As a nonpartisan community organization, we believe local elections should focus on the people, ideas, and issues that matter most to Ghent, not on political party affiliation.  Here are some of the top reasons why we love nonpartisan local governance:

 

1.     There is no “us vs. them.” There is only us.

In Ghent, we’re neighbors first. Nonpartisan local government keeps the focus on working together for the entire community, not political teams.

2.     Character matters more than party.

Candidates are judged by their integrity, work ethic, and commitment to serving Ghent, not by the letter next to their name.

3.     Good people shouldn’t be overlooked because of politics.

Nonpartisan elections give every qualified resident the opportunity to serve their community, no matter their party line.

4.     The best candidates can come from anywhere.

In a town of about 5,000 residents, every qualified person brings unique skills and experiences. Nonpartisan elections encourage a broader pool of candidates, giving voters more choices and strengthening local government.

5.     The campaign ends. The collaboration begins.

Nonpartisan local government encourages leaders to work together after the election because they share the same responsibility: serving the people of Ghent.

6.     What’s best for Ghent?

Without party labels, decisions can be guided by one simple principle: doing what’s best for our community.

7.     The best ideas win.

Ideas are judged on their value, not on who proposed them. Nonpartisan local government encourages practical solutions that improve everyday life in Ghent.

8.     Neighbors come before politics.

In a small town, we see each other every day. We may not always agree on every issue, but we all care deeply about Ghent and its future. Nonpartisan local government helps keep that common purpose at the center of every conversation.

9.     Local decisions stay local.

Every level of government has different responsibilities. Nonpartisan local government helps ensure Ghent’s priorities are shaped by the needs of our community.

10. Local government has a clearly defined role.

Nonpartisan local government helps keep the focus on the responsibilities entrusted to our Town, not on broader political debates. That means spending our time improving roads, parks, public safety, town services, planning, and the quality of life for everyone in Ghent.

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!