ALTAMONT — While all incumbent candidates in Altamont’s village election were returned to office, most of the re-elected officials faced a significant write-in vote.

On March 18, Mayor Kerry Dineen, trustees John Scally and Sandra Serafino, and Justice James Greene each received new four-year terms, but most saw unforeseen opposition. 

Perhaps most surprising was the total vote count of write-in candidates for mayor — 116, which surpassed that of Dineen’s 105 votes, as Matthew Flaherty received 63 votes; Paul Miller received 51 votes; Amanda Wilsey received 1 vote; and David Grapka received 1 vote. 

 Flaherty, answering Enterprise questions in an email, said he and his fellow write-ins did not run an “active” campaign, stating they “were humbled by the informal word of mouth support that we received.”

As for what prompted the informal run, Flaherty said, “We were inspired to run because we both felt that the village residents deserved a choice, and with Dave [Grapka]’s background as an education administrator, and mine working in NYS government for 34+ years - thought we were well suited to lead the Village forward. In the end, we both wanted to give back to our community as we are both retired.”

Dineen in a statement, responding to Enterprise questions, said, “I appreciate the overwhelming support of our community, in being re-elected once again, as what I see as recognition of what I have been a part of over the past twenty years serving our village, as both a board member and Mayor. We have a village government team that I am proud to lead and I look forward to continuing the progress we have helped facilitate during my most recent term.”

Continuing, “As for the write in vote effort, it is anyone’s right to organize their own support. In my opinion, if there are others who are interested in helping lead this great village, I hope to see them at our monthly meetings, perhaps volunteer for our village committees/activities and/or make their intentions known in the future and run for office if they feel they have ideas for our community members to consider when casting their votes.”

 Miller did not return a request seeking comment.

For trustee, Serafino received 158 votes and Scally, 149, while David Grapka’s name was written on 55 ballots; another four write-in candidates received either one or two votes. 

Greene received 181 votes; there was one write-in vote, for Michael Murphy.

Village elections do not involve typical major parties. The successful candidates ran as a slate on the “Altamont First” party line.

Altamont has about 1,325 residents aged 18 or older but typically has low turnout for village elections.

The Enterprise, in response to a request for comment from the write-in candidates, received the following statement from Grapka:

“We write to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support and the incredible honor of being written in by so many of you. Your faith in our vision and leadership truly humbles us, and we are deeply grateful for the community's engagement and participation in our democratic process. Both of us strongly believe in democracy, democratic principles and the right to free speech.  We will continue to work to preserve those rights so that every resident has the opportunity to have their voice heard and their vote counted.

“We would also like to extend our sincere congratulations to the incumbents on their successful re-election. Their commitment to our village and the ‘Altamont First’ goals is commendable, and we look forward to working together to further enhance our vibrant community and ensure Altamont continues to be the best place to live and raise a family.

“We firmly believe that change is a positive force. As the saying goes, ‘You don’t have to be sick to get better.’ There is always room to grow and improve our community. Because our country is at an uncertain crossroads in our history, it is critically important for everyone to step up, get involved, ask questions of our elected officials, develop viewpoints, and stand up for those who may feel they have no voice.

“In our path forward, it is important to remember that because we all want what is best for Altamont, we:

— “Are committed, along with the incumbents, to foster progress, continuity, and respect for all residents of Altamont;

— “Will strive to make choices that reflect our shared ‘Altamont First’ values and aspirations for our village; and

— “Will continue to reach out to the community to make people feel that they're at the very heart of things, not at the periphery.

“Yes, some will  choose to stay on the periphery, but it’s everyone’s job, we believe, to participate in local government where we can have the most impact.  Those of you who came out to vote know this. Together, let's strive to make choices that reflect our love for our home and our neighbors.”

Asked if there were any specific issues the write-in candidates had with the way the village is being run, Flaherty referred The Enterprise to Grapka’s statement. 

As for specific changes they would’ve liked to have made, Flaherty said, “Both David and I would like to see more outreach and engagement from the mayor’s office. There’s a saying — Managers do things right, while Leaders do the right things. 

“At this moment in history — we need leadership! This experience led us to believe there is an interest in new leadership at the mayoral level — and encourage all residents to contribute and reach out individually and at public meetings with their ideas and concerns.”