Lewis County treasurer seeks re-election

LOWVILLE — Lewis County's treasurer said she plans to continue advocating for fiscal conservatism if elected to a second term this fall.

"With the economic downturn, we're facing tough times ahead," said Vicki A. Roy, a Republican from the town of Watson.

No one has thus far announced plans to run against her for the position.

Following the resignation of former County Treasurer Dickinson G. Fowler, legislators in January 2005 appointed Mrs. Roy as the county's first woman treasurer. She had served as deputy treasurer under Mr. Fowler for 19 years.

Mrs. Roy in November 2005 easily defeated Democrat Dale A. Rybicky from West Leyden to earn a four-year term.

She also serves on the Lewis County Planning Board, and as the county's deputy budget officer, tax enforcement officer and health insurance plan administrator.

Mrs. Roy said she was proud of the fact that Standard & Poor's, citing fiscal responsibility and revenues from Maple Ridge Wind Farm, last year raised the county's bond rating by two steps, from a BBB+ to A. That is expected to save about $30,000 in annual interest costs over the 30-year life of the $9.8 million bond for the new county courthouse.

During her tenure, the treasurer's office has successfully overseen five county tax auctions after taking over delinquent tax enforcement from the towns and implemented new state-required accounting standards, Mrs. Roy said. Staffers also are heavily involved with the central purchasing system that was implemented earlier this year, she said.

Mrs. Roy also said she was pleased with county officials developing a more cooperative relationship with their counterparts at Lewis County General Hospital and the posting of the budget on the county's Web site.

The treasurer said she recommended paying up front for renovations to the old county courthouse on North State Street rather than borrowing the money.

"That saved us a lot," she said.

With the renovations essentially completed, the treasurer's office recently moved from its temporary location on the third floor of the old courthouse to its permanent home at the rear of the first floor.

"I am settled into my new office and looking forward to a new term," Mrs. Roy said.