Vote ‘No’ on Shelby referendums and let voters continue to elect town clerk, highway superintendent

Editor:

As the November 3 election approaches, the residents of the Town of Shelby face a critical decision regarding two local referendums that seek to abolish our elected Town Clerk’s and Highway Superintendent’s elected positions and turn them into appointed offices.

We strongly urge my fellow neighbors to vote against these measures and preserve our right to vote. Changing these positions from elected to appointed reduces vital public accountability.

Currently, our town clerk and highway superintendent answer directly to us, the taxpayers every few years at the ballot box. If these referendums pass, control shifts entirely to the Town Board.

The highway superintendent manages the largest expense in our town budget, overseeing infrastructure, road safety and winter storm responses. With so much taxpayer money involved, residents deserve a direct say in who handles these resources rather than letting a few board officials dictate who serves.

Furthermore, data shows that the vast majority of towns in New York prefer elected officials. Out of 933 townships in the state, roughly 90% choose to elect their town clerk and highway superintendent.

The few towns that use appointed systems are typically large, urban or suburban areas requiring highly specialized administrative skills. Shelby is a rural community where direct accountability works best.

Consolidating power within the Town Board takes away the individual voter’s influence. We must protect our voting rights and keep local government accountable to the people.

Please vote “NO” on the Shelby town clerk and Highway Superintendent referendums on the back of the ballot this November.

Respectfully submitted,

James Rogenmoser, Marlene Rogenmoser, Thomas Winans, Becky Winans, David Bracey, Nancy Bracey, Timothy, Wickham, Gary Watts, Robin Watts, Helen Root, Stephen Rosenberg, Cathy Rosenberg, Karl Haist, Amy Haist, Rusty Hofmeister,  C.J. Woodruff, Lynn Woodruff, Melinda Kenward and Chad Kenward

Shelby