The man who’s introducing himself as Cobleskill’s next mayor kicked off his unofficial campaign with a bang.
Contractor and developer Mark Nadeau took the floor at the first public portion of last Tuesday’s meeting to outline a wide-ranging laundry list of concerns, from sidewalk repairs to whether the Town of Cobleskill should be buying real estate on Union Street.
Last on his list, Mr. Nadeau asked Mayor Mike Sellers and trustees to consider posting Cobleskill-Richmondville’s character trait of the month on the front of their table, and since he’d happened to bring along “pride” with him, offered to post it.
Sure, he was told, but it was hot work; midway through, Mr. Nadeau removed his vest to reveal the words, “Mayor, 231-0212,” on the back of his t-shirt.
As those behind in the audience reacted, Mayor Sellers and trustees were forced to try to figure out what was going on.
“Okay, turn around so we can see the back,” Mayor Sellers said finally, giving those on the other side of the table a look at Mr. Nadeau’s
Mayor, 231-0212” message, and those he was now facing a look at the front and one word: “Change.”
Quizzed after the meeting, Mr. Nadeau refused to confirm he’s running for mayor.
The first day to sign petitions for the job is July 7, he said, and the need for change is too an important one to jeopardize.
Finally, Mr. Nadeau admitted he “intends to file a nominating petition” for mayor.
“We can’t leave anything to chance,” he said. “It’s too important. Not just for Cobleskill, but for all of Schoharie County.”
Quipping during other discussion that “I’m only going to be mayor a few more months,” Mayor Sellers confirmed afterwards that he’s not seeking a second term.
“It’s time to get a real job,” he said. “I need some time off. But I’ll be back.”
Linda Holmes and Bob LaPietra were just elected in November, but fellow trustees Mark Galasso and Sandy MacKay, elected four years ago with Mayor Sellers, said they’re both thinking about a second run.
Mr. Galasso said he will likely run again as trustee, but not as mayor.
Mr. MacKay said he’s not sure, but considering it, and if he runs again, could run as trustee—or mayor.
Former trustee Floyd Holmes was in the audience—he’s Ms. Holmes’ husband—but said he was just stopping by an a rare night off from work and doesn’t plan to run again.
For his part, Mr. Nadeau said he has a lot of people interested in being potential running mates.
“I have a crowd,” he said.