Two weeks ago, Lysander officials appointed James Hickey, a local business owner and family man, to the town board. Hickey fills the seat vacated by Brian May, who was elected to the Onondaga County Legislature representing residents in the first district.
The Baldwinsville Messenger recently caught up with Hickey, a newcomer to the political scene, to learn more about Lysander’s newest councilor.
Can you tell residents a little about yourself?
I was born in West Monroe and raised in North Syracuse. I studied at the SUNY at Buffalo and received a BS in business administration with concentrations in finance, marketing and management information systems. I have an uncle who lives on the river and I have great memories as a child going to his home several times a year in the summer for cook outs and swimming with the family.
My wife, Linda, and I own Charles Signs Inc. based out of Liverpool. Charles Signs was founded by Linda’s father in 1968. Chuck fully retired in 2002. When our family began to grow, my wife and I looked for a new home for almost two years before we moved to the Baldwinsville area in 2004. When we moved here we had one daughter, Nina. Soon after moving here we were blessed with the birth of our son Ayden. We were looking for the perfect place to raise a family and we have definitely found it in Baldwinsville area.
Why did you pursue this appointment?
When I was asked if I would like to be considered for the town board of Lysander, I was eager to become involved. We have lived in Lysander for over seven years now and really feel strong ties to this community. This is an exciting opportunity and I am very excited about serving on the town board.
Why is serving the residents of Lysander important to you?
We have very quickly grown to love this community. This is a unique opportunity to for me to serve the needs of our residents. I am looking forward to listening to the ideas and concerns of our residents and working with the community to create the right solutions for Lysander.
What changes/progress are you seeking in the town government?
I want to ensure that government is accessible to everyone. I encourage every resident to become involved in the issues that are important to them and this community.
How do you plan to improve the town?
Lysander is already a great community. I want to ensure that Lysander remains a truly great place to live and raise our families.
