Hannelore (Hanny) Heyen will seek a seat on the Brockport village board of trustees in the June election. A village resident since 1967, Heyen said she believes her years of government experience and public service would be an asset to Brockport. "As director of the Sweden Senior Center and as district representative for Congressman John LaFalce, I've spent two decades working in this community, tackling issues ranging from ice storm aid to keeping the post office in the village," said Heyen. "I've administered a budget, handled community relations, and worked with officials at several levels of government to address problems that matter most to people." Love for Brockport is what motivated Heyen to run for office, according to her press release. "I first came to the village in 1958 to attend SUNY Brockport, where I met my husband, Bill," she said. "We settled here because we believed that Brockport was a great place to live, work and raise our family. We still do." One issue that Heyen is eager to tackle is the cost of living in the village. She advocates more cost-sharing with other municipalities, seeking additional state and federal grants and cost-effective public safety, Heyen said. "It's critically important that we control spending so Brockport remains an affordable place to live." In her press release, Heyen said her campaign will focus on fiscal responsibility, infrastructure and the promotion of tourism and economic growth. "These are three of the most important issues facing the village," she said. "Throughout my 20-year career in public service, I've seen time and time again the importance of approaching challenges with an open mind, paying attention to detail and finding practical ways to solve problems. I do my homework." As a candidate of the independent Pride in Brockport party, Heyen said she is looking forward to meeting residents, hearing their concerns, and advocating for them. "Good policies make good government, and I believe that starts with well-meaning relationships between board members and the people they serve," she wrote in the release. "Pride in Brockport begins with solid leadership and an understanding of what's important to this village." Heyen holds bachelor's and masters' degrees in education from SUNY Brockport. She serves on the Brockport Village Advisory Committee, SUNY Brockport's Government Relations Committee, is a founding member of the Brockport Breast Cancer Support Group, and a lifetime member of the Western Monroe Historical Society. Submitted material April 2, 2006 |
