To the Editor:

Having received the endorsement of the Republican, Conservative and Independence parties, I am a candidate for Knox town councilman. Being a lifelong resident with a history with the town, I will bring a fresh perspective to the town board.

Having a background in agriculture, I daily face environmental concerns and use conservation practices. I can identify, develop strategies, and implement practices to protect our rural character.

My involvement in local and county emergency services gives me insight to challenges our volunteer organizations and personnel face.

Being self-employed, I work with obstacles small-business owners contend with and I know how taxes impact property ownership.

A vested interest in our future comes from a unique connection to the past.

My running mates, Karl, Vas, Traci, Tim, Gary, and myself share common beliefs:

— Town employees need a clean and safe work environment as well as competitive wages and benefits;

— Protecting our environment while promoting the rural character of the town;

— An open process for selection of candidates and board appointees;

— Our veterans and service personnel deserve our respect, tax relief, and support services. Our youth are our future;

— We support our park and youth-council initiatives and look to incorporate educational opportunities with the Nature Center and Thacher Park;

— Our elderly are our soul. They have worked, raised families, served on local government, paid taxes and managed to thrive. We support senior services, Hilltown Seniors, NEAT dinners, and tax relief for people living on fixed incomes.

Please vote for this group. We see potential in our future. Help bring Knox back

Ken Saddlemire

Knox