
Town of Ulster Democrats

2025 Elected Officials

FOCUSED ON SOLUTIONS, NOT SELF-INTEREST
Since taking office, the current Town of Ulster administration has steered nearly $1 million in taxpayer-funded salaries to themselves, friends, and family — while property taxes rise, the cost of living climbs, and working families are left behind. Our once-thriving mall now sits half-empty, a symbol of failed leadership and missed opportunities to invest in YOU
Make Ulster
More Affordable
Tackle rising costs by prioritizing the needs of working families and seniors — not political insiders.
Invest in a
Better Quality of Life
Reimagine the future of the failing mall, and enhance public spaces and essential services that improve everyday life.
Clean Up
Town Government
End cronyism and restore accountability, transparency, and trust in how our town is run.


These local leaders are running on a platform focused on fostering transparency, community engagement, and improving the quality of life for all residents.



TOWN COUNCIL
Laura Hartmann is an entrepreneur with 36 years of experience in the music management industry. Throughout her distinguished career, she has successfully produced concerts and recordings, participated in and produced professional forums, and educated future music professionals. The skills she has developed in this demanding field have yielded significant outcomes on issues vital to our community.
In 2018, she co-founded TownOfUlsterCitizens.org alongside a dedicated group of Town of Ulster residents, demonstrating her commitment to the community. She is an advocate for tenant rights, led the effort to defeat the polluting fossil fuel Glidepath power plant, and collaborates across party lines to effectively serve the community’s interests.
“I will represent your voice on issues that matter to the community.” Laura believes that local government has a significant impact on daily life. At the local level, a community can manage its air, water, and forests, pursue economic development responsibly and sustainably, and ensure government transparency and inclusivity. She aims to address these important issues with a new perspective. “Working together, we can effect substantial change and uphold our democratic values.”




COUNTY LEGISLATOR — DISTRICT 8
A lifelong Ulster County resident, Joseph Donaldson has deep roots in the community. Born and educated in Kingston, he raised two sons who continue to call the city home. For over 30 years, Joseph has worked at the Kingston Water Department, where he’s served as a trusted shop steward for two decades —advocating for his colleagues and ensuring fair representation. Joseph’s commitment to public service extends well beyond the workplace. He spent 10 years as a member of the Ulster County Human Rights Commission and is a former Chairman of the City of Kingston Democratic Committee, where he worked to amplify local voices and strengthen civic engagement.
Now running for his second term in the Ulster County Legislature, Joseph brings that same passion to his legislative work. He currently serves on the Environment, Energy, and Sustainability Committee and the Public Works and Capital Projects Committee—two key bodies tackling some of the county’s most pressing challenges. From reimagining solid waste management and investing in vital infrastructure, to transitioning government buildings and fleets to clean energy, creating affordable housing, and supporting workforce development—Joseph is focused on building a stronger, more sustainable future for Ulster County.
For Joseph, serving in the legislature is more than a position—it’s a privilege. He’s proud to represent his community and eager to continue working hard on its behalf.



COUNTY LEGISLATOR — DISTRICT 4
RE-ELECT MICHAEL BERARDI TO THE ULSTER COUNTY LEGISLATURE
With strong ties to the Town of Ulster, Mike Berardi offers the leadership District 4 needs. The area holds great potential with Hudson River access, economic development, and natural beauty that requires thoughtful planning. Mike is committed to active, informed representation, keeping residents engaged and aware of issues, especially rising costs.
EXPERIENCE
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2004-2008 Ulster County Legislator District #5
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2006-2008 Chairman, Ulster County Public Works
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2006-2010 Chairman, Ulster County Industrial Development Agency
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1999-2003 Ulster Town Board Councilman
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4 years Ulster Town Police Commission
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Hudson River Maritime Board of Directors
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Kingston Urban Cultural Park
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Kingston Human Rights Commission
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Anderson School Board
EMPLOYMENT
Over 40 years in the Energy Management field, presently with HOP Energy Sawkill Road Kingston.
EDUCATION
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Associate Degree Business Administration UCCC
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BA Philosophy Cum Laude Marist College
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Presently completing Graduate work
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Business Analytics Marist College
SPOUSE & FATHER
Married 45 years to Beverly Berardi with 2 children, Dante and Dana Marie
Democratic Committee Members
We are seeking Town of Ulster Democrats to join our committee! If you or someone you know are interested, please email toudemc@gmail.com and let's talk!
What's my Legislative District?
Town of Ulster residents live in one of three legislative districts.

Voter resources

Visit www.ulstervotes.com for county-wide election resources.
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Paid for by the Ulster County Democratic Committee


