To the Editor:

I am writing to express my opinion with regards to our Massena Mayor, Mr. Hidy.

This is my opinion, based through my direct experiences with him, and is not intended to disrespect others who may have a different opinion. I was guilty of voicing my complaints on Facebook and among friends and family until I decided to attend some village meetings, bringing my concerns to those who have the power to make changes.

I have the upmost respect for our village board members and Mr. Hidy as they listened, responded and took action. There is no question that our town has “fallen” with poor economy and loss of industries playing a major role. Mr. Hidy once lived in this quaint, thriving, tourist town but moved away.

Upon returning, he saw drastic changes and put his heart and soul into trying to restore the place he calls home. Massena was like a big pot, sitting idle for quite some time. Mr. Hidy became mayor and stirred that pot, making persons accountable, enforcing codes and following regulations.

To some, stirring the pot caused conflict and persons began taking comments and actions personally, when in fact I believe we all know who and what they were intended for. After all, don’t we all say many of the same things…example…comments with regards to those who do not pull their own weight?

Mr. Hidy is outspoken and aggressive, both traits which I respect him for. He tells it like it is! Our community consists of wealthy, middle class and poor. However, codes, rules and such must be the same for all! Availability is also one of his strong points as I have contacted him many times and he was almost always in his office.

This is not about being Republican, Democratic, or part of ‘the ole boys’. Don’t we all want the same things, a safe, attractive, thriving town we are proud to call home? Mudslinging between parties merely divides a community, which will only leave us with an idle pot once again. We must all work together as one community.

I say to everyone, believe half of what you read, attend meetings so you can get answers and become informed, and give this man a chance to finish what he has started.

I truly believe his heart and soul are dedicated to making Massena a better place.

Connie Castleman

Massena