In the Register Star, John Mason profiles the three candidates running in the upcoming Philmont village election. Two incumbents hoping to retain their seats will be challenged by a political newcomer, Mason writes. Trustee Brian Johnson is seeking his seventh two-year term. Johnson is a self-employed carpenter, born and raised in the village. Johnson said the board was productive during the last seven or eight years and successfully "kept taxes down." Barbara Sagal has served on the Village Board for 10 years. A self-described "stay-at-home wife and mother," Sagal has been a village for 28 years. Like Johnson, Sagal said one of the current board's major accomplishments is the upgrade of the Department of Public Works building. The work, Sagal said, is “sorely needed.” She also cited the projected decrease in the tax rate this year, and attributed it to “careful fiscal planning.” Matt Perry, a Web site developer and Philmont native, returned from California seven years go. Perry said he wants to improve Philmont's business climate and make the village a self-sufficient community. He has served as a library board trustee since 2006, and has been its president since 2008. The polls will be open noon to 9 p.m. on March 20. Read the full story in the Register Star.