To the editor:

As a member of this community, seeing Jeremy Evans run for village trustee is a bit frustrating. With his big push touting transparency, there seem to be a few items that are relevant when voters make their decision for this upcoming election.

His track record has become something to take note of. He left employment at the village office to go work for Franklin County, then he left his elected position mid-term on the Saranac Lake Central School Board to run for village mayor, and now he is leaving his elected seat on the Harrietstown Board mid term to run for village trustee. So Jeremey, what do you say to me and the other constituents who voted you into these positions and then walked out on?

Additionally, is it not relevant that you are the mayoral candidate, Kelly Brunette’s, boss? Does that not pose a conflict of interest? When a tough vote comes before the board, and one’s livelihood is controlled by another member of that same board … are we to assume that it will play no factor in the outcome?

Oh yeah, and does Clyde Rabideau not sit on the board that supervises your position? So we have Clyde as your boss, and you as Kelly’s boss? This looks like the village office a few years ago when it was that exact same dynamic.

Lastly, with you and Kelly Brunette constituting half of the Franklin County Economic Development Corporation’s staff, will the village still be able to leverage those programs and funding? Will it be a conflict when you and Kelly Brunette are paid privately with the “administrative fees” portion of the grants awarded to the village?

This is anything but transparent. And these conflicts are undeniable. I felt strongly that all Saranac Lakers should at least be aware of these. There are alternatives to these conflicts, and that is electing individuals willing to serve WITHOUT conflicts. I’d much rather see KT Stiles and Write-In Josh King given the chance to contribute. Saranac Lake … please choose wisely this Wednesday. This could be a very different place overnight if you don’t.

Omega Bickford

Saranac Lake