Residents of Saugerties, New York, will head to the polls in November 2025 to elect members of the Town Board, a process that has sparked discussions on political norms and local governance. Among the candidates is the four-term incumbent Supervisor Fred Costello, who faces off against community activist Gaetana Ciarlante. The election will also determine two council member positions, contested by incumbent Zachary Horton alongside first-time candidates Bill Barr, Michael Sasso, and Stephanie Bassler.
Fred Costello, 56, represents the Democratic and Working Families parties. He has served on the Town Board since 2004 and has been supervisor since 2018. A local businessman running Sue’s Pizza, he has previously attempted to secure a seat in the Ulster County Legislature in 2000, although he was unsuccessful. Costello emphasizes the importance of addressing local land use regulations, particularly regarding the controversial development project on Winston Farm.
“The elephant in the room is Winston Farm for the near term,” Costello stated. He criticized the current zoning laws as outdated, stating they do not align with climate goals or community needs. He advocates for reforms that would enhance economic and recreational opportunities in the town.
In contrast, Gaetana Ciarlante, 71, is running on the Conservative line. A lifelong resident and owner of Riverfront Preservation bed and breakfast, she has previously sought election for supervisor and town justice. Ciarlante highlights concerns over transparency in local governance, remarking, “A lot of decisions are made behind closed doors.” She also pointed to a recent audit by the state Comptroller that uncovered significant financial irregularities within the Town Board, including improper authorization of bills and credit card purchases.
Ciarlante’s campaign criticizes Costello’s tenure, stating, “No one is running against Fred… I think the voters deserve a choice.”
Zachary Horton, 33, is seeking a second term as a council member on the Republican and Conservative lines. He currently works as a public safety supervisor for the New York Division of Homeland Security. Horton believes in responsible zoning and the necessity for infrastructure updates in several areas, including Bluestone Park and Barclay Heights. He also expressed concern over recruitment and retention in local emergency services, noting ongoing turnover at the Police Department.
First-time candidate Bill Barr, 78, brings a wealth of experience from his previous federal government service. He aims to address issues of safety in schools and community transparency. “We need to examine whether there is a culture of tolerance,” Barr said, referring to past scandals involving local governance. He also advocates for balancing development interests with environmental protection, particularly in relation to Winston Farm.
Another newcomer, Michael Sasso, 55, a senior director of Bright Light Lottery, emphasizes the need to evaluate town expenses to manage costs effectively. He believes that promoting local business development is crucial for Saugerties’ future prosperity.
Finally, Stephanie Bassler, 55, an architect and certified passive-house consultant, aims to strengthen zoning regulations to protect Saugerties’ natural resources. “The profit-driven developer priorities are not always aligned with the priorities that Saugerties has already expressed,” she remarked, highlighting the need for development that supports community values.
In addition to these contested races, the ballot will also feature uncontested positions for Clerk Lisa Stanley, Tax Collector Diane Friedmann, and Raymond Mayone, who are seeking re-election on the Republican and Conservative lines.
As November approaches, the outcomes of these elections will significantly shape the future of Saugerties, as candidates present their visions for a town facing critical decisions on development, transparency, and community engagement.