Hunter Will Challenge Incumbent Leigh Benton

NEWBURGH – Stephen Hunter, a longtime Orange County resident and Human Resources professional, has announced his candidacy for Orange County Legislator in District 16, which is located within the Town of Newburgh. The district encompasses the northern part of the town, including the neighborhoods of Middlehope, Fostertown, Leptondale, Orange Lake, Chadwick Lake, River Road, and Roseton.

Hunter, a progressive Democrat, was born in Newburgh and raised in Orange County. He brings over 20 years of professional experience in human resources to his campaign.

Throughout his career, he has specialized in implementing programs that enhance workplace equity, employee development, and organizational effectiveness. His experience working with diverse teams and addressing complex workplace challenges has prepared him to tackle the multifaceted issues facing Orange County.

“Public service is at the core of our democracy. We need leaders who are truly acting in service of the people they represent, not themselves,” said Hunter. “As County Legislator, I will be a strong voice for our community, focusing on affordable housing, public transportation, and creating economic opportunities for working families.”

Hunter is challenging incumbent Leigh Benton, who has held the seat since 1998. “After nearly three decades with the same representation, District 16 deserves a fresh perspective and active leadership that addresses our community’s evolving needs,” Hunter stated.

Hunter has outlined several key priorities for his campaign, including:
• Mixed-Income Housing: Supporting inclusionary zoning policies and tenant protections to ensure everyone can afford to live in our community
• Public Transportation: Expanding bus service to underserved areas and improving connections to shopping and employment locations throughout the county
• Economic Development: Creating partnerships between county agencies, local employers, and community colleges for job training programs and employment opportunities, moving away from warehouse development
• Environmental Protection: Advocating for strengthening our environmental impact restrictions on new developments, and protecting our green spaces
• Public Health & Safety: Expanding mental health crisis response teams, addressing staffing shortages, and youth development programs

Hunter currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Orange County Land Trust. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Boston College and his Master’s degree in Organizational Psychology from Columbia University.

His deep roots in Orange County, combined with his extensive professional experience in problem-solving, strategic planning, and organizational development, give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the community.

“I’m committed to making our local government more responsive, transparent, and effective in meeting the needs of young people, working families, and our seniors,” Hunter added. “The future of Orange County depends on fresh leadership that will actively work to address these issues while ensuring our county government serves all residents.”

Hunter has been endorsed by The Newburgh Democratic Committee, The Orange County (NY) Democratic Committee, and the Working Families Party.