Running for re-election in Island Park

          Island Park’s Village officials are getting ready for an easy race next week, with the mayor’s seat, two trustee positions and a village justice position all up for grabs on March 16. Mayor Jim Ruzicka will be seeking a second term in office, as will Trustees Henry “Mickey” Hastava and Joseph Annarella. Village Justice Jeffrey Kuhlman is running for his second term.

Ruzicka, who has lived in Island Park for most of his life, said he decided to run again so he can continue to make positive changes in the community he loves. "I have been involved in this village for as long as I can remember," he said. "It's been an enjoyable ride." Ruzicka considers the passage of Local Law 1, designed to weed out illegal apartments in the village, among his greatest accomplishments as mayor. In his past four years as mayor, Ruzicka also oversaw the beautification of part of Long Beach Road and the resurfacing of Deal Road. He helped implement the village's Neighborhood Watch program and the installation of security cameras to make the community safer. Next, he said, he would like to work on revitalizing the village's downtown area.

Hastava and Annarella hope to help him with that task. Hastava, who replaced a retiring trustee five years ago, heads the village's Department of Parks and Recreation. He has lived in Island Park for 74 years, and believes his experience as a nearly lifelong resident has served him well as a village trustee. Hastava said he is particularly proud of the village's free summer concerts on the beach, and its recreation programs for children.

Annarella, who heads the village's Department of Public Works, would also like to continue working to improve the quality of life for all Island Park residents. He has lived in the village for 42 years. Annarella said the biggest challenge will be striking a balance between providing the village with services while keeping taxes low.

Ruzicka, Hastava and Annarella agreed that one of the most important things they have learned in their years of public service is the importance of listening to residents and doing their best to address community concerns quickly.

Residents can cast their ballots at two polling places on March 16. Those who live south of Sagamore Road can vote at Village Hall, 127 Long Beach Road, and residents north of Sagamore Road will vote at the Fireman's Exempt Building, next to the Island Park Fire Department, at 432 Long Beach Road. Polls are open from noon to 9 p.m.

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