2026 New York General Election

James Sofranko

#### James Sofranko

Supervisor, Town of Olive.

Jim has lived in West Shokan for over 35 years where he owned an electrical contracting business before retiring in 2020. Prior to his electrical business, Jim worked as a gaffer and Director of Photography in the film business for 20 years. He was elected to the Olive Town Board in 2013.

Elected to CWC Board in 2017, term expires 2029.

Catskill Watershed Corporation Board

James Sofranko has lived in West Shokan for over 35 years.

James Sofranko retired after owning an electrical contracting business. He previously worked as a gaffer and director of photography in the film industry.

WEST SHOKAN, N.Y. — Incumbent town supervisor Jim Sofranko won reelection, according to unofficial results from the Ulster County Board of Elections on Tuesday. Sofranko, a Democrat, won a race against challenger Bob Fehring, who ran on the Republican and Conservative party lines. Sofranko had 1,272 votes, while Fehring had 645 votes.

Olive Supervisor Jim Sofranko reelected

James Sofranko currently serves as supervisor of the Town of Olive and was reelected to the position. He was elected to the Olive Town Board in 2013.

Olive: Supervisor Jim Sofranko reelected - Daily Freeman

As of October 22, 2026, James Sofranko’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Supports a community center to provide space for activities and gatherings and foster community spirit.

Said allowing accessory dwelling units while limiting short-term rentals could increase access to long-term rental housing.

Prioritizes public safety in town budget planning.

Prioritizes infrastructure improvements in town budget planning.

Buket Urgen

Economy

When questioned about the recent proposal for a new community center, Sofranko stated, "I believe a community center would greatly benefit our residents by providing a space for activities and gatherings. It’s important for fostering community spirit."

Supervisor | Town of Olive

Public Services

After explaining that the town amended its code to recognize accessory dwelling units, Sofranko said: “We felt like seeing them opening up this housing market for apartments for accessory dwelling units, but yet, limiting the amount of short-term rentals could inevitably bring about more accessible housing from long-term rental units. When it came time to look at short-term rentals, the town examined STR laws in other towns, taking what would work in Olive and modifying parts of other laws to fit.”

Olive’s short-term rental regs enable long-term occupants

Housing & Urban Development

Asked about town budget priorities, Sofranko responded, “We need to ensure that our budget reflects the needs of our community, focusing on infrastructure improvements and public safety.”