Mike Whitton

I am running for re-election as Town Supervisor because I care deeply about the future of the Town of Clinton—our finances, our environment, and our community.

I was born and raised in Clinton, and I’m proud to raise my children here. I believe that doing what’s right for our town comes before politics. Party affiliation does not—and should not—determine good governance. My decisions are guided by what’s best for our residents and our shared future.

The most important role of the Town Supervisor is managing finances responsibly. I created a budget that resulted in the lowest tax rate for residents since 2011, and the third lowest since records began in 1973. I’ve led annual updates to the Town Fee Schedule, which ensures that costs are fairly borne by users of services rather than all taxpayers. I always seek innovative ways to increase revenue without raising taxes, because I understand the importance of keeping Clinton affordable for all. My focus is always on improving services while lowering costs.

Government should serve people and invite participation. That’s why I’ve helped make the annual Tree and Menorah Lighting a festive community tradition. We’ve recognized Mental Health Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month to promote wellness and solidarity. I secured a long-term lease for the Clinton Community Library, ensuring this essential resource continues to serve generations to come.

Protecting Clinton’s natural beauty and agricultural character is one of my top priorities. Under my leadership, Clinton earned Bronze Certification in New York State’s Climate Smart Communities program, bringing in $60,000 in grant funding and positioning us for more. Our Climate Smart Task Force is actively reducing greenhouse gas emissions and developing a roadmap for a more sustainable future.

In March 2023, I was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor in my cerebellum, which required surgery. Recovery has been a difficult journey. I was later diagnosed with Cerebellar Ataxia, a condition that affects my balance and coordination, most noticeably, my speech. But let me be absolutely clear: my cognitive abilities remain completely unaffected.

Despite this challenge, I have never stopped serving Clinton. I have continued to lead, to listen, and to deliver results. I carry physical scars, but I also carry a deepened resolve. I’ve faced a brain tumor and come out stronger. I can do this job, and I will continue doing it with the same energy, dedication, and honesty I’ve always brought to the role.

My work during the recent extreme weather event on July 3 is a perfect example. Despite the physical challenges I face, I knew what mattered most: our community. I worked through the holiday weekend to ensure that power and internet were restored as quickly as possible, roads were reopened promptly, and, above all, our residents remained safe.

Luck has played no part in these successes. I work hard and believe in compromise, common sense, and collaboration. I treat everyone with respect, work with people from all walks of life, and find the best solutions for our town together.

These are the values I was raised with in Clinton, and they are the values I bring into the Supervisor’s office every single day. With your support, I will continue to protect what makes Clinton special—fiscally, environmentally, and culturally—for the next generation and beyond.