Republican incumbent Allen Hinkley joined Radio Catskill’s Kimberly Izar to discuss his reelection campaign for Town of Roxbury Supervisor, his record in office and the issues facing residents of Roxbury and Grand Gorge ahead of the November election.

Hinkley is running against Democratic candidate Tom O’Brien, a former Roxbury Central School superintendent. A lifelong Roxbury resident, Hinkley has served nearly 18 years as a town councilmember and is completing his third term as supervisor.

During the interview, Hinkley discussed his experience in local government and why he is seeking another term. He pointed to several ongoing projects, including the town’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award, as a major reason he wants to continue serving.

Hinkley said the town is working to move forward with projects supported by the funding, including public improvements and private development in the community.

He also highlighted the purchase and renovation of the current Roxbury Town Hall as one of the accomplishments of his administration. Hinkley said the town was able to purchase an existing building and convert it into municipal offices at a lower cost than constructing a new facility.

Housing affordability was another focus of the conversation. Hinkley discussed the impact of second-home ownership and rising property values on longtime residents and working families.

He said the town benefits from the economic activity generated by people purchasing second homes, but acknowledged that higher property values have made it increasingly difficult for local residents to afford housing.

Hinkley also discussed the challenges of managing development within the New York City watershed. He said watershed protections have helped preserve open space and recreational opportunities but can also make it more expensive for businesses and developers to establish operations in the region.

The conversation turned to the role of agriculture, tourism and small businesses in the local economy.

Hinkley described farming and tourism as important parts of Roxbury’s economic base. He pointed to the continued presence of larger agricultural operations and growing interest in smaller specialty farms.

He also highlighted Plattekill Ski Center and other recreational opportunities as contributors to the town’s economy.

Infrastructure was another major topic. Hinkley discussed the challenges of maintaining the town’s three water districts and two sewer districts, particularly aging water lines in Grand Gorge.

He said some of the water infrastructure in Grand Gorge dates back to the 1950s and requires continued repairs and upgrades.

Hinkley highlighted previous improvements that allowed water from Roxbury to be supplied to Grand Gorge, addressing longstanding concerns about water quality.

He also discussed state and federal funding that has helped the town replace water mains, drill a new well and upgrade water system facilities.

Partnerships with Delaware County and the Catskill Watershed Corporation were also discussed. Hinkley, who serves on the corporation’s board of directors, described the importance of programs that help property owners replace failing septic systems and support municipal water infrastructure.

He said the town’s relationship with county government is particularly important because town supervisors also serve on the Delaware County Board of Supervisors.

When asked why voters should choose him over O’Brien, Hinkley pointed to his lifelong connection to Roxbury, his experience in local government and his years of community service.

He discussed his involvement with the local fire department, including serving as fire chief, and emphasized the importance of maintaining relationships with residents and organizations throughout the community.

Looking ahead, Hinkley said he remains optimistic about Roxbury’s future but acknowledged the financial challenges facing older residents and younger families.

He said keeping costs manageable while continuing infrastructure improvements and economic development would remain important priorities if reelected.