To the editor:

I am proud to support Johnny Williams for re-election to the Harrietstown Town Council. His campaign slogan, “Committed to Community,” perfectly captures the way he serves our town — through hard work and a genuine desire to make our community better for everyone.

Johnny’s dedication reminds me of my grandfather, D. Mott Chapin, who once told this very newspaper, “People should not merely be willing — they should be anxious to do at least one thing for their community. It’s the only way to grow yourself, and the most satisfying way to see your community grow.” My grandfather believed in putting energy and heart into the place you love, rather than just complaining about it. Johnny embodies that same determined philosophy every day — not only as a father and husband, but through mentoring local youth, running successful downtown businesses, spearheading our annual Turkey Trot, and helping guide the $8.5 million airport revitalization project.

As a lifelong Saranac Lake resident, Johnny Williams knows our community inside and out. Over the past four years on the Harrietstown Council, he’s proven to be a dedicated and effective leader–one who serves all residents, not politics. Johnny consistently balances preserving our town’s unique character with promoting responsible, sustainable progress. His integrity, vision and follow-through have made a real difference, and I have no doubt he’ll continue that work in another term.

I voted for Johnny in 2021, and I look forward to casting my vote for him again this year.

Sara Shatraw

Saranac Lake