Letter to the Editor: Party Affiliation Matters-Keep Balance on the Board

To The Editor-

It is said by some that party affiliation is not an important factor at the level of local government and therefore should not be considered when we, as voters, make our choices in the Bedford election on November 3rd. The truth is, there are important distinctions between the parties that play out on a local level, and it would be unfortunate if we were to return to the days when the Republican Party held all seats on the Town Board with no diversity of viewpoint.

When Democrats Chris Burdick and David Gabrielson took office in 2008, ending the period of an all Republican Town Board, a new and fruitful process began: the diverse points of view and richness of conversation “across the aisle” were critical in solving very real and complex issues. The building of our water filtration plant, the vetting of no-bid contracts, a more careful approach to finance, all came as the result of negotiation and compromise between Democrats and Republicans.

Chris and David have demonstrated time and again that party affiliation is not just a label: it represents a distinct set of values and priorities. Whether working tirelessly on an overdue Blue Collar contract, finding ways to renovate the Police and Highway facilities at great savings to the taxpayers, confronting traffic safety head on, they embody the Democratic Party belief that there is a place for responsible government, putting people and their needs first. It is important to elect them and MaryAnn Carr to keep that process, and balance, on the Town Board.

Michael Minard
Katonah, NY