Cairo Democrats Hold Meet and Greet

CAIRO — The Cairo Democratic Committee recently hosted a meet and greet event at the Cairo Public Library, where community members gathered to meet the party's candidates for the upcoming local elections on November 4. 

The event, held on October 19 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00, provided an opportunity for attendees to engage with the candidates and discuss their plans for potential office. The candidates present included Ted Banta, who is running for Town Supervisor, David Fisher, who is running for Town Board, and Sue Hilgendorf, who is running unopposed for the town's Tax Collector.

Ted Banta, a seasoned politician from the area with experience in local government emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility, finding solutions to issues with the town's water and sewer systems, and promoting smart choices for growth. He expressed his support for the Cairo comprehensive plan's efforts to revitalize Main Street and the town at large aligning with his own hopes for progressions in local infrastructure, businesses, technology, and accessibilities. 

Banta shared his thoughts on the proposed luxury housing development in Round Top, a scenic hamlet of Cairo, while expressing support for thoughtful growth, Banta emphasized the importance of balancing new opportunities with community needs. “I encourage and love it when new people want to move to our area,” he said, “but you have to be smart about it.” Banta noted that while the town welcomes fresh investment and new neighbors, any development must be pursued in a way that preserves local resources and safeguards the environment. “There’s a type of growth that we’re looking for,” he added, “but we don’t want it to negatively affect our current state—like with water supplies.” 

David Fisher, A native from Cairo who recently returned after a few years away, has highlighted the need for transparency he would like to see in local government. He emphasized the importance of community input when it comes to planning stating, "I want the people's input on governance, not dictatorship."We want to work with you and for you". 

Sue Hilgendorf who is running unopposed for the position as Cairo's Tax Collector, expressed her dedication to her job and her commitment to being helpful to the community. She encouraged voters to focus on the local level not the national when the election takes place stating "Vote for the person, not the party" 

The event provided a platform for attendees to ask questions and engage with the candidates as well as refreshments like donuts, cookies, pretzels, and seltzer being provided, creating a welcoming atmosphere for discussion and debate.