A town board member known for his community service will seek a seat on the Rensselaer County Legislature this fall.

Phil Danaher, a Republican, said he would like to improve constituent services in District 2, strengthen services for seniors, veterans, and youths, and to pursue shared services agreements between local governments.

Known for spreading the motto of “people, not politics,” Danaher said he plans to pursue common-sense solutions as a member of the Legislature.

“We have to put people before politics, and work together to reduce the burden on county taxpayers, grow our county and protect our quality of life,” said Danaher. “I want to improve the communication between residents in District 2 and county residents, and strengthen the services we provide for seniors and youths, along with ensuring veterans receive support.”

Danaher was first elected to the Town Board in 2003, where he has been known for pursuing bi-partisan solutions, and helped make town government more accessible to residents with the launch of a town website that allows residents to stay in touch with their local government from the comfort of their own home.

Danaher, who operates his own private law practice, previously worked as an attorney for the Town of Nassau as well as the Village of Castleton, and used his legal experience to negotiate contracts for the town police and dispatcher unions.

“Working as counsel to different municipalities has given me a great understanding of how to handle contracts, property transactions and liability issues,” Danaher. “Owning my own business has made me very aware of the pressures facing businesses in our state, and ways to create new jobs and opportunity.”

He has also been active in the community as a basketball coach at Holy Spirit School in East Greenbush as well as a local tennis instructor.