Guest Editorial: Why I am running for trustee on the Croton Democrats ticket.

Yesterday and today we feature statements by two first time candidates.

by Karen Pecora

Editor’s Note: November may seem far off, but campaigning for three contested seats on the Croton Board of Trustees is getting under way. We asked the two candidates who are running for the first time—Stacey Nachtaler for Voice of Croton, and Karen Pecora for Croton Democrats—to tell the community who they are, why they are running, and what they stand for. We published Stacey Nachtaler’s statement yesterday.

I am excited to announce my candidacy for the position of Village Trustee in Croton-on-Hudson. With over three decades of public service and union leadership experience, I am eager to bring my dedication, leadership, and collaborative spirit to our Village Board.

I’ve called this beautiful village home for nearly eight years and have loved every minute of it. I still remember one of my first walks down Riverside Avenue, where the Halloween decorations on lampposts — the ghosts, skeletons, and Frankensteins — made me fall in love with the charm and creativity of this community.

Since moving here, I’ve been proud to serve on the Recreation Advisory Committee and have regularly attended Village Board meetings to stay engaged. I’ve always believed that getting involved is the first step in creating meaningful change.

When I heard a Trustee seat would be opening, I knew it was time to step forward. Though I’ve run and won elections within the union, this is my first time running for public office — and I am ready.

My journey in public service began in 1990 when I began working for Westchester County at Playland Park. I soon became a member of the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA), and within two years, I was appointed Shop Steward and Activist. That began a long, fulfilling career in which I consistently stepped up to serve and lead.

I advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming president of CSEA Unit 9200. Advocating for my fellow workers was not always easy. In 2012, I was targeted as part of a wave of layoffs by the Astorino administration in retaliation for my union activism. However, with the support of my brothers and sisters,

I persevered and was reinstated by an arbitrator. Ultimately, we succeeded in winning raises for 3,000 county workers who had been without raises for 7 years.

Now that I have retired from County service, I am ready to bring my years of experience in leadership, advocacy, and public service to benefit the residents of Croton-on-Hudson.

As Trustee, I will work to:

● Support and promote our local small businesses

● Encourage responsible economic development

● Preserve Croton’s natural environment and green spaces

● Celebrate and showcase our village’s rich history

● Foster community involvement and transparency in local government

● Make Croton a welcoming place for new families and longtime residents alike.

Croton-on-Hudson is a special place — and I believe our best days are still ahead. I would be honored to earn your support and your vote as we work together to strengthen and protect the vibrant community we all call home.

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