The vacancy created by the departure to Albany of former Town of Islip Receiver of Taxes Alexis Weik to take a seat in the New York State Senate left an unexpired term to be filled in next week’s general election.
Andrew T. Wittman III won the Republican nomination over Michael S. Siniski, demonstrating the hard work and dedication his resume exhibits.
Wittman offers a sense of public service and the common good, from his extensive experience in the Rotary, civic associations, and his career in the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). His time at the FDNY was cut short at the age of 35 by a career-ending injury in the line of duty. The change in circumstances, he said, caused him to reflect on his path going forward as a father, businessman, and community member.
Although a largely ministerial, non-political office, Wittman believes that the office of the Tax Receiver can perform its administrative functions and potentially influence policy, but also provides an opportunity to guide community members to the resources and officials they may need in other departments or levels of government.
The Office of the Receiver of Taxes is not a policy-making office, it is an administrative office. The office does not determine the tax rates, but collects and distributes the tax monies which are collected in accordance with NYS Real Property Tax Laws and the Suffolk County Tax Act. The functions are of considerable importance to the Township and its taxpayers, and Wittman has the education and experience for the job.
The Messenger Papers endorse Andrew T. Wittman III for Islip Town Receiver of Taxes.
