To the editor:

As a voter, taxpayer and proud Saranac Lake resident, I’m deeply grateful to this community for all it has given my family across generations.

This mayoral election is a key moment for our village’s future and a moment of enormous historical significance. Let me explain.

In my view, both candidates are truly invested in Saranac Lake’s success, and Mayor Jimmy Williams has earned our thanks for his leadership. He championed the public safety complex — a smart, forward-thinking project that strengthens our emergency services and sets us up well for years to come.

That said, I’m voting for Trustee Kelly Brunette because of the strong, independent qualities she showed throughout that process.

She “spoke truth to power” when it mattered, demonstrating real resilience and a willingness to challenge assumptions, even when it wasn’t the easiest path. Those misunderstandings were resolved, but what stood out was her grit and commitment to thinking things through carefully and transparently. That’s the kind of independent leadership we need to guide us through tough decisions ahead.

Mayor Williams has balanced his work effectively alongside his business responsibilities, and we appreciate the sheer effort and hard work that it requires. But Brunette is ready to make the mayoralty her full-time focus. With her technical expertise, clear vision for transparency and dedication to keeping our finances solid, she can help us fine-tune our progress going forward — protecting local businesses and residents from unnecessary burdens while building on what we’ve already achieved.

Please join me in voting for Kelly Brunette as our next mayor on March 18, and in thanking Mayor Williams for his dedicated service to our village.

Mark Keating

Saranac Lake