The Republican primary for two seats on the Chester Town Board

Giuseppe Cassara

I have a bachelor degree in Architecture. I work as a civil engineer, over twenty years in civil service of progressively increasing responsibility directing and managing engineering design, construction infrastructure programs and projects, and skilled in many aspects of construction supervision, inspection and project management. I currently supervise contractors under a multi-million dollar COY Highway Improvement Contract. During my time in NYC DEP, I managed the design, construction of major processes and odor control improvements for Newtown Creek Water Pollution Control Plant. In the Town of Brookhaven, I was the field engineer inspecting work in compliance to Town codes and regulations.

I volunteer as a firefighter at the Sugar Loaf Engine Co., served on the Chester Zoning Board and currently on the Planning Board, member of the Knights of Columbus and Kiwanis Club committed to public safety and community needs.

I decided to run for Town council because I dislike the direction the Town is moving in. There are decisions being made that are not in the best interest of the residents and many things are being neglected that affect our everyday quality of life. A historic property tax hike upwards of 20%, reckless and wasteful spending on contract negotiations and excessive lawsuits.

I will put Chester residents first and serve the public to the best of my ability. I look forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to the board, restoring leadership that listens, acts and delivers. A fresh voice committed to transparency, community driven growth and real solutions for all residents. I will manage the town’s budget the proper way, focus on our infrastructure, parks and recreation programs, build relationships with County and State leaders, have viable plans to preserve open space, be fiscally responsible and bring integrity back to our Town Hall.

Robert Courtenay

Why are you running for town board?

I’m running for reelection because our community needs mature, responsible and forward thinking leadership. My record includes acquiring a life-saving, 24/7 ambulance service this last year, passing tax exemptions for seniors and veterans, gaining well over $600,000 in grants, funding infrastructure projects and cutting hundreds of thousands of dollars in wasteful spending in the last budget.

What are the top three issues facing the town today and how do you plan to address them?

1. Keeping taxes as low as possible. That’s why I’ve worked with my colleagues to cut over $200,000 in unnecessary spending, lifting a real burden off our taxpayers. I’m also focused on gaining more grant funding to pay for everything from infrastructure to park upgrades so we don’t need to tax for those items.

2. Infrastructure improvements are critical for the safety of our residents and the quality of life here in Chester. That’s why I was proud to help secure a $400,000 grant to create sidewalks in Sugar Loaf, fund $350,000 of sewer improvements in Surrey Meadows, upgrade all water districts in town, and properly fund our Highway Dept. so they have the tools they need to keep us in top shape. I also took part in receiving a nearly $100,000 grant for Carpenter Community Park.

3. Preservation of our open space and environmental resources. The character of our town is suburban/rural and I would like to see it stay that way. Unfortunately, we have not been in the best financial position to spend on acquiring land but I’m hopeful that our budget changes will allow us to do more of that in the future. I have consistently advocated for the signing of our open space bill up in Albany. I have worked on our Comprehensive Plan over the last year and a half that will tighten up our building, planning and zoning codes to ensure we keep the Chester we currently have.

What sets you apart from your challengers?

I’m the only experienced Town Council candidate on the ballot and I’m not beholden to any drama-ridden political agenda other than helping to improve our community. I can agree and disagree with anyone on anything but still work with everyone at the end of the day.

Christine Maurer

Why are you running for the town board?

I’m running to stop Chester’s reckless 17 percent tax hike and wasteful spending. For over a decade, I’ve attended town council meetings, witnessing absurd decisions: $20,000 raises for new hires, costly park lighting for four football games yearly, bloated town hall staff and an overpriced ambulance service compared to neighboring towns. I’ll fight for fiscal responsibility, cut waste, and ease taxpayers’ burdens.

What are the top three issues facing the town today, and how do you plan to address them?

17% Tax Hike: This increase burdens families and seniors on fixed incomes. I’ll cut wasteful spending—unnecessary raises, overstaffing, and push to renegotiate contracts like the ambulance service—to lower taxes and protect residents.

Costly lawsuits: Elected officials’ legal disputes cost taxpayers a $25,000 deductible, high legal fees, and rising insurance premiums. I’ll promote accountability and collaboration to end this costly trend.

Toxic Politics: Chester’s politics are ugly and personal, disrespecting voters. I’ll restore dignity, foster civility, and focus on solutions, ensuring leaders serve with integrity.

What sets you apart from your challengers?

My 26 years as an award-winning CNBC journalist give me deep expertise in financial reporting, equipping me to champion fiscal responsibility and advocate for taxpayers. I’m endorsed by the Chester Republican Committee and Conservative Party, showing broad trust in my vision.

A University of Florida graduate and fifth-degree judo black belt trained at the Olympic Training Center, I’m now deeply rooted in Chester. My passion for our town, like my love for my classic Mustang, drives me to steer us toward lower taxes and a stronger community.