The Republican primary for the Orange County Legislature’s District 2

Amir H. Sadaghiani

Why are you running for the Orange County Legislature?

I am running to better my home county with the insights and skills that I have gained in my nearly 20 years of practicing law. I believe members of the Legislature are there to represent all of us. If I am given the honor of serving, I’ll meet and work with anybody for the betterment of Orange County.

What are the top three issues facing the county today and how do you plan to address them?

In launching my county legislature bid, after years of witnessing the sizable role that mental health and substance abuse play in crime, I am setting one of my top priorities as finding solutions at the county level to address the underlying causes of these issues.

The biggest challenge I see in the next 20 years for Orange County is the competing interests of economic development and preservation of land.

I knew before I went to law school that I wanted to come back to Orange County to serve the People and raise children. All of us either came to - or stay in - Orange County because we love what makes it special. As a trial lawyer - I drive all over the Hudson Valley and the natural beauty of Orange County is something special. At the same time - all citizens want services - and those services come with a price tag - typically which is paid by County and Town/Village Property Taxes.

As County Legislator, protecting the natural beauty of Orange County would be a priority. I understand that development will happen - but it must always be done in a responsible way and in the correct locations.

What sets you apart from your challengers?

I am the endorsed candidate of the Orange County and Goshen Republican Committees and ready to serve on day one.

Feel free to add information about your background and qualifications.

After receiving my law degree from the University of Notre Dame Law School in 2006, I returned to Orange County to serve the People as an Assistant District Attorney. In 2014, I entered private practice and in 2022, my law partner and I formed Ostrer & Sadaghiani, P.C.As a father, I co-parent with my ex-wife three middle school-aged children: Catherine, Darius Amir and Anthony.

Aaron F. Ubides

Why are you running for the Orange County Legislature?

My decision to run for Legislator was based on wanting to give back to the community in a greater capacity. I would like to bring a commonsense approach to the Legislature from someone that is a blue-collar worker and understands our community’s diverse needs. I raised my daughter in a single-parent household and understand what today’s working families’ challenges are. I’m a welder/fabricator/technician for Showalter’s Equipment in Goshen. I work part time for the Florida Fire District as truck custodian and building and grounds maintenance and I serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals for the Town of Warwick.

What are the top three issues facing the county today and how do you plan to address them?

1. Senior citizens and veterans. Many of the senior citizens and Veterans I’ve spoken with have expressed concerns regarding the increased costs of living and hardships they’re facing. I will continue to promote the Orange County Office for the Aging and advocate for services for this population. For those needing additional care and support, we can ensure Valley View stays viable by promoting workforce development, staff retention, and developing the county owned properties. I am a proponent of tax cuts and additional savings being offered to our veterans.

2. Public safety. Our first responders and Emergency Services Department should have access to the latest technology available to help their efforts in keeping our families safe. I will advocate for continued financial support for these county initiatives.

3. Water. District 2 spans through Goshen, the Village of Florida, and parts of Warwick, Campbell Hall and New Hampton. A common issue facing these areas is the need for viable and safe potable water. I am in favor of allocating funds to complete the water loop.

What sets you apart from your challengers?

During my career I’ve had the opportunity to work with and build relationships with almost every DPW in this county. I’ve volunteered for most of my adult life and belong to the Town of Warwick Republican Committee, Nam Knights of America Motorcycle Club and Sons of the American Legion. I pride myself on being honest, trustworthy, dedicated, and hard-working. I will continue to ensure that every voice is heard and considered in the decision-making process.