To the Editor:

Renee Cole, current St. Lawrence County deputy treasurer, is the Democratic candidate running for the office of St. Lawrence County treasurer and I fully support her in her campaign.

I feel the elected candidate for this position needs to be honest, hardworking and experienced; Renee is all of these things.

Recently, there has been some insinuation from her opponent in this election, that Renee is not competent to hold the office of treasurer. Very untrue.

We must all remember that Renee was in the position of county deputy treasurer when Kevin Felt left the treasurer position in January (2016). Since that time she has willingly taken on the duties of both positions and has worked diligently to keep the operations of that department on track. This is invaluable experience. Anyone who has had to begin a job cold – with no knowledge of the climate in that workplace - knows there is much to learn.

Renee, however, is already acquainted with the inner workings of the department and is well respected by those she works with.

Additionally, her background of 14 plus years of service in other finance related positions in the county make her a very qualified candidate.

I have known Renee all of my life. I have seen her endure some painful personal experiences and survive them. I have watched her push forward through those times with a strong drive to build a life based on compassion, integrity and a drive to always do her very best.

I have only known her to treat people with respect and to approach situations with a calm, thoughtful demeanor. She applies these traits to all areas of life, whether it be in her career or with her family and friends. I admire her work ethic and all that she has achieved and am very proud to be her sister.

I would be even prouder to see my sister become the first female St. Lawrence County treasurer this November.

Amanda St. Marie

Gouverneur