Resident Endorses Trustee Duo Over App Plan

A dispute over a village phone app has sharpened the race for two open seats on the Pelham Manor board of trustees. Tara Weishaupl, a resident at 39 Sherwood Avenue, wrote a letter of endorsement for Republican candidates Ryan Kurtz and Chris Dlutowski, citing their support for the digital tool as a defining example of their governing style. Weishaupl argued that the pair will "protect everything that makes Pelham Manor wonderful and deliver even more."

The technology in question has existed for more than 15 years, Weishaupl noted, and is widely used by thousands of other communities. During a recent candidate forum, a Republican opponent raised concerns about potential legal or insurance liability associated with the app. Kurtz responded by emphasizing the value of seeing opportunities rather than obstacles, a stance Weishaupl described as a good illustration of how the candidates approach local governance.

Village leaders have previously argued that an app is unnecessary because residents can use a simple phone call or email. They also noted that the Village Manager is always available to talk to residents. Weishaupl countered that there has to be a better way. In 2023, she contacted the Manor office repeatedly by phone regarding a safety issue near her home. After not hearing back, she resorted to sending a registered letter via the post office.

Weishaupl stated that an app would allow citizens to tap a button to report a hazard or make a request in the moment. She argued this method would give the village more information without eliminating existing options. The tool would provide another way for residents to raise their hand and help keep the community beautiful and functioning. She added that the app would free up staff time for matters that require personal attention, thereby improving efficiency.

Weishaupl also addressed the concern that an app would allow residents to set the village's priorities. She explained that residents would report what they see, but the village manager and staff would decide what gets done and in what order, exactly as they do with a phone call or email. She urged readers to join her in supporting the candidates who embrace a positive, we-can-make-it-work approach. Weishaupl concluded that Kurtz and Dlutowski will preserve the village's strengths while adding everyday benefits.