To the Editor:

For me, it's personal.

I've been lucky enough to spend my entire life in East Berne. Each day, I'm surrounded by the good people of the Hilltowns.

When politics negatively affect my neighbors, I take it personally. Therefore, this November, I’d like the opportunity to become the homegrown voice of the Helderbergs as the Albany County legislator for the 39th District.

Conversation by conversation, I've inadvertently spent my lifetime developing my political platform. Aside from my time in the Army, I've never left Warners Lake, nor will I.

You really find out what drives, motivates, and concerns people when you live and work alongside them. I know my neighbors personally, what their needs are, what their hopes are, and the reality of their lives as I see and interact with them day-by-day.

My wife, Amanda, and I own and operate Maple on the Lake, formerly the Hofbrau. My children attend my alma mater, Berne-Knox-Westerlo. The school has evolved since I graduated in 1999, but I can attest they're getting that same quality education infused with small-town values just as I did.

We are committed to revitalizing the local economy with small businesses such as ours. I believe slow but constant growth is key. The Hilltowns doesn't need a Wal-Mart, but it’s nice to have a few places to grab dinner, pick up groceries, or even get a haircut.  I think that folks would like some employment opportunities that aren’t a half-hour away.

It’s also incredibly important that Hilltown residents have a voice in the county legislature. All too often, the concerns of the Hilltowns get drowned out by the concerns of the city of Albany and other highly populated parts of the county.

One last point, which I know is important to many people in our area: The New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Act. I would like everyone to know that I am 100 percent opposed to this terrible anti-gun law and would like to see it fully repealed.

While this is a state issue, Albany County should have joined nearly every other upstate county in New York and passed a resolution telling the State Legislature that Albany County is opposed to this law.

My family and friends are firmly rooted in the Hilltowns. I’m passionate about the future of our community and have a lot at stake.

So what makes me different from the incumbent? The incumbent simply hasn't done enough. It's time for a lot more talk and a lot more action. I am here, I work here, and would be privileged to serve you as your legislator.

Chris Smith

Warners Lake