With the stage set for next week's Democratic Caucus, few questions remain as to who will be vying for what position. With little competition for most of the position nominations, everyone seems to have their sights set on who will be Tuesday's Democratic nominee for Wawarsing's top job – Town Supervisor.

In a move that surprised few who had attended town board meetings over the past several months, Councilman John Gavaris announced that he would be challenging the highest-ranking town official from his own party, Supervisor James Dolaway.

Other positions open within the town and village are seeing less conflict as the rest of the local Democratic Party has everyone on the same page. Below is a rundown of each of the positions and the individuals running for each nomination.

The Democratic Caucus will take place at the Pioneer Firehouse (located on 73 Center Street) on Tuesday, July 10. The village's caucus will start at 6 p.m. and the town's caucus will begin at 7 p.m.

Village of Ellenville:

It appears that, at this point, Mayor Jeffrey Kaplan (a two-term incumbent seeking a third term) will not face any opposition from his own party, and possibly none from area Republicans.

Deputy Mayor/Trustee Ray Younger, another two-term incumbent, will also be seeking a his third term.

With the announcement that current village trustee Steve Krulick will not be seeking re-election, the Democrats appear to have tapped Pine Bush policeman Francisco Olivares to run in his place.

Matt Parker will likely again represent the Democrats for the position of village justice.

Town of Wawarsing:

As mentioned above, Supervisor James Dolaway, a one-time town councilman and current two-term incumbent supervisor seeking a third term, will be facing off against John Gavaris, a one-time village trustee and current town councilman.

After 21 years and some speculation about her retirement, incumbent Town Clerk Jane Eck will be seeking her party's nomination without any challenge.

Former Ulster County legislator and current village trustee Teresa Hyatt and first time candidate, Reverend Greg Wood are preparing to fill the seat that will be vacated by current Town Councilwoman Ruth Ann Gunter as well as challenge current Republican incumbent, Terry Houck.

The Democrats do not appear to be running anyone against Republican Town Justice, William O'Brien.

With regards to the much talked about position of Highway Superintendent, current superintendent Tom Slater's decision to step down has opened the door to political newcomer, Tony Paes.

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