Editor,

The right and duty of us “We the People” is to vote. It is truly one of the things that make this country so great. This fall we have the opportunity, first in the primary and once again on election day to exercise that right and duty in electing a County Court Judge. This is no small consideration on our part. The term for this position is a 10 year time span. I commend all three candidates for putting themselves in the running for us to scrutinize and at some times second guess. They are all good people.

The County Court Judge is an important position in Chenango County. The position requires a person of integrity, honesty, fairness, experience and intelligence to name just a few character traits we the voter should expect and demand. The County Court judge should be approachable have a good temperament and have the ability to handle sensitive matters in a compassionate confidential manner.

There are some who suggest that the County Court Judge handles mainly Family Court matters. Surrogate Court issues etc. These are a portion of the County Court Judges Duties. They are important duties. I also find the Courts responsibility in handling those people who face serious Criminal Court charges as equally important. These are the duties of the County Court Judge that keep those who rape, murder, steal, burglarize, sell dangerous drugs and prey on our children, out of society. They play a critical role in keeping us safe.