Meet Michael

Shelter Island has always been my home, and I’m proud to be part of this close-knit community. Many of you have known me since childhood, growing up alongside you. My parents, beloved by so many, owned and operated Bob’s Fish Market, a place where I worked for many years and learned the value of hard work, service, and community.

Their passing left a deep void in our hearts and in the lives of those they touched. I know they would be proud to see me now, stepping up to serve the Island they loved so dearly. I’m running for Highway Superintendent because I want to give back to the community that raised me, and ensure that Shelter Island remains safe, strong, and well cared for, just as my parents always did.

Our family has proudly served the community in a variety of important roles for generations, holding positions such as town board supervisor, town board member, highway employees, working at the ferries, and supporting vital town services, as well as contributing to the service industries of landscaping and construction. Giving back to Shelter Island is more than just a value; it’s a family tradition that has been passed down through generations. We’ve always been committed to helping keep our Island running smoothly and thriving. This deep-rooted dedication is what inspires me to continue serving and giving back to the community that has given us so much.

I began road work in the community as a teenager, maintaining roads in Dering Harbor. Now, with over 20 years of experience with the Highway Department, including my current role at the Recycling Center, I’m ready to lead the department that has been such a big part of my life.

My background is rooted in hands-on work. I'm a skilled carpenter and craftsman, and I spent 10 years as a shop steward for Bricklayers Union #29, where I led teams on major construction projects. In addition to my town work, I operate a small business on Shelter Island and serve as a volunteer firefighter. In 2023, I was honored to be elected Commissioner of the Shelter Island Fire District.

Running for Highway Superintendent has been a longtime goal of mine. We have a dedicated, hardworking crew, and I want to work side-by-side with them to improve the department and the Recycling Center for everyone.

If elected, I will:

Protect our tax dollars by carefully managing expenses, income, assets, and grants

Improve town landings for safer public use, better fire truck access, and smarter water runoff control to protect our environment

Enhance road safety by widening key roads for pedestrians and cyclists

Organize roadwork schedules for more efficient maintenance and improvement

Upgrade the Recycling Center with better waste, hazmat, and landfill management, more accessible services for residents, and expanded income from recycling

I am deeply committed to Shelter Island, its people, its future, and the unique character that makes it home. As a proud grandparent of fourth-generation Shelter Islanders, I am dedicated to preserving this special place not only for my grandchildren but for all the generations to come who will call this island home.

Sincerely,

R. Michael Reiter
Candidate for Shelter Island Highway Superintendent