Both parties fill slates for Colonie elections

Three Town Board seats are in contention in this year’s election, leaving room for a political shakeup at Town Hall, depending on whether incumbent Supervisor Paula Mahan wins again.

Board members Christopher Carey, a Republican, and Paul Rosano, a Democrat, are running for re-election. Republican Jennifer Whalen is vacating her seat to run for County Legislature.

The Democratic committee filled its slate for the two remaining open seats on the Town Board with educators.

Brian Austin has been a teacher at North Colonie Central Schools for more than 24 years and previously served as a member of the Planning Board.

“I truly feel that we live in one of the finest towns in the country and wish to see that continue and get even better. I believe communication is the key to a successful organization and will work my hardest to be available for every person in the town,” Austin said.

Jill Penn is an associate principal in the South Colonie Central School District. She said she has dedicated her career to Colonie children and now wants to find an opportunity to serve beyond schools.

Republicans have picked Rick Field, the owner of a Latham real estate company, and Danielle Futia, director of Hospitality at Carondelet Hospitality Center in St. Joseph’s Provincial House, for the Town Board’s two remaining open seats.

Field is the son of Fred Field, who was town supervisor for 18 years.

Veteran politician George Scaringe, who was previously the head of the town and Albany County Republican committees, will challenge Mahan, who is running for her seventh term as supervisor.

“I have always put forth my best efforts to stay true to my platform, open government, accountability, and fiscal responsibility,” Mahan said. “We have come a long way since 2008. The town is on the right track and it continues to move in a positive direction.”

She touted the town’s improved bond rating, increased public safety and infrastructure investment under her tenure. Her critics say her administration appeases developers and lacks transparency about the development process.

Scaringe told the Times Union that, if elected, his priorities would be to bridge gaps between developers and residents to ensure “smart growth,” tackling traffic congestion and keeping taxes low. He said if he wins he would only serve one term and would push to introduce term-limit legislation.

“If people stay in office too long, you sort of get a little stale. I think that’s what’s happening in Town Hall. People think it’s like a family. It’s got to stop.”