A Note from Michael

Why I Love Central New York

I grew up in Lexington, Kentucky, a place that once had its own unique charm. But over the years, I watched as the things that made it special faded. lost to sprawl, strip malls, and development that put short-term gain over long-term character. It’s one reason I value what we still have here in Central New York; a sense of place, a connection to the land, and hard working neighbors that make me feel home.

When I first came to Auburn in 2006, I fell in love with this region. The rhythm of the seasons, the patchwork of fields and forests, the small businesses that anchor our towns, these are the things that make Central New York not just beautiful, but worth protecting. They’re not guaranteed. They depend on thoughtful choices and a local government that listens to the people who live here. It’s the people that make this community thrive and I am committed to listening to their wisdom.

My wife Maria is from Homer, and we’ve made our home north-east of the village, near Maria’s parents. Every day, we wake up to a view that reminds me what’s at stake; the fields, the valley, the sense of peace you just can’t find everywhere anymore.

That’s why I got involved. Out of frustration with how local decisions were being made—often without public awareness—I began working with Dark Sky Homer, and started recording Town Board meetings when the board wasn’t releasing their own. It was a small step toward transparency, but one I felt was necessary.

Now, I’m running for the Homer Town Board as an independent. Because I believe in this place. Because I believe we can preserve what makes it special without standing still. Because I believe local government should serve us—the people who live, work, and care about this town.

Thank you for being part of this with me.

—Michael