Support for Kelley, concerns about Cyr
From David Aylor, Belfast NY
In any election, qualifications, experience, and commitment matter—especially when the position holds responsibility for managing millions in taxpayer dollars. As voters, we owe it to ourselves and our communities to critically evaluate not just promises, but preparedness. When considering the role of county treasurer, it’s not enough to want the job—you must be ready to handle its demands from day one. Jenna L. Kelley embodies that readiness, bringing the financial expertise, public service experience, and steady leadership this county needs. With that in mind, several concerns arise regarding Adam B. Cyr’s candidacy.
Attendance
Mr. Cyr has historically struggled to attend legislative meetings while operating his businesses. In 2024, he attended only 75 meetings, significantly below the legislative average of 132.6. The position of treasurer is a full time responsibility- five days a week and often on weekends. This is a $154 million operation subject to extensive state and federal regulations. Beyond managing public funds, the treasurer’s office is also responsible for sensitive duties such as overseeing the dignified handling and disposition of the remains of county residents who pass away without family.
It’s Time for Change
He previously served as a legislator—the very body to which the treasurer reports. If his goal was to drive meaningful change, it would have made sense to remain in that elected role or pursue a position in the State Assembly, where he had a genuine influence on the county’s direction. The slogan he’s using simply doesn’t hold water when applied to this position.
Why
Why does he even want to be treasurer—is it a newfound love of numbers? It’s hard to understand why someone would walk away from a successful business to take on a role that demands deep expertise in financial oversight, budget management, and tax code compliance. This isn’t just about crunching numbers. The treasurer is responsible for managing departmental personnel, collaborating with every department head to build and monitor budgets, and ensuring there are no overspends. On top of that, the treasurer must regularly report to the legislature, providing detailed financial reports that inform critical decisions about how and where county funds are allocated.
Who is Going to Run his Enterprises
Is he planning to simultaneously run his businesses and fulfill the full-time responsibilities of county treasurer? For someone accustomed to leading private enterprises, stepping into a complex public role—one that demands mastering financial oversight, tax codes, and public-sector accountability—is no small task. The treasurer’s job requires a five-day-a-week commitment, and often more.
If elected, will he hire additional personnel to manage the treasurer’s office while he gets up to speed? Or is there a clear transition plan for someone else to take over his businesses? Without answers, it raises questions about sustainability and focus.
Is this merely a one-term plan, designed as a political steppingstone? We’ve seen this pattern before—like with school superintendents who serve briefly before moving on—leaving behind a revolving door, inconsistent leadership, and disruption in strategy and vision. The county deserves stability and long-term commitment in such a critical financial role
Education
Adam B. Cyr’s lack of a formal high school education is arguably less important than his ability to handle the financial demands of the treasurer’s role—perhaps he is a numbers savant. But realistically, one would expect foundational training in accounting operations, financial statement analysis, and budget planning as a baseline for this position. Beyond coursework, practical, hands-on experience performing these responsibilities is essential.
To put it into perspective: I know how to suture, but that doesn’t mean I should be applying for a surgeon’s position, hoping to learn on the job. The stakes are too high, and the public deserves more than a learning curve. In my view, Mrs. Kelley is the candidate who brings the qualifications, experience, and readiness that this critical role demands
Sincerely,
David Aylor
Belfast NY
