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Daily Voice Leaders: MaryEllen Odell, Putnam County Executive

PUTNAM COUNTY, N.Y. -- Serving as the Putnam County Executive isn't just a job for MaryEllen Odell, it's the culmination of a life spent living in, and working to improve the community. 

Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell discusses what makes the county special, the wild political landscape and what she hopes to accomplish while in office.

Photo Credit: Joe Jenkins

Odell, who was sworn in as county executive in 2011 after a special election, then re-elected in 2014, never foresaw her time in Putnam leading to the county's top elected position. 

"I never, ever imagined that I would be in politics although I was the current events Social Studies nerd growing up," Odell said. "I just became very involved in my community when I became a young mother. I looked at this community I had grown up in and realized I didn't know anybody anymore."

Now, Odell tackles the political landscape of Putnam County by viewing potential issues as opportunities. 

"Because this is the county I grew up in, I'm very proud to be here. I live right on the hill. Same place I grew up in," Odell said. "For me, it's a dream job."

Odell also discussed:

  • What makes Putnam County special? (0:08 into clip)
  • What got Odell into politics? (0:27 into clip)
  • The challenges facing Putnam County. (1:12 into clip)
  • Is there anything in particular that makes politics in Putnam County so wild? (2:06 into clip)
  • Any aspirations for higher political office? (2:58 into clip) 
  • What Odell hopes to accomplish as county executive. (3:36 into clip)

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