Because the 2015 municipal elections wrapped on Tuesday, it’s time to start talking about 2016.
Orange County Commissioner Bernadette Pelissier wasted no time, announcing Thursday that she would not be seeking re-election next year.
“Many of you know that I have been a long-time advocate for agriculture, farmers, and local food,” Pelissier wrote in an email to reporters Thursday morning. “Little did I know how my life would change when my husband and I bought a farm in Cedar Grove last year. This has given me the opportunity to become a farmer and join in with my children in this effort. Having just turned 65, I want to fulfill a dream I never thought possible before now.”
Pelissier has been on the county board since 2008 and has previously served as the board’s chair. She is currently the vice chair.
Pelissier specialized in assessing mental health programs in prisons and the community before she sought public office. As a county commissioner, she was outspoken on the environment, public transit and solid waste.
Pelissier’s at-large seat figures to be a wide-open race next year. Also up for grabs in 2016: Mark Dorosin and Penny Rich’s District 1 seats and Renee Price’s District 2 seat.