Longtime Shawangunk Highway Superintendent Martin K. Hand submitted his resignation to the Town Board this week.  The Town Board held a special meeting on Tuesday to accept his resignation.

Hand was offered a position with the Orange County Department of Public Works as a road maintenance supervisor.  He described the position as essentially a parallel movement, but an opportunity for him to “join the management team for Orange County.”

“The opportunity came up and I hate to leave, but you do what you have to do,” said Hand.
Hand will be leaving his position with the town on Aug. 15, however his term does not end until Dec. 31, 2011.

According to Town Supervisor John Valk, Jr., the town does not have anyone in mind to take over in the interim while a decision is made as to who will serve out the remainder of Hand’s term.

The Town Board has the option of either appointing a new highway superintendent or putting it to an election in November.  Valk stated that the board has “mixed feelings” about whether to put it to an election or just make an appointment.

Valk said Tuesday they have already heard from one individual interested in the position.
“It’s a great opportunity for anyone who wants to get into government office,” said Valk.
Those interested in the position can send a letter to the Shawangunk Town Clerk, Margaret Tremper, at the Town Hall.

By Rachel Coleman
rcoleman @tcnewspapers.com