The daughter of a New York City firefighter, Barbara grew up in Manhattan and summered in Jamesport as a youth. As an adult, she was compelled  to become a permanent, full-time resident of Riverhead because of her love for the environment.

Barbara is a 30-year veteran of local government in her home town of Riverhead, Long Island. She has served in the following posts:

• Town Councilwoman
• Planning Board Member and Chairwoman