To The Editor:

I’m running because the only way to move our village forward in a positive direction is to change the leadership. My opponent, Mr. Episcopia, has lost sight of what Garden City is and what it could be.

There’s a strong feeling in the East that the residents’ concerns are not being heard. I’ve lived with my family in the East for 39 years and listened to my neighbors when I was coaching and when I was serving in village government and here is what residents want and I want to achieve:

* Cooperation on the BOT, not dissention.

* Problem solving, not constant roadblocks.

* Governmental transparency, not personal agendas. The St. Paul’s tower repair debacle is a perfect example.

* Labor relations agreements that reflect today’s economic climate, not yesterday’s.

* Infrastructure carefully managed, not postponed.

* Careful fiscal management, not careless borrowing.

* Providing decent facilities for our children and senior citizens.

In the spirit of truth and openness, I need to address a few of Mr. Episcopia’s recent incorrect statements and accusations:

“Mr. Segerdahl has not attended a BOT meeting since 2005.” I have attended in the past, in fact, I clearly spoke out during the resident comments period. It’s in the minutes.

I would spend “any amount” to save St. Paul’s. That statement was not said and no rational person would ever make such a statement. I have stated that I am in favor of preserving St. Paul’s if it is financially responsible to do so. A blank check, no way. It’s an important issue, but not the only issue we have. I believe we have a responsibility to maintain St. Paul’s until the residents decide how it should be used.

At the very least, we should expect our Trustees to be honest with us. We are all weary of misleading facts and twisted claims. Every “No” vote of Mr. Episcopia’s that I mentioned in my ads has been carefully researched in the Board Of Trustees’ official minutes. It’s on the record.

I am a proven, positive voice for our future. It’s time for positive change. I respectfully ask for your vote on Tuesday, January 31st.

Jon Segerdahl