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Kelly Brunette
Mayor
Email: [email protected]
Location:
39 Main Street
Saranac Lake, NY 12983
Office of the Mayor
Welcome
This page is intended to serve as a direct source of information from the Mayor’s Office regarding Village government.
The Village of Saranac Lake is responsible for delivering essential public services, maintaining infrastructure, managing public resources, and supporting the daily operation of the community. That work depends on coordination, professionalism, transparency, and public trust.
As Mayor, I remain committed to lawful governance, responsible decision-making, respectful public dialogue, and steady leadership focused on the long-term interests of the Village of Saranac Lake.
Warmly,
Kelly Brunette
Mayor
May 26, 2026
Administrative Appointments and Organizational Transition
Over the past several weeks, the Village has been working through an important administrative transition involving several appointed offices responsible for the day-to-day operation of Village government.
Under New York State Village Law and Public Officers Law, the positions of Village Manager, Village Clerk, Village Treasurer, and Deputy Clerk/Treasurer are appointed by the Mayor with approval of the Village Board of Trustees. These offices are also subject to eligibility requirements established under New York State law, including provisions related to age, citizenship, and residency.
These offices are responsible for core municipal functions including administration, financial management, records management, coordination of Village operations, regulatory compliance, public communication, and organizational oversight.
Following a public process that included solicitation of Letters of Interest, review of applications, and discussion with Board members, the Village Board approved the following appointments:
Village Manager, Brandee Reiley
Village Clerk, Laura Ferranti
Village Treasurer, Chrissie Wais
Deputy Clerk/Treasurer, Cassandra Van Cott
The Board also appointed Bachana Tsiklauri to continue serving as Temporary Village Manager through June 30, 2026, to support operational continuity and administrative transition.
Transitions in government can create uncertainty and strong opinions. I understand that, and I respect that people care deeply about the Village and the individuals who serve it. At the same time, leadership requires making decisions that position the organization to move forward effectively.
My focus throughout this process has been straightforward: maintaining effective government operations, strengthening communication and coordination across departments, supporting professional administration, and ensuring Village government remains organized, accountable, and responsive to the community.
The Village employs more than 50 public servants across multiple departments who work every day to deliver essential services to residents. Public service matters, and strong administration matters.
I remain committed to working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, Village staff, volunteers, and residents as we continue moving the Village forward together.
Relevant Law and Information:
Village Administration
https://saranaclakeny.gov/about-us/
New York State Village Law
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/VIL
New York State Public Officers Law
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PBO