To the Editor:

The purpose of this letter is to urge your support for Nick Viscio for 31st District Albany County Legislator.

As general background, I have spent most of my career in public service, first  as a career professional and later serving as a senior-level manager. So it is with some degree of personal and professional experience that I urge your support for Nick Viscio for county legislature.

Every once in a while, someone special comes along who has truly exceptional abilities, not just because he or she has the expertise to tackle the job at hand, but who also displays exceptional qualities that go  far beyond the basics.          

Nick Viscio is one such person.

His experience as an educator, business entrepreneur, and successful local elected official give him the required credentials to represent the 31st District.  But more importantly, he relates to people of all political persuasions with a clear and open mind, without prejudice or rancor and with  a comprehensive and informed perspective of the issues at hand.

He approaches public issues on the merits, with the ability to work across the aisle in finding solutions to difficult and complex problems. He respects opposing points of view, yet still remains true to his core values.  These are rare and valuable leadership skills essential to effective governance. 

In summary, Nick Viscio understands that public trust must be continuously earned through honesty, transparency, and continuous dialogue with his constituency.  He knows that holding public office is not an entitlement, but is a privilege that must be earned each and every day.

Finally, I have known Nick Viscio for over 30 years and can say without hesitation that he embodies the best of what public servants should be.  Albany County needs Nick Viscio, and he deserves your support.

Stephen Harausz

Guilderland