MAMAKATING – Since 2022, Michael Robbins has served as the Town Supervisor for Mamakating, navigating both the rewards and challenges that came with the role. Following November’s elections, Robbins will step aside as supervisor, passing the position to Deputy Supervisor Peter Goodman, while remaining involved on the Board as Ward 1 Councilman.

During Tuesday night’s Town Board meeting, Robbins took time to reflect publicly on his four-year tenure, describing it as “pretty good,” a remark that drew light chuckles from fellow board members. Acknowledging the reaction, Robbins admitted that his time as supervisor came with both highs and lows, adding that if it had been “all great,” he likely wouldn’t be leaving.

“I’ve made a lot of friends. I’ve met a lot of people in my four years; a lot of great people,” Robbins said. “I’d like to thank the community for that. I’d also like to thank [those who work in this Town Hall building], they’ve been great. They make my life so much easier because this place [doesn’t] run without them.”

Robbins went on to recognize several town employees by name, including Dog Control Officer Vicki Darnobid, Administrative Specialist Kyra Platt, Town Clerk Karen Barclay, Assessor Michele Lagomarsino as well as the Building Department. He also acknowledged Administrative Assistant Ann Haenelt and Account Clerk Brittney Aweh, crediting them with helping keep him “secure and organized,” which, he said, made his job “a lot easier.”

“I told [incoming Supervisor] Peter that they’re number one. You gotta take care of the people that do all your work. They’re the ones behind the scenes,” Robbins said. “They do a fantastic job.”

His remarks were met with applause from those in attendance before Robbins shifted focus to two individuals he described as “astronomical” in both knowledge and toughness, saying they played a significant role in shaping his approach during his first two years as supervisor.

Robbins specifically highlighted Councilman John Rufer, recalling how he persuaded him to run for council five years ago—a decision Robbins called a “huge help.” He said the two worked closely together early on, often discussing issues at length before decisions were made.

“I would run things off him my first two years, and we talked about everything,” Robbins said, noting with humor that Rufer also bore the brunt of his venting during stressful moments. “We’ve been friends for 35 years, and I appreciate what he’s done for me the last four.”

Turning his attention to the town board as a whole, Robbins credited its cooperative nature as a major factor in the progress achieved over the past four years. While he acknowledged that not every goal was completed, he emphasized that much of what the board set out to do was accomplished.

“We did a lot of work together. We got a lot accomplished,” Robbins said, adding that the remaining unfinished items were not “do or die.” He also pointed out that six of the seven board members will continue serving, ensuring continuity and stability in the future.

Robbins praised the board’s ability to work together without conflict, saying that unity made his role as supervisor far easier.

“Nobody argues, nobody fights. We don’t bicker back and forth, even in emails,” Robbins said. “It’s very smooth, and I appreciate what the board’s done for me.”

Rufer also thanked Highway Superintendent Thomas Morrow who has “done a great job” as the highway superintendent, noting that they “talk almost every single day” and that “the Highway Department is running great.”

Also his last meeting, Councilman Rufer later echoed those sentiments as he addressed the public. Being careful not to “step on anything” Robbins had already said, Rufer praised Robbins’ leadership and reflected on his own time serving alongside him.

“Mike did a great job, really,” Rufer acknowledged, noting many friendships he also made during his time on the board. He also took a moment to recognize Planning Board Chair Lorrence Green and resident Chris Leser, describing them as individuals the town should be proud of for the work they do, even though they are not town employees.

“They really do a lot for us here,” Rufer said. “I appreciate some of the people that maybe aren’t officially known.”

As he wrapped up his remarks, Robbins acknowledged that this marked his final meeting as town supervisor. He extended holiday wishes to residents and colleagues and wished Goodman success as he prepares to step into the role.

“I’m really not going anywhere,” Robbins said. “He can bounce a lot of things off of me.”

Public thanks Robbins

During public comment, acknowledging the meeting as Rufer’s last Town Board meeting, Planning Board Chair Lorrence Green thanked Rufer for the comments made about him.

“We met the first time at one of your ward meetings, and since then you’ve just been such a positive, happy, can-do person,” Green stated.

Green then turned his attention to Supervisor Michael Robbins, reflecting on meeting him around the time he first took office. In what he described as an “increasingly polarized country,” Green said Robbins stood out for bringing together residents “from all different parts of the town, all different backgrounds, all different political parties” and getting them to work together. 

“For that, I’m very appreciative,” Green added.

As an example, Green pointed to Robbins’ decision not to seek reelection and instead elevate Peter Goodman to Deputy Supervisor, noting that Goodman came from a different political party. Green said the move gave Goodman valuable experience and stood as a model of bipartisanship, adding that he wished “the rest of the country would have followed that example.”

Administrative Specialist Kyra Platt thanked the current town board for the past few years, calling it an honor and privilege to work with them. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing most of you again next year even if it isn’t in the same government capacity, seeing all of you next year and within the coming years,” Platt stated. “Mike you’ve been a wonderful supervisor, it’s been an honor to work with you … and I wish you all well.”