It is very distressing that legislator Kathleen LaBuda cannot stick to the issues and instead attempts to defame my reputation and integrity.
Normally I do not respond to critics of this column, but to not respond would mean I have something to hide.
For Mrs. LaBuda to state that my credibility is “incredibly suspicious” is reprehensible and appalling. Anyone who knows me knows that my opinions, principals, and morals cannot be swayed by anyone, and especially not through financial gains.
I have always been one of the biggest advocates of casino gaming in Sullivan County. I feel it is desperately needed for our economic revitalization.
When an Indian Tribe proposed a casino project here and did not want to initially negotiate an impact agreement with Sullivan County, I was indeed one of the first to say nothing doing.
When Louis Cappelli wanted a portion of the room tax to subsidize his Concord project, I was also critical, because I felt it was the wrong thing to do.
When casino developers, some of whom I have known for over 25 years, approached me with doing some community relations for them, I made it very clear that my columns in no way shape or form will be guided by them hiring me. I accepted the position because I knew it was something I would love doing.
I also immediately contacted the publishers of the Sullivan County Democrat to inform them.
I have always made it very clear that my columns are issue orientated, express my viewpoints, and will never be used for my personal gains or benefit. If anything, they work against me.
In fact, I purposely have not written any recent columns in support of the casino issue, because I did not want to be accused of the very thing Mrs. LaBuda has accused me of.
The fact is I am very proud of what I have accomplished since representing the Seneca Nation of Indians and Rotate Black. Sullivan County now has an impact agreement superior to any other negotiated settlement.
Equally, the Seneca’s and Rotate Black have developed a strong partnership with Sullivan County. In just a short period of time they have become a major benefactor and sponsor of many worthwhile community organizations and events including the YMCA, Boys and Girls Club, the Sullivan County Renaissance, and even our Bicentennial celebration.
I fully support the Seneca Nation of Indians, Stockbridge Munsee Tribe, St Regis Mohawks, Cappelli Associates, and Empire Resorts in all their proposed projects for Sullivan County, because I honestly feel they are needed for the entire Hudson Valley Region.
When someone employs someone to do an honest job, they should not be tainted because they write a column one might disagree with.
Mrs. LaBuda should review all the columns I have written over the years, and count the many times I praised her for the work she has done as an elected official, and assess the many quotes she has given me on various issues whether I attended meetings or not.
Unbeknown to Mrs. LaBuda, David Sager was not happy with the column I wrote either. When I ran into him at the Bethel Bicentennial event the next day he told me he thought my criticizing his behavior was unjust.
So, I guess if both Mrs. LaBuda and Mr. Sager think I was critical of them, I must have done something right.
I am grateful to be afforded the opportunity to discuss the issues facing us on a weekly basis. And, it is truly gratifying that so many people appreciate this column. They continually insist that I keep doing what I am doing.
Hopefully I assist in creating honest dialogue throughout Sullivan County.
I only wish those who disagree with what I have to say would stick to the issues I am writing about. When they attempt to twist the truth and say I have a personal agenda built on self motivations it is not only pathetic but inexcusable as well.
As an elected official Mrs. LaBuda must work with everyone. People can agree to disagree on the issues, but she should never allow personalities or self motives guide her decision making. We have many serious problems in Sullivan County, and she must be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Let’s all work together for the betterment of Sullivan County.