To the Editor:

My name is Merritt Young and I am campaigning for a seat on the Hammond Town Board in the election on November 8th.

My wife Patricia and I have lived in this town for more than half our lives, raised two daughters who both graduated from Hammond Central School, and we still can't think of a place we would rather live.

Hammond has an abundance of scenic beauty from the St Lawrence River to Black Lake.

It's quiet, safe and filled with wonderful people and good neighbors.

That is why I want to serve on the Town Board… to do all I can to make sure it remains this way.

I think we can assure that this is possible by concentrating on a comprehensive plan to guide development in the future, keeping our efforts focused on promoting assets we have an abundance of already.

We need to improve the climate for economic development by way of tourism, retirees, and small businesses.

Some people think this area is lacking in commerce, but there are over 100 small businesses in this area and they are excited about a possible chamber of commerce that is already in the planning stage.

If I am elected to the Town Board I would assist Supervisor Ron Bertram to further the agenda he already has underway, such as open government, a new town website, passing the revised Wind Law, the revised ethics code for municipal employees, the quarterly newsletter to keep residents abreast of town business, the building of a salt barn for the Highway Department, and keeping taxes as stable as possible.

As I see it, these projects are long overdue and will improve life in Hammond immensely.

I think this town is ready for someone with a positive attitude to step up and work with the Town Board on issues for the future instead of just dwelling in the past, thus making Hammond a place where you are proud to be an involved citizen.

A vote on November 8th for the “Good Government” candidates: Young, Demick, and Bertram will be a great beginning.

Remember without involved people we have no one to work for. So please vote Line H (Good Government) on your ballot.

Merritt Young

Hammond