If you live in or around Ghent, you know that a powerful storm tore through our area on the evening of July 2.  Though everyone was prepared to enjoy a long weekend of Independence Day celebrations, we were instead reminded of the value of interdependence.

Over the past four days, our town’s elected officials demonstrated the spirit of Connect Ghent:  We are neighbors working together to do what’s best for Ghent.  Here are just a few examples of how our Board reached out across our community—

1. Delivered dry ice and drinking water to vulnerable neighbors who lost power for days
2. Cleared roads with their personal equipment (and muscle!) to allow passage of emergency vehicles
3. Arranged an emergency propane delivery for an elderly couple who relies on their generator for a life-preserving medical device
4. Monitored the generator at Town Hall to ensure the Ghent Food Pantry’s refrigerators and freezers maintained safe temperatures during the power outage
5. Provided regular public updates on the recovery from the storm
6. Checked in on dozens of residents who might need some extra support
7. Coordinated with NYSEG to get power restored, including prioritizing our neighbors who are elderly or ill

You may be surprised to read that Town Councilmembers earn only $3,895 per year.  The folks in these roles certainly aren’t doing it for the money—they are doing it for the love of our town and their care for our neighbors. 

Our elected officials played a minor role in the overall recovery; the heavy lifting was done by Ghent’s most excellent Highway Department, our Volunteer Fire Companies, our partners in neighboring towns and villages, and many other public servants as well. This all happened on a holiday weekend, in a heatwave, without electricity or internet, and with messes to attend to at their own homes. 

Connect Ghent is grateful to you all!