Correction: An earlier version of this story refered to Hammond as the former mayor of Rensselaer Falls. In fact he still holds that position. NorthCountryNow.com regrets this error.

North Country This Week

RENSSELAER FALLS – St. Lawrence County District 3 candidate and mayor of Rensselaer Falls Michael Hammond says he will work across party lines to provide St. Lawrence County residents better access to jobs, healthcare and rejuvenate the river communities.

Hammond secured the Conservative and Democratic party endorsements and faces off against Republican Joseph Lightfoot, R-Oswegatchie, a multi-term incumbent and former state police investigator.

“Teamwork and communication are key to helping solve the problems we face in today's fast paced technological world, regardless of party affiliation. Given my educational background and on the ground experience as Mayor of Rensselaer Falls, I think I offer the district a fresh perspective and voice on the issues that directly impact the citizens of St. Lawrence County. These issues include, but are not limited to, rejuvenating our river communities and ports, providing the aid necessary to keep families healthy, battling rising healthcare costs and supporting job creation throughout the county,” he said.

Hammond says the biggest issue facing St. Lawrence County is the lack of accessibility.

“Accessibility in a broad sense: great jobs, great healthcare options, 21st century technology opportunities, renewables energies, and shared services to name a few,” he said.

“Our great State and County are the front door to the greatest Country in the world. St. Lawrence County is strategically positioned between the St. Lawrence River and the Foothills of the Adirondacks.

Hammond says St. Lawrence County needs to “cut through red tape” and be more welcoming to potential businesses to improve the economy.

“All of this can be achieved by promoting advancements in technology and entrepreneurship. This growth mindset attempts to draw a more diverse and experienced labor force that will benefit the County and State for years to come,” he said. “We can make St. Lawrence County relevant again by continuing the conservative logical practices we have seen in the last couple of years. With the election of our current County Treasurer and the hiring of the current County Administrator, we have seen a team come together that is making a positive impact on the County.”

 Hammond says that if he is elected he will consult with experts including department heads, committee chairs, local leaders and neighboring counties to help make sound decisions about how to invest or cut taxes.

“Departments and services provided by the county such as Highway Departments, Fire/Police Departments, Public Health, Social Services, Hospitals, and Schools continue to be riddled with cumbersome regulations that need to be addressed and then properly managed,” he said. “The counties legislative board can make better decisions by breaking down the ways departments and services are operating and being provided.”

Hammond says investments in “IT departments, cyber security and coding should be a big focus of investment in our counties future.”

 Hammond says he brings a conservative and millennial perspective to the table that separates him form his opponent.

“I’m neither a Republican or a Democrat. I’m a Conservative that has strong family values and principles. I will work with anyone that has the County's best interest at heart. As I campaign for the District 3 County Legislator seat, I find that am truly humbled by the experience,” he said.

“I am not a political party guy,” he said.

Hammond is a sixth generation New Yorker and has lived and worked in St. Lawrence County for the past 31 years.

“Currently, I am employed with the Ogdensburg City School District as a 6th Grade Math/Science Teacher. I am married to a Kindergarten Teacher, Kira Hammond.  We have two children, Lincoln and Alison. For the past three years I have held the office of Village Mayor in Rensselaer Falls. Before that I was a Village Trustee and Planning Board Member. My roles in Village government have led to progress that is evident if you drive through Rensselaer Falls or speak to residents of the community,” he said.

If elected Hammond says he will work for his district on issues that “go unanswered” like workmen’s compensation contribution, unfunded mandates and a lack of shared services.

 “I was convinced this election cycle was the right time to throw my hat into the ring and be a voice of progress for St. Lawrence County residents,” he said. “A voice that plans to find solutions across the aisle on issues that go unanswered in County government like workmen's compensation contributions, unfunded mandates and lack of shared services to name a few. I will work each and every day to do what is right for all citizens of St. Lawrence County. My commitment and dedication is only reinforced by witnessing other young leaders lead and looking to the old guard for guidance, knowledge and wisdom. Ideally, with my ability to motivate and listen, my presence on the Board of Legislators will benefit the residents of St. Lawrence County. “