Contending to be a trustee in Woodsburgh

Carl Cayne, Gary Goffner and Jake Harman are vying for two trustee seats in the Village of Woodsburgh on June 18.

Cayne, 59, works in real estate management in Queens and has lived in the village for 32 years. He graduated from Hewlett High School. A trustee since 2004, he has also served on the board of zoning and as a fire commissioner. “I believe the rules of Woodsburgh are meant to keep the integrity of the village in tact,” he said. “Home values are up due to some important restrictions we’ve implemented such as coverage of lots so there is not too much cement and more woods and greenery surrounding homes. It’s a delicate balance to work for and please both parties at the same time.”

As trustee he was part of the administration that demanded utility companies repave from curb to curb after repair projects and implemented one-way traffic on some roads for the Orthodox population in the village to walk safely for religious services. “We’re on top of any problems,” he said.

To get more residents involved in village government, Cayne said he wants community members appointed commissioners instead of trustees. “It creates a more diverse atmosphere and there are more opinions,” Cayne said. “It’s important to open up meetings to everyone and get people involved.”

Making the case for his re-election, Cayne said his knowledge is important. “When I sit at the table during an issue, I know a lot,” he said. “I’m a hands on guy and why wouldn’t you want someone who is experienced?”

Goffner, 48, has lived in Woodsburgh for 16 years. He is a real estate developer and pharmacist. He has held two, two-year trustee terms and has been the village’s commissioner of roads. “I’m interested in the community and improving the quality of life in the village,” he said.

Alleviating the tax burden on residents and spending wisely are on Goffner’s agenda if he’s re-elected. “I’m also concerned about infrastructure and beautification to create a sense of pride, as well as concentrating on the quality of services and choices for residents,” he said. “I’m a full-time resident dedicated to working hard and improving the community in which I live and my children go to school in. I am a hard worker who can be counted on to get things done.”