Carmel, NY – Earlier this week, the Putnam County Legislature officially confirmed the appointments of Hon. Paul Eldridge, Roderick Cassidy, Hon. John Sweeny, Hon. Barbara Scuccimarra, and Joseph DeMarzo as members of the Putnam County Board of Ethics. These appointments were made by Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, in accordance with the County Charter, after the County Executive discovered that the previous board members had been operating with expired terms.

"These individuals bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of ethical principles. Their dedication to upholding the highest standards of integrity will serve our community well,” said County Executive Byrne. “Thank you to Chairman Jonke and the Legislature for confirming these appointments.”

Upon assuming office in January of this year, County Executive Byrne discovered that two members of the previous five-person Board had effectively resigned, and the terms of the remaining three active Board members had expired before January 1, 2023. After identifying what the previous administration overlooked, filling these vacancies with exceptional and well-qualified candidates became an immediate priority. The appointments made by County Executive Byrne demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards within Putnam County Government.

The selection process for these five distinguished Putnam County residents began with posting the volunteer positions online and a public outreach effort conducted by County Executive Byrne's office to identify qualified candidates. Following this, a rigorous vetting and interview process was carried out by members of the County Executive's staff, ensuring that the most suitable individuals were chosen to serve on the Board.

Hon. Paul Eldridge currently serves as Director Personnel for Putnam County and previously served as County Executive in 2011. Roderick Cassidy is a combat Veteran who served in the US Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, achieving the rank of Major, as well as serving as a Rule of Law Mentor and Combat Advisor in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Hon. John Sweeney is a retired Putnam County and NYS Supreme Court Justice. Hon. Barbara Scuccimara is a former Putnam County Legislator and Philipstown Town Board Member. Joseph DeMarzo has long served the community in a variety of distinguished posts, but most notably as the county’s former Deputy Commissioner of Social Services and Mental Health and Director of the Putnam County Youth Bureau.

The newly appointed Board of Ethics will play a vital role in instilling confidence among the public, county departments, and employees, as it reinforces Putnam County's dedication to ethical conduct. By adhering to the provisions of the Putnam County Code, the Board is tasked to uphold the integrity of the county government and ensure that ethical considerations remain a priority.