Sound Shore

Below is a message from Port Chester Trustee Bob Sorensen, saying he will not be seeking re-election in June, when all six seats are up for a vote. Sorensen, a Republican who has served on the village board since 2002, works in advertising at The Journal News.

Village Republicans are meeting Sunday to nominate candidates. The four Democratic nominees are listed here.

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“It is with a strong sense of accomplishment and after careful consideration that I announce my decision not to seek re-election as Trustee for the Village of Port Chester.  The village has an historic election this June and one that will lead positive changes in how candidates can be elected throughout New York State.  The recent “ground breaking” decision from Federal Supreme Court Justice Stephen Robinson will enhance civic pride and enhance Port Chester by allowing Port Chester’s electoral process to be inclusive and thereby better mirroring the diversity of our community which all of us treasure.

“I am very proud to have been a contributing member of Port Chester’s Board of Trustees for now in my ninth year.  I have served on many committees which delivered significant accomplishments representing progress and positive change in the village.  These include serving on the School Board / Village Board liaison committee where we negotiated our Cable agreement and initiated a new video shared service agreement between the municipalities.  I led the affordable housing sub-committee effort in establishing village law requiring a 10% “set aside” for working class housing within any development multi-family housing development in Port Chester.  I fought for the Port Chester Rye Brook shared service agreement for our library and serve on the village Library sub-committee.

“My work with the various trustees, boards and staff has yielded positive results for the village and improved the quality of life for our residents.  I have seen the Diamond Club close and delivered new cabaret legislation that protects the village from adult use and opens live music to restaurants.  We’ve embarked on the process of addressing zoning issues and a new framework or vision of Port Chester through the comprehensive plan.  The accomplishments as well as the hours were many, understanding the civic responsibility of each decision made my experience very satisfying and positive.

“I conclude by highlighting my deep respect for Port Chester’s village staff who work tirelessly day in and day out to provide the essential services that makes our community such a wonderful community to reside in.  To the volunteer’s that serve on our commissions and my fellow members of the Board of Trustees, past and present, I extend my utmost thanks and appreciation for their sincerity, passion and effectiveness in performing the tasks and responsibilities of the office.  I look forward to the future when I may once again serve the residents of Port Chester.”