Natasha Vaughn is reporting for Columbia-Greene Media Patsy Leader, the first woman to be elected Kinderhook Town Supervisor, announced April 8, she will not seek a new term in November. Leader served on the town board for 11 years and later as supervisor. “This was a difficult choice,” Leader said in a statement. “It has been my absolute privilege to serve the people of the town of Kinderhook and the county of Columbia. After agonizing over this for months, I have decided to not seek re-election.” Leader, 68, said she has been able to do and achieve a lot during her time in government. She intends to enjoy her life, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Leader said getting into government was not something she planned to do, but she saw a need. “I think the people needed a voice,” Leader said. “A bipartisan voice and that is me. That’s why I did it.” Leader was a member of the Independence party, but she is now unaffiliated. Leader said she was lucky the Republican and Conservative parties, as well as the Independence party, all chose to support her. She said she is blessed to also be supported by many Democrats and people with no party affiliation. “She’s just such a good person,” Columbia County Clerk Holly Tanner said. “She did caucus with the Republicans and she was the only female supervisor. I think that’s important to note that she held her ground. Patsy is not one to back down and I applaud that. It’s not easy being a woman in politics sometimes.” Leader said she is confident the next elected supervisor will be well-supported and successful. “While there is a bit of sadness to be leaving public service, I know the town will be in good hands,” Leader said. Read the full story at HudsonValley360 [dot] com.