Jefferson County Legislator Allen T. Drake announces he won’t seek re-election this fall

January 9, 2023

To all the voters of County Legislative District 4:

I am not seeking reelection this November to another term on the Jefferson County Board of Legislators District 4. This year will be my fifteenth year as a Legislator and the reason I am not seeking another term is simple – I feel it is time. I am certain that my replacement will provide a fresh perspective with the issues of the County, and I wish my replacement well.

First, I want to thank the voters of my District for electing me. I want to thank all the Town Boards, Village Boards, elected and appointed officials in my District for the cooperative attitude they demonstrated in working with me for the betterment of our community. I admire the commitment these public servants have in making our community a better place.

At the county level, to my fellow County Legislators, I wish to express my gratitude for serving with you and hope you continue your service to the people of our county. To the employees of our county, I admire what you have done to improve the efficiency of county government and I am of the opinion that our sound financial position is account of your efforts.

I also want to recognize all the volunteers in my District that serve our community. The members of our fire departments, ambulance squad members, service club members, food bank workers, youth sports and recreation volunteers, board members of various towns and villages – all the people who give their time to serve towards the betterment of our community, you deserve praise and recognition.

As I wind down my term, I want to share two thoughts to keep in mind. First, my District will grow. More people now have the ability to work from home. Our area offers quiet, scenic, remote qualities of life that many people will seek. Our weather may be cold but the people are warm. Secondly, the greatest resource in our county is Jefferson Community College. Our College offers younger and older people an opportunity to explore or change career possibilities. There are so many people that started their careers at JCC that can testify to this.

Finally, I publicly want to thank my personal health care provider, dietitian, mental health provider, advisor, campaign worker, secretary, chauffeur, and best friend – my wife Terry. She helped me make the transition from a teacher to a town supervisor, and later, to a county government official.

Respectfully submitted,

Allen Drake