I am writing in response to Sean Kirst’s Wednesday February 7th article in which as Onondaga County Democratic Chairman Robert Romeo asked individuals considering running for Mayor of Syracuse to ask themselves, "Why me, why now?" As you know, I am currently the only Democrat who has officially declared my candidacy for Mayor. Therefore, I thought it would be appropriate to respond. The answer to your question, "why me, why now?" is: I have the experience, the vision and the commitment to lead Syracuse forward.;
I Am A Leader With Experience
My campaign uses a theme, "As City Auditor, I know the numbers better than anyone knows the numbers, and I will make the numbers work for Syracuse." However, it is more than just a slogan. As you know, I am currently serving my second full elected term as the Syracuse City Auditor, filling the vacancy left when Roy Bernardi became Mayor. For over 6 years, I have played a critical role in analyzing the financial condition of our City and pointing out where structural changes need to be made.
Previously, I served on the Onondaga County Legislature from 1976 to 1981 representing the Eastwood section of the City. In addition, I was appointed to the Syracuse Common Council in 1993 to fill a vacancy. I know this entire community, and I will utilize the expertise I have developed in City and County government to advance the City of Syracuse.
I also have experience in the private sector. I created a computer software company that marketed and installed computer systems nationally. My company was selected by IBM as a business partner. In 1989, we employed 18 computer professionals and achieved sales of over $1 million. I know what it takes to generate sales and to meet a payroll.
I Am A Leader With A Vision And A Strategy
The next Mayor must have a vision, a strategy and the courage to implement real solutions to address the ongoing challenges that face our community. Not only do I have the skills and the experience to be Mayor, I have a roadmap to get Syracuse on the road to greatness once again. I have already created a document entitled "Vision for Syracuse." It includes proposals for: creating a first class public education system; strengthening and beautifying neighborhoods, roads and public spaces; fixing the City’s finances; restoring the housing stock so individuals choose to live in the City; working as a partner with existing businesses and providing incentives to attract new businesses; and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of all city services.
Residents of Syracuse can be assured that I know how to get things accomplished. Recent examples of this include my involvement with the Lincoln Hill Development SNI proposal. I believe this project will serve as a model for neighborhood revitalization throughout the City.
Also, I have been working with the Syracuse City School District and the City to secure over a million dollars in additional state funding assistance for the purchase of new textbooks for our schools. I have been directly involved with efforts to create neighborhood and community schools. I believe that the City and School District must come together to support our children.
I Am A Leader Who Has Committed To The Community And Will Continue To Do So
I regularly attend and participate with residents at meetings throughout the City including Tomorrow’s Neighborhoods Today (TNT) planning sector gatherings, Neighborhood Watch groups, and community forums. I am often the only city official in attendance at Syracuse City School District Board Meetings. In fact, I keep my schedule filled with these important meetings because it is critical that the next Mayor understands the priorities and concerns of local neighborhoods and our schools. I have been committed to these meetings long before I announced that I would be running for Mayor. I pledge to continue to attend these meetings after becoming Mayor.
I Am A Leader Who Will Lead
We all agree that this community needs a strong leader as Mayor. Again, I have the experience, the vision and the commitment to lead Syracuse forward. That is why I am running for Mayor of Syracuse. I can and will make a difference.