Hanchett was elected to District 2 in 2021
From Hanchett for Legislator,
Belmont, NY – Gretchen Hanchett, an incumbent Legislator for District 2 (Towns: Amity, Clarksville, Cuba, Friendship, and New Hudson.) in Allegany County, has announced her bid for re-election. Hanchett, who has served the district with dedication and commitment, aims to continue her work on the Allegany County Board of Legislators.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the residents of District 2,” said Hanchett. “Over the past term, we have made steady progress in areas such as economic development and community services. I look forward to continuing this work and addressing the needs of our community.”
Hanchett has been an active member of the community, serving as the former Executive Director of the Greater Allegany County Chamber of Commerce and Office of Tourism. Her extensive experience in business, community program development, and legislative advocacy has been instrumental in her role as a legislator.
Hanchett’s campaign platforms focus on:
- Economic Development: Promoting local businesses, attracting new investments, and creating job opportunities. We continue to focus on fostering economic growth within our county. By supporting local businesses and attracting new investments, we aim to create more job opportunities for our residents. Our efforts include promoting entrepreneurship and providing resources for small business expansion. Resolutions passed to foster economic growth in Allegany County have resulted in a net increase of 219 jobs from 2023 to 2024. We are making earnest efforts to involve residents in economic development planning to address their needs and priorities, while also collaborating with community agencies, local businesses, and municipalities. Notable initiatives include the Five-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan (Resolution No. 2024-14), adopted on February 12, 2024, which serves as a roadmap for achieving economic development goals in Allegany County.
- Tourism Growth: Enhancing tourism initiatives to boost the local economy and showcase the natural beauty of Allegany County.
- Community Services: Improving access to essential services and supporting community programs that benefit residents of all ages.
Throughout her tenure as legislator, Hanchett has served on several important legislative committees, including:
- Economic Development Committee (Vice Chair)
- Human Services Committee
- Resource Management (Vice Chair)
- Personnel Committee
In addition to her legislative duties, Hanchett’s prior experience includes roles such as:
- Business and Community Development Director at ACCORD Corporation
- Executive Director of Greater Allegany County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism
- Head Start Program Operations Director
- Regional Director for LA Pettit Academy, overseeing 9 preschools in 4 states, with a total of 1,200 children and 200 staff
Hanchett has also served on various committees and boards, including:
- Leadership Allegany
- Education Council
- Allegany County Development Services Inc. (Past Executive Director)
- Southern Tier Economic Development Board of Directors (President for 7 years)
- Workforce Investment Board (Allegany Cattaraugus)
- WIB, Finance & Audit Board
- Allegany County Economic & Development Committee
- Allegany County Manufacturing Council
- Allegany County Planning & Implementation Group
Hanchett resides in Allegany County with her husband, Doug Hanchett. They have three grown children and two grandchildren. Family values and community service have always been at the heart of Hanchett’s personal and professional life.
Hanchett is committed to engaging with residents and addressing their concerns and suggestions as she campaigns for re-election.
For more information, please contact:
Gretchen Hanchett District 2 Allegany County Legislator
