BY PAUL MITCHELLNorth Country This Week

CANTON – Not too many 18 year olds take an interest in local government. For Canton’s Jonathan Pinckney, he was ready and willing to serve fresh from high school.

Pinckney joined the Town of Canton Zoning Board of Appeals and the Canton Fire Department when he was 18 years old. His involvement in village affairs led to his appointment to the Canton Village Board in January. On Nov. 20, Pinckney’s tenure as a village trustee came to an end as he decided not to seek election. Kara McLuckie was elected to the vacant seat.

He is currently employed as regional sales manager for Arctic Snow and Ice Control.

“By serving, it’s a sense of pride and making a difference in my community,” stated Pinckney, now 29. “From a professional standpoint, I learned better meeting management skills, public speaking, public engagement and more self confidence.”

In a letter to North Country This Week, Pinckney encouraged younger community members to get involved in local politics and serve on local volunteer boards.

“Civic service is an important part of the community. Whether it be volunteering for the fire department or serving on one of the volunteer boards, such as the Zoning Board of Appeals or Housing Authority. I know there is a lot of great talent and knowledge in our community. The first step is simply reaching out to your local public officials to see how you can get involved,” he wrote.

Pinckney’s taste of local politics has opened his eyes to the challenges facing local leaders.

“It taught me more about what it takes to run a community and build community connections. And it’s given me great respect for those who run a municipality,” he said.

Pinckney has served under both Mayor Michael Dalton and Town Supervisor Mary Ann Ashley who both acknowledged his service to the Canton community and his push for involvement.

“I appreciate his perspective. We do need our younger community members to get involved and some positive ways to do so is by participating as a member on one of several important Village Boards,” stated Dalton, noting there are current openings on the Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Board and Housing Authority. “These boards are great ways for community members to get involved and learn more about what goes on. The commitment is not excessive, but participation is vital to the success of the Canton community.”

“Jon brought a different perspective to the Village Board because he represented a younger generation. The future will be theirs and they should get involved so their voice is heard,” Dalton added.

Ashley echoed the mayor’s comments.

"Jon Pinckney is to be commended for his public service to the Town and Village of Canton.  It is very important for people to understand that we need more constituent involvement in local government. Whether it is volunteering to serve on citizen committees or running for local municipal offices, it is critical to get involved,” Ashley remarked.

“We need more people, like Jon Pinckney, to step up to give back to their community. It is rewarding and we make a difference in the lives of others,” she stated.