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LEWISBORO, N.Y. John Pappalardo was appointed to the Lewisboro Town Board in 2011. He is part of the Team Lewisboro slate of candidates that includes incumbent Supervisor Charles Duffy and newcomer town board candidate Rhea Mallet. Pappalardo, a trial attorney specializing in mediation, will be seeking the Independence Party nomination in Tuesdays primary. He shared his thoughts on the upcoming election and other issues with The Daily Lewisboro.
What makes you the best candidate to represent the principals and spirit of the Independence Party?
I have always approached my commitment to the community as a longtime civic volunteer, whether as a youth sports coach, as a recent past president of the Lions Club, or in support of our schools on a purely nonpartisan basis. I believe this is the kind of approach independence that voters appreciate when it comes to local government.
What is the No. 1 challenge that the Town of Lewisboro is facing right now?
In the face of the current economic crisis, our biggest challenge going forward will be to ensure that Lewisboro remains an affordable place to live, while at the same time delivering the current high level of services, including parks and recreation, maintaining our infrastructure, and preserving the rural charm that makes our town so special.
What skill sets do you bring to the table that will help you face that challenge?
A large portion of my professional career includes my role as a mediator and an educator. I believe that those skills have been evident in my time on the town board in the way that I have supported Supervisor Duffy's goal of establishing a collegial atmosphere. We are respectful to each other and open in our deliberations only rarely are our decisions not done by consensus. I strongly believe in a vigorous, collaborative and intellectual debate in local town government.
Can Lewisboros fiscal problems be remedied without raising taxes?
Yes, I believe it is possible if we are disciplined and responsible. This is my first budget cycle on the board, and while I do believe we can continue to realize cost savings, I also understand that with the current weakness in the real estate market depressing town revenues and with built-in pension and health-care costs, which are largely dependent upon decisions made in Albany, a blanket no-tax-increase pledge would not be responsible at this point.
What is the town of Lewisboros biggest asset and why do think so?
We are a well-educated, hard-working and sophisticated populace with a deep commitment to families and community.
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