The Peru Gazette

Clinton County Legislator Peter Keenan is not seeking reelection after eight years of service as Area 5 Legislator. Republican Richard Potiker and Democrat Bill Todd are seeking the position.The Peru Gazette asked the candidates the following questions.

1. Summarize your educational background, primary employment, a little about your family and past community involvement.

Richard Potiker responded: I have a high school diploma and completed some college,
I owned my own appraisal business and retired as an insurance appraiser after 25 years. I was past president of the Adirondack Insurance Professionals.
I was the chairman of the Schuyler Falls zoning board of appeals.
I own Northern NY Driving Academy the area’s 1st full service driving school.
I am currently finishing up my 2nd term as Schuyler falls Town Supervisor. I am currently the Schuyler Falls Republican Committee Treasurer.
I am currently divorced after a 34 year marriage, I have 1 daughter Amanda Barns a 2004 graduate from Peru School and 1 grandson.

Bill Todd responded: Formal education consists of high school graduate, four years in the United States Air Force, and some college. Primary employment for the past 51 years has been with the City of Plattsburgh as manager of the water filtration plant. I have been married for 55 years to my wife, Carolyn, and we have three children. I have been a volunteer fireman with Morrisonville Fire Department for 44 years. During that time, I held the office of fire Commissioner for 15 years. In the past, I have been involved with coaching softball and baseball teams for the town of Schuyler Falls. Additional, community involvement includes: Knights of Columbus, past Grand Knight, past trustee for St. Alexander’s church, church choir member, and volunteer at St. Alexander’s soup kitchen.

2. How will your background and/or successes assist you as a Clinton County Legislator?

Richard Potiker responded: I know that my experience as a small business owner and a 2 term Town Supervisor as well as my business background has prepared me to help lead the County and represent the constituents in Area 5. I will work hard along side Rob Timmons to address all of the important issues issues facing Peru and Schuyler Falls.

Bill Todd responded: Through my extensive managerial experience, I have been involved in overseeing employees, spending and working with the budget at hand. I have devoted years of my life to the local community through involvement with the Morrisonville Fire Department. During my time as fire Commissioner, I was tasked with budgeting and spending of the local fire tax base.

3. What county issues concern you the most?

Richard Potiker responded: I believe that the county is running smoothly and is in good hands with Mike Zurlo. As unfunded mandates trickle down from State to County to Towns I will make sure that the residents of area 5 have a voice on the County level. Since the towns in area 5 stand to benefit from development of the old county airport as well as the increase in area sales tax revenue from outside the area. Improved trade education should be a priority to supply new manufacturing jobs with an educated workforce wanting to remain in the area and raise their families. Social services in the County need to be staffed to provide appropriate quality care and strict enforcement of fraud and abuse of the system should also be a priority.

Bill Todd responded: I think the present legislator, Peter Keenan, along with other legislators, have done an exceptional job with keeping the tax rate low, the expansion of Clinton County airport, and working with the towns & city in a positive way. I hope to work with all legislators to continue to keep the tax rate low and the county moving forward.

4. Why should a person vote for you?

Richard Potiker responded: I am the best person for the the job and will work hard for everyone.

Bill Todd responded: As a resident and taxpayer, I want someone who is looking out for the interest of the taxpayer, someone who is a voice for the area that we live in, and someone who will listen to those needs. I believe that I am the most qualified to be that voice. I have resided in this area for most of my life; I have strong ties to the community and look forward to working for the people in Area 5.

5. What party lines will your name appear on?

Richard Potiker responded: Republican, Conservative & Indepemdence

Bill Todd responded: Democrat and Working Family