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Home Page   Local News   Local Sports   Community Calendar   Opinion   Editorials   Columns   Letters to the Editor   Archives   News Archives   Sports Archives	12-20-2007 Balcom honored for service to town By MICHELLE MILLER Staff Writer HARTWICK - Mary Balcom said she really appreciated the people who traveled through the sleet and rain to attend an open house held in her honor at the Hartwick Town Building Sunday afternoon. Balcom, who has had approximately 25 years experience in town government, was defeated by Pat Ryan in this year's race for Hartwick Town Supervisor with a vote of 340 to 310. "Of course I was disappointed, but the people have spoken and we must move on from there," said Balcom, who has been town supervisor for about six and a half years total. Balcom said she started out as town clerk, then became the town clerk tax collector, and first became supervisor when filling in during illnesses of previous supervisors. Balcom is not the only one disappointed with the election outcome. Councilman David Butler said he was surprised and saddened when he found out Balcom would not be returning as town supervisor. "Working with Mary has been a pleasure," said Butler. "She has been a very dedicated supporter of the Town of Hartwick." Butler, who has been a councilman for nine years, said he has worked with Balcom all 25 years she has served her different jobs on the board. He said before being on the board himself, he worked with Balcom as a member of the fire department and as an emergency squad member and squad captain. "Mary always gave all of herself to try to do the best she could for the town and taxpayers," Butler said. Butler said some of the most prominent accomplishments made by Balcom and the board include being able to improve the equipment of the fire departments and town highway department without any major increases in the taxes of the town, and the capital water project that is near completion. When asked what Butler would miss most about Balcom, he said, "Her ability to get things done and still keep smiling." Balcom said she will have a little more time on her hands, but will probably remain active in the life that surrounds Hartwick. Balcom will remain working full-time at Leatherstocking Cooperative Insurance Company. However, she said she might take a "little" vacation.
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