Politics & Government

Village Candidate Q&A: Where Do You See the Village in Ten Years?

Westhampton Beach trustee candidates voice their thoughts and opinions.

On June 21, residents in Westhampton Beach will be asked to elect two candidates to the Westhampton Beach Village Board. Vying for those seats are Deputy Mayor Hank Tucker, Trustee Patricia DiBenedetto and former Deptuy Mayor Toni-Jo Birk. 

Patch recently asked all three candidates five questions and over the next week and a half, Patch will provide their responses in a series we are calling, Village Candidate Q&A. 

Question 1: Where Do you see the village in ten years?

Hank Tucker: "As a great seaside place to live, work, retire, and to raise our children. The character of the Village must be maintained while balancing the changing needs of the community."

Patricia DiBenedetto: "In ten years, I would like to see the village more vibrant during the off-season.  We have quaint shops and restaurants, a fabulous performing art center, and a wonderful library that offers many programs.  However, those of us who live here year-round have to leave our village once the summer ends because it is hard to do anything locally in the winter months.  I picture, "Aspen in the Hamptons"  I truly believe with the proper planning, we can revitalize our village to have the best of both worlds...an exciting place for folks to visit during the summer, and an equally thrilling winter location for us to shop, have a great meal, enjoy a crisp evening stroll, and enjoy the delights of our village in the wintertime."

Toni-Jo Birk: "In ten years, I see the Village of Westhampton Beach as a seaside community, that offers individuals and families alike a great place to live and to visit. I also hope to see the continuation of a vibrant Main Street and flourishing business districts. This is what makes Westhampton Beach a special place, the ability to offer many different things for all kinds of populations.

Patch wants to know? Which response did you like best? Comment below.


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