All nine legislators will be up for re-election in November. As challengers announce their decision to run in the respective districts, the Democrat will run briefs about them. More in-depth articles will take place as we get closer to Election Day.

PARKSVILLE –– Town of Liberty Councilman Brian McPhillips, a Democrat now in his third term, has served constituents in his hometown for over a decade. 

McPhillips, who is a realtor with Keller Williams and a Facilities Manager at New Hope Community, currently resides in Parksville with wife Jennifer and three daughters Kristen, Emily and Keira. 

He’s on the Liberty Democratic Committee, the Sullivan County Democratic Committee, chairs the Liberty Community Development Corporation and is president of the Sullivan County Cal Ripken Baseball and Softball League.

He will be running in District 3, which includes part of the Towns of Rockland, Neversink and Liberty. McPhillips will currently be challenging incumbent Michael Brooks, a Republican, who represents District 3 and serves as vice chair of the Legislature. 

“I feel now is the time to bring fresh ideas and viewpoints to the County,” said McPhillips on his reason for running. “I feel now with 10 years of experience in governmental policy and procedure, this allows me to bring a working understanding of leadership, as well as a strong desire of person-centered representation on a County level and I am a strong fit to be considered for the seat.”

Citing the recent real estate boom, McPhillips believes the County has had opportunities to capitalize and better its position, when compared to neighboring Orange, Ulster and Westchester counties, but hasn’t. 

Having served on the most recent Charter Review Commission, which by majority vote recommended the Legislature approve a switch to a County Executive form of government, McPhillips believes the County isn’t running the way it’s supposed to.

“It’s time to put it as a referendum,” said McPhillips, “and let the people decide.”