First appointed to the Council in 2018 and elected for a full term in 2019, Councilman Tom Lohmann (R-Smithtown) has demonstrated not only specific and intimate knowledge of local governance, but also a determined work ethic that accounts for more than full-time work.
Lohmann’s long record of public service goes back to his days with the NYPD, a twenty-year career that was endcapped by his search-and-rescue efforts at Ground Zero following the September 11 attacks. Lohmann then added fourteen years of service as an investigator for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office, where he specialized in the Insurance Crimes Bureau.
Lohmann’s experience with government allowed him to hit the ground running after his appointment in 2018, serving as a government liaison to the Board of Education, the Suffolk County Police Department, and even agencies at the state and federal levels.
Lohmann has since served with the new Smithtown team under Supervisor Wehrheim. Along with the team, he has spearheaded the revitalization of parks and public facilities, the groundbreaking on wastewater and sewer initiatives, the strengthening of the Town’s budget, improving accessibility for residents and children with special needs, and the creation of the first-of-its-kind STEM program in partnership with the local school district, among many other accomplishments.
Lohmann demonstrates granular knowledge of Smithtown and offers specifics whenever any Town topic is presented. While Lohmann does not face a single opponent due to Smithtown’s at-large council system, we believe that one of his opponents, Maria Scheuring (D-Smithtown), presents a more angry and cynical view of Smithtown than her Democratic ticket-mate, Sarah Tully (D-St. James), as presented at the October 16 debate. Scheuring’s apparent disdain for her Town and her constant inspirations from Patchogue make us skeptical she can accurately represent the Town’s stakeholders.
The Messenger endorses Councilman Tom Lohmann for Smithtown Council.
The Messenger’s forecast for this race: Safe Republican.
