Sean O’Sullivan for Town Board
I am seeking your support to become a member of the New Paltz town board.
My passion for rock climbing led me to New Paltz thirty years ago, and I have called this town my home ever since. I have spent the past twenty years owning a home in the village, raising my two children in our school district, and actively participating in the community through teaching, Scouting, and being head coach of the New Paltz Wrestling Club.
With over a decade of experience on the Village Zoning Board of Appeals, including my recent appointment as chair, I bring unique insights and ideas to the table. I am committed to listening to diverse perspectives and facilitating constructive discussions. After 31 years in the classroom, teaching STEM, technology, and shop classes I have officially retired and am now transitioning to politics.
Having been a union member for 30 years, I understand the importance of fostering positive relationships within a community. I believe that the way the town board interacts with each other, treats staff, and engages with the public sets the tone for the entire community. In my role as chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals, I have consistently supported our building department and understand the value of supporting staff to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
Over the last ten years being involved in local politics through the ZBA I’ve noticed a pattern of people being frustrated with the local government and attending the wrong meeting. The ZBA and planning board have to obey federal, state and village laws. Many people get involved in an issue when a building project is going up in their neighborhood and want it stopped because they are afraid of change. This reaction to change is misplaced.
The meeting they should in fact be going to is the town or village board. If a business is inappropriate next to your house then it is probably inappropriate in many other locations.
My goal is to use the experience that I have gotten from working on the ZBA and use it to improve the building code so that the town grows in a smart way.
New Paltz is a great place to live. Unfortunately, it is becoming harder for families to live here. You can look at school data and see that families are leaving New Paltz. In order for my children to be able to afford to live here, future legislation must look ahead to encourage home ownership.
With my Village Zoning Board of Appeals experience I bring unique insights and ideas to the table. I am committed to listening to diverse perspectives and facilitating constructive discussions. My experience in local politics and community development, particularly in zoning and infrastructure projects, equips me with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions that benefit our town. If elected to the town board, I would serve as a valuable liaison between the village and town, addressing issues such as student housing, high-density housing, two-family homes, and business development. My background in construction provides me with the skills necessary to assess building projects and establish maintenance schedules effectively.
Looking forward to your support in November. Let's make New Paltz even better.