I am a lifelong resident of Southampton Village, and our greatest asset has always been the unity of our village. Lately, we have been losing sight of working together and sharing the endeavors of all residents to make the village the “special place” we all know.
A recent letter circulated to the Southampton Association by a single individual describes my dedication to the village as a “mini Epley,” resulting from my past appointment of Zack Epley to a Village Board. Comments such as these are in poor taste, divide communities and are certainly not what I would expect to see.
For 10 years I served with Mayor Mark Epley — we often disagreed in direction, governance and legislation. I could have run on the Epley ticket but always remained independent, running against the Epley ticket.
If elected, I have no intent of bringing back the “old guard,” as the rumor mill claims. We will move forward as a community to be proud of, as we have done for more than 300 years.
Southampton Village does not need massive and expensive full-page ad campaigns, nor the social media blitzes and copious funding, to win elections. They only divide the community.
What we do need is an individual not driven by drama, bullying or being a victim, but an individual who can lead Southampton Village forward in a respectable, equal and ethical manner that we all can be proud of for generations to come.
Michael Irving
Southampton Village
Mr. Irving, a former mayor and village trustee, is a candidate for mayor of the Village of Southampton — Ed.
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