Two vying for town supervisor in New Baltimore

NEW BALTIMORE―The 2026 General Election is Tuesday, November 3, and voters across Greene County will cast their ballots for governor, state comptroller, attorney general, representative for Congress, state Senate, state Assembly and state Supreme Court justice, as well as county coroner and district attorney.

Of the 14 towns in Greene County, only four have contested local races. They include Athens, Cairo, New Baltimore and Windham. All candidates were asked the same series questions about themselves, their experience and goals, and why they are seeking office.

In New Baltimore, incumbent Town Supervisor Denise Taber (D, Hills and River) is facing challenge from Barbara M. Finke (R, C). Taber did not respond to the questionnaire.

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Barbara Finke

How long have you lived in the town where you are seeking office?

New Baltimore has been my home for 44 years and we proudly raised our three daughters here.

What is your current occupation or field of work? If retired, what was your previous occupation?

I currently serve as the town clerk.

Are you active in any community organizations or groups?

I am the treasurer and committee member for the New Baltimore Republican Committee and active with the town Veterans and Seniors Committees.

How long have you held your current office, and have you served in any other elected positions?

My record of public service includes serving on the town board from 2010 to 2013 and proudly serving as town clerk since 2014. Besides local government, I spent 30 years working in the New York State Assembly for two assembly members, the Ways and Means Committee, and a minority leader.  The service has strength my ability to work together with others across different levels of government.

Why should voters support you, and what do you bring to the table that makes you the right candidate for the position?

I’ve had the privilege of serving our residents in different capacities for 16 years. Public service is my passion and not just a job. I intend to be a regular presence at Town Hall, answer telephone calls and emails in a timely manner, and attend important meetings where our voices can be heard. I’ll continue my same focus as the Town Clerk -- assisting all residents with availability after hours and on weekends to accommodate their schedules.

If elected, what would be your top priorities?

- Accessibility and Transparency: I will continue to have a regular presence at Town Hall and make sure our residents are informed on what is actually happening in our Town.

- Preparedness: I will be prepared for meetings, ensure that Town Board members have the information they need to make informed decisions, and have copies available for our residents for total transparency.

- Seamless Transition: I will work with the next town clerk so that our residents continue to receive the same service and attention they have come to expect.

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