To the Editor:
When I decided to run for Herkimer County Legislator in the 15th District I knew it was not going to be easy, but I was overwhelmed by the support I received from so many people in the towns of Ohio, Russia and Webb who signed my Republican Party petition.
Their signatures were more than three times the number that was required to put me on the ballot.
Unfortunately, my opponent, Patrick Russell, who has never been challenged before, evidentially felt threatened and he decided to deny, you the voter, a choice in the upcoming Republican Primary by contesting my petition because of a minor technicality in my address.
My P.O. Box number was not included in the address line at the top of the petition.
It was a cheap shot. But I don’t roll over easily.
Rather than spending time and money to go to court to have his challenge overturned, I am putting all of my time and efforts into running as an Independent Candidate for Herkimer County Legislature in the 15th District in the November election, and I pledge that if elected I will dedicate myself to this job and represent the three towns in the district: Ohio, Russia and Webb, fairly and equally.
My goals are to work one-on-one with the people to make it easier to live and work in Herkimer County, and to help create jobs.
In 2007, I addressed the Herkimer County Legislature with a proposal for the county to provide taxpayers with the opportunity to pay their taxes quarterly.
My proposal was never acted on by the Legislature, but if elected, I will work hard on this legislation, knowing that homeowners in our district are having a hard time paying their property taxes, and this would give them a welcome break that might help them keep their homes.
Also, if they owe back taxes they would be able to make payments.
Mr. Russell’s interests are much different than mine. As a career politician he seems to be more concerned about his welfare and what he gets out of the job, than about the concerns of the people in District 15 who need the support of their legislator, the majority who have never seen him or spoken with him during his 12 years in office.
His position as Legislator is to keep the power. And to keep on spending your tax money.
It is time for a change. If elected, I will always be available to discuss your problems and to work on your behalf. I will not let you down. My word is my bond.
You will find my name on the ballot in the November election as an Independent candidate for Herkimer County Legislature in the District 15. I am ready to work hard for you.
Jon Hansen
Thendara
