FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Matt Padbury Supports Carousel Donation and Grant for Vestal—Calls for Public Input and Fiscal Transparency
VESTAL, NY — October 5, 2025 — Matt Padbury, candidate for Vestal Town Board and longtime advocate for community-centered investment, has voiced strong support for the donation of a historic carousel to the Town of Vestal, along with the accompanying grant to refurbish and install it.
“This is a rare opportunity to bring joy, history, and family-friendly recreation to Vestal,” Padbury said. “The donation of the carousel, paired with a grant to cover refurbishment and installation, is a generous gift that could enrich our parks and create lasting memories for generations.”
Padbury emphasized that while he is fully in favor of accepting the donation and the grant, any additional costs to the town must be carefully considered. “If this project requires funding beyond what the grant provides, we need to be transparent with taxpayers and ensure it doesn’t divert resources from essential services,” he stated. “I believe in smart investment—and that means knowing the full financial picture before moving forward.”
He also called for robust public input on where the carousel should be installed, should the project proceed. “This carousel belongs to the people of Vestal. Let’s hear from residents—families, seniors, youth—about which park would best serve the community. Whether it’s Arnold Park, Jones Park Gardens, or another location, the decision should reflect the voices of those who will enjoy it most.”
Padbury’s stance reflects his broader campaign values: dignity, transparency, and practical investment in Vestal’s future. “We can celebrate generosity while staying grounded in fiscal responsibility. And we can build something beautiful—together.”
For more information or to share your thoughts on the carousel project, contact Matt Padbury’s campaign at padbury4vtb@aol.com
Matt Padbury Supports Ballot Proposition to Correct 2021 Tax Collector Law Error
As a candidate for the Vestal Town Board, I fully support the proposition on this year’s ballot to correct the procedural error made in 2021 regarding Local Law 2. That law changed the Tax Collector position from elected to appointed, but the ballot description at the time was inaccurate. Transparency and accuracy in our democratic process are non-negotiable.
This proposition is not about changing how we collect taxes—it’s about restoring trust and ensuring our residents vote on a law that’s properly described. If passed, the Town Board will continue appointing a Tax Collector annually, just as we do now. Tax collection services will remain local and accessible.
I urge Vestal residents to vote yes on this proposition. Let’s correct the record and move forward with integrity.
— Matt Padbury
Candidate for Vestal Town Board
Matt Padbury Supports Court Relocation to Johnson City: A Practical Step Toward Safety and Smarter Infrastructure
As a candidate for the Vestal Town Board, I support the decision to relocate Vestal’s court operations to the Johnson City courthouse. This move is the quickest, most cost-effective way to ensure the safety of our judges, clerks, litigants, and the public—something that’s been a concern for over a year.
Despite extensive efforts to redesign space at Town Hall and evaluate other buildings, no option in Vestal could meet the safety and functional requirements of a proper courthouse. The Sixth District Court reviewed the plans and agreed: the proposed renovations would not suffice. The Johnson City facility offers a secure, ready-to-lease solution that meets all court personnel’s concerns and complements our scheduling needs.
This is a smart, responsible step forward—but it’s also a reminder of a larger issue. Vestal’s infrastructure is aging and under strain. From public buildings to parks, roads, and essential services, we need to invest in modern, safe, and accessible spaces that serve our residents well. As a lifelong public servant and candidate for Town Board, I’m committed to making infrastructure improvement a top priority.
We can’t afford to delay when safety is at stake. And we shouldn’t settle for patchwork fixes when long-term planning can deliver lasting value. I’ll fight for both.
— Matt Padbury
Candidate for Vestal Town Board