To the Editor:

The recent Altamont Board of Trustees election with a large turnout (391) was the most competitive in years, with an incumbent retaining her seat by only 8 votes.

Congratulations are in order to the winners: incumbent trustees Nicholas Fahrenkopf and Michelle Ganance.

Notwithstanding, challengers Simon Litten and James Sullivan deserve high commendation in sending an unequivocal message to the board: You must no longer fail to account for the views of one-half of the community.

Turnout at the December board meeting and the election results are clear evidence that key development issues matter to a very large number of village residents.

I am hopeful the board will duly note, and:

— Inform and seek resident views in a more timely and transparent manner (e.g. such as the mayor’s comments at monthly board meetings);

— Prior to action on major development issues, search for a measure of consensus; and

— Provide adequate opportunity for public involvement in any modification or update to the comprehensive plan.

If so, the Altamont community will be the real winner of the recent competitive election!

John E. Smith

Altamont