To the editor:

Saranac Lake is an incredible place. School is what brought me here, and our “decidedly different” lifestyle is what made me stay. I love the resilient community members, our neighborly care during a global pandemic, and our quirky carnivals. I could go on and on, but the bottom line is this: I love this town.

I love it so much that I want it to be better. I want it better not just in the places where I see room for improvement here, but better in ways that make all our lives easier, make this place safer, healthier and stronger as a true community. I believe that voting smart in the upcoming September election for our village board is a way to do that.

I’ve seen a lot of people talk about what Rich Shapiro and Tom Catillaz have done in the past, but not about what they have planned for us. What matters most is what’s to come for our little village. Let’s stop focusing on keeping people in office who have accomplished a few things and now only care about advancing their political careers. Instead, let’s focus on electing folks who promise to benefit us all.

Speaking from personal experience, my voice has never been heard by Rich or Tom. I can acknowledge the good things Rich and Tom have done in the past, and that they may continue to do good things in the future. One thing is certain: They won’t sit on the board and hear from those they disagree with. This leaves many of our voices ignored and underserved.

Fred Balzac and Trevor Sussey both feel the need to listen to everyone, even those they disagree with, because they know every person in our village deserves to be heard. These are true politicians seeking to represent the people, not push their own political agenda. In case everyone forgot, elected officials are meant to represent and listen to U.S., not make decisions based on their own personal bias and opinions.

I have high hopes for this place, and many others do, too. That’s why we live and work here. That’s why us young folk are sticking around and making so much noise in the political scene. We want this place better for everyone: current, seasonal, and future residents, youth, elders, business owners, essential workers and everyone else in between. Trevor and Fred are capable of bridging gaps in our community, dedicated to bringing us all closer together, and making us stronger for it.

I don’t care if your political and social views are different than mine. I want your voice amplified as much as I want my voice amplified. You’re my neighbor, and we’re in this together. That’s why I’m urging you to vote for Fred Balzac and write in Trevor Sussey for the village board, because they’re the only ones willing to listen to every single one of you. Please vote on Sept. 15 in the village board election, and make this town decidedly better.

Thompson Tomaszewski

Saranac Lake