Supervisor Annabi Reflects
As Jacqueline Annabi prepares to leave Town Hall at the end of the year after four years as Town Supervisor and another 11 as a Town Board member, she offered these written responses to questions. The exchange has been lightly edited for clarity and conciseness:
As you look back over your time as Supervisor, what do you consider your three or four most important accomplishments?
I believe the relationships I have created and developed and my experiences over the years helped me to accomplish many projects, including but not limited to securing millions of dollars in funding to repair critical infrastructure and obtaining hundreds of thousands more to modernize essential equipment. Also, working with different agencies to find new ways to offset property taxes and create long-term financial stability for our residents, such as the new and historic establishment of sales tax revenue-sharing. After years of town wide discussions we became the first town in the county to regulate short-term rentals. With this regulation we had requested and were granted an amendment to NYS tax law so Putnam Valley can collect occupancy tax from short-term rental guests. After eighteen months of planning and clearances, I was able to finally upgrade the Town website, I am also very happy that our investments in our Town Park, including the outdoor fitness center, are complete.
As you reflect on your campaign, do you have any regrets about things you could have done but didn’t?
None at all.
As you reflect on the fall election cycle, can you share your thoughts about why two Democrats won?
I think the results had more to do with the national climate. There was a lot of uncertainty happening across the country and that spilled over into local races everywhere, even though town government operates separately from national politics. I thought the outcome was less a shift in local values and more a reaction to the national moment.
What do you think are the biggest challenges the town will face in the next few years?
Every day is a new challenge in town government. The challenge can be anywhere, from a new, unfunded mandate to a massive flood. The key to facing new challenges is working together, open communication, being present.
Are you considering whether to run for Town Supervisor in 2026? If you already have a job lined up, can you share what it will be?
As for what my future holds, I look forward to it and I am sure I will share when I am ready. Until then, Alison [Jolicoeur] and I had a nice transition. She knows I am reachable after she takes office to help her acclimate even more if she needs it. I wish her and CJ [Brooks] the best of luck.
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