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The seat, formerly held by Dick Lyman, became subject to a special election when he was elected town supervisor. It is currently filled by Deputy Supervisor Jon Powers.
The Republican candidate is David Dow, who currently serves as chairman of the Pound Ridge Library Board of Trustees. The Democratic candidate is Sherene De Palma, whose experience includes founding an after-school foreign language program and volunteering to help in local events such as Pride Day and the Harvest Festival.
Both candidates are lawyers.
De Palma explained that she is running because she feels her skill set could help with issues that residents want addressed, such as revitalization of the Scotts Corners business district, improving cell-phone service and allowing for decentralized septic systems to be built.
De Palma was asked where she stands on Ridge 29, a 44-housing-unit proposal that calls for alternative septic. She explained that she is not for or against the project. This is because she wants for the review process to play out. De Palma also noted that there are things that need to be investigated, such as impacts on the environment and resident.
De Palma also touted her professional background, citing her role in bringing stakeholders together.
Dow explained that he's running because he wants to make Pound Ridge a place where people want to live and to ensure its future sustainability. He also has three priorities: protect property values, promote change where needed and to preserve the town's open space and low-density population.
Dow supports enhancing the Scotts Corners business district and voiced support for allowing alternative septic. Speaking about the status quo for septic, Dow noted that the type of businesses in the district are limited by wastewater-treatment capacity.
Weighing in on Ridge 29, Dow said the project "looks promising" and noted the alternative housing types being offered for residents. However, he noted there will be an "extensive review" by the Planning Board and said that residents raised "legitimate concerns" that should be addressed.
The special election is scheduled for Nov. 4. Regardless of the outcome, the seat is scheduled to be up for a regular election next year.
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