I would like to take this opportunity to thank Barry McGoey, my opponent for Greenburgh Town Supervisor, for providing voters with a meaningful choice in the recent primary. Our democracy depends not only on those who win elections but also on those like Barry who were willing to participate, present differing ideas, and offering voters meaningful choices.
Barry might not have won the election. But he gave voters an alternative and offered the electorate the opportunity to think about different ideas and visions for the future. He raised important issues like affordability, financial management controls, consolidation of services, drainage, and sewer issues, bringing additional attention to these important issues. I will reflect on his suggestions and know that I will be a better Supervisor because of the campaign.
His campaign encouraged civic engagement – motivated people on both sides to learn about their town government, to volunteer, and to vote. The turnout in this primary was higher than ever.
Barry devoted lots of time, effort, and personal sacrifice to his campaign and was dignified and classy when he lost the election, supporting the outcome.
I was a friend of Barry before the primary. And hope to be a friend in the future. I wish Barry great success in his future endeavors and welcome his input, involvement, and help in the future. Contested elections are important. Good people like Barry sometimes lose an election. They should be proud of their contributions to democracy.
PAUL FEINER
Greenburgh Town Supervisor
