The Peru Gazette

Melvin Irwin

Nick Weaver

Dwane Bast

Three candidates are vying for two seats on the Peru Town Board.  Councilman Jim Douglass is not running for reelection. Incumbent Republican Melvin Irwin has served on the board since January 2018. Republican Dwane Bast and Democrat Nick Weaver have not served on the board.

1. Summarize your educational back ground, primary employment, a little about your family, and your past community involvement. how will/does your background make you an influential board member?

Dwane Bast 

I graduated from Peru Central School in 1982 and subsequently attended college.  I am a proud husband of twenty-five plus years, father of two successful children and grandfather of two beautiful grandchildren. I have been actively involved with Saint Augustine’s Church for 25 years. Previously, I was a member of both the Lions Club and the Kiwanis Club.  Being part of these community organizations has taught me teamwork and goal achievement.  I have owned and operated a small business in the North Country for 18 years; this helps me understand how to be successful and stay within budget.

Melvin Irwin 

My name is Melvin Irwin and I am asking for your vote again this year. I am a lifelong resident of Peru, a farmer, tax payer, a college graduate and a father of four daughters and a husband of Darcy Sutherland.

Nick Weaver 

My name is Nick Weaver. I am a graduate of Peru High School class of 01. I have a degree from CVTech in machining and computer design. I do have some college hours completed in education. I currently live on my family farm with my father who is 80 years old. I definitely grew up in Peru doing activities like sports in school (football wrestling track) and different things like attending the apple fest, Donating to the Run for Jon, and other community events. I was recently inducted into the Peru athletics hall of fame Mainly for being a state champion Wrestler. I make a lot of contributions to the community through the little pizza shop and through my riding club Jesters court. I think what will make me an influencer is my abilities as a business owner and as the president of my Riding club I have already been acclimated to the situation that not everyone is going to agree on everything but still trying to find the best way forward, because ultimately I feel that’s what the job is.

2. Why are you running for election/reelection to the town board

Dwane Bast 

I am seeking election to the Peru Town Board with the goal of maintaining Peru’s reputation as one of the most outstanding small towns in the North Country.  I’m the third generation in our Main Street home.  We relocated to Peru to raise our children, and this decision has had an impact on our family. I want Peru to continue to be the place that feels safe and allows families to grow strong.

Melvin Irwin 

I am running again this year because I feel I have some unfinished business, we’ve got water and sewer projects underway and a lot of possibilities in our recent land acquisitions!

Nick Weaver 

I am running for a board seat because I have always been interested in politics and sorta had it explained to me this is a great starting point. It gives you the ability to see and understand what is going on while still having some major checks involved (the other board members)  to hopefully make a positive decision.

3. What town issues concern you the most?

Dwane Bast 

My main concern is ensuring our town remains affordable for everyone.   I will work to stabilize our costs so that we can keep Peru accessible to everyone.

Melvin Irwin 

The issue that concerns me the most is the amount of money we are spending on state mandated water and sewer projects, we’ve been very fortunate to have succeeded in acquiring several no interest loans but the principal still must be paid! I believe the only resolution is to grow this town to dilute the cost over a larger population.

Nick Weaver 

I’m not exactly sure on any specific concerns the town has but I am very open and willing to discuss them. I like to think I look at most issues from a point of view that most people would find reasonable.

4. Do you have specific ideas on how Peru can attract more residents to our community at a time when the North country’s population is decreasing.

Dwane Bast 

I understand that the North Country and our State have a declining population.  I believe that we can work at acquiring grants to help Peru.

Melvin Irwin 

As previously stated this town needs to grow especially with young families and we are off to a good start we have a youth program that is second to none in this county, we have a vigorous farm market that is beneficial to all businesses in town, we’ve recently acquired a large tract of land fully grant funded , with enormous potential for family activities.

Nick Weaver 

I would say keep going like it always has, Peru has always been a strong, inspirational, and pretty amazing place in the north country. If for nothing else we do things right. We place emphasis on things like education and family values. In turn that is how I try to live my life.

5. Do you think the town board should encourage affordable housing development, especially inside the hamlet water-sewer district? if yes, how could the town board actively encourage this development?

Dwane Bast 

I lack sufficient information on affordable housing in the hamlet of Peru.  I am not currently on the Town Board and in the meetings that I have attended over the last decade, there was no mention of affordable housing.

Melvin Irwin 

I’m in favor of affordable housing and Peru is a Pro housing community but we need to proceed very cautiously here, we’ve seen other towns rush into this and the police records indicate that we need to be cautious!

Nick Weaver 

I think affordable housing is a need in every community, probably  more so now then ever before, but having never discussed it before I would need more information to come up with my answer on this issue. Every community needs some version of affordable housing but its finding the one application that fits the community best and executing it.

Craig Randall

As in previous elections, the Peru Gazette asked several questions to candidates for elective offices in the Town of Peru. Current town supervisor Craig Randall is the Republican Party candidate, while the Peru Democratic Party does not have a candidate. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.

1.   Summarize your educational background, primary employment, family life and past community involvement. How do you believe your background makes you an effective community supervisor? 

Born and raised in Lake Placid, NY, I graduated from Northwood School and attended Syracuse University. When I left college, I began a 45-year career with the Bank of Lake Placid (NBT Bank) as a commercial banking officer. My wife, Cheryl, is a native of Peru, NY and we are the parents of three sons and a daughter, and the grandparents to five grandchildren, 

When living in Lake Placid, I was active in many community organizations including Chair of Adirondack Medical Center Board of Trustees, President of the Deo Coburn Education Foundation.

Requirements of the Peru Supervisor’s position are very similar to what I experienced as Mayor of the Village of Lake Placid over a twelve-year period, and that’s why I was approached to fill the vacancy that occurred in the summer of 2024.

2. Why are you running for election as Town Supervisor?

I was appointed by the Peru Town Board approximately a year ago to fill the unexpired term of the previous supervisor. At the time I assumed there would be other candidates for the office, however, none surfaced. In view of the various projects underway in the town, I agreed to seek election to the office.

3. What are your most significant accomplishments as town supervisor? 

In the year I have been in office, I have developed budgets that continue to meet the 2% tax cap at a time when costs are rising. At the same time, much of my attention has been focused on a new sewer plant, and water treatment plant upgrades that the town is under NYS mandate to accomplish. 

4. What Town issues concern you the most?

The mandated water and wastewater treatment projects will come with increase costs despite various grant funds and interest free financing provided by NYS. In addition, we have several town roads requiring culvert/bridge replacements, not to mention ongoing repavement of road surfaces. 

5. Do you have specific ideas on how Peru can attract more residents to our community at a time when the North Country’s population is decreasing? 

Peru’s ability to attract more residents has been limited by the availability of housing. In the past year I have noticed that as homes come on the market, they generally turnover in less than 30 days, evidencing a positive flow of people seeking to live in the town. The Town Board  is supportive of additional new housing and encourages developers to build new homes in the township. It is well known that families with young children seek housing within the Peru school district, and the reason is that the school not only provides excellent education, but also extracurricular activities and sports program. The town also provides a very successful youth recreation program. 

6. Do you think the town board should encourage affordable housing development, especially inside the hamlet water-sewer district? If yes, how could the town board actively encourage this development?

Yes. The town is seeking to upgrade its 20-year-old comprehensive plan especially inside the water-sewer districts where the current  plant projects will generate additional cost  for properties within the districts. Additional housing development within the districts is one way to help offset some of the anticipated costs that will be carried by the users.

Town Justice James Kirby

Sarah L Mitchell

Incumbent James Kirby and Democrat Sarah Mitchell are competing for a Peru Town Justice position.  Michell’s name also appears on the “We Are Peru” independent party line. Peru Republicans do not have a nominee.

Having battled serious illness for several months, Democrat James Kirby stated he would not seek reelection; hence, Sarah Mitchell decided to pursue the town justice position. Feeling better, Kirby decided to seek reelection and attended the Peru Democrats’ caucus on June 16; however, by then, Sarah Mitchell had garnered support. Mitchell defeated Kirby in a secret ballot caucus vote. Following the caucus, Kirby launched a write-in campaign.

The Peru Gazette posed five questions to Kirby and Mitchell. Here are their responses.

1. Summarize your educational background, a brief employment history, a little about your family, and past community involvement. 

James Kirby 

I have lived in Peru, NY all my life. 

I am the Town Judge in Peru (16 ys). I have been the owner/operator of Kirby Builders and Millworks ( 30+ yrs). 

I am a graduate of Peru Central School obtaining a Diploma in 1975.  I attended CV-TEC with a completion Certificate in Diesel Mechanics.

I have been involved in the community of Peru by doing what I do best.  I have been available over the years to help any community members that have reached out in there time of need.  

Sarah L. Mitchell

I am a lifelong resident of Peru, graduating from Peru School and earning a bachelor’s degree in biology from SUNY Plattsburgh. I am an EMS instructor for Clinton Community College and 25-year employee of CVPH, the last 21 years serving Peru and Keeseville as a Paramedic. My husband and I have two children who are attending college. I have served my community as a volunteer firefighter/EMT for Peru FD, held various board positions for Peru Nursery School, and Peru PTO. Currently, I am the Vice President of the Peru School Board of Education.

2) What motivates you to serve as one of Peru’s two Town Justices?

James Kirby 

I am motivated to seek re-election for Town Judge to finish what I had started 16 ys ago. I had accepted this role when first elected and welcomed the challenge to be a part of something that was unfamiliar.  Being the Judge, I have been able to strengthen the relationships between all individuals involved in the criminal justice system, including the DA’s office, law enforcement and private attorneys.  I have forge great relationships with other local judges which in turn allows me to do my job to the best of my ability.

Sarah L. Mitchell 

My motivation is a deep-rooted commitment to service and desire to ensure our community’s court operates with fairness, respect, and accessibility for everyone. My life is dedicated to public safety and well-being. I’ve spent years in high-pressure situations making calm, critical decisions under strict regulations (skills directly transferable to the courtroom). I believe Town Justice is a foundational cornerstone of local government and community trust. I will bring my proven experience in fair-minded leadership and objective judgment to uphold the law and serve all of Peru.

3) Why should voters cast their ballot for you?

James Kirby 

I am more than qualified to be Town Justice as I have been in my current role as judge for 16 years.   I have the experience and the knowledge to continue to serve as Town Judge in protecting the rights of all individuals that come before me.  I have forged a great reputation for the Peru Town Court to be an exemplary model of how court and the processes should work. The court is often a resource for other courts providing the guidance needed including the accurate completion of paperwork, required trainings and of my availability, 24/7, in supporting law enforcement for arraignments.

Sarah L. Mitchell

Voters should choose me because I offer a unique and essential blend of real-world experience, legal training, and community involvement, including:

• Professional Judgment: As a Paramedic, I demonstrate an ability to remain impartial, gather facts quickly, and make decisions that impact lives.
• Governmental Acumen: As a School Board VP, I have extensive knowledge in navigating governmental regulations, budget oversight, and weighing diverse viewpoints to reach consensus.
• Community Understanding: As a lifelong resident, I understand the local issues, the citizens, and the values of Peru.

I am committed to running a court that is:

• Fair and Impartial: Ensuring everyone is treated equally under the law.
• Respectful: Guaranteeing a courteous environment for all parties.
• Accessible: Holding court sessions that respect litigants’ time, clearly communicating procedures.

I have the work ethic and the community-first perspective needed of an exceptional Town Justice.

4) How will you maintain your independence as a Judge while also serving as an elected official?

James Kirby 

Our system dictates in most cases that Town Justice’s must appear on the ballot and be elected by the people. This occurs once every 4 years. Once elected, I remain independent with no party involvement  allowing me to perform the duties of the job in which I have sworn the oath of office. 

Sarah L. Mitchell 

Maintaining judicial independence is paramount. Once I take the bench, my community involvement and elected status are secondary to upholding the Constitution and laws of NY State. I will:

• Rule solely on the facts presented and applicable law, without regard to personal opinions, political leanings, or individuals’ identities.
• Prioritize ongoing judicial training to stay current on legal standards, ensuring legally sound decisions.
• Adhere strictly to the NY State Code of Judicial Conduct; avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, including recusing myself when a conflict of interest or compromise in the perception of fairness could occur.

My history of public service has instilled in me the discipline to put process, regulations, and objective decision-making ahead of personal feelings or public pressure. That same discipline will be the foundation of my independence as Town Justice.

New York counties thought they had months to prepare to implement SNAP work requirements. Now, they have weeks.

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Pulled Pork & Mac’n Cheese 

Fruit 

Bread

Dessert 

Served 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., take-out only, at St. Augustine’s Parish Center, 3030 Main St., Peru, NY 12972. 

All are invited and welcome!

Peru CSD Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the High School Community Room. It is anticipated that an executive session will take place immediately following the 6:00 PM start, and that the Board will reconvene for open public session business at approximately 7:00 PM. The meeting will be recorded and will be available on the District’s website at www.perunighthawks.org.  

The meeting is open to the public and current District, County, State and Federal safety procedures and protocols will be followed. 

Currently, two (2) public comment opportunities are planned as follows:

First public comment: Related to items on the agenda. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker.  

Second public comment: Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker.  

Individuals who are unable to attend the regular meeting in person may submit public comments by emailing perucomments@perucsd.org no later than noon on Tuesday, October 14. Online comments are also subject to the conditions stated above.

Anticipated topics include:

• Public Hearing on the amended Districtwide Emergency Response Plan (DERP)

• Policy Review

• Personnel Appointments

• Regionalization Plan

The complete agenda will be available via BoardDocs on the District’s website (www.perunighthawks.org).

Click here for the VTDigger story 

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Governor’s letter signals state interest in buying 32,000 acres to add to Adirondack Forest Preserve

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Angling meets community at popular salmon pool in Plattsburgh

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Click here for the WAMC Story 

It’s not a permanent closure, and the board has issued a call to raise approximately $350,000 needed to revive operations.

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Von Elbe moves next to the duet battle rounds, where he’ll be pitted against another performer 

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2025 Art Festival Photo Provided

2025 Arts Festival photo provided. Allison Arnold helps at many community events!

2025 Arts Festival Photo Provided

AdkAction and the Keeseville Free Library are pleased to announce that the Keeseville Community Arts Festival, a beloved celebration of arts and community, will transition to new leadership beginning in 2026. The Library will now serve as the lead organizer of the event, with AdkAction providing support throughout the transition year.

The 2026 Keeseville Community Arts Festival will take place with a week of community events leading up to the main festival day on Saturday, July 18, 2026, also marking the 100th anniversary of the Keeseville Free Library.

The festival, first launched by AdkAction in 2018, began as a plein air painting event and has since grown into a dynamic, multi-day celebration that brings together over 40 artists, local businesses, and over 500 community members and visitors each year. Survey feedback from the 2025 festival showed overwhelming community pride and excitement, with attendees praising the event for its art, people, and ability to strengthen Keeseville’s identity.

“AdkAction has always seen part of its role as incubating ideas and piloting projects that can grow into sustainable, community-led initiatives,” said Sawyer Bailey, Executive Director of AdkAction. “The Keeseville Community Arts Festival is a perfect example of that model in action. We are thrilled to be passing the festival into the capable hands of the Keeseville Free Library, which will give it the dedicated, local leadership it deserves. In 2026, AdkAction will continue to act as a co-pilot and pit crew, ensuring a smooth transition while opening up space for us to take on new challenges facing the Adirondacks.”

The Keeseville Free Library sees the festival as a natural fit for its mission to serve as a hub for learning, culture, and connection.

“We are excited and honored to take the lead on the Keeseville Community Arts Festival,” said Robyn Pray, Director of the Keeseville Free Library. “This event has already brought so much joy and vitality to our community, and we look forward to building on that momentum. We invite all community members to join us in shaping the next chapter of the festival.”

The Library will host a volunteer meeting on October 29th to engage residents, artists, and local organizations interested in contributing to the planning process. For more information about this meeting, visit AdkAction.org/Art or the Keeseville Free Library’s Facebook page.

Diana Zais, AdkAction Board Member and Arts Festival lead, reflected on the transition: “I’ve watched the Keeseville Community Arts Festival grow from a small plein air gathering into a full-blown community event. It’s been inspiring to see its impact on Keeseville, and I’m committed to ensuring that the festival continues to thrive in its new home at the Library.”

The Keeseville Community Arts Festival has become a hallmark of creative placemaking in the Adirondacks, bringing color, connection, and opportunity to a village with a deep cultural heritage and bright future. Together, AdkAction and the Keeseville Free Library are committed to ensuring the festival continues to flourish as a reflection of all that makes Keeseville special.

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November 15, 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, Clinton County Historical Association Museum, 98 Ohio Avenue, Old Base, Plattsburgh

With a few stitches in the right spot, and some instructions by those in the ‘know’, you can make a shirt or a shift for your Revolutionary War outfit during this America250 Event Workshop.  Workshop leader Sharon Bell will provide you with the materials, tools and instructions. What you don’t finish, you can finish at home.   The workshop is free with all materials supplied but preregistration by October 24^th is a must. To register call 518-561-0340 or email director@clintoncountyhistorical.org.

This workshop is sponsored by the Clinton County America250 Committee under the leadership of the Clinton County Historical Society with funding from a 2025 Special Programs Grant from the Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership.  For more America250 events, go to www.goadirondack.com or www.adcoastcultural.org or www.battleofvalcour.com .  For more information about the American250 commemoration, contact Geri Favreau at 518/561-0340.

TOWN OF PERU

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL June  2025 minutes
5. OPEN FLOOR to public hearing
6. APPLICATIONS:

1. P2025-0014 Site Plan Review;Food Truck, Michele Belanger, 280.1-5-6,  2 Gorman Way

2. P2025-0015 Merge, Forrence Orchards Inc, 268.-1-49 & 268.-1-35.1, 307 Route 22B                     

ANY FURTHER BUSINESS

Sketch plan review  Davey Drive,  Brent Whitcomb

CEO REPORT

ADJOURNMENT

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