Mr. Thomas has led intermunicipal services initiatives in Chautauqua County and around the state since beginning his public service 14 years ago.

A two-term County Executive (1998-2005), Mr. Thomas served as president of the New York State County Executives Association when he spearheaded negotiations that led to the state take-over of the cost of New York's Family Health plus from the counties. This set the stage for 2005 negotiations with the state that led to a Medicaid Cap, the largest Medicaid finance reform in 40 years.

As Chautauqua County Executive, Thomas was a leader in the effort to consolidate the City of Jamestown (911) emergency dispatch with the county system. He negotiated as well the successful effort to develop a city/town inter-municipal agreement for the take-over of bridges from the towns and industrial corridor streets from Chautauqua County's two cities.

As Pomfret Town Supervisor, Thomas was a leader in the innovative Chadwick Bay regional comprehensive plan and joint infrastructure and economic development activities across 7 municipalities in Northern Chautauqua County.

Mr. Thomas, a graduate of the University of Illinois, began public service when he was elected to the Town of Pomfret Council in 1992. He was elected Town Supervisor in 1994.