Republican and Conservative Party incumbent Rob Rolison joined Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo to discuss his reelection campaign for New York State Senate District 39, his legislative record in Albany and the issues facing Hudson Valley residents ahead of the November election.

Rolison is running against Democratic and Working Families Party candidate Lisa Kaul, a Dutchess County legislator. District 39 includes portions of Dutchess, Orange and Putnam counties.

Rolison has represented the district since 2023. Before joining the State Senate, he served as mayor of Poughkeepsie, a Dutchess County legislator and a police officer.

During the interview, Rolison discussed his experience in government and why he is seeking another term. He described himself as an independent voice in Albany and said he approaches legislation based on what he believes is best for the district rather than political party affiliation.

Rolison said his experience in local government has helped him understand the challenges facing communities across the Hudson Valley, particularly when it comes to housing, infrastructure and public safety.

Affordability was a major focus of the conversation. Rolison identified rising costs as one of the most pressing concerns facing families across the district.

On energy costs, Rolison discussed legislation he introduced that would temporarily eliminate certain taxes and surcharges on utility bills.

He argued that the proposal, which he refers to as a utility tax holiday, would provide immediate financial relief to residents struggling with high electricity and heating costs.

Rolison said the legislation could reduce portions of utility bills associated with taxes, tariffs and other charges. He also discussed efforts to gain support for the proposal from lawmakers in both parties.

Housing affordability was another focus. Rolison acknowledged the shortage of affordable housing across New York but emphasized the importance of allowing municipalities to make their own decisions about development.

He criticized proposals that would allow the state to override local zoning decisions to meet housing targets, arguing that communities should maintain control over how and where housing is built.

Rolison expressed support for state funding that helps municipalities expand housing by addressing infrastructure needs, including aging water and sewer systems.

Drawing on his experience as Poughkeepsie mayor, he discussed efforts to encourage different types of housing, including market-rate, mixed-income and affordable housing developments.

Public safety and criminal justice reform were also discussed.

Rolison, a retired police officer, reflected on his experience in law enforcement and his involvement in policing reforms during his time as mayor.

He discussed efforts to improve police training, accountability and transparency, including changes made following the killing of George Floyd in 2020.

Rolison also criticized portions of New York’s bail reform laws, arguing that judges should have greater discretion when determining whether defendants should be detained before trial.

He expressed concerns about the state’s Raise the Age law, which changed how certain cases involving younger defendants are handled in the criminal justice system.

Rolison argued that the law has created challenges for law enforcement and prosecutors when dealing with serious offenses involving young people. He discussed legislation intended to address those concerns.

Mental health was another focus of the conversation. Rolison said more attention should be given to mental health services for children and young adults, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.

He called for additional funding and better coordination among state agencies, schools and community-based organizations providing mental health and addiction treatment services.

Rolison highlighted a program developed during his time as Poughkeepsie mayor that brought mental health professionals into closer collaboration with police and community outreach teams.

He said he would like to see similar approaches expanded across New York.

The interview also addressed differences between Rolison and his opponent on the role of state government.

Rolison criticized proposals for publicly owned utilities and a statewide universal healthcare system, raising concerns about their costs and the level of government involvement.

He specifically questioned Kaul’s support for public power and the New York Health Act, arguing that those approaches would give the state greater control over services currently provided through other systems.

When asked why voters should choose him over Kaul, Rolison pointed to his experience in local and state government, his background in public safety and his approach to working across party lines.

He said maintaining local control, addressing affordability and improving government accountability would remain priorities if reelected.