To the Editor:

After 37 years in politics, I am no longer an elected public servant.  Many thanks to the voters in New Scotland and Bethlehem who have supported me over the years.

My feelings are mixed — disappointment at losing mixed with anticipation of more time for family and relaxation.

Looking back, we’ve accomplished a lot by working together: new water districts and extensions in New Scotland; renovation of the town hall and community center; numerous grants for both communities, including for a bus to transport senior citizens; grants for the library; and a feasibility study for a “quiet zone” at the railroad crossings in Voorheesville.  

I was proud to be part of the renovation of the historic county courthouse, preserving the public nursing home, protecting our public and private water supplies from drilling and blasting accidents, but, most of all, I am proud of the Albany County Rail Trail, which will serve us for generations to come.

Being a county legislator has been a humbling and eye-opening experience. Thirty-nine legislators, coming from various backgrounds, work together for the common good.

A balancing act exists between the legitimate needs of your local community and the needs of the 308,173 citizens of the entire county whom we represent.  Those who live in the Hilltowns, suburbs, villages, and cities are all our brothers and sisters.  Working with the minority communities and their chosen leaders has been especially rewarding.

I have had a chance to learn so very much.  We truly reflect the words of our Pledge of Allegiance “to the flag and to the republic for which it stands.”

Most legislators serve for all the right reasons.  No community or its legislator is an island unto itself and to think or act otherwise would be a disservice to the title Albany County Legislator.

Although I won’t be in public office, I am still very interested in the wellbeing of our communities.  If there are any questions or issues you want to discuss, feel free to call me.   Politics should be about citizenship, so don’t be reluctant to participate.

Thanks for the opportunity to serve you.

Peace.

Herbert W. Reilly Jr.

New Scotland

Editor’s note: Herbert W. Reilly Jr., a Democrat, has been an Albany County legislator, representing the 33rd District, which includes parts of New Scotland and Bethlehem, since 2000. He lost his bid for re-election this fall. Democratic primary victor William Reinhardt, a Bethlehem councilman, bested Reilly, who ran on the Independence Party line.