To the editor:

Aurora White and Paul Van Cott have my vote for village board.

Growing up, Aurora faced many difficult challenges and developed independence, a strong work ethic and perhaps most importantly, empathy.

Aurora has a gift of being able to notice when people are in need and finding ways to help them. She has a special place in her heart for those who are most vulnerable and I can’t think of a better quality for a village trustee to have.

Aurora selflessly served on the school board, during which time she and other school board members faced many difficult situations that they successfully worked through together. After seven and half years, Aurora resigned from the board out of conscience and not convenience, sticking to her values. At the time she said that “I would not resign over something trivial.” Reflecting on her school board service, she said, “I have always tried to represent everyone in our district, including, and more importantly so, those who are in the minority. Even the quietest voice deserves to be heard.”

I will be casting my vote for Aurora White for village trustee so she can be a voice for all village residents — even when it is difficult.

Paul loves Saranac Lake as much as anyone I know and will bring extensive experience to village government. His institutional knowledge will help important projects like upgrading public safety facilities move forward. After seven years as a trustee, Paul resigned from the board upon his retirement from the state and accepted a new job that he felt would keep him away from Saranac Lake too often to continue serving.

During this campaign season housing, infrastructure, and vacant storefronts have been among the topics most frequently discussed by residents. Paul has my vote because he has a proven record of success tackling every single one of these important issues.

Jeremy Evans

Saranac Lake