by Rachel Hunter
The St. Lawrence County Legislator District 5 race includes Harry A. Smithers (R-Gouverneur), Amber Ormasen (D-Gouverneur, and write-in candidate Michael McQuade (R-Gouverneur).
Harry A. Smithers II
Harry A. Smithers II of Gouverneur was appointed as District 5 Legislator by the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators at its July 6 full board meeting and is running to be elected to District 5 seat. Harry A. Smithers II is the co-owner and operator of Smithers Tire Service, owning the local small business since 1977. Before that, he was a seventh grade teacher at Ogdensburg Free Academy, but decided to join the family business – and is now the co-owner of that business.
Smithers was educated right here in the North Country at local schools. He got a BA degree from SUNY Potsdam, and majored in Chemistry and Biology and graduated in 1973. Since then, he’s done 30 hours of post-graduate study at SUNY Potsdam, St. Lawrence, and the College of Saint Rose.
Smithers is committed to community service. He’s been a member of the Fowler Baptist Church since 1981 in an active role. He’s taught Sunday School for 10 years for children, and 20 years for adults. He’s served as a deacon and a trustee for multiple terms. And served from 1993 to 2005 on the Gouverneur Central School District Board of Education. He’s been involved in things like community softball league from 1968 to 1995, performed in church plays, and in community and interfaith choruses, among other community service project.
Harry A. Smithers II has been married for 42 years to Julie Smithers, and together they have four grown children. He enjoys gardening and hunting. Legislator Smithers said he has been a registered Republican for the past 40 years.
When asked questions by the Gouverneur Tribune Press, Legislator Smithers said the following: “A county legislator would function best as part of a team seeking to promote the county as well as their home district working together to provide stability financially, business opportunities, individual freedoms as well as protections from various threats and seeking to maintain access to the abundance of resources within the county. I look forward to meeting new people and developing new relationships while avoiding the bitterness seen frequently in political affairs.
“I plan to learn more about the aspects of sales tax as this is a priority of local officials and I believe that there is a relationship with the property taxes levied by the county which must be realized. The property tax must be kept in mind in discussions about sales tax as homeowners, farmers and businesses are concerned about the property tax as well as people who may desire to move into the district.
“Thoughts about county politics have been in mind after serving on the local school board for twelve years which were interesting and rewarding at many times. I would like to contact the Amish community to learn more about the possibilities of improving and increasing relationships with others in the district. Only recently have I learned about the rationale of implementation and distribution of the sales tax. The county seems to be fair and generous in the distribution, especially when compared with other counties throughout NYS.
“Our neighboring counties of Lewis and Franklin for example retained 100% of the tax while Jefferson distributed 26% to the towns and villages according to the NYS comptrollers report of 2015 . Negotiations are currently in progress regarding a new agreement in which I believe the distribution will continue to be fair and generous as in the past resulting in a similar percentage going to the towns and possibly even a little more being given as the fund balance has shown an improvement from past years.
“I am currently a member of the fair board, attended the recent meeting in September in which the pumpkin festival and winter storage plans were discussed and plan to attend more future meetings to become increasingly connected.
“I am and will be an advocate for Gouverneur and DePeyster. Our communities have lost many businesses since our family moved here in 1962 despite the resources which we have. I would enjoy exploring new possibilities for our communities. I am heartened by the legislation being currently proposed in Albany to change the state senate to having one for each county in the state and plan to introduce a resolution in our county to show support of this legislation which would give upstate residents more equitable representation in our state government.
“Also we have been in discussion regarding the treatment of opiate addiction and efforts to mitigate the pandemic coronavirus. I believe in the importance of protecting our environment while providing opportunities for businesses to flourish. There must be a balance between the two which must be maintained. A working relationship has already been established between the other legislators and myself in my opinion in the short time which I have been serving as legislator, a relationship which I see as only continuing to develop and deepen.
“The job as county legislator does require a considerable amount of time which is able to be invested as our children have grown and moved away while work hours at business have been reduced somewhat in the last four years. Maintaining and developing a relationship with local municipalities and boards is an essential element of the job of the county legislator, keeping each other advised and aware of priorities on a regular basis. In addition it is my belief that persons would benefit from contributing to the improvement and maintenance of their community in whatever way is possible for them.”
Amber Ormasen
Amber Ormasen (D-Gouverneur) earned a bachelor's degree from SUNY Potsdam and her Masters from St. Lawrence University, where she completed graduate work in educational leadership. Born and raised in Gouverneur, her diverse involvements in this community make her uniquely qualified to represent the people of District 5.
As an educator of 15 years, Amber has served on the Shared Decision Making Team, been a mentor in the New Teacher Academy, taken on many student teachers, and served on many other committees in the Gouverneur School District. She teaches outside regular school hours as well, providing extracurricular attention to her students through the grant funded program Extended Day at the Gouverneur Middle School. Currently, Ormasen is serving on the school district's Reintegration Committee, which includes sub committees focusing on Mental Health and Wellness and Health and Safety.
She also has experience with grant writing, as she has led a six year ministry at the First United Methodist Church of Gouverneur known as "Rip-It." She built this motivational fitness fellowship from the ground up, and while the classes are free, Rip-It's donation coffers are always full and giving back to local families and programs. At the 1st UMC, Amber served on the Finance Committee, Ministry and Worship Committees, and held two terms as Chair of the Staff Pastor Parish Relations Committee. She has likewise given her time to Vacation Bible School, Sunday School, Bible studies and youth groups, the United Methodist Women, while also leading the UMC youth dance ministry.
A common thread among her commitments is her work with and advocacy for the children of this community and their families.
Ormasen is a small business owner and member of the Gouverneur and Canton Chambers of Commerce, as she and her family have been operating their Cotton Candy 'N More concession trailer for 21 years. As such, she is informed of local business interests and shares in working class values. Amber is also a Building Representative on the Executive Board for the Gouverneur Teachers Union, thus supporting union labor.
Ormasen said the following: “Issues involving economic development, addressing an eroding infrastructure, keeping taxes down, and maintaining a standard of living are all important to me. These topics will continue to unfold and will need much attention. I also recognize that we are facing unique times with new challenges arising daily. Part of my platform will be addressing these new challenges and how they impact the daily lives of communities; such things like childcare, school closures, job losses, social services and healthcare.”
Ormasen said she sees the District 5 Legislator as a being a citizen representative, knowing that her community cannot afford tax increases, needs fair representation, and a voice at the table. “Being fiscally responsible is central to my candidacy, as I will be developing policies that affect the lives of over 100,000 residents, 8,000 of which in my own district. I recognize my district’s future holds promise and challenges alike. My decision-making is independent of party lines. I will not rubber-stamp proposals that don’t make sense for my constituents. My past involvements speak to my deep investment in improving and empowering our community. I vow to be involved beyond traditional meetings. My participation will far exceed the typical duties assigned to a legislator. I do not just say community; I live it.”
When asked what topics she plans to be most vocal on, if elected, Ormasen said the following: “It is impossible to be an expert on every issue. Most dialogue I’ve encountered within my community refers to the constant threat of COVID school closures. These closures carry severe social and economic costs for constituents. My district has the highest poverty rate within the county. When combined with disparity in childcare solutions, it is nearly impossible for working parents to tend to their child’s needs. Parents are forced to finagle alternative options: relying on siblings, elderly grandparents, or simply leaving children alone– no ideal situations.
“As an educator, I’ve witnessed these impacts. Since the spring, foster care has doubled, substance abuse has skyrocketed, parents are losing wages from missing work, and communities are unprepared for distanced/home schooling. These obstacles are more than inconveniences and disruptions. The Governor’s new 48-hour mandate is cumbersome for schools struggling to remain open. Not only is it costly and completely unrealistic, but places additional strain on our healthcare system
“As an immunosuppressed person suffering from pre-existing conditions, please know that I value safety precautions and understand the severity of this pandemic. I want students back in school with the proper safety precautions in place. I have been following all weekly COVID updates shared by our county administrators and I commend their efforts and transparency. I look forward to speaking on behalf of our communities and schools, proactively involving all stakeholders in developing a plan.”
Ormasen said she initially agreed to run when she saw a need. “I knew I was capable of representing my district and the timing aligned with my desire to grow. As I’ve become more involved with county politics and the issues we face, I realized the leverage my unique background and diverse experiences offer my constituents. We currently have fifteen legislators, of which just four are women. Women need the opportunity to serve. Some research suggests that women are more inclined to work across party lines, tending to be more collaborative and results-oriented. I’m intrigued whether a growing female caucus will have an impact on the policy priorities of the Board.”
When asked her opinion about the sales tax apportionment discussion, Ormasen said: “I have been closely following this topic. It’s my understanding that it’s still under negotiation. While local municipalities have positively favored the new distribution, the county legislators feel much differently. Foremost, I represent my constituents. My first opinion is I represent my constituents and it is obvious from all the meetings I have attended, my community is in favor of the 1% being shared among villages and towns. However I also represent county interests, and opposing the proposal would not be disadvantageous to the local municipalities as they would not lose any money. The county provides 22 shared services amongst its towns and villages. Therefore, we will all struggle with providing the services we need during these uncertain times. I always make decisions consistent with rich discussions. I have not yet been included in this dialogue, so I can’t reasonably provide definitive answers. However, it is clear the majority of my constituents support the distribution proposal and I have no problem reporting our stance.”
Ormasen said she has been supporting events sponsored by the Gouverneur and St. Lawrence County Fair Association. “Becoming your County Legislator will only deepen my involvement with our Fair Board and strengthen our voices in the forum.”
Ormasen promised to speak up on behalf on residents anytime it is needed. “This kind of honesty is essential to the job. As a building representative of the teachers’ union, I’ve learned not everything has to instantly go to the top. Recognizing when and how to speak up over concern is a skill. My voice (on behalf of others) will offer value and perspective. Your County Legislator should not just be there keeping a seat warm, rather fueling discussion by speaking up.”
Ormasen said, if elected, she would like to get involved at the county level on the priority plan for roads and bridges, as well. She added that she would like to get involved at the county level “in providing broadband infrastructure as this is key to economic development and more so our current state of educational needs with remote learning.”
Ormasen said, if elected, she hopes to address the childcare disparity with the county – which is at the heart of her concerns. “As policy
makers, we must improve our understanding of the barriers to quality care. This pandemic has amplified an existing crisis. The STLC Childcare Council reported that care providers are among the hardest hit, with one in five childcare jobs lost since the pandemic. Many parents are not aware of the options available to them: various financial assistance, discounts and a child care tax credit. I will empower the Childcare Council with the necessary resources to reach our families during this troubling administrative backlog. Senator Gillibrand’s child care plan recognizes such burdens, addressing concerns with affordability and accessibility. However, we can't be afraid to advocate the specific needs of our county, even if they deviate from other parts of the state. Closures and hybrid learning complicate the needs furthermore. As your county legislator, I will gather evidence from those impacted in our community, and bring our perspectives to the county level. One size does not fit all, and I am committed to pursuing options that best serve us. We have amazing leaders within our county services and if elected, I can assure you I will work diligently on these issues and get the answers we need to move forward, putting our family’s needs at the forefront.”
Ormasen promised to prioritize regular communication with SLC Legislator District 4 William Sheridan (R-Hammond) and SLC Legislator District 6 Larry Denesha (R-DeKalb). “Constituents from neighboring districts interact with the resources within District 5– schooling, shopping, employment and services. I’ll prioritize regular communication with Mr. Sheridan and Mr. Denesha, ensuring a team approach to our region’s needs. Furthermore, they are both active chairs of sub-committees. As a newcomer, I’ll look to them for expertise, opinions, and perspectives. I would certainly utilize email and other technology, but like my neighboring legislators, I would attend the meetings in person. Zoom stifles good dialogue and the ability to deepen conversations. I am hoping to have more direct interactions with fellow legislators to make informed decisions.”
Ormasen said that, while she is a busy person, she is operating on efficient scheduling and time-management. “You’ve heard the saying “If you want something done, ask the busiest person you know,” and it’s true! I’ve created systems and habits to serve my community as reliable, available, committed and savvy. These skills have been tested, with balancing my educational passions, church commitments, and countless other endeavors. I have a reasonable expectation for how I can serve in this capacity, realign priorities, and shift my calendar to embrace county level activities.”
Ormasen, if elected, looks forward to attending and reporting at the local municipal board meetings – two components which she views as “the key legislative responsibility that directly impacts our district's ability to have a voice further than its own municipalities.”
“I’ve witnessed firsthand how inaccurate or insufficient information transferred down from the county level can be detrimental to establishing trust and transparency,” Ormasen said. “One example is coronavirus data updates presented by our county health department. These informative presentations offer clarity, yet many residents still are unsure how to get this accurate information. I will give municipalities a point of contact to really engage with various topics, streamlining important and accurate information to the community. Furthermore, by attending local meetings on a regular basis, I will not only report, but gain valuable insight from voices working on challenges long before me.”
Michael McQuade
Michael McQuade has served the Code Enforcement Officer, Data Collector in the Town of Gouverneur and the Village of Gouverneur since 2009. He has also served as assessor since 2013. He issues approximately 200 building permits per year, and completes building, fire and compliant inspections. He also currently serves at Town of Hermon Code Enforcement Officer. He also serves on the New York State Building Standards and Codes Variance Board and the St. Lawrence County Fair Housing Board.
Born and raised in St. Lawrence County, Michael McQuade makes his home in Gouverneur with his wife Jaimee (Carr) McQuade, and three children who are all students at Hermon-DeKalb Central School District – Emery, 17, a senior; Ellie, 15, a sophomore, and Emerson, 13, in eighth grade. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1989 with a Regents Diploma. His interests include coaching basketball and baseball.
If elected, Michael McQuade looks forward to being a voice for the local boards, local businesses, and taxpayers in the towns of Gouverneur and Depeyster. “As the Legislator for District 5, I want the best for the Towns of Gouverneur and Depeyster as well as be available to all the taxpayers to listen to their ideas and concerns,” he said.
McQuade said his main goal as county legislator is “to be vocal in the extra taxes or what they call “Chargebacks”. Taxpayers would rather have a flat tax bill then extra line items as well as the other charges taxpayers or businesses need to incur in the county to operate. I also would like to be more vocal on the mandated and unmandated charges the state makes the counties pay. Unfortunately, these chargebacks are sent back down to the taxpayers. This is an important subject to me as I understand living paycheck to paycheck with most individuals in District 5 making sure their taxes are paid prior to anything else and individuals can’t keep making these sacrifices. I also would like to see the Town of Depeyster and Gouverneur get a better percentage in PILOT agreements with businesses or projects that are or will be going on in the Town of Depeyster and Gouverneur as I believe that most legislators don’t know about these items.”
When asked by the Gouverneur Tribune Press why he decided to run, McQuade said the following: “The reason I decided to run as a write-in candidate for County Legislator is simple, I have been interviewed twice by the county interview committee as the last two county district 5 legislators resigned during their terms. I went in front of individuals that have no investments in either the Town or Village of Gouverneur and Depeyster so I decided why not have the people of our district have a say in who would be the best representative for our district. Sitting in those interviews I got a better idea what they feel is most important to them so I’m letting the voters decide. I also have been involved with the Town or Village of Gouverneur for over ten years and have seen or heard a lot at the county level that I just don’t believe is right to the taxpayers of the county. I hope, if elected, to implement a better way for the Town of Gouverneur and Depeyster to be looked at, that would be the first item.”
When asked by the Gouverneur Tribune Press: “What are your opinions about the current sales tax apportionment discussion?” McQuade said the following: “The sales tax topic has been the hot topic for all the legislators that are running for election but the unfortunate part of this situation is the board as a whole will need to sit down with the City of Ogdensburg to have several civil conversations about this subject. The board should also look at the purchasing over the Internet to see if the sales tax is distributed properly from NYS.”
McQuade promises to have an open-door policy, if elected to the District 5 seat. “I will speak with any resident that would like to talk about things they would like to see changed or for me to investigate at the county level as my door will always be open,” he said.
McQuade also said that he “would like to bring some normalcy back to the county,” he said. “Everyone has a voice regardless of party, race, gender; everyone needs to be heard and things needs to be more transparent through open communication.”
McQuade also said that he looks forward to working together with SLC Legislator District 4 William Sheridan (R-Hammond) and SLC Legislator District 6 Larry Denesha (R-DeKalb). “I’m hoping, if elected, that Mr. Denesha and Mr. Sheridan will help me transition into the legislator position. I’m also looking forward to working with them as anything that will affect Depeyster or Gouverneur will also affect the towns they represent.”
McQuade promised to always make time in his schedule if he is elected to the District 5 seat. “Over the past several years I have been involved in the Town and Village of Gouverneur at the same being involved in sports which takes a lot of time. If you want to make a difference for your family and community, you put that time in to be the best legislator you can be.”
McQuade also said he feels making reports to local municipalities at their monthly board meetings is an important part of being legislator. He promises “to be transparent and personally bring the information to the people, not a piece of paper.”
It is vital that those who wish to cast the write-in vote for McQuade use the full name “Michael McQuade” in the write-in space allotted.
Don’t miss your opportunity to cast your ballot on Tuesday, November 3, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., at the Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 SH 58, Gouverneur. Early voting is also an option available to SLC residents. The remaining schedule is as follows: Oct. 30 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Oct. 31 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), and Nov. 1 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.). All early voting takes place at the SLC Board of Elections office in Canton.