WURTSBORO — As the race for Mayor in the village of Wurtsboro approaches, two contenders have stepped up to run: the incumbent Frank Sisco and challenger Paul Champagne. The election will take place Tuesday, March 18, from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Village Hall. 

The Democrat talked to both candidates about their treks towards securing the office, their plans if they are elected, and what they hope for the future of the village.

Frank Sisco

The incumbent Frank Sisco is running for re-election for the Mayor of Wurtsboro.

Sisco said that his motivation to run again derives from his enjoyment of his job. He also loves taking care of the community, noting that he’s lived in Wurtsboro for 40 years and has enjoyed helping out the community.

Sisco noted his accomplishments, including installation of new sidewalks and paving some streets.

“We also installed a 3,000 gallon water tower,” stated Sisco. “That water project was $2 million of work. We [the Village] keep moving forward and we [my office] is looking to do more of the same [in the future].”

In terms of the future, Sisco is looking to continue fixing Sullivan Street and getting the grants to do that, citing $10 million needed.

He is also looking to install a small park, including features like slides, which is currently in the planning stages.

Sisco plans on enhancing communication and engagement with the community by encouraging the community to attend the Village’s Board Meetings.

“Thanks to State Law, we’ve also updated our website [which makes it more accessible],” noted Sisco.

A large focus on Sisco’s radar is the potential closure of Exit 114. Sisco noted that he has a lot of contact with the DOT [Department of Transportation].

In addition, Sisco is working with the Village of Wurtsboro Board of Trade. He stated that if 114 is closed “it’s gonna hurt our communities.”

He cited from the last Department of Transportation survey which showed that 3,000 cars a day pass through  Wurtsboro.

“We don’t want to lose that [traffic],” stated Sisco.

Sisco also referred to the incident when his Facebook page got hacked, stating that there was no fault with his IT team upon police investigation and it turns out the same hacker got hold of another page in Long Island.

Sisco stated that the issue was personal to himself and not his IT Department.

In terms of preserving the Village’s unique character moving forward, Sisco believes it is a tough situation considering how Wurtsboro is all built out.

Big sections of Wurtsboro are wetlands and by nature cannot be built on. Nevertheless, Sisco restates that his office is trying to keep the Village going as best they can and keeping people engaged.

“Come out and vote and make your voices heard,” stated Sisco. “I’d appreciate the opportunity to continue what I’m doing.”

Paul Champagne

Challenger Paul Champagne is running for Mayor of Wurtsboro, aiming to address rising taxes, wasteful spending and unresolved water system issues.

He criticized the delayed response to a major water main break, calling it a waste of taxpayer money and a source of frustration for residents.

A lifelong Wurtsboro resident, Champagne has been active in the community for nearly 64 years. He has served in the Wurtsboro Fire Company for 45 years, holding positions such as Chief and Lieutenant, and has been involved in Mamakating Little League. He values Wurtsboro’s historical charm and wants to preserve its family-oriented atmosphere.

Champagne has prior experience in local government, having assisted in past campaigns and run for Councilman two years ago, losing by just 17 votes. His key priorities include creating a responsible budget, securing grant funding for improvements, and revitalizing the village. He believes the biggest challenge is implementing these projects and restoring Wurtsboro to its former state.

Supporting local businesses is another focus, with plans to connect them with grants and collaborate with the Wurtsboro Board of Trade and Mamakating Town Board. 

He is also strongly opposed to the proposed closure of Exit 114, arguing that it would devastate the business district and hinder emergency detours.

Champagne advocates for annual fire inspections and improved village communication, particularly for residents without internet or phone access. 

He promises an open-door policy and greater transparency, contrasting himself with incumbent Mayor Frank Sisco. “I run a clean campaign,” Champagne stated. “I’m someone the taxpayers can work with.”

Champagne encourages residents to reach out to his cell phone number [845-542-5406] with any questions about his campaign. If elected, his first year would focus on infrastructure, including securing grants and improving Sullivan Street and the village water system. 

“It’s time for change,” he said. “I want to make Wurtsboro a more inviting place to live and work.”