UPDATE: The race for the town supervisor and board seats in Athens, NY is heating up as voters prepare for the crucial elections on November 7, 2023. Incumbent Democratic Town Supervisor Michael Pirrone faces a formidable challenge from Republican Anthony “Tony” Paluch, a current town board member, as both candidates make their final appeals to constituents.
Pirrone, aged 78, is seeking to retain his position after four years of leadership. He touts his experience in finance and management, emphasizing his commitment to improving town communications and governmental processes. “I’ve achieved enormous success through various capacities,” he asserts, highlighting his dedication to Athens over the past 40 years alongside his wife.
On the Republican side, Paluch, a retired railroad welder, is vying for the supervisor role after serving on the town board since 2015. Although he declined to provide specific comments, he aims to leverage his extensive local experience and leadership skills to guide the town in a new direction.
In addition to the supervisor race, two town board seats are up for grabs, attracting a diverse group of candidates. Incumbent Karen Haas, who joined the board earlier this year, is running to retain her position against challengers Brittany Palmateer and Republicans Mary Hodor and Ian Palmateer. Haas, a longtime resident of Athens, emphasizes her goal to engage the community and tackle local issues effectively.
Brittany Palmateer, aged 35, is running on both the Democratic and One Athens Party lines. As the vice chairperson of the Athens Democratic Committee and owner of a licensed cannabis dispensary, she is focused on fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable development. “I hope to maintain the town’s charm while encouraging modern advancements,” she states.
Hodor and Ian Palmateer also bring unique perspectives to the race. Hodor, a teacher’s assistant, has deep local roots and is committed to representing taxpayer interests. Meanwhile, Ian Palmateer, a lifelong resident and U.S. Army veteran, aims to preserve Athens’ small-town character for future generations.
With such a competitive field, the outcome of the elections on November 7 could significantly shape the future of Athens. Voters are urged to pay close attention to candidate platforms and the implications of their choices for the community.
As residents prepare to cast their votes, the urgency of this election cannot be overstated. The decisions made in the coming days will resonate throughout the town for years to come. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
