To the Editor:

I am writing this letter in support of Matthew Tedeschi for the Berne-Knox-Westerlo School Board. He is a lifelong resident, graduate, and taxpayer of the district, who has been involved with fundraising, round-table discussions, and the Budget Advisory Committee. Matt has developed a working relationship with our superintendent, Dr. Timothy Mundell, and the rest of the board. (He recently was elected to fill out a vacant seat on the board.)

Matt has a very comprehensive understanding of the district’s challenges in trying to balance the budget and maintaining a high level of education without large tax increases. He understands the complex nature of state aid (the 2-percent cap), contractual commitments to the employees and retirees (salaries and benefits), and offering opportunities to our students.

His professional expertise is in the insurance industry. He has over 20 years of extensive experience in benefit administration, i.e. health insurance, dental, workers’ compensation, and disability. He offers many great ideas to save the district money within the constraints of contractual obligations. He is a skilled negotiator, an attribute that would be very helpful in dealing with the upcoming issues of the district.

Matt is an energetic and enthusiastic individual who is very committed to the district. He recognizes the concerns of seniors on fixed incomes, but also realizes the changing nature of the district’s finances. He believes in moderation of tax levies, but is always looking to the future’s unknowns. Matt’s expertise and dedication make him an outstanding candidate and a great asset to continue serving on our school board.

Bob Conklin

East Berne

Editor’s note: Bob Conklin describes himself as “a concerned senior citizen.”