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Sullivan County Mayoral Race Heats Up: Candidates Clash on Platforms

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 20:22 GMT by WJHL Tri-Cities
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

NEWBURGH, NY - February 27th, 2026 - The race for Sullivan County Mayor is gaining momentum as candidates Scott Mabra, Richard Boyer, and Judy DiMartino presented their platforms to voters at a public forum held Wednesday night at the Newburgh Clockville Community Center. The event, skillfully moderated by a representative from the League of Women Voters, offered residents a crucial opportunity to hear directly from those vying to lead the county. While the forum was relatively concise, each candidate successfully highlighted core tenets of their campaigns, promising varied approaches to the challenges and opportunities facing Sullivan County.

Infrastructure and Economic Development Take Center Stage

Scott Mabra, positioning himself as a catalyst for growth, centered his remarks on attracting new businesses and revitalizing the county's aging infrastructure. Mabra's vision revolves around a proactive approach to economic development, suggesting strategies to entice businesses to relocate to or expand within Sullivan County. He repeatedly emphasized the need to "bring people here, bring businesses here," a simple yet potent message that resonated with attendees concerned about the county's economic vitality. Details on specific industries targeted or incentives offered remain to be fully elucidated, but Mabra's focus signals a potential shift towards a more aggressive economic development strategy.

The condition of Sullivan County's infrastructure - roads, bridges, water systems, and broadband access - has been a persistent concern for residents. Mabra's pledge to improve this infrastructure is likely to be a key talking point throughout the campaign. Investment in infrastructure not only enhances quality of life but also lays the groundwork for sustainable economic growth, attracting businesses that require reliable services. The question now is how Mabra intends to fund these improvements, given current budgetary constraints and competing priorities.

Fiscal Responsibility: A Cornerstone of Boyer's Campaign

Richard Boyer, leveraging his experience within county government, presented a contrasting approach, emphasizing fiscal responsibility as the foundation of his campaign. While acknowledging the need for economic development and infrastructure improvements, Boyer underscored the importance of careful spending and prudent financial management. He argued that a strong financial footing is essential for the long-term health and stability of Sullivan County, enabling it to weather economic downturns and invest in essential services.

Boyer's focus on fiscal responsibility is particularly relevant given recent reports highlighting increasing county debt and the need for budgetary reforms. He is expected to release detailed proposals outlining how he intends to streamline government operations, reduce wasteful spending, and ensure that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. His campaign will likely appeal to voters who prioritize fiscal conservatism and believe in responsible governance. Boyer's prior experience in county government offers a level of understanding that the other candidates may lack, providing voters with a sense of stability and established leadership.

Transparency and Community Engagement: DiMartino's Promise

Judy DiMartino differentiated herself by emphasizing her commitment to transparency and community engagement. She argued that a more open and inclusive government is crucial for building trust and fostering a sense of shared purpose. DiMartino's platform likely includes proposals to enhance public access to information, increase citizen participation in decision-making processes, and promote greater accountability among county officials.

In an era of increasing public skepticism towards government, DiMartino's focus on transparency is a compelling message. Voters are increasingly demanding greater openness and accountability from their elected officials. DiMartino may propose initiatives such as live-streaming county board meetings, establishing citizen advisory committees, and creating online platforms for public feedback. Her emphasis on community engagement suggests a desire to empower residents and ensure that their voices are heard in the halls of power.

Looking Ahead The forum provided a valuable glimpse into the candidates' priorities, but much work remains to be done. Voters will be closely scrutinizing their platforms and seeking detailed proposals on key issues such as property taxes, affordable housing, and environmental protection. The League of Women Voters will likely host additional forums and debates in the coming weeks, providing further opportunities for candidates to engage with the public. As the election draws near, the competition is expected to intensify, with each candidate vying to convince Sullivan County residents that they possess the vision and leadership needed to guide the county into the future.