Greenwood Lake Board of Trustees Candidate John William Trazino
John Trazino responded to four questions the Tri-State Lookout asked of Greenwood Lake Board of Trustees candidates.
1. What incident or circumstance prompted you to run for Greenwood Lake Board of Trustees?
I hold myself to the same standards that I expect from anyone else. Raised in Greenwood Lake, like my Mother before me, I have always been very involved in community events and organizations. I played local sports as a kid, worked at the local businesses, donated time & services to my church, became a member of local clubs like the Gaelic Society (past Trustee) and the Elks, coached various sports, served as an asst. Scout den leader, volunteer GWL EMS & Firefighter then Police Officer. My career then took me to the OC Sheriff’s Office, working for the elected Sheriff. Representing the county, I worked regularly with politicians of every level. I always kept my finger on the pulse of my hometown and paid close attention to local politics, concerns, victories and difficulties. When I retired from my position with the county, I was no longer on call 24/7 and knew immediately that I wanted to serve my village once again by running for office. By holding myself to the same high-standard I expect from all politicians, I feel it is my duty to step into the arena now that I have a schedule that allows me. That is how our system is supposed to work: good people offering themselves in taking on their civic duty to represent the people of their community, as opposed to “career politicians” who see themselves as destined to lead the people.
2. What experience and/or education has prepared you to be effective in the trustee role?
My education, training and certifications are a long list that I would happily discuss with anyone, but would take too much room to write here. 23 Years as a Police Officer; rising from Patrolman to Investigator to Sergeant to the Team Leader of the OC Special Operations Group (SOG) to Chief of Police. For 17 years on SOG, we were tasked with any matter that fell outside of the capabilities of regular Patrol: a career of being presented with high-stake & complex problems, thinking outside of the box, then solving the issue. This is exactly why I was chosen to become the Chief of Police. It is this same method that I will bring in as a Trustee.
3. What goals do you have if elected--what do you want to accomplish?
Preserve GWL from being the next community overrun by developers who would seek to push out our residents. At the same time, work with local businesses to plot courses for both their success and the success of the Village. Bring back or invigorate the wonderful events that I remember from my childhood which gave Lakers the extraordinary bond we are famous for.
4. How would you go about accomplishing your goals in Greenwood Lake?
For me, this is simple: I walk amongst the people. I talk to the people. Where the people are, that’s where you find me, in good times or bad. I never hide or separate myself from the people that I have served and wish to continue serving. I hear every concern, compliment or complaint. Political position is not something to be wielded, it is meant to be a conduit through which government partners with the people.
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