Benson

SARANAC LAKE — The village of Saranac Lake’s Board of Trustees voted Monday night to approve the mayoral appointment of Beth Benson as the new Village Treasurer.

Mayor Clyde Rabideau formally presented the appointment to the village board, lauding Benson for her commitment to the community as well as her two decades of experience as a Certified Public Accountant. “She’s a village resident,” Rabideau said, “which is a cherished position to have.”

Benson will replace Karen Lanthier, the previous Treasurer, who resigned earlier this year to relocate to Texas with her family. In the interim, long-time former Treasurer, Mary Peria, now retired, has fulfilled the duties and afforded continuity to the village accounting and finance operations.

Benson has served as the accountant for several local nonprofits, including USA Luge and, most recently, Adirondack Foundation. She continues to volunteer as a race official for USA Luge and is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of USA.

In her spare time, she enjoys knitting, curling, and handbell ringing.

Mayor Rabideau also expressed gratitude to Peria, who will stay on board to help familiarize Benson with the position and its duties, saying, “Mary is so tremendous and giving and we have profound appreciation for her positive attitude and willingness to help Saranac Lake over the last few years, always coming in when we need her and doing what must be done.”