To the Editor:

With big changes in store for Ogdensburg in the coming years, it is important to have passionate, experienced, and thoughtful leadership to guide the city into the future.

That’s why I’m asking you to vote for Vernon “Sam” Burns for Mayor of Ogdensburg on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Sam has spent decades working to enhance the quality of life in the city. Most recently, Sam served two terms representing Ogdensburg on the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators where he was Chair of the Economic Enhancement Committee.

Sam has a proven track record of working across party lines and dealing with multiple levels of government. That experience will be invaluable as Ogdensburg moves forward with plans to redevelop land around the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center, to bring new businesses into the community, and to breathe life into existing businesses by attracting tourists to the area.

As your representative in the New York State Assembly, I know the North Country offers an unparalleled quality of life that we can use to bring in new residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs.

Sam shares my passion for exploring new ways to demonstrate the inherent value of the region, which is why I am fully supporting his candidacy for Mayor.

Please vote for Vernon “Sam” Burns for Mayor on Nov. 3.

Addie J. Russell

Assemblywoman D-Theresa