SOMERS, N.Y. - Somers got an early holiday present last year.
Supervisor Robert Scorrano announced at the Town Board’s Dec. 10 meeting that resident Ron Baumann had donated about a quarter of a million dollars to the town.
$251,826.46, to be precise.
“It’s a nice thing to see when people want to give back to the community they were involved in. So, Ron, thank you so much. That was very generous,” he said.
Wednesday, Jan. 7, will be Ron Baumann Day in Somers, and his name will appear in lights on the town’s digital sign at Reis Park.
Scorrano added that he also planned to thank Baumann in writing and in person.
Before the board voted unanimously to accept the gift, Councilman Richard Clinchy couldn’t resist joking: “So, to get your name on the board and have a day, it’s only a quarter million?”
“Only a quarter. That’s it,” Scorrano responded with a laugh.
Why was the amount mentioned “so specifically,” Clinchy then asked.
That’s because Baumann had actually given the town shares in the following companies: Apple, Caterpillar, and Taiwan Semiconductor.
Once the town had those in its account, it sold them, and $251,826.46 is the amount it realized, Scorrano explained.
“Ron Baumann, otherwise known as Warren Buffett,” Clinchy quipped, referencing the iconic American investor, businessman, and philanthropist.
(Municipalities are generally allowed to accept donations from private citizens for public purposes, but they must follow strict rules governing their use to avoid conflicts of interest, ensure proper accounting and transparency, and comply with state and local laws.)
Councilman Anthony Cirieco and Scorrano agreed that something “unique” — and for the community’s overall benefit, such as senior services — should be done with the windfall.
“We’ll figure that out once I get a little bit more information on how he (Baumann) would like to see it used,” said the supervisor, adding, “Definitely a plaque wherever it goes would be a really nice gesture.”
“Appropriate,” commented Councilman William Faulkner.
Baumann could not be reached for comment before press time.
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