Schuyler County’s Democratic elections commissioner has resigned months before the end of his term, saying a planned redevelopment project created a potential conflict with his role as a county employee.
Brian T. Eslinger said his resignation took effect July 21 after more than three years with the Schuyler County Board of Elections.
Eslinger recently purchased the historic Stillman property in the village of Montour Falls and plans to apply for a county facade improvement grant as part of its redevelopment.
He said county employees are not eligible to participate in the grant program, prompting him to leave office before his term expires Dec. 31.
Eslinger said stepping down was the appropriate way to avoid even the appearance of a conflict and allow the commercial redevelopment project to move forward.
In his resignation letter, Eslinger described administering elections fairly, accurately and transparently as the central responsibility of the Board of Elections. He said election administration should serve all voters rather than advance the interests of either political party.
Eslinger also emphasized the bipartisan structure of New York’s election system and said he worked with Democratic and Republican colleagues to protect public confidence in the electoral process.
He thanked election staff, poll workers, fellow commissioners, county lawmakers, Democratic Committee members and other county officials for their support during his tenure.
Eslinger said a candidate is prepared to succeed him and offered to volunteer without compensation to help train that person and support the transition.
He also said he would return all county property, including his keys, identification badge and credit card.
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