To the Editor:

I would like to announce my candidacy for the board member position in the upcoming Knox municipal election to be held in November.

My experience in the political arena can be best summarized by listing the positions I’ve formerly held: supervisor for the Second Ward in the City of Amsterdam, New York; chairman of the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors; chairman of the Education Committee for Montgomery County; chairman of the Montgomery County Solid Waste Committee; candidate for supervisor of the town of Knox; assistant vice chairman of the Albany County Republicans; and Town of Knox Republican chairman.

As the chairman of the Solid Waste Committee, I was the first elected Republican in a Democratic region.  While in this role, I met with Schoharie County representatives to form a dual county solid-waste program. We researched and were able to receive a grant for a joint venture, which saved taxpayers’ money. 

My history and professional experience are well rounded. I spent 19 years farming in Herkimer County; held various industrial positions; and had over 20 years in the concrete business, from a truck driver to general manager and project manager.

I can relate to a diverse group of people.  I was a shop steward with the Teamsters Union; have sales experience with International Trucks, heavy equipment, concrete blocks/ready mix; and was an equipment specialist for the state’s Department of Transportation.  I am currently a Department of Environmental Conservation specialist with GRJH Inc.

I understand the needs of hard-working individuals and want to make sure their concerns are heard by the town of Knox.

I consider myself very fortunate to live in, and be a member of, this community.  I am disappointed at the lack of new items brought to the town’s attention and the inability of our community to progress or move forward.

If elected, I will give 100 percent by working with the board to handle any pending or new issues. The fact that there are no current issues up for discussion does not mean this community is free of issues.

I believe board members should encourage input from the public taxpayers beyond the survey that was a great starting point to bring up new initiatives for consideration, and board members should investigate each topic individually.

As an example, our neighboring towns have transportation available for senior citizens to go to doctors’ appointments or shopping, or any special occasion.  Despite the number of times this issue has been brought up, no progress has been made in seeing this idea come to fruition.

If elected, I would like to put this issue back on the table and work out all the costs, expenses, and apply for any grants that offer financial assistance, because I believe where there is a will, there is a way.

Additionally, the town supervisor should name a member, or two, to occasionally attend the planning and zoning meetings.  Information should be brought back to the board for all members to hear, so they are more informed and prepared to respond to the questions of their constituents. 

I am a family man, with my son, David Brown, residing in New Jersey with his wife, Sarah, and two sons, Christian and Collin. My daughter lives in New Baltimore, New York, with her husband, David, and son Gabriel.

I would appreciate your vote come this November!

Howard Brown

Knox