MIDDLETOWN – Joe Masi, Middletown City Councilman and outspoken critic of Joel Sierra, has called on Gov. Kathy Hochul to remove the lawmaker from office.

Meanwhile, Sierra’s official attorney, former Middletown Police Chief Ramon Bethencourt, said he “welcomes” any communication with the governor’s office. Bethencourt also said Sierra will return to attending legislative sessions by the end of the year.

Sierra, who represents Middletown, has not attended a legislative session since March 30, 2022, but continues to receive his full salary plus benefits. He has been unable to attend meetings since sustaining an injury while working as a paid firefighter for the city of Middletown. Sierra’s four-year term ends on December 31, 2025.

It is unlikely that Hochul would intervene in Sierra’s removal. A spokesman for the governor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment for this story.

In his letter to Hochul, Alderman Masi referred to “Sierra and his sham.” Masi added, in part, “I am reaching out to you directly and asking you to intervene to remove Sierra from the legislature. Your actions will ensure that the people of Middletown receive the equal and fair representation they deserve, just like any other community. Your swift action on this matter is greatly appreciated.”

Bethencourt said Sierra’s return to the legislature is subject to his doctor’s approval.

“Joel will be back in the legislature by the end of the year, if not sooner,” Bethancourt said. “We welcome any communication with the governor and we would like to communicate with the state attorney general. We welcome the investigation. Bring it here. We would like to tell our side of the story to someone else because there is more to it than meets the eye and there are clear conflicts of interest.”

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