To the Editor:

While talking to a friend recently, he lamented that the Altamont Enterprise’s Letters to the Editor have become akin to what one might read on a bathroom wall. I couldn't agree more and I see the "divide and conquer" mentality in Knox as counterproductive to building a solid community and doing what's best for it.

First off, I'd like to take full ownership of my incorrect statement on the purchase of the equipment from the Federal Emergency Management Agency funds. My error was that I misquoted the purchase as coming from federal monies. Mea culpa.

However, what was factual and what was my intent was to correct the misconception that our current supervisor was responsible for getting the FEMA funds. The funds were credited to Mr. [Vasilios] Lefkaditis and there was no correction made to the contrary by either the original writer and Mr. Lefkaditis neglected to make the correction himself.

Mr. [Michael] Hammond and his then-board were the ones responsible — this was well prior to Mr. Lefkaditis taking office. And very true, both highway Superintendent [Gary] Salisbury and town attorney [John] Dorfman were instrumental in making this a reality. My hat's off to all of them for their hard work and dedication.

Also, like I'd previously noted, times are changing as is technology. My hope is that the current town board will take another serious look at the available New York State Energy Research and Development Authority grant and take steps that will benefit the town from this funding. Ms. [Amy] Pokorny and others have put so much time and effort into this initiative that, again, it would be a shame to have it all done for naught.

It would be nice to have our town remembered in the history books as one that was a leader in the Hilltowns in the technology field rather than one that's on the wrong side of history and kept its head buried in the sand.

I have every faith that our elected officials will do the right thing and steer Knox in a positive direction. Sometimes that involves taking what might be an unpopular stance but that's part of strong leadership. Saying that, if the townspeople "want a nuclear power plant," you'll make it happen isn't strong leadership.

Likewise, trying to coerce other elected officials into disregarding carefully and thoughtfully considered planning board recommendations isn't either. It's also my opinion that having others sign their names to one's letters to further a personal agenda shows the true direction of one's moral compass. But that's just my opinion.

In closing, I'd like to again give kudos to Gary Salisbury. He and his team of highway workers did a truly great job during this last snowstorm. I know what it's like to be away from family due to being called in and kept over on emergencies.

I'd like to let Gary and his crew know that their dedication and hard work doesn't go unnoticed and it's very much appreciated by all of us in Knox. Keep up the good work — you guys are a credit to the town.

Eric Kuck

Knox

Editor’s note: Eric Kuck was appointed to the Knox Town Board in December 2015 but did not run last November to keep his seat.