Sometimes off-year elections fall off our radar but it’s extremely important that we all vote, especially because this year the candidate situation is a little trickier than in the past.

The following candidates are who I believe will best serve our community. They have my vote on Tuesday, November 7, and I hope they can count on you, too. County Legislator: Catherine Parker (D) City Council: Josh Nathan (D), Jamie Jensen (D), Keith Cunningham (R) Here’s what’s tricky about this year’s ballot. There are only three individuals running for three spots on the City Council; however, there are four names on the ballot. Lori Fontanes (D) is on the ballot but has announced she is moving out of the country. New York law does not allow for her name to be removed from the ballot. Lori has asked for people to NOT vote for her. So please DO NOT vote for Lori.  A vote for her is actually a vote for the status quo, as it creates the possibility of an appointment rather than an election. I believe strongly that we should challenge the status quo in Rye. We need people who can work together and who believe in representative government. 

I have spoken to Josh Nathan, Jamie Jensen, and Keith Cunningham and I hear their commitment to democracy and to our community. They will listen to all Rye constituents and work towards a more transparent and fair process on City Council.

This approach transcends party lines and single policies and is what the City needs right now in order to deal with our many challenges, including flooding and fiscal responsibility. 

Jamie Jensen and Keith Cunningham both have a wide range of experiences that will benefit the Council, and they view service as a way to give back to the community we love. Jamie has an extensive background in nonprofit leadership and has held many roles locally, including school leadership, that have contributed to her civic knowledge. She is a leader at Friends of Rye Town Park and a long-time board member at Open Door. She studies policy and government day in and day out and listens to people to understand the issues that matter. Keith is on the board at The Rye Arts Center, in part because he offers a different perspective (his family more of a sports family), and because of his finance background. He also has served in leadership roles at NYU Langone Hospital through major capital projects. 

Jamie and Keith have a deep understanding of governance and civic responsibilities and they are ready to roll up their sleeves and get things done. They are running with the goal of applying their knowledge and experience while learning from their colleagues and constituents. Josh Nathan is running for a new term having been on the City Council for a couple years already, and he served as a School Board President prior to that. His governing style is informed, thoughtful, and balanced. 

We need a change. Change towards a more fair, civil, and transparent process; these three candidates are the ones to help make that happen. Electing Josh, Jamie, and Keith will build a path towards collaboration for all Council members (old and new) and will bring out the best in Rye. That’s why I am voting for Josh Nathan, Jamie Jensen, and Keith Cunningham. I hope you will as well. Please pass this on to friends and neighbors. 

Lastly, if you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, feel free to reach out. Jamie, Josh, and Keith are happy to talk as well. Doesn’t that tell you something about them as candidates?