Four candidates are competing for two open Village Trustee seats in a race that reflects renewed civic engagement following last year’s failed dissolution vote. The seats are currently held by Dylan Legg, who is not seeking re-election, and David Kashman, who is running for mayor against former Mayor Dr. Lee McGunnigle.
The candidates are:
- Gil Adler, Democratic nominee
- Steve Tuomey, a Democrat endorsed by Republicans
- Kody Leach, cross-endorsed by both parties
- Rebecca Fitting, running independently under “The Village” Party
Trustees Greg Thorpe and George Kelly are midway through their terms and not up for election.
Kody Leach: A Young Voice for Growth and Housing
At 24, Kody Leach, a lifelong Tannersville resident, says he would bring fresh ideas to the Village Board. Leach manages Fred’s Coffee & Donuts and other local ventures owned by entrepreneur Ryan Chadwick, including short-term rentals and a new wedding venue, Dutcher’s Hollow.
Leach said he was motivated to run after voters rejected dissolution. “Seeing the Village vote down dissolution prompted me to step up,” he said. His campaign focuses on supporting local businesses and expanding workforce housing to address rising rents and short-term rental growth.
Leach also backs projects like municipal solar and improvements to Rip Van Winkle Lake and the Daniel Legg Memorial Skatepark. He believes upgrading public spaces could help revitalize the Village and attract funding.
Rebecca Fitting: Independent Focus on Communication and Identity
Rebecca Fitting, 50, a registered Democrat running independently, moved to Tannersville full-time in 2023 after buying the “Brave the Flames” building in 2021. She launched her own “Village Party” after not receiving the Democratic endorsement.
A former Brooklyn resident, Fitting opposed dissolution, emphasizing Tannersville’s strong local identity. “I think Tannersville has a sense of place, and the dissolution debate reminded people of that,” she said.
Fitting wants to improve communication between the Village Board and residents and supports regulating short-term rentals. “Safety, quality, and consistency are important,” she said, pointing to recent state legislation enabling local control.
Gil Adler: Balanced Growth and Fiscal Responsibility
Gil Adler, 40, a CPA and business executive, has lived in Tannersville for six years and won the Democratic caucus nomination. He opposed dissolution and says he wants to help bridge divides in the community.
“There are people here from all walks of life — artists, hunters, secular, religious. I understand both worlds,” Adler said.
Adler supports the Cold Spring workforce housing project, which would bring 56 affordable units to Spring Street. “Anything is better than what’s been sitting on that lot for decades,” he said, noting that affordable housing is essential to stabilizing the community and keeping local schools viable.
He emphasizes fiscal responsibility and using outside funding to improve services without raising taxes. “Nobody wants higher taxes, but we need to maintain or improve services,” he said.
Steve Tuomey: Focus on Infrastructure and Public Safety
Steve Tuomey, 60, a Democrat backed by Republicans, brings long experience in public service as Fire Chief, former DPW head, and Ulster County dispatcher.
In a letter to voters, Tuomey emphasized infrastructure, public safety, and affordability. “We must ensure Tannersville remains livable for working-class residents,” he wrote.
Tuomey has fought for better fire and rescue equipment, including gear needed for the Twin Clove Rescue Team, which last year rescued 16 swimmers from Kaaterskill Clove.
He also calls for updating Village ordinances to reflect changes in the community and ensuring strong enforcement. “As a leader in the fire department, I’ve learned to adapt to evolving community needs while preserving tradition. I want to bring that same commitment to the Village Board,” he said.
Election Details
Voting takes place Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Village Hall, 1 Park Lane (5974 Main Street).
Absentee ballots are available online or by mail until 10 days before the election, and in person at the Greene County Board of Elections until March 17. Ballots must be postmarked or submitted by March 18 to count.
More info: greenegovernment.com/departments/board-of-elections.
A Pivotal Vote for Tannersville’s Future
With questions about housing, infrastructure, and the Village’s identity still at play, the outcome of this election is likely to shape Tannersville’s future for years to come.
Max Oppen is a contributing reporter. Send correspondence to reporting@theoverlooknews.com.
