Sweden supervisor runs unopposed

Sweden Supervisor Nat O. (Buddy) Lester III is seeking re-election because he'd like to continue working on projects already started, including the expansion of water and sewer districts, the development of the park, modernization of the town code, maintenance of infrastructure and stewardship of facilities (such as High Street Cemetery and Lakeview Cemetery).

Having served eight years, the Republican is unopposed in his bid for re-election.

"The most important issue is the ability to maintain services while maintaining affordability," Lester said. "I would like our town to be attractive to new businesses looking to locate in the area. New businesses will add to the tax base, helping to relieve the burden on our residents, particularly our senior citizens. I believe our community has many amenities that make it an attractive place for young families and senior citizens to call home, amenities like the park, senior center, community center, recycling center, library and good schools. It is important to make sure those amenities remain affordable for all."

Lester said at the same time, town officials need to preserve Sweden's rural and agricultural heritage.

"I believe these are not mutually exclusive goals, but that with careful study and strong leadership, we can expand our tax base and preserve our rural character," he said.

Lester is a life-time resident of the community and said that his skills as an attorney are useful in negotiating public works contracts and understanding municipal law in increasingly complicated times. He is a former chairman of the Joint Recreation Commission, a former Sweden Town Judge and has served as supervisor for eight years. He is also a member of the Lakeside Foundation Board, a director on the Monroe County Municipal Workers Compensation Pool and a director on the Sweden Community Foundation.

He and his wife, Karen Lenden Lester, have three children.

"I believe my vast experience in municipal affairs will lead us through the tough challenges ahead," he said. "The cost of doing business continues to rise and some of those costs can't be controlled at a local level - like fuel costs, utility costs, health insurance and workers compensation insurance. It is more important than ever to have leaders that will take a pro-active approach to Sweden's future. I am very optimistic that Sweden has a bright future ahead and I want to be a part of guiding our community into that future."

In the proposed budget, the Sweden supervisor position would bring with it an annual salary of $21,700 and is for a two-year term.

October 16, 2005