
THE 2021
CANDIDATES
We ran a full slate of excellent candidates this election cycle. These candidates remain dedicated to preserving the character of our rural community, to fostering transparency in governance and to improving the quality of life for all residents! Although we were disappointed with the election results, we are resolved to continue helping our community in other ways.
Thank you for running, it was a tough race.

Matthew Nelson
Candidate for Supervisor
Matthew moved to Kinderhook with his wife, Kelly, in 2009 to raise their three boys, Finley, Rowan and Graeme. Public service is in his blood. Giving back to his community is central to who he is. Presently a member of the Ichabod Crane School District Board of Education, in addition to his volunteer service to other public boards and organizations, Matthew believes it is essential to be engaged, give back to the community and create new opportunities for our future growth and prosperity.
These guiding principles are what drives his campaign for Kinderhook Town Supervisor. Matthew is focused on working together, engaging community input and embracing opportunities that will create a stronger, more vibrant, and more resilient Kinderhook.

Jill Shattenkirk Mescia
Candidate for Town Board
Kinderhook Town Board
Born and raised in Kinderhook, Jill's commitment to our community runs deep. She lives in Valatie with her partner, Mike, and daughter Evey. As a Town Board member, she will actively listen to the community's ideas and concerns and work collaboratively in forming new solutions that build on Kinderhook's unique and limitless potential.
Jill believes in following the people. She understands that doing right by the Town means doing her research and building practical, accessible lines of communication to improve trust between the Town Board and taxpayers.

Melissa Miller
Candidate for Town Board
Melissa moved to the area in 2003 with her husband, Michael, to start their family in our community. Together they have two daughters, Breonica and Kaylee. Melissa has strong roots in Kinderhook and has helped shape the lives of many in our town through her service as a longtime PTA member, Treasurer and currently PTA President, a Girl Scout troop leader and as a member and current President of the Friends of the Kinderhook Dog Park. Melissa is running for Town Board again this year so she can continue the conversations she had last year on issues that matter to our community.
The cornerstone of her campaign will be connecting with the community so she can bring your voice to the Kinderhook Town Board, and help unite our community around shared values and ideas.

John Ruchel
Candidate for Highway Superintendent
2021 Election Information.
2021 General Election Info
Early Voting: October 23-31
Election Day: November 2, 2021
Vote for:
Town Supervisor
Town Council (2 Seats)
Highway Superintendent
Town Justice