Kris Valentine Behnke
Kris Valentine Behnke
Cortland County Legislature District 5
Discover Kris Valentine Behnke
I began spending summers in Cortland in 2009 working for Cortland Repertory Theatre, where I met my husband. When it came time to grow our family we wanted a go-out-and-play childhood for our kids. So, in 2015, we permanently moved to central NY to call Cortland home.
I worked as adjunct faculty at SUNY Cortland while creating the Youth Program for Cortland Repertory Theatre. Through the youth program, I developed community programs through partnerships with local agencies, school districts, arts entities, and nonprofits—something that drives my participation in our community today. I have a master’s degree in nonprofit administration and believe in people’s participation in government, transparency, and solving the problems of now with an eye on the future.
I am one of 4 women in the legislature. I am one of two members under the age of 50. And I am the only member of the legislature with school-aged children. I am proud to represent district 5 as an appointee, and I hope to continue in the seat following the November election.
What I stand for:
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Improving the lives of county residents through livable wages, affordable and available childcare, affordable and available housing, and access to health and transportation services through county programs.
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Creative and collaborative solutions to community problems by utilizing grants, state services, community partners and nonprofits.
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Productive planning and transparent assessment of Cortland County’s future, taking a realistic look at the problems of today and how they will impact the Cortland County of tomorrow.
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Supporting the economic development of Cortland County focusing on development of artistic and cultural opportunities, business prospects, and sports and leisure activities.