To the editor:

The village of Saranac Lake has long been a treasure of the North Country and of our region. The culmination of local entrepreneurs and established enterprises that have put down roots are a testament to the potential that yet awaits this community. Maintaining a transparent government in a community that embraces all walks of life is no easy task. It is therefore essential to elect trustees that are not distracted with reaction or motivated by an agenda but have proven a capability to look out for the health of the village and its overall growth. This is why I am honored to endorse Jeremy Evans for village trustee.

Ten years ago, the Franklin County IDA was in urgent need for a leader that could navigate the complexities of changing local government while creating an atmosphere for economic and community growth in a county that has diverse demographics, geographically and politically. Jeremy was a very clear choice and has proven his ability to look at opportunities and challenges from every angle and move forward with a direction that integrates and stabilizes small businesses while also utilizing the economic and environmental potential of larger companies.

As chairman of the IDA board, I had the opportunity to hire and then to work closely with Jeremy for years in his role as CEO. Since his hiring, we have all seen the growth of a government agency that rose from obscurity to now being the face of a team of experts whose impact for good is being felt in every part of Franklin County to this day and into the future. I wish that every community had candidates to vote for on Election Day that are committed to integrity and the good of the people like Jeremy Evans. The dedication and experience that will be voted for on March 18 will benefit the entire area for years to come.

Justus Martin

Moira