Engineering a sustainable future through fiscal responsibility, inclusive representation, and environmental protection.
Gwen Burke is running to be the next Legislator in Putnam County District 8, Mahopac, vowing to use her professional expertise as an environmental engineer to serve her community. Her goals on the Legislature are to have a cleaner, safer Putnam and more efficient county government. An Environmental Engineer by trade, Gwen manages projects for municipalities throughout New York State. Explaining her career, she commented, “I apply science to solve environmental problems such as improving waste management, water and air quality, and site remediation. I manage projects to prevent pollution, ensure safe drinking water, and clean up contaminated sites. Because of my career experience, I understand how to work with governments to get things done." In addition to the technical issues, Gwen has a deep knowledge of the complex regulations and the role of governments at different levels, from local water districts up to Federal authorities. “The projects I work on have six-figure budgets,” Gwen added. “With an MBA in finance, I know how to manage taxpayer money well.” “The lakes and waterways in Putnam County make our communities beautiful. It’s why we want to live here. I want to make sure they stay clean, to protect our health, preserve our natural beauty, and give our families a place to enjoy,” she remarked. Gwen also spent time as a high school science teacher while raising her three children, who attended Mahopac schools. Like many parents in Mahopac, she was a Girl Scout Leader and soccer Mom. “I am proud to have supported my kids through college, and am delighted my youngest graduates this year,” Gwen remarked. “Now I have more time to support my community and lend my skills and passions to make our county work better for everyone.”
An environmental engineer, Gwen can bring to the County Legislature a deep understanding of the science, regulations, and opportunities to protect our water, land and air quality – and, in turn, our health. Her goals include:
Improve the condition of our lakes through better management of storm water, reduction of fertilizers, and effective agricultural programs.
Make concrete progress on Climate Smart initiatives.
Advance the responsible development and use of renewable energy throughout the County.
Use data to improve the function of water districts.
Optimize performance of water and wastewater treatment facilities in order to allow for responsible development.
Provide leadership to promote recycling.
With an MBA in finance and extensive project management experience, Gwen can make informed decisions and provide leadership to the County Legislature that will result in more effective and efficient use of our tax dollars. Her goals include:
Fiscal transparency! Our citizens should know exactly how our tax dollars are being spent.
A balanced budget. Putnam County’s $93M reserve fund is approximately 40% of the County’s annual budget. 17% would be typical. These reserves should be used to:
— Reduce debt
— Lower taxes
— Improve infrastructure at both the County and town levels
— Strengthen public health services
— Tax breaks that mean something! What good is a tax break on buying shoes when there’s no place selling them in Putnam?
— Long-term planning. Putnam needs a vision and a plan for its future.
Gwen’s work, both professional and volunteer, has brought her in close contact with a diverse population. She believes that all our residents deserve to be respected and served equally. To achieve this, her goals include:
— Representation for all. Over 20% of Putnam County’s population is Latino, but their concerns are not addressed by our government. Similarly, the LGBTQ community is ignored or even shut out.
— Human Rights Commission. Putnam is the only county in the region lacking this resource to address and prevent discrimination in housing, the workplace, and health care services.
— Protections for women. Abused women are not getting the help they need to be safe in both the immediate and long term.
— Stronger public health services. Putnam needs more mental health services, public health nurses; transportation to medical care; and support services for caretakers.
— Housing for all. Putnam is facing a housing crisis that limits options for young people who are just getting started, low income families, and seniors on fixed income.
Paid for By Friends of Gwen Burke