The following is a statement by Williston Park resident Paul Ehrbar announcing his intention to run for mayor of Williston Park:
“Approximately four years ago, the Odierna-Reardon campaign took place which brought about change to the government of our great Village of Williston Park.
“Over these past few years, and under their authority, the village has taken a turn for the worse. Under the prior administration of Tom Muldoon, Joe Connelly and Doreen Ehrbar, the village was described as a ‘nice place to visit but a better place to live.’ A ride down Hillside Avenue, with flourishing plants and flowers, gave all a feeling of pride in their warm, small quaint village.
“That physical appearance was a mirror image and a reflection of how the three prior administrations cared for your village. As mayors, those unselfish and dedicated individuals directed their priorities towards improvement in all areas of the community, particularly the village infrastructure.
“But four years ago, a disgraceful, nasty campaign attempted to falsely discredit these past administrations. Since then, many individuals have indicated to me their concern and disappointment over how the village has been run over these past three plus years.
“I have been attending the monthly village meetings since the DelVecchio years and regularly since 1994. I have been actively involved in all aspects of this community since 1977 particularly the Herricks School District, numerous volunteer positions, the Williston Park Little League, the CYO and the Boy Scouts, etc.
“I did not plan on getting involved in this year’s village elections, but I have heard too many negative comments from residents to not get involved. A lot of thought, coupled with numerous discussions with family and friends, went into my decision. I did not want to wake up on March 17 being sorry that I did not try and make a difference.
“Therefore, at this time, I am announcing my intention to seek the office of Williston Park mayor. So as not to confuse the issues at hand, I have decided to run independently, without running mates. I will have no difficulty working with whoever sits as trustee.
“Voters need to be aware that when voting, you are not required to vote for all candidates who are running together.
“I find it ironic that Alan Reardon and Lud Odierna, architects of the ‘Campaign of 2006’ are now battling each other. It makes one wonder!”
