Two candidates vie for District 10 seat on Orange County Legislature

Maria May

Why are you running for Orange County Legislator?

The reasons for pursuing a role as county legislator include the need for increased transparency through open communication and accessible meetings, support local businesses over large corporations, securing funding with partners and ensuring effective infrastructure planning for community growth.

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

One of my primary goals will be to strengthen economic development within our towns. I am committed to making economic development funds available to local communities, ensuring that our businesses have access to essential resources. This includes offering support for innovation, providing training opportunities and facilitating access to grant programs. By doing so, we can foster a thriving local economy that encourages growth, new ideas and long-term sustainability.

Another important goal is to advocate for expanded transportation options tailored to the needs of seniors and disabled residents. I will work to ensure that transportation services are both accessible and affordable. By improving transportation solutions, we can enhance the quality of life for our aging and disabled community members, supporting their independence and active participation in community life.

Finally, I am committed to maintaining our communities’ infrastructure fairly and efficiently, advocating timely repairs and equitable cost distribution. Monroe taxpayers should not bear all Sewer District 1 capacity expenses while major beneficiaries like Woodbury Commons do not contribute proportionately. My goal is to provide a balanced approach to infrastructure funding that matches benefits with responsibility.

Why are you the best candidate for this position?

I am a strong candidate for county legislator with practical leadership experience and knowledge of local government. My work as a town leader includes budgeting with low taxes and managing municipal processes. Serving on Tuxedo’s Town Board and Zoning Board of Appeals has equipped me to handle complex zoning challenges in our communities.

As a municipal official and a public school teacher, I have developed a strong commitment to working collaboratively across party lines. My approach is to place the needs of constituents first. I believe that by fostering open communication and cooperation, we can achieve better outcomes for our communities.

I am ready to listen, learn and lead, working diligently to represent Monroe and Tuxedo residents at the county level.

Peter Tuohy

Why are you running for Orange County Legislator?

The purpose of my campaign is to continue to work for all of the residents of Monroe, Tuxedo and Orange County, bring tangible results for all.

• Continue to lower the county’s tax rate, to the lowest it has been in more than 50 years, all while attaining a most favorable bond rating of AA+, given the county’s strong and stable financial position.

• A smaller and more efficient government, while still performing at the highest level.

• Secured funding for enhanced school safety security, to keep all our children safe, including state-of-the art school bus arm cameras.

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

I will continue to back our law enforcement 100 percent.

• To provide the equipment, latest technology and personnel, to get the job done professionally, safely and responsibly.

• Invest in land preservation and open space initiatives, keeping Orange County’s scenic beauty in place for generations and generations to come.

• Further expand the OC Water Authority’s Leak Detection program, which in the last two years alone has saved 345,000 gallons of water leakage, at a taxpayer savings of more than $3.3 million.

Why are you the best candidate for this position?

I feel that I am the best candidate because of my qualifications in actually getting things accomplished for my constituents.

I currently am assigned to the following committees and boards:

• Physical Services Statuary Committee

• Health and Mental Health Statutory Committee

• Orange County Water Authority Board of Directors

• Community Development Block Grant Advisory Board

• Orange County Sewer District #1, chairman