To the Editor:

I was delighted to hear that Bill Mein has decided to run for the town council of Pierrepont. He is an extremely talented individual who has much to offer our town.

Our acquaintance began almost 30 years ago when he joined Clarkson’s computers information systems program. His ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and understandable manner led to recognition as an outstanding teacher. His fairness, empathy and encouragement earned him awards as an outstanding student advisor. His popularity with staff and faculty made him a natural candidate for the associate dean position in the school of business. He did an outstanding job in building bridges within the school and to programs in and outside the university.

He was responsible for agreements between community colleges across New York and the university to facilitate the transfer of students to the school of business.

He successfully balanced the needs of multiple parties and brought them together to make decisions that benefited the students and the schools.

His administrative skills led to a promotion to university level administration where he successfully coordinated planning and transfer agreement negotiations across the broad range of university programs.

His reputation for conscientiousness and fairness have been recognized at the national level by the figure skating community as he has been invited to serve as a judge at a variety of national competitions.

Bill and his wife Dorothy have deep North Country roots and have worked with many of our region’s organizations and institutions. He was educated in the North Country and has worked at three of the area’s colleges and universities. He has also been active in service as a member of Rotary and as a Canton Potsdam Hospital Corporate Board member demonstrating his interest in enriching our community.

Bill will bring enthusiasm and a positive attitude to addressing our town’s problems, balanced by sensitivity to the concerns of our diverse community. He has experience as an administrator who has dealt with budgets, new technologies, and thoughtful planning. Further, he has brought people together to make decisions and take action to serve their common interests.

I believe we are fortunate that Bill Mein is willing to apply his knowledge and skills to serve the town of Pierrepont and I look forward to voting for him on Nov. 8. I encourage my neighbors to do likewise.

Gene Kaczka

Hannawa Falls