3, 2026 – Local government sales tax collections in New York state totaled $24.4 billion in calendar year 2025, an increase of 4.5%, or $1 billion, from 2024, according to a report released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Growth in 2025 was higher than the 3.8% average annual growth rate from the 2010 to 2019 period of recovery following the Great Recession and before the pandemic.

“Local sales tax growth ticked up last year,” said DiNapoli. “However, with the potential for policy changes at the federal level to affect every level of government funding, as well as the continued impact of tariffs, local officials must budget carefully to safeguard the services their communities rely on.”

Quarterly year-over-year growth ranged from 3.2% in the first quarter to 5.4% in the third quarter.

New York City’s sales tax growth of 5%, or $521 million, was slightly higher than the city’s pre-pandemic (2010-2019) average 4.8% growth rate. Growth in the city’s collections was boosted by robust domestic tourism, including record average nightly hotel rates and solid Broadway attendance.

Aggregate county collections outside of New York City grew 4%, or $443 million, in 2025 compared to the previous year. While year-over-year growth varied among counties, over 91% (52 of 57) experienced an increase in collections, with 26 counties seeing growth of more than 5%.

Chenango County had the highest growth at 11.8%, followed by Yates (11%), Hamilton (10.9%) and Delaware (10.7%).

Sullivan experienced the steepest decline in collections (-5.2%), followed by Schoharie (-3.9%).

Of the 18 cities outside of New York City that impose their own sales tax, 12 saw year-over-year increases in 2025. Norwich had the strongest growth at 20.9%, followed by Salamanca (7.7%) and White Plains (7.1%). Six cities had decreases, including Gloversville with the steepest decline at -7.2% followed by Utica (-7.1%) and Oneida (-4.7%).

Report
2025 Local Sales Tax Collections Totaled $24.4 Billion, Up 4.5 Percent Over Prior Year

Data
Regional Table

TOWN OF PERU

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL December 2025 minutes 
5. OPEN FLOOR TO PUBLIC HEARING
6. APPLICATIONS:
   1. Amendment to File #P2025-019 – 3-Lot Minor Subdivision of Parcel ID#267.-1-13.1 submitted by Donald and Linda Covel, 842 Mannix Rd.
   2. File #P2026-001 – Site Plan Review – Valcour Island Marina, Former Olde Valcour and Snug Harbor Marinas, submitted by Aaron Ovios, LS on behalf of Lake Champlain Transportation.
7. ANY FURTHER BUSINESS
8. CEO REPORT
9. ADJOURNMENT 

The Peru Central School District Hall of Fame is accepting nominations for potential candidates. The District Hall of Fame is designed to recognize individuals who have made a significant impact on our school or achieved an outstanding contribution(s) to society as a graduate of Peru CSD.

The candidate must have attended, been employed, served, or contributed to Peru CSD in some capacity and must have been retired for at least five (5) years.

The following criteria will be used when considering an individual to the Hall of Fame:

• outstanding contributions to Peru CSD,

• outstanding contribution to society,

• outstanding career, participation and/or leadership in community activities, and

• a significant impact on an individual’s life while associated with Peru.

The deadline for applications will be Friday, March 6, 2026. Applications are available at the High School Office or the District’s website at perunighthawks.org/peru-csd-hall-of-fame/

CATS Volunteers contribute hundreds of hours at Twin Valleys Outdoor Education Center in Lewis, NY

News Release of Feb. 3, 2026 – Lewis, NY– Champlain Area Trails (CATS), a community-supported non-profit and accredited land trust dedicated to creating and maintaining trails, conserving land, connecting people with nature, and promoting economic vitality in New York’s Champlain Valley, is proud to announce that it has successfully raised the necessary funds to purchase the 675.5-acre Twin Valleys Outdoor Education Center. With this acquisition, Twin Valleys is officially open to the public.

Located approximately 40 miles south of SUNY Plattsburgh, Twin Valleys has long served as a hub for environmental education. The property connects 15 miles of trails, cabins, and a lodge that historically hosted college programs, workshops, and events. Under CATS’ stewardship, the trails will now be fully accessible to residents and visitors, while plans are underway to determine the future use of the buildings to enhance and expand their use in alignment with CATS’ mission.

“This acquisition is a transformative step for CATS and for the Champlain Valley region,” said Arin Burdo, Executive Director of CATS. “Owning Twin Valleys allows us to ensure the land and trails remain open to everyone, while providing a platform to thoughtfully plan future programs and facilities that strengthen connections to nature and support local economic vitality.”

A “forever-wild” conservation easement will keep Twin Valleys permanently undeveloped. CATS received assistance in purchasing the property from Northeast Wilderness Trust, a regional land trust that focuses on wilderness conservation. This support came through the Wilderness Trust’s Wildlands Partnership program, which offers guidance and funding to local land trusts to help protect their lands as forever-wild. Through the Partnership, the Wilderness Trust will hold a conservation easement on Twin Valleys, adding an extra layer of legal protection in addition to CATS’ ownership of the land. This project continues the long-standing relationship between CATS and Northeast Wilderness Trust. Read more »

Peru, NY, February 3, 2026 – As advertised, Clinton County Health Department and Casella Waste Systems personnel were in Peru this morning explaining their joint food collection program. Peru is participating in a pilot program to determine how many residents will participate and, if they don’t, what can be done to encourage participation.  Americans typically send up to 40% of their food waste to landfills, where it takes up space and emits greenhouse gases.  The Health Department had free 2-gallon collection buckets for people signing up, and Casella personnel demonstrated how to use the collection container, located immediately along Cross Street in front of the Peru Highway Garage. 

People who couldn’t attend today can sign up at the Peru Town Hall, where they’ll receive a free 2-gallon bucket and explanatory literature. Participants will need to purchase BPI-certified biodegradable waste bags from local or online retailers. 

A Peru and a Schuyler Falls resident told the Peru Gazette they have composted food for several years. One has had problems with animals disturbing her outdoor compost container. The other individual has a solar composter, but it doesn’t work in extreme cold. She thinks this program should be a viable alternative. 

Click here to learn how to use the collection container at the highway garage. 

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Plattsburgh, NY The North Country Chamber of Commerce hosted its 114th Annual Awards Dinner on January 30th at SUNY Plattsburgh’s Warren Ballroom. This year’s sold-out celebration welcomed 500 guests for an unforgettable evening of recognition and celebration.

This year’s award recipients, including Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Businessperson of the Year, Economic Development Partner of the Year, the Trailblazer Award, and the 2025 Chairperson’s Award.

Della Bella Family (Photo provided)

2026 Business of the Year:

What began as a single dealership fueled by determination, hard work, and family commitment has grown into one of the North Country’s most respected and impactful businesses. The DELLA Auto Group, founded in 1983 by Michael Della Bella Sr. and his wife Carmen, is being recognized as Business of the Year for its decades’ long investment in people, community, and economic growth across the region.

The DELLA story began modestly when Michael and Carmen purchased Bob Clarke Pontiac in Queensbury, giving rise to D’ELLA Pontiac. Both worked side by side at the dealership, rolling up their sleeves and balancing the challenges of growing a business while raising a family. Their dedication and hands on approach laid the foundation for what would become a multi-generational enterprise.

Over the years, the DELLA Auto Group expanded steadily throughout the North Country. Today, Plattsburgh serves as a major hub for the group, with Kia, Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Polaris Motor Sports, Subaru, and Chevrolet locations, as well as a full-service collision center. The group employs more than 375 individuals, with over 200 living and working in Clinton County. Many team members have built lifelong careers with the company, achieving homeownership, educating their children, and pursuing their own American dream.

Now led by the second generation, siblings Michael Jr., Christopher, Anthony, and Kiara Della Bella, the DELLA Auto Group continues to reflect the values on which it was built. Each of the Della Bella children began working in the business at a young age, learning every department from the ground up. Their leadership honors the legacy established by their parents while guiding the company into its next chapter of growth.

Community involvement remains central to the DELLA mission. The company proudly supports numerous local and regional organizations including United Way, CV Tech Plattsburgh, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, SUNY Plattsburgh, Chazy Youth Hockey, the Plattsburgh YMCA, the Salvation Army, JCEO, the Clinton County Fair, North Country SPCA, and the North Country Chamber of Commerce, among many others.

From its humble beginnings to its continued success today, the DELLA Auto Group exemplifies what is possible when family values, entrepreneurship, and community commitment come together. The Business of the Year honor recognizes not only the company’s growth, but also the people, partnerships, and shared vision that have made the DELLA story a lasting success in the North Country.

Stacy Ambler (Photo provided)

2026 Small Business of the Year: Cumberland Bay Market, Stacey Ambler, Owner

The North Country Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Cumberland Bay Market as the Small Business of the Year, honoring its growth, community impact, and the leadership of owner Stacey Ambler.

For the past seven years, Stacey Ambler has owned and operated Cumberland Bay Market, transforming it into far more than a neighborhood store in Cumberland Head. Under her leadership, the market has become a trusted community hub, offering quality food, catering services, and a welcoming space that meets the daily needs of residents while strengthening the fabric of the surrounding area.

Ambler’s dedication to community and service was recognized statewide when she received the New York State Assembly 2020 Woman of Distinction Award for her leadership during the pandemic.

When she is not working, Stacey enjoys spending time outdoors skiing, boating, and camping with her husband and their two children. The Small Business of the Year award celebrates both her entrepreneurial success and the meaningful role Cumberland Bay Market plays in the Cumberland Head community.

Chris Akey (Photo provided)

2026 Joe Bornstein Businessperson of the Year Award: Chris Akey

The North Country Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Chris Akey as its Businessperson of the Year, honoring his entrepreneurial leadership, commitment to local business growth, and dedication to the North Country community.

Based in Plattsburgh, Chris Akey has built a career rooted in strengthening regional businesses and expanding opportunities close to home. He began his professional journey at his grandparents’ business, Farm and Family, where he developed a strong work ethic and a customer first approach that continues to guide his leadership today.

More than 20 years ago, Chris launched his entrepreneurial path with Taylor Rental Plattsburgh. Through perseverance, innovation, and the support of his family, that single venture grew into a diverse portfolio of locally based businesses serving communities across the region. His success reflects a long-term commitment to reinvesting in the North Country and creating sustainable economic impact.

Beyond his business achievements, Chris is deeply engaged in community service. He has served on the CVPH Foundation Board and the North Country Cancer Fund and has supported numerous local fundraisers and community events. His involvement reflects a strong belief in giving back, supporting neighbors in times of need, and helping ensure a strong future for the region.

The Businessperson of the Year award recognizes Chris Akey’s lasting contributions to the North Country through entrepreneurship, leadership, and community service.

Beth Hill (Photo provided)

2026 Economic Development Partner of the Year:
Beth L. Hill

The North Country Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Beth Hill, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fort Ticonderoga, has been selected as the Chamber’s 2026 Economic Developer of the Year, recognizing her exceptional leadership, long-term impact on regional economic vitality, and transformative contributions to heritage tourism and community development.

Hill has served as President and CEO of Fort Ticonderoga since 2010, following a distinguished career with the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, Historic Sites Division. A museum professional for more than 25 years, Hill holds a Master of Arts degree in History from American University and has led Fort Ticonderoga through a remarkable organizational turnaround and into a period of strategic growth and reinvestment.

Under Hill’s leadership, Fort Ticonderoga is executing a multi-million-dollar, multi-year capital improvement plan that is expanding visitor experiences, strengthening educational programming, and enhancing the site’s national visibility. The organization has secured several prestigious federal grants, including awards from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the National Endowment for the Humanities, supporting major exhibitions, collections accessibility, and expanded public engagement.

Beyond its cultural significance, Fort Ticonderoga serves as a major economic driver for the region, supporting local businesses, generating year-round visitation, and strengthening the tourism economy across the North Country and Adirondack Coast. Hill’s collaborative leadership and commitment to community partnerships have elevated the institution’s role in workforce engagement, regional branding, and long-term economic resilience.

Hill is a long-standing community leader and serves on multiple regional and statewide boards, advancing collaboration across tourism, education, and economic development sectors.

Anna Hewitt-Channell  (Photo provided)

2026 Trailblazer Award: Anna Hewitt-Channell 

The North Country Chamber of Commerce is proud to present its Trailblazer Award to Anna Hewitt Channell, recognizing her emerging leadership, community engagement, and forward-thinking impact across the North Country.

Anna serves as Business Development and Marketing Manager at Dannemora Federal Credit Union, where she plays a vital role in connecting local businesses, professionals, and community partners. Through her work, she supports local charities, nonprofits, schools, and initiatives that strengthen the region, combining relationship building with a strong commitment to community service.

A lifelong Plattsburgh resident, Anna brings a deep love for the North Country into everything she does. She is an Ambassador for the North Country Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Mountain Lake PBS Board, where she is Chair of the Development Committee. She is also an active member of Noon Rotary, serving as Chair of the Fundraising Committee, Chair of the Public Relations Committee, and as a member of the Membership Committee. She is slated to serve as Rotary President in 2027.

Anna’s leadership extends beyond the local level through her service on the Conference and Diamond Award Committees for America’s Credit Unions, contributing to national conversations that shape the future of the industry. She is also the co-chair and a founding creator of Michigan Fest, a community event that brings people together while celebrating local pride and collaboration.

Outside of work and volunteer leadership, Anna is a devoted twin mom to James and Elliott. She enjoys gardening, creating recipes, and embracing creativity at home and in the community she loves.

The Trailblazer Award honors rising leaders who are shaping the future of the North Country through innovation, service, and collaboration. Anna Hewitt Channell’s dedication, energy, and vision exemplify the spirit of this award and the next generation of leadership in our region. 

2025 Chairman’s Award: Andrew Sepcie

Garry Douglas, President/CEO about our 2025 Chairperson:“Andy Sepcie was a great Chair of our Chamber through a year that brought great advances as well as responses to new challenges. He helped to guide us at the Chamber as he does at his company, Monaghan Medical.  With leadership. steadfastness and good cheer. We are an even stronger Chamber than we already were, thanks to his commitment to our work. We join in thanking him for that.”

Carl Rubino: Who Is This Guy? Carl consistently pens lyrics with characters that come alive in scenes that paint a picture and tell a story, often with an unexpected twist and a dash of emotion.  Carl’s songwriting rule is simple. If you can’t close your eyes and “see” the song keep rewriting or throw it out!  Initially focused on blending contemporary folk and what country music was before it turned into something else, delivered with his gutsy baritone over a melodically fingerpicked acoustic guitar, some of his more recent work fuses elements of contemporary folk or “typical” Americana with jazz that blend elements of jazz composition with his penchant for telling stories in songs.  Many have likened his recent songs to the fell of traditional jazz ballads – picture someone like Tony Bennett singing in a smoke-filled cafe in Paris or New York. He also forays into the blues and even an occasional political satire piece.   Carl is often appreciated by those who are drawn to some of his influences, like John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, Bill Morrissey and Steve Earle.   He writes his songs and performs on guitars and keyboard/piano.

Click here for the Adirondack Almanac story 

Hamburger Gravy/Mashed Pototoes 

Vegetable

Bread  

Dessert 

Served 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., take-out only, at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St., Peru, NY 12972. 

All are invited and welcome!

Click here for the Syracuse.com story 

Jim at his last town board meeting on December 29 enjoying a laugh with Counselor Eric Duquette

Attending Peru’s annual Christmas tree lighting has always been one of Jim’s favorite activities.

Many friends and family members witnessed Jim light the tree on December 5, 2025.

Jim lighting Peru’s beautiful tree

By John T Ryan 

Peru, NY, January 31, 2026 –  Family and public service define Jim Douglass.   After 16 years on the Peru Town Board, including 12 years as Deputy Supervisor, Jim did not seek reelection last November. He explained why, saying, “We have a good board. I’m glad there’s new blood on the board.” Nevertheless, Jim hasn’t forgotten the board members and town employees. He added, “I miss them very much, and I stop by to say hello.” 

Public service has characterized Jim Dougalss’s life for 44 of his 86 years. Prior to moving to Peru about 25 years ago, he lived in Black Brook, where he served as tax assessor for 8 years and on the town board for 20 years. Significantly, he passed his love of public service on to his son, Jon, who also served on the Black Brook Town Board and is currently the Black Brook Town Supervisor.

A Democrat, it didn’t take Jim long to get involved in Peru politics. He recalled, “I ran for assessor. I lost, but I got to know Brandy McDonald, who was in politics. He asked me to run for the town board. In those days, it was difficult for a Democrat to get elected in Peru, so we ran as Democrats and on a 3rd party line. Persistence paid off. In 2009, Peru voters elected Douglass to the Peru Town Board.   

At a time when most people shy away from being involved in local government, Douglass loves it.  He explained, “It’s never been about politics. For me, it’s about the town, not the parties. Our board can disagree on some things, argue out points and still leave as friends.” 

Looking back on his time on the town board, Douglass considers the walking trail as one of the town’s biggest achievements. He said, “I have to credit much of that to Adele Douglas, who did so much. Some people told me the trail was a waste of time and that nobody would use it. I felt it would be a good thing for Peru, so I voted for it.” Adele Douglas, a volunteer, applied for the grants that funded 75% of the trail. 

Douglass has an immense respect for the town board members and the respect is mutual.  

Town Supervisor Craig Randall commented, “I’ve enjoyed working with Jim. His years of service as a councilman were valuable to me. We could always count on Jim to share his knowledge of town business. I know his caring manner spread throughout our community, to his neighbors and friends. I thank Jim and wish him the very best in the years ahead.”

Melvin Irwin said, “Jim, due to his many years of service, numerous older adults looked to him to solve numerous issues. Jim’s favorite quote was, “The graveyard is full of people who thought they couldn’t be replaced!! He was always caring about his people.”

Kregg Bruno said, “Jim was a mentor to me when I began as a councilor. He was very helpful and experienced, which was a significant benefit in aiding me to become a better counselor. We became very close friends, and I still refer to him if I have questions about certain aspects of my job. We also both like to eat pie and enjoy each other’s company.”

Eric Duquette is a relatively new board member whose previous experience has been in business, not local government. Eric said, “Jim  enlighted me and helped me. He is a very community-based person. He does not see party lines, which is wonderful for a town government. He wants what’s best for the community, including the best use of taxpayers’ dollars. He’s a peacemaker. He tries his best to keep everything moving smoothly.” 

Are there any higher words of praise?  “We can always count on Jim to share his knowledge…” “He was always caring about people.” “He was a mentor to me.” “He’s a peacemaker.” Jim Douglass, with his wife Jackie at his side, will undoubtedly find new ways to serve our community.