Election 2025 - Radio Catskill
Patricio Robayo
Radio Catskill Election Coverage for 2025
Episodes
Peter Cooney: Milford Borough Councilman Runs for Mayor on Local Focus and Public Safety
Milford Borough Council member Peter Cooney is seeking to become the next mayor of Milford, Pennsylvania, emphasizing his experience in local government and his focus on community safety.Cooney, who has served on the borough council for six years, says his time overseeing building projects, human resources, and police and public works contracts has prepared him to step into the mayor’s role. “It just felt like moving on to be the mayor,” he told Radio Catskill’s Annie Bennett.Among his top priorities are maintaining 24/7 police coverage, improving pedestrian safety, and keeping decision-making local. Cooney says his record includes helping to block a 5G tower proposed for Milford’s historic district and finding a long-term tenant for the old police station, which now brings in revenue for the borough.He describes himself as hands-on but not a micromanager: “I just have to make sure everything’s followed — I trust the professionals to do their jobs.”Cooney also voiced opposition to a proposed borough sewer project, citing cost concerns, and says he wants to keep Milford’s small-town character intact.Republican Peter Cooney is running against Democrat Candace Mahala in the Milford Borough mayoral race. Radio Catskill reached out to Mahala for an interview but did not receive a response.
Joel Sierra: “Time for Change” Candidate Challenges Longtime Middletown Mayor
Orange County legislator and former firefighter Joel Sierra says it’s time for new leadership in Middletown. Running under the “Time for Change” line, Sierra is challenging incumbent Mayor Joseph DeStefano, who has led the city for decades.In an interview with Radio Catskill’s Annie Bennett, Sierra said his campaign centers on affordability, infrastructure, and restoring term limits. “No politician should be in office for 40 years,” he said. “It breeds complacency — and it’s time to bring in new ideas.”A lifelong Middletown resident and local business owner, Sierra points to his years on the Common Council, including time as finance chair, as key experience. He’s critical of the city’s handling of property development, saying he would prioritize affordable housing projects over new school developments on the former psychiatric center grounds.Sierra also wants to redirect spending to support first responders, improve roads and sidewalks, and expand mental health services alongside police. “We’ve been focused on downtown too long,” he said. “We need to focus on the neighborhoods that are paying the taxes.”Radio Catskill reached out to incumbent Mayor Joseph DeStefano for an interview but did not receive a response.
Stoeckeler Seeks “New Energy” in Wawarsing Supervisor Race
Democratic Town Councilman Joseph Stoeckeler is challenging Republican and Conservative incumbent Terry Houck for Wawarsing Supervisor, calling for “new energy and creative solutions” to tackle housing, jobs, and growth.Stoeckeler, 40, who works in his family’s real-estate business, says he’s running to expand his impact beyond the Town Board.“I want to make Wawarsing a better version of what it is now,” he said.He supports Ulster County’s Housing Smart programs, backs a youth center grant, and says planning and zoning must evolve to guide smart, balanced development.“Our residents are our number one resource,” Stoeckeler added. “We have to plan our future before it’s planned for us.”Radio Catskill invited Supervisor Terry Houck for an interview but did not receive a response.
Brett Budde Launches Write-In Campaign for Fallsburg Supervisor
Farmer and community member Brett Budde is running as a write-in candidate for Town of Fallsburg Supervisor, challenging Democrat Nate Steingart, the only name on the ballot.Budde says his campaign was sparked by concerns over “overdevelopment in the Catskills and in Fallsburg.” “I’m worried about our infrastructure,” Budde told Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo. “We have crumbling water mains and hydrants that barely last minutes. Some residents are without water—this is dangerous for our first responders.”Budde, who owns a farm in Fallsburg, said his well ran dry last year during a drought, while several new developments are being planned nearby. “These projects aren’t on town water,” he said. “I’m worried about my neighbors and the sustainability of our wells.”He’s joined by Dara Manzi and Josh Druckman, who are also running write-in campaigns for Town Council. Together, they want to slow development, protect natural resources, and increase transparency in town government.Budde says if elected, he would push for more grant funding for infrastructure, updated zoning laws, and open community discussions on development. “If you’re happy with how the town is running, vote for our opponents,” Budde said. “But if you want a team with a plan that truly loves this community, write us in.”
William Rieber Jr. Seeks Another Term as Thompson Supervisor
Town of Thompson Supervisor William Rieber Jr. is running for re-election, aiming to continue the work he’s led over the past 12 years.Rieber, who has served on the town board in some capacity since the early 1980s, said he still enjoys the job — even if it’s not glamorous. “It’s a lot of boring grunt work,” he said. “But I get real satisfaction out of the good results we’re seeing.”Those results, he said, include new parks and infrastructure upgrades across the town. Under his leadership, Thompson has expanded from one park to several, including the 140-acre Lake Ida Park in Rock Hill and a river access park in Neversink. “Parks are forever,” Rieber said. “Once you protect that land, it’s there for everyone.”Rieber pointed to roughly $65 to $75 million in ongoing water and sewer projects and credited his administration for securing federal infrastructure grants and keeping the town on strong financial footing. “We’ve had 11 straight years of tax reductions,” he said.Looking ahead, Rieber wants to finish work on the Comprehensive Plan and continue improving recreational spaces, including a new dog park and pavilion for family gatherings. He said managing growth remains a challenge: “Everybody wants affordable housing, but nobody likes a crowd. Finding that balance is key.”Rieber said he’s running on experience and consistency. “I’ve been here all my life,” he said. “I know this community, and I care deeply about where it’s headed.”
Scott Mace Challenges Bill Reiber Jr. for Thompson Supervisor
Thompson Councilman Scott Mace is running again for Town Supervisor, facing incumbent Bill Reiber Jr. in a rematch this November.Mace, a longtime board member and pharmacist, said his campaign focuses on saving money, improving communication, and fixing old infrastructure. “We’ve benefited from the casino for years, but that money is starting to go down,” he said. “We need to plan ahead and make sure Thompson stays affordable.”He said he wants to see cleaner neighborhoods, stronger code enforcement, and more work on the town’s parks and recreation areas. “If we’re going to be a tourism spot, we should look like it,” Mace said.Mace also talked about the need for more cooperation in the community. “There’s too much division,” he said. “We need more honesty, kindness, and real conversations to move forward.”He said he continues to share ideas for the town’s Comprehensive Plan, even though he wasn’t chosen for the committee. “If we’re not growing, we’re falling behind,” Mace said.If elected, Mace said he would serve as a full-time supervisor, promising “honesty, fairness, and hard work.”
Everything You Need to Know Before Election Day in Sullivan County
Election season is in full swing, and early voting is already underway across Sullivan County. Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke with Dan Hust, Sullivan County’s Director of Communications, about how the Board of Elections ensures a smooth, secure, and transparent process for voters heading to the polls this November.The Work Behind the BallotHust says the Board of Elections “works hard all year long” — not just during election season. Led by Commissioners Deanna Sinek and Pam Murin, the bipartisan team oversees every election at the national, state, county, and town levels.“They are the model of how we’d like to see our political parties work together,” Hust noted.Their duties range from maintaining accurate voter rolls to staying up to date on state election laws and implementing secure voting systems.Keeping Your Vote SafeConcerns about election security are top of mind for many voters, but Hust emphasized that the system in New York State — and in Sullivan County — is built with layers of protection.“Our Board of Elections takes voter safety and ballot security very seriously,” he said.Voting machines are not connected to the internet, and all software used is certified by the state. A strict chain of custody ensures results can’t be tampered with, from the moment a ballot is cast to when it’s counted.Getting the Word OutAs Communications Director, Hust helps the county spread the word about when, where, and how to vote — through paid media campaigns, the county website, and local partnerships.“We don’t tell you who to vote for — just how and where to do it,” Hust explained.Voters can access sample ballots, polling site details, and important deadlines on the Sullivan County Board of Elections website.Election Night and BeyondUnofficial results will start coming in after polls close at 9 p.m. on Election Night, but absentee and affidavit ballots will be added in the following days. Official certification happens only after every vote — including mail-ins and challenged ballots — has been verified.Important DatesNov. 3: Last day to apply in person for an absentee ballotNov. 4 (Election Day): Polls open 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.Last day to postmark or deliver absentee ballots in personBallots must be received by Nov. 12 (general) or Nov. 17 (military/special federal)How to Get HelpQuestions about voting? Contact the Sullivan County Board of Elections at 845-807-0400 or visit them in person at the Government Center in Monticello.And if you want to help keep democracy running smoothly, Hust says they’re always looking for poll workers — or, as he puts it, “election inspectors — the front lines of democracy.”“Get out and vote,” Hust said. “Your voice matters — especially in local elections. These are your neighbors, your community leaders. Make your voice heard.”
Sullivan County Sheriff Mike Schiff Seeks Re-Election
Sheriff Mike Schiff, who has led the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office since 2006, is seeking another four-year term, saying voters should judge him by his record, not politics.“Judge us by your own experience,” Schiff said. “Are you satisfied with your Sheriff’s Office and how we respond? That’s what matters.”Schiff faces a write-in challenge from former undersheriff Tim Dymond. He pointed to community outreach programs, such as foot patrols and “Coffee with the Sheriff,” as examples of efforts to stay connected with residents.Addressing a Times Union report about a gun entering the county jail, Schiff called it a “serious lapse” but said the weapon “never made it onto the jail floor.” He added that the district attorney was notified immediately and that additional training is underway.If re-elected, Schiff said he’ll continue investing in training, technology, and transparency, including exploring body cameras and drone technology. “The future will demand it,” he said, “but we have to do it responsibly.”Schiff urged voters to “look at facts, not fog,” emphasizing that his office’s progress and professionalism should speak for themselves.
Tim Dymond Running as Write-In Candidate for Sullivan County Sheriff
Retired New York State Police Senior Investigator Tim Dymond is continuing his bid for Sullivan County Sheriff as a write-in candidate, following his loss in the Republican primary to incumbent Mike Schiff.Dymond says his campaign is focused on accountability and transparency, calling for a new leadership team, an audit of department spending, and the implementation of body cameras across the Sheriff’s Office.He also addressed an AI-generated video that appeared during the campaign, saying his team had no involvement and calling artificial intelligence “a powerful but scary tool.” Dymond said the best way to combat misinformation is through open, in-person conversations with the community.“If you think Sullivan County can do better — if you want accountability, transparency, and real change — then I’m asking you to write in my name,” said Tim Dymond.
Highland Town Supervisor Candidate Mary Ellen Carney Talks Transparency
Mary Ellen “Mel” Carney, candidate for Highland Town Supervisor, spoke with Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett about her run for office and her call for greater transparency in local government.Carney said she entered the race out of concern for what she sees as a lack of openness and accuracy in town affairs. “While [the current supervisor] claims transparency, there is none,” she said.She also pointed to financial discrepancies in the town budget and grant reporting, saying her focus would be on providing residents with “factual information” and managing taxpayer money responsibly.
Town of Highland Supervisor John Pizzolato Talks Reelection
Town of Highland Supervisor John Pizzolato spoke with Radio Catskill’s Genevieve Hartnett as part of the station’s Local Election Series, discussing his bid for reelection, community projects, and efforts to improve transparency in local government.During the conversation, Pizzolato reflected on his first term and what he hopes to build on if reelected. “We’ve secured over $700,000 in grant funds so far,” he said. “But I really want to actualize everything we started for the community.”He also discussed ongoing town initiatives, including infrastructure improvements and updates to Highland’s comprehensive plan, noting the importance of community input and collaboration.Pizzolato addressed recent discussions around accountability and the need for open communication between local officials and residents. “Our meetings are standing-room only now,” he said. “People are engaged, and that makes us stronger.”
Election 2025: Michael Sussman Running for Orange County Executive
Civil rights attorney Michael Sussman is running for Orange County Executive, challenging incumbent Steve Neuhaus, who has held the position since 2013.Sussman, a Goshen-based lawyer with more than four decades of legal experience, said in an interview with Radio Catskill that Orange County needs “new leadership, more transparency, and a government that puts people before politics.”During the interview, Sussman outlined several priorities if elected, including ending what he described as “pay-to-play” politics, establishing an independent county comptroller, and redirecting the county’s Industrial Development Agency to focus on small business growth and affordable housing.He also discussed issues related to agriculture, local transportation, and environmental cleanup, citing concerns about flooding along the Wallkill River and unremediated toxic waste sites.On the subject of large warehouse projects, Sussman criticized the county’s economic-development policies, saying he would oppose tax incentives for corporations that don’t provide union jobs or fair wages.Drawing on his background as a civil-rights attorney, Sussman said he would emphasize public participation and inclusion in county government.“I’m not interested in government for the few,” he said. “I want an inclusive government that listens, where people from every background have a seat at the table.”Sussman acknowledged that he has not served in county government but argued that his experience outside of it provides a different perspective on how local institutions operate.The 2025 Orange County Executive election will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus on Seeking Another Term
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, who has served in the position since 2014, is seeking another term in office. He spoke with Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo about his record, current projects, and plans for the county’s future.Neuhaus pointed to fiscal stability and open space preservation as key accomplishments during his tenure. “We’ve lowered the county tax rate nine years in a row and preserved thousands of acres of open space,” he said. He also noted infrastructure and cultural investments, including upgrades to county parks, redevelopment of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center, and plans to convert a former high school in Chester into a high-tech training hub.Discussing development and transportation, Neuhaus said local zoning decisions remain central to balancing growth with community character. He also highlighted new transit initiatives, such as GoGo Grandparent, a ride service that connects seniors and veterans to medical appointments and errands.Neuhaus said he hopes to continue building on ongoing projects and partnerships in a new term. “I believe we have much more work to do,” he told Radio Catskill.
Election 2025: Ulster County Board of Elections: What You Need to Know Before You Vote
As the November election approaches, the Ulster County Board of Elections is urging residents to get informed, get registered, and get out to vote. Commissioners Ashley Torres and John Quigley spoke with Radio Catskill to share key dates, changes to polling locations, and what goes on behind the scenes to make Election Day run smoothly.A Busy Season for Local DemocracyWith more than 144,000 registered voters across Ulster County, election season is a hectic time for the Board’s 14-person staff.“We’re issuing absentee and vote-by-mail ballots, testing voting machines, training over 650 election inspectors, and making sure everything is ready for Election Day,” Torres said. “It’s a lot of moving parts, but the goal is simple — a fair, smooth, and accessible election.”Key Dates to RememberOctober 25: Early voting begins — and it’s also “Golden Day,” the last day to register to vote for this election.October 25–November 3: Early voting continues. Most days are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with late hours noon to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 30.November 4: Election Day — polls are open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.Early voting sites are open to any voter in the county, regardless of where they live. Sites include:Olive: American Legion in ShokanKingston: Midtown Neighborhood Center on BroadwayEllenville: Ellenville Public LibraryNew Paltz: New Paltz Community CenterHighland: New location — Highland American Legion (formerly Marlboro Community Center)Saugerties: Saugerties Senior Center at the Cantine Field ComplexVisit VoteUlster.comfor details and updates.Behind the BallotsQuigley says a “successful election day” means every polling site opens on time and every voter has a positive experience.“New York has one of the longest election days in the country — 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.,” he said. “We make sure poll sites are ready for anything, from power outages to a hot day where inspectors need water. By 10:30 or 11 p.m., we usually have 99% of results reported.”Unlike online voting systems, results in Ulster County are physically transported on secured USB drives — not sent digitally — to ensure integrity. Early and absentee ballots are typically the first results reported after 9 p.m.Counting Every VoteEven after Election Day, the counting isn’t over. Torres emphasized that all valid mail-in and affidavit ballots are included, even if the race isn’t close.“We process ballots postmarked by Election Day and affidavit ballots starting November 10,” she explained. “If there’s a tight race, we conduct an automatic hand count. We can recount every ballot in Ulster County in about five to seven days.”The Board invites the public to observe these counts. “It’s an open process — transparent from start to finish,” Torres added.A Right That’s Never DeniedQuigley reminded voters that in New York, no one can be denied the right to vote.“If you ever feel you’re being turned away, you can always request an affidavit ballot,” he said. “We’ll verify and resolve it afterward. Your voice will still be heard.”For More InformationVisit VoteUlster.comto:Register to voteFind early voting sites and hoursTrack your absentee ballotView sample ballotsEarly voting begins Saturday, October 25, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.Make your plan, know your site, and make your vote count.