Endorsements: DeAtley, Piraino, Nemec for Sleepy Hollow board

Newcomers Steven DeAtley and Anthony Piraino, and incumbent Joseph Nemec are vying for three four-year seats on the Sleepy Hollow village board. Caesar Schiavone is on the ballot but said he's a reluctant candidate and wishes the best for the others.

With revenue sources scant and development space limited, the village constantly has to be mindful of its finances. Two years ago, voters approved a tax increase that provided financial breathing room, though village leaders warned the additional revenue might not be sustainable.

The difficult task is finding new ways to bring in tax dollars while maintaining Sleepy Hollow's quaint, rural atmosphere. Striking a balance was at the center of previous heated debates whether to allow a 125-foot cellphone tower near village hall.

DeAtley said Sleepy Hollow has been a great place to raise his family the last 17 good years. He says his common-sense, listen first/talk second approach has benefits. He agrees the tax increase was necessary and says spending wisely is always in vogue.

Piraino says he's a proponent of common ground en route to accomplishment. He's been to almost every board meeting the last three years and says the board doesn't always listen well to the residents. He wants to have town hall meetings and quarterly "Saturday coffee mornings" where residents can raise issues, be heard and receive support.

Nemec, who has served 10 years over two terms, says the village is not too cash-strapped, though he'd like to be able to pay employees more to remain competitive with neighboring towns.

DeAtley, Piraino and Nemec are endorsed.