Two candidates vie for District 21 seat on Orange County Legislature

Kathy Stegenga

Why are you running for County Legislator?

I am running because the average resident wants a representative who is going to listen to them, understand their concerns and advocates on their behalf. A representative who knows what’s going on in the community and has an open dialogue with them regarding those concerns. I have been, and will continue to be, that representative.

What are the top three things you aim to accomplish if elected?

1) Taxes- Orange County has reduced taxes every year, while continuing to improve services to the residents.

2) Emergency Services - I will ensure that the tools and programs needed to make sure every single resident, and first responder, has what is needed to protect and keep us safe.

3) Transportation & Development - Orange County is growing. We need to work to ensure growth is done responsibly, our roads are maintained and safe so that our County maintains the character and space that we’ve come to enjoy.

Why are you the best candidate for this position?

Born in Orange County, I have spent my life volunteering, being an advocate for friends, family and neighbors, and speaking up about local issues that affect us daily. I will continue to inform residents about what we’re facing at the county level, interact with/assist local governments, and address community concerns. I’m proactive, let’s look at not only what we’re facing today, but prepare and plan for the future. This is why I not only represent Orange County on a local level, but at the State and Federal levels through County Associations. Knowing what the Federal and State are proposing -funding, grants, unfunded mandates, resolutions and laws- prior to being implemented, allows me to be part of the conversation, share Our Counties concerns and needs, fight for or against, what will positively or negatively affect our residents. Orange County deserves an effective and involved representative. The majority of people cannot be as involved as they’d like. My number one goals: interact with my district residents, listen to them, and fight to make sure “their voice” is heard. It would be an honor and a privilege to continue to represent the residents of District 21 as their Legislator.

Dennis Leahy

Why are you running for County Legislator?

As the current Mayor of the Village of Maybrook and a proud elected official for the past 23 years, I’ve always believed in one simple principle: putting people over politics.

Throughout my time in public service, I’ve worked hard to ensure that government remains accessible, responsive, and focused on real results. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together in Maybrook—whether it’s strengthening infrastructure, supporting first responders, improving community services, or ensuring responsible fiscal management.

Now, I’m ready to bring that same energy, experience, and commitment to District 21 — representing Maybrook, Washingtonville, Hamptonburgh, and Blooming Grove — as your next Orange County Legislator.

What are the top three things you aim to accomplish if elected?

As an Orange County Legislator, I plan to have open communication with local governments, organizations and residents in District 21. Being an Orange County Legislator is similar to being Mayor, it’s about representing the people, advocating for their needs, and being a strong, consistent voice at the county level.

Why are you the best candidate for this position?

During my tenure as Mayor of the Village of Maybrook, we rebuilt the infrastructure of the Village of Maybrook from the ground up, laying the foundation for future development and smart growth. Now, I’m ready to bring that same experience and leadership to the county level. My commitment to fiscal responsibility, smart growth, job creation, health and safety improvements, and long-term infrastructure solutions will ensure a stronger and more prosperous future for our communities.

As an Orange County Legislator, I will work with my fellow representatives to ensure our communities continue to thrive — not through partisanship, but through partnership.

I’m not a career politician — I’m a committed community member who believes that now more than ever, we must put people over politics. Bottom line: People over politics!