Rockville Centre vote set for June 21

With less than a month to go before village elections, three mayoral candidates and four trustee hopefuls have been out shaking hands and speaking with potential voters.

“It’s been an interesting and exciting campaign so far,” said Trustee David Krasula, who is running for re-election on the Concerned Citizens Party slate. “It’s always great to hear from folks and get their support. These are not easy times.”

Krasula is seeking a second term as a trustee, along with Mayor Mary Bossart. The pair took office, along with Deputy Mayor Chuck Joyce, in July 2007 — five months before a severe economic downturn began. The recession has been the backdrop for cautious spending, budget cuts and increases in taxes and fees — moves that have dismayed some village residents and merchants.

Joyce is not running for re-election.

Krasula has promised to run on the same platform he did last time, and said he will continue to make difficult decisions in the still-challenging economic climate. “When I ran four years ago, I told the folks that I’ve spent my whole life asking questions, and I’ve done that the last three-plus years,” he said. “I think I speak for the people who live, work and do business here. They’re supportive of our tough choices.”

Bossart, Krasula and another Concerned Citizens candidate, newcomer Michelle Sewell, are all addressing the same topics: the lack of adequate parking in the village and infrastructure improvements they say are needed. Another issue that is central to their campaign is fiscal responsibility. If elected, they say, they will continue to spend carefully and work to maintain Rockville Centre’s high credit rating.

Sewell said she is hopeful about her party’s chances, and that she joined the ticket because, first and foremost, she wants to ensure that residents receive the critical services they need. With her background as a managing director for Cushman and Wakefield Securities, she said, she is a qualified leader. “With my years of experience, I’m hoping to make a difference in the community,” Sewell said. “I realize that everyone wants a piece of the pie, and my job is a balancing act.”