May Chow, Art Devlin, Marc Gavin and Jackie Kelly

LAKE PLACID — There will be a general election Tuesday for four village of Lake Placid roles, with all candidates running unopposed for an additional term. Polls will be open between noon and 9 p.m. at the North Elba Town Hall at 2693 Main St.

The candidates are Art Devlin, running again for the office of mayor, Jackie Kelly and Marc Galvin, who are running again for Village Trustee, and May Chow, who is running for village justice. All offices have a four-year term.

Devlin was elected mayor in 2021 after 12 years of serving as village trustee. Eight of those years were as deputy mayor. Kelly, who is currently deputy mayor, and Galvin were also elected in 2021 as village trustees. Chow has been serving as village justice since the spring of 2023, when she was appointed to finish the term of former Justice David Coursen, who resigned earlier that year.

The Enterprise asked each candidate to answer the same set of questions and requested a brief response to each.

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Art Devlin, Village Mayor

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Why are you running for this position?

I am running for mayor as I am proud of the work that we have done the last 16 years. We have worked very hard to maintain and grow our workforce as well as cross-train them so that they can fill in where needed. Lake Placid is in a strong financial position, the majority of our village equipment and infrastructure is up-to-date and well-maintained. We have policies and procedures in place to protect and serve our village residents. If I am reelected mayor on March 18, I will do my best to maintain the progress that the village has made and continue to provide the services Lake Placid depends on.

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What are your qualifications for this position?

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I graduated with a B.S. degree in business from SUNY Plattsburgh. I have 50 year of experience as both an employee and owner/operator of Art Devlin’s Olympic Motor Inn. My four years as trustee, eight years as deputy mayor and the past four years as mayor.

What have you learned in your time at the village that you’ll apply to this next term?

The value of what can be accomplished if everyone works together. I am repeatedly asked: how can a little village have accomplished all the things that it has? My answer is that our accomplishments are a result of all of us working together. Village, Town, ROOST, school and the state of New York. Without everyone working together, we would not be able to host the events we host and continue to keep up with this ever-changing culture we live in.

What are your main goals for this position?

To continue to be responsible spending the taxpayer’s money. Continue to support our village employees and provide them with the equipment and training they need to do their jobs. Continue making improvements to our village infrastructure, and to maintain the improvements we have made over the years. To continue to fight for the rights of our village residents and set policies that will improve the quality of their lives. Continue to do our best to strike a balance between tourism and our Village residents.

Anything else you would like people to know?

It has been my honor and privilege to serve the village of Lake Placid for the last 16 years and if reelected on March 18, I will do my best to represent the people of Lake Placid to the best of my ability.

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Jackie Kelly, Village Trustee

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Why are you running for this position?

The village has transitioned from a seasonal destination to a year-round community, bringing both opportunities and challenges. While change is inevitable, the board must find the right ways to guide it positively, ensuring it benefits both residents and visitors. I am committed to ensuring that the village progresses efficiently and stays on the right path for continued growth and success for future generations.

What are your qualifications for this position?

My career in the hospitality and tourism industry gave me valuable experience. My time at the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of government operations. I believe I have successfully translated this experience into valuable skills and insights applicable to my role as trustee and deputy mayor.

What have you learned in your time at the village that you’ll apply to this next term?

During my first term, I focused on learning and listening — gaining a deep understanding of the challenges and needs of those I serve. I studied the issues and absorbed valuable insight. This has given me a strong foundation to move forward with informed, thoughtful action.

What are your main goals for this position?

I want to focus on key projects I’ve been involved in: the comprehensive plan, which will serve as a roadmap for our future; the terminus of the Adirondack Rail Trail on Station Street; enhancements and upgrades to Peacock Park; and reviewing the 2011 Joint Land Use Code for updates and revisions which is crucial for ensuring our land use regulations are in line with current needs and future growth. I will continue to work to ensure efficient government spending and budget management as well as keeping the community engaged.

Anything else you would like people to know?

I’m dedicated to guiding Lake Placid’s growth thoughtfully, preserving what makes our community special while preparing for the future. I encourage everyone to stay involved, share their thoughts and be part of the exciting changes ahead.

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Marc Galvin, Village Trustee

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Why are you running for this position?

I love Lake Placid and am happy to be able to advocate for the residents of this great community.

What are your qualifications for this position?

On top of running two successful businesses in town, I am the current president of the Lake Placid Business Association and have served on other boards in an executive role.

What have you learned in your time at the village that you’ll apply to this next term?

To keep listening, then act. I was very accessible in my first term to have conversations with folks to gauge what our priorities should be.

What are your main goals for this position?

Specifically to help fine-tune the new comprehensive plan and land use code. I’m also working on a connectivity committee which is doing great work in figuring out how to link trails, sidewalks etc.

Anything else you would like people to know?

I was happy to advocate for the resident free parking before 11 and after 6 daily. I will continue to look for opportunities to enhance the daily life for residents living here full time.

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May Chow, Village Justice

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Why are you running for this position?

Having served as village justice since March 2023, it is my intent to continue serving the community in this capacity. Fair local justice is important to the community.

What are your qualifications for this position?

I retired with over 21 years of law enforcement experience as a special agent with the U.S. Secret Service and my experience as the current village Jjstice makes me an ideal candidate.

What have you learned in your time at the village that you’ll apply to this next term?

Justice has to be applied fairly to all that appear before the bench.

What are your main goals for this position?

To keep the court proceedings moving forward in a positive, timely and fair manner for all that are involved.

Anything else you would like people to know?

The village court is an important entity within the community in that it handles judicial matters within its municipality by providing justice, resolution, and due process of the law both state and locally.