Southeast May Honor First Female Super.
By Holly Crocco & Jack Alcott
The Town of Southeast is considering renaming the Lakeview Manor community center in honor of the town’s first and – to date – only female supervisor.
“When we reflect on the life and legacy of Lois Zutell, a few words come to mind: community, dedication, leadership, and lasting impact,” said Putnam County Historian Jennifer Cassidy at the Oct. 15 Southeast Town Board meeting. “These are the qualities of people who make their mark on history.”
She said the occasion is more than an introductory discussion about naming a place. “It’s an important opportunity to recognize women’s history in Putnam County – a chapter that deserves greater attention,” said Cassiday.
Zutell (1935-2020) was born in the Bronx and moved to Brewster to raise a family “and build a wonderful life,” according to Town Supervisor Joseph Castellano.
She served as supervisor from 1996 to 2003, winning four elections during that time. Prior, she served 10 years on the town board, and was a member of the planning board, Southeast Recreation Commission, Putnam Count Land Trust, the Friends of Brewster Public Library, and was a charter member of the Southeast Museum.
Zutell’s service has been recognized by numerous organizations, including the Putnam County Sheriff’s Honor Corps, Brewster Chamber of Commerce, Putnam County Supervisors Association, Brewster Elks Lodge, Village of Brewster, and the VFW.
“On a personal note, I moved up to the Town of Southeast in 1998, and she was one of the first people I met as a new homeowner coming up to Town Hall,” recalled Castellano. “She was always very kind, generous, and always gave me great information and was a very knowledgeable person to us here in Southeast.”
Councilwoman Wendy Lewis also remembered Zutell fondly, noting, “She broke the glass ceiling, so to speak.”
Joe Cavanaugh reflected on Zutell’s role with the St. Lawrence O’Toole Golf Outing that raised tremendous funds for charity, while Mary Rhuda spoke as a former colleague of Lois’ in the town office.
“I saw that she was transparent and dedicated, and loved this town,” said Rhuda. “There wasn’t a phone call she didn’t answer, a letter she didn’t answer… She was always willing to go out of her way for anyone.”
Zutell’s daughter Carolyn Lowe spoke with sincere gratitude for the consideration.
“She had many accomplishments and accolades and they were really something to remember and honor, but I do think it was the way in which she held the office and the way she represented the town that is her true legacy,” said Lowe.
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