Candidate Profiles — Washington 2011

Name: Gary Ciferri 
Age: 66
Town:  Village of Millbrook
Years lived in town: 66
Occupation/background: Sales, 35 years
Marital status, children: Single, two children, four grandchildren
Position running for, term length: Town supervisor, two-year term
Political party: Republican
Running on what lines: Republican, Washington First Party
Names of boards served in past and present: Village Board for 22 years; Millbrook Arts Group; Sharon Hospital board; VFW Post 9008; Dutchess 911 Oversight Board; Dutchess County Special Olympics; Dutchess Putnam Westchester Farm Bureau

In 100 words or less, explain what you think is the biggest issue facing your town and how you plan on addressing that once in office.

Beginning with fiscal year 2012, the state has adopted a 2 percent property tax cap for all municipalities, and that, coupled with unfunded state mandates and ever increasing nondiscretionary costs such as pension and health insurance, will present challenges in maintaining the level of services we’ve all become accustomed to.

I plan on being very vigilant when it comes to spending practices, while looking for ways to hold the line on taxes. Also, as supervisor, I will fight hard against unfair and unfunded mandates.

Have you served in this position before and for how long?  

No. I have served as mayor of Millbrook for 15 years and 7 years as deputy mayor.

What makes your town special in comparison to  the whole of Dutchess County?  

The people make it special. The people have made Millbrook what it is today. As supervisor, I will work to keep the town we love the way we love it by enforcing a strong zoning ordinance. Careful management has allowed the town to keep the high quality and level of services our residents deserve.  

What makes you most qualified for the job?  

My 15 years as mayor and my commitment and community involvement. I have the ability to work with everyone, regardless of their political affiliation.

 

Name: Stanley C. Morse
Age: 70
Town: Washington
Years lived in town: 27
Occupation/background: Retired IBMer,  retired U.S. Navy officer and co-owner of Marstan Travel of Millbrook, LTD
Marital status, children:  Wife, Mary, spouse of 46 years,  no children
Position running for, term length: Town supervisor, two-year term
Political party: Republican
Running on what lines: Democratic,  Citizens for Public Responsibility (CPR)
Names of boards served in past and present: Trustee and deputy mayor, Village of Millbrook; Millbrook Business Association (former director);  Millbrook Arts Group (past president);  Rotary Club & Paul Harris Fellow;  town and village Historical Society (past president); VFW Post 9008; American Society of Travel Agents (former chapter president); chair, village Water Committee; joint town/village Emergency Preparedness Committee;  joint town/village Shared Services Committee

In 100 words or less, explain what you think is the biggest issue facing your town and how you plan on addressing that once in office.

The three central topics of concern for Town of Washington residents are protecting and preserving our rural nature, keeping taxes as low as possible and reviving our downtown business district. A fourth issue involves the political system itself.  Many voters feel they have been disenfranchised from the process due to the one party rule that’s been practiced in our township for decades. They want to be included, and feel part of, our local political system.

Have you served in this position before and for how long?  

No.

What makes your town special in comparison to  the whole of Dutchess County?  

It’s scenic, rural nature with 30 miles of dirt roads,  combined with our beautiful downtown village. A great place to live.

What makes you most qualified for the job?  

Extensive leadership and business experience with a Fortune 500 Company; 30 years in the U.S. Navy with command and combat experience; and 27 years ownership of  a  downtown  business.
 

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