To the editor:

Have we, as a community, had enough of the silliness and embarrassment that have come to characterize Saranac Lake village board meetings?

Do we want to accomplish the things, big and small, that will help set future generations of Saranac Lakers up for success, or do we want more of the negativity, factionalism and pettiness we’ve been mainlining these last two years?

If you’ve had enough of the drama, of the infighting, and would prefer to see the board roll up their sleeves and get stuff done, I would encourage you to join me in voting for Sean Ryan and Katie Stiles next Tuesday, March 19.

I have had the pleasure of getting to know Katie through her service on the village’s housing task force. She grew up here, and her mental Rolodex of contacts, personal and professional relationships, property ownership and local history is impressive and helpful. Katie is an active contributor to the work of the task force, extremely knowledgeable, and quietly, deeply funny. In addition to the housing task force, Katie serves on the downtown advisory board and the development board. Her work ethic and sense of humor would help change the tenor of the village board on Day One.

Sean Ryan’s reputation precedes him — born and raised here, left to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps, deployed overseas, returned home to build a life with his young family. As the dean of students at Saranac Lake Middle School, Sean serves as a trusted guide and role model for kids from all walks of life. He coaches high school sports, setting a good example on and off the field. He also finds the time and energy to serve in a leadership role at the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad as a lieutenant. His demonstrated commitment and other-centeredness would help change the tenor of the village board on Day One.

Both Katie and Sean are unassuming, unpretentious, smart and genuine in their desires to make positive contributions to the village board, and more importantly, to the village itself.

It’s been a helluva two years, village voters. We can, and must, do better. Please turn out and vote for Katie Stiles and Sean Ryan on Tuesday, between noon and 9 p.m. at the Harrietstown Town Hall.

Respectfully,

Matt Scollin

Deputy Mayor

Village of Saranac Lake