Town supervisor candidates:
Judy Boyke
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, number of years in home, etc.):
Democrat
My husband Edward W. Boyke, Jr., and I are both lifetime residents in the town of Cicero. My parents Art and Helen Sadler built their home at 6303 Muskrat Bay Road in Brewerton in 1939 where Ed and I reside today. My family history in Cicero dates back to its establishment in the 1800s, as well as my husband’s. Their homestead still exists at the four corners of South Bay Road and Route 31. My father Art was an entrepreneur having a coal business, fuel oil business and started the first trash pickup business in Brewerton. Art and Helen Sadler were part of the original Brewerton Volunteer Fire Department and auxiliary.
We have three married children, Walt and Candiece McArdell, Scott and Ellen Woodard and Melissa & Patrick Brown and are blessed with six grandchildren.
After graduating from Central Square School I went to work for Blue Cross Blue Shield in Syracuse. Shortly after that I had the good fortune to gain employment with General Electric Company. I received all my formal education through General Electrics Companies Internship training and educational programs. During the 33 years of my career I worked mainly in the sonar division. Working my way up through the ranks in the secretarial, individual contributor and programming control positions proved my ability to continue up the corporate ladder. As a supervisor I was required to develop and implement process procedures and work routines that were required for supporting groups in the transducer assembly operation. I supervised over 70 hourly, union employees working in a controlled classified manufacturing environment. I established efficient methods to create job interest and versatility. As a manufacturing project manager my responsibility included preparing master schedules and implementing them. Preparing resource planning data to assist shop operations in level loading personnel was required to meet high level deadlines. Assisting cost estimators to develop plans for supporting personnel associated with several individual government programs.
Required educational classes included Hazcom, OSHA, Union representation/interface, blueprint reading, effective presentation and harassment awareness.
I have been a licensed realtor in New York state since 1994. Continued education is a major responsibility for a realtor to maintain our license. I am an elected director seated on the Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors. Besides my real estate career my husband and I own and operate Slick Stitch Custom Embroidery which is a small personnel embroidery business in the town of Cicero.
Organizations I am a member of:
Cicero Democratic Committee
Cicero Chamber of Commerce
Cicero Historical Society
South Shore Association and Auxiliary
Divine Mercy Parish — St. Agnes Campus and Choir — Brewerton
Chairperson — Professional Standards — Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors
Why am I running for office?
As the supervisor for the town of Cicero in 2010-11, I had the opportunity to appreciate the need for a full-time supervisor. I have the experience and I am dedicated to provide strong leadership with integrity and fairness. I am retired, have grown children and a family who supports my commitment. I have continued to be involved with all town issues. The many challenges facing the town ahead require someone with experience and hands-on knowledge plus a proven record to not be afraid to make tough decisions. I have and will continue to face all challenges head on. Always keeping an open door to the residents especially during the reassessment project was not an easy task and continues to be a challenge for many residents. My heart is in the town of Cicero where I plan to continue to make our town fiscally accountable and set achievable goals for the best place to live, work and raise a family.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
Experience matters is the key. The town supervisor is a full-time position which requires a dedicated person who will be a full-time supervisor. I have attended all town board meetings and have had my finger on the pulse of the town of Cicero while participating from the resident’s side during these board meetings for the past 21 months. I have been involved with all phases of the town’s operations, including Zoning and Planning, Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Board, drainage and infrastructure. My strengths include being organized, the ability to communicate orally and written, I have strong interpersonal relationship skills, and team concept for decision-making.
I am a “people not politics” person. Being a longstanding resident, homeowner, business owner, parent and, of course, taxpayer, my interest is not a career politician but a business woman with the experience, integrity, and proven record that I can do the job. I know that the town of Cicero needs a person with the proven ability to lead with integrity plus utilizing the skills of the town board members, the other elected officials and involve all the department heads to create a working relationship that always has the residence in mind.
I have and will continue to dedicate the time necessary to provide the leadership that this elected position requires. In 2010, while in office, I implemented an internal audit in all departments handling money. Within the justice department the audit uncovered a major impropriety involving a justice clerk which since has been rectified. I along with other board members was instrumental in bringing the Municity software program into the Zoning office stream lining records for better service. During my previous administration I was successful in bringing a Mega Nice n Easy to the much needed Brewerton residents. Several new business joined the town of Cicero including CJ’s Car America, Sea Ray Boats, Dunkin Donuts, First Niagara Bank, Mavis Tire, Whittaker’s Trophy, Cicero Family Dental, Dog Water Training, Taste of Boardwalks, Tim Horton’s, Arrow Glass. The Loretto project which is a new dimension to nursing care was initiated to build a facility near the Twin Rinks skating facility. Many business expansions were also a part of Cicero’s continued growth for existing businesses to provide better services to its residents. Continuing to move the Brewerton Revitalization Project forward had proved to be a slow process. Realizing and then involving two major key groups i.e.: The Onondaga and Oneida nations and the Historic Preservation Group this project was able to slowly move forward. My understanding of what was necessary took time but proved to be successful. My heart is in this project and I am a key player to see it come to fruition while working with the Brewerton Revitalization Committee. Anyone who knows me knows that I speak the truth, even though it might not be the answer they wanted to hear. Having filled this position before, I know that in the best interest of the residents in the town of Cicero, I am the best candidate for this office.
What are the issues facing the town and what will you do to address them?
Fiscal accountability will continue to be my main priority. Implement a monitoring system to track on a monthly basis the town’s ability to operate within the parameters of the existing budget.
Bringing back all department heads to participate at all town board meetings is a must. During public input having personnel available to answer residents question if at all possible is a service they deserve.
Allowing elected town board members to speak at the end of board meetings will be reinstituted. Freedom of speech will be restored.
Drainage Committee will be reestablished, having a citizen participates along with the committee and reports will be made at board meetings including costs.
Infrastructure committee will also report at board meetings on progress and projects.
Consolidation of services will be supported as long as the expenditures will support the savings for the service.
Jessica Zambrano
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of years in home, etc.):
My educational background includes bachelor of science (1968) and master of science (1975) degrees in nursing from Northern Illinois University. I was employed with the New York State Department of Health from 1976 until I retired in 2012. I worked in various administrative and supervisory positions including enforcement activities, budget development, and medical conduct investigations of physicians.
Although I spent the first part of my life in Illinois, my daughter Suzanne and I moved to Cicero in 1984 and we have lived here continuously since then. For nearly 30 years we have proudly called Cicero home. Suzanne and I enjoy the friendly people and all that Cicero has to offer. Remaining in Cicero has been one of the best and easiest decisions I have ever made.
While I won elections in 2006 and 2009 as a Democrat, I changed my party affiliation to the Independence Party in 2012 after serving with Supervisor Jim Corl as his deputy. It became clear that my objectives for the town’s management, fiscal conservatism and planning for the future were consistent with his goals. I have earned the Republican and Independence endorsements for the November election.
Why are you running for office?
Under Jim Corl’s leadership, the town of Cicero has begun a transformation from short-sighted decision-making to financial responsibility in budget preparation, fiscal planning for the future and investment in our infrastructure. These measures must continue if the town is to remain financially healthy and to see that taxpayer money is spent wisely. For example, the highway department’s expenses account for almost half of the town’s entire budget, or $4.6 million per year. We must ensure that more roads are repaired on a timely basis and kept in reasonably good shape. Investing in quality roads will pay dividends for the betterment of our community. That means we need to keep our fleet of road repair equipment and snow plowing vehicles efficiently maintained and replaced on a regular basis, not only for cost effectiveness but also to ensure safety on our roads for all residents.
Let us not forget that an appealing town attracts businesses to and services for our community. In my role as liaison to the Planning Board, we have begun to streamline the approval process of new projects by having more discussions with business and property owners up front to advise them of compliance requirements. This has worked out well the last couple years and I want to continue to work on economic development.
Cicero’s quality of life is enhanced by our effective local police department that provides numerous services to our residents. Cicero police officers keep our kids, neighborhoods, and businesses safe. We also have an active and diverse parks and recreation program that benefits all of us.
I have worked closely with Supervisor Jim Corl in bringing about necessary changes and keeping our services and programs strong. If elected, I will continue that work.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
Although it sounds cliché, we have to do more with less. Costs for everything are going up. The town can accomplish nothing without its employees, but pension and health care costs are increasing dramatically without a match in revenues. Last year, because of a new agreement between the county and the city of Syracuse, the town lost and is going to continue to lose $600,000 in sales tax revenue this year and every year. That is huge and we have been forced to cut costs. So far we have been able to do that without cutting services or increasing taxes, but this will continue to be a major challenge. We are lucky to have some board members and key employees who look for cost-cutting measures; this really makes a difference. The town faces many of the same challenges families do on a daily basis, so I know everyone can relate to this.
The highway department is getting up to speed on its new roads assessment program and is working cooperatively with our town board to save and repair more roads on an annual basis. The highway department has recently put together a new vehicle replacement plan to ensure that equipment purchases are budgeted for, rather than being constantly repaired or purchased on an “emergency basis.”
Another challenge has centered around our codes enforcement efforts, whether it pertains to property use, abandoned pools or drainage problems, etc. We have also had a significant number of complaints that have lingered on the books for years without resolution. Last year, the town board commissioned an analysis of our codes department. That study pointed out the deficits and made recommendations on how to address them, including changes to our town code, which were implemented. We are now in the process of reorganizing the codes department under a new director and reconfiguring that office to enhance code enforcement officer productivity. Abandoned and unsafe houses have been demolished this year, which is helpful to our neighborhoods and property values. We must continue this program because there is more work to be done in this area.
What are the major issues facing the town, and what will you do to address them?
I have dedicated my life to public service. Given my responsibilities these last two years, I am acutely aware of the town’s needs and challenges. As Supervisor Corl’s deputy, I have a comprehensive understanding of how local government can work to provide essential services to residents, ensure health and safety, as well as provide for quality of life. Given my responsibilities these last two years, I am acutely aware of the town’s needs and challenges. We have developed a vision and a plan to move the town in the right direction. If elected, I intend to implement that plan to ensure fiscal responsibility, to continue planning for the future, and to take measures in securing our infrastructure.
Town council candidates
Mike Becallo
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of years in home, etc.):
Family: My girlfriend Bethany and I have plans to get engaged in the near future.
Employer: I am a health information technology consultant and co-owner of MedConsult, LLC. Since 2009, our company has been providing project management services; implementing integration strategies, and providing ongoing support for medical facilities across upstate New York. Establishing my own business has provided opportunities for me to learn how to solve complicated problems with limited resources and tight deadlines.
Volunteer Experience: Cicero volunteer firefighter, North Syracuse Education Foundation board member, Hurricane Katrina Red Cross volunteer, Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, Big Brother and Bridgeport field days.
Endorsements: Republican and Independence
Education:
Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY Health Information Technology Program (2012)
Canisius College, M.S., Sports Administration (2009)
The University of Alabama, B.A., Communication Studies (2007)
Why are you running for office?
Many of my friends have left the area looking for better opportunities that they did not see available here in Central New York. After seeking education out of town, I returned home looking to create opportunities for myself and the town of Cicero. As a lifelong resident of this community, I want to make sure that I do what I can to help my community prosper. Cicero is where I grew up and plan to stay.
I want better government, and to be an advocate for the people. It is exciting to be a part of the future of our town. I will make sure that the constituents have a voice on all issues pertaining to the town of Cicero. When we have an efficient and responsive local government, the end result is an increase in businesses and better neighborhoods. My focus will be on the people.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
I feel strongly that the residents in the town of Cicero must have a say in their local government. While out campaigning over the last several months I have had positive interactions with hundreds of residents. Their concerns are my concerns. I will be a strong advocate for the people and will address their issues that come before me.
What are the major issues facing the town, and what will you do to address them?
While speaking with my neighbors on their doorsteps all over the town of Cicero, I received feedback pertaining to what they want to see for our community. Several things stand out. They overwhelmingly want a fresh face who has a lot of enthusiasm for preserving our community. Many stated that they want someone who would not only listen to their needs but who would also speak on their behalf to ensure that their concerns are being addressed. Over and over again, I have heard that they want to see a sound balanced budget, someone working towards getting taxes under control, and someone who can bring the community together. I look forward to working collaboratively with other board members and municipalities as together we find ways to be more efficient as a municipality. As a small business owner, I have a unique perspective on all these issues. If I am elected to this position I will make sure to address your issues and concerns. I will work hard to have the town of Cicero maintain its identity.
Lynn Jennings
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of year in home, etc.):
Democrat; age 70.
My wife Donna and I have been married 40 years and have lived in the town of Cicero for 26 years along with our two children. We reside at 213 N. Patricia Lane, North Syracuse. Our children attended and graduated through the Cicero-North Syracuse school system.
I am a retired seteran serving over 23 credible years with the United States Air Force retiring as Master Sergeant (E-7). I am also retired from the United States Postal Service, working out of the Taft Road facility with 20 years of service.
Why are you running for office?
I have been a member of the Democratic Party since 1963 and also a member of the Cicero Democratic Committee. I do not vote a straight party line but rather weigh out the issues presented, reviewing the information provided, in some cases becoming in depth, discussing the issues with all parties concerned before making a decision. Keeping our constituents in mind at all times is my first concern.
I am the only incumbent on the Cicero Town Board who is running for re-election as councilor. I believe that it is in the best interest of the residents of the town of Cicero that I draw on my more than three years seated experience, plus providing continuity to the board on outstanding and unresolved issues.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
My proven dedication to addressing issues and maintaining quality service to all town residents, trying to keep open communications and an open door policy with the present administration has not been an easy task. My persistence making sure that I received the proper documents prior to board meetings and having ample time to review them prior to making a decision. I am liaison to the Parks and Recreation Department, where I continue to interface and discuss all issues with the department heads and staff concerning the safety of our parks and beaches, maintenance and recreational activities. The Cicero Senior Center is also part of the Parks and Recreation Department. That facility provides a place for our seniors to go for educational and social gatherings. I have been involved with resolutions to upgrade the facility providing a safe place for our seniors who take advantage of the many programs including exercising, blood pressure checks and informational seminars.
As liaison to the town clerk’s office, I interface directly with the Cicero town clerk and deputy clerk on many issues affecting programs designed to provide services to town residents. The volume of services that the Cicero town clerk’s office provides, involves a continuous monitoring of the services and, in many cases, implementing upgrades, old and new. I provide the support from the town board, along with the town clerk, to make sure we have the best and most current services. Recently a pilot program was implemented, bringing a member from the Onondaga County Clerk’s office to the Cicero Town Hall to assist residents, especially seniors, with matters that would normally force them to go into Syracuse.
As a seated councilor I have had the opportunity to be a part of the economic development within the town of Cicero, in some cases the opportunity for employment as well. The recent JADAK at Hancock Airpark addition should create 60 jobs over the next few years, the Loretto project is underway bringing a new dimension to nursing care, Hoffman Sausage Company opening their administrative offices in our town, Aldi’s grocery store and Dollar Tree located at 5962 Route 31 “Aldi’s Plaza” and Sweet Frog Frozen Yogurt on Route 11. These are just a few of the services that have chosen Cicero for their businesses.
What are the major issues facing the town and what will you do to address them?
One of my main concerns is the issues that face the veterans and seniors of our town. As a veteran myself, I have introduced three resolutions that were presented to the governor’s office and county legislature, resolutions pertaining to the creation of a central state-sponsored web site on veteran’s entitlements, tax exemptions for National Guard members and reservists, extending the Cold War Veteran’s exemption for life. The town of Cicero suggested the elimination of the 10-year duration on real property taxes and the completion of 20 years’ service being eligible for this exemption.
I have supported the Brewerton Revitalization project with the intent to provide a park within the town along the Oneida River waterfront. The purpose is to encourage boat traffic to utilize the facilities provided by the merchants within the town and to also attract new visitors as well. A continued effort to bring a much needed grocery store to Bridgeport, continue to work with the state encouraging the Share the Road program with safe bike routes, convincing the state to consider the improvement of our town’s infrastructure including installing sidewalks that would provide safe walkways for our residents.
When reelected I will bring our department heads back to the town board meetings. This will allow the residents when attending the meetings to speak to them directly with a question or concern and in some cases to complement them on a job well done. Renewing this interface gives the residence firsthand information more timely and from the primary resource. A review of town hall hours will also be reviewed making sure that there are resources available to the residence to achieve business within the town hall.
I would like to thank all the residents in the town of Cicero for the opportunity to serve you for the past four years. I have the experience and look forward to continue to bring open government to the people of my town.
I interface on a daily basis with all departments and department heads within the town hall to discuss issues and ideas they have pertaining to their departments and employees. Having this relationship provides an opportunity for open communications from the town to its residents making it a better place to live, work and raise a family.
Don Snyder
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of years in home, etc.):
My wife, Jessie, and I have lived in Cicero for 31 years. We have six adult children and 14 grandchildren. We first lived in Harbor Village in Bridgeport (23 years) and currently reside on Mud Mill Road. Our children attended Cicero-North Syracuse High School. We are both active members in our church.
I frequently speak at town board meetings because I think it is important for me to be aware and a part of the business of the town. I was a member of the Drainage Committee, working closely with the highway superintendent and the town engineer to improve drainage conditions. I am a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and served on the Police Study Committee. I believe that my participation at town board meetings, as well as serving on the Drainage Committee and the ZBA, gives me insight into how the town of Cicero’s government works, which will be of great help with my duties as a town councilor.
I plan to face issues head on and to always work in the best interests of the residents of Cicero.
I have a bachelor of science degree from Syracuse University with a major in accounting. My work experience includes managing construction projects for Delaware Transit Corporation and 30 years as facilities manager for Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse. I have a great deal of experience working with architects, engineers and contractors. My experience with budgeting and contracts at the state level gives me a unique perspective in my approach to understanding problems and communicating information to the public and the voters.
Why are you running for office?
I have been closely following the actions of the Cicero town board for several years now and feel that I am at a time in my life where I am able to get more involved in the governmental process in our community. I look forward to listening to the concerns of residents and to working to bring constructive solutions to those problems. My background in being responsible for large budgets and managing large-scale construction projects will assist me in looking for creative solutions that will benefit all residents.
The town is facing many challenges ahead, including the 2 percent property tax increase limit enacted by the state. Our aging infrastructure continues to be a problem needing attention. These issues will put a great deal of pressure on our representatives to find ways to maintain essential services in the face of declining revenue amounts. I am ready to face those challenges and work with all of the town board members to find creative solutions. My goal is to work toward a more creative town government while finding more creative ways to maintain services to residents.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
I want to see Cicero continue to be a great place to live and raise a family. As the town has grown, the demand for services has increased dramatically, underscoring the need for a more efficient government.
The town’s road and drainage infrastructure is aging.
Computer systems have to be continually upgraded to reflect new technologies and the needs of the residents.
Town Hall practices have to be more flexible to make it easier for the residents to conduct business with the town.
All town services need to be evaluated on a regular basis to assure they are meeting the needs of the residents.
I will consider the needs of the residents first and will work with anyone in good faith to address those needs.
I would like to take an in-depth look at each department regardless of size.
What are the tasks that each department must do by law?
What are the actual tasks that are done?
What tasks should be eliminated or delegated to another department or another agency?
What is the monetary income realized by each department?
Can departmental revenues be increased?
I realize taxes are an issue, but I also realize that the bulk of taxes that property owners pay are not under the control of the town board. The school budget is the lion’s share of the taxes we pay, while the county- and state-mandated taxes are another large portion. I understand the need for a higher level of fiscal responsibility and promise to manage the town’s money like it was my own.
I will look at even the smallest expenditures to make sure public money is being spent wisely.
I will ask for reports that show year-to-date expenditures in all areas.
I will try to bring wages and benefits in line with what the majority of taxpayers experience.
I will ask for a budget that the taxpayers can understand, not just one designed for governmental accounting.
I will bring a higher level of accountability to the town.
What are the major issues facing the town and what will you do to address them?
I believe that the town’s spending priorities must be constantly reevaluated to be certain that expenditures are in line and meeting the needs of the taxpayers.
I will support consolidation efforts where expenditures are reduced and services are the same or better.
I will look closely at services that can be consolidated.
I will support efforts to continue to update the town’s computer systems.
I will support efforts to make it easier for residents to fully understand where their tax dollars are being spent and to access and pay for town services.
I will support the Brewerton revitalization project as funds and fiscal responsibility allow.
While I realize I cannot promise to make any of these improvements on my own, I do vow to work to help insure that improvements are made at every level in the town.
Mark Venesky
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of years in home, etc.):
My name is Mark Venesky. I am a first time candidate for town councilor in the town of Cicero. My party affiliation is Republican and I have both Republican and Independence Party endorsements. I am 57 years old, grew up in North Syracuse and have lived in Cicero since 1992. My wife MaryEllen and I are proud to be your neighbors. I am fortunate that my two sons and their families still call Upstate New York “home.” A product of the North Syracuse school district, I graduated from Cicero High School and earned my college degrees from Onondaga Community College and Syracuse University. I achieved a successful career of 36 years with “The Tightest Ship in the Shipping Business,” UPS, and retired in 2011. During this time I worked in and supervised various operations. In 1993, I was asked to join the Business Development Function, where I spent my last 18 years traveling Upstate New York as both an account manager and as a senior account executive where I successfully sold logistic services in a very competitive environment.
Why are you running for office?
I was motivated to get involved about two years ago when the previous town supervisor proposed a budget containing a 14 percent tax increase. That budget was so late that it nearly missed the New York state deadline for submission. I decided then to stop complaining and get involved. Since that time, I have attended the town board meetings and planning board meetings. In 2012 I served on the Open Government Committee, and I currently serve on the Quality Assurance Committee to the Cicero Police Department. I feel strongly about our community and believe that as a citizen, I have a responsibility to help our community become an even better place.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
I will bring my integrity, skills and the knowledge that I acquired at UPS to Cicero government.
Having the ability to see opportunity where others may not have, not only earned me accolades at UPS, but also has developed in me the ability and skill to promote Cicero — to bring home the opportunity right here at our doorstep. Having been held responsible to a sound cost and business plan has given me the discipline that will be needed as we move our town forward together.
What are the major issues facing the town and what will you do to address them?
There are many issues but people are telling me that the major issue is taxes. We need to mitigate them at all levels. I believe that any approach to a fiscally sound government must contain two important components: financial accountability and responsible growth. Now more than ever, town government needs to be sure that any expenditure is a necessary one and that we’re getting value for our tax dollars. A key to tax relief is increasing revenue. We cannot keep going to the tax payer. My focus is to increase revenue with responsible growth. If elected, I will work closely with our planning board and all of our town resources to promote win-win propositions for our residents and our businesses. To those who want to locate or grow a business in Onondaga County, I say, “Choose Cicero!” I will also focus on the quality of our roads, drainage, and quality of life in Cicero. As a longtime resident, I am committed to making sure Cicero remains a great place to call home for families and business alike.
Town clerk candidate (unopposed)
Tracy Cosilmon
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of years in home, etc.):
Lived in Cicero for 30 years. Cicero Town Clerk for the past 12 years. Married with one son, John, and dog, Callie. Republican. I am honored and privileged to have the endorsement and support of the Independence Party, Conservative Party, Veterans Party, PBA.
Why are you running for office?
I am running for the position of town clerk as I have dedicated myself to helping, serving and interacting with the public. I am very genuine and sincere and can offer assistance to those looking for information and will go the extra mile to provide the help that is needed.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
I believe that I am the best candidate for the town clerk’s position as I have the knowledge and experience specializing in this position. I have dedicated myself to learning by participating in training courses, updating my office with the latest technology and availing myself to continuing education on matters that are instrumental to running the town clerk’s office efficiently and professionally.
During my 12 years as Cicero town clerk, I have been instrumental in starting the website process, updating the boiler system, windows and lighting in the town hall building, making it more energy efficient and cost effective.
Through my efforts, the town has been awarded five grants in the amount of $110,000.00 for the preservation of records which are maintained in our Archival Records Room and for new energy efficient windows. I have been instrumental in obtaining an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sound system for the town hall’s main meeting room and provided visual support with modern technological equipment that enables projects to be presented to the public for better understanding.
I am passionate about the safety and well-being of animals. I conducted a town-wide mailing of postcards to residents to help ensure that the dogs have updated rabies vaccinations and most of all; we updated owner information so that lost dogs can be reunited with their owners.
What are the major issues facing the town and what will you do to address them?
Although I do not have any voting authority in the capacity as town clerk, I am aware that there are issues facing this town. Some of these are traffic congestion and need for jobs. I will continue to listen to people and guide them to the proper channels or persons to address their concerns. I feel during these tough economic times that it is very important that we work together as a team, as there is strength in numbers. When we work together, it is amazing what productive things can be accomplished, that will benefit us now and in the future.
Since we have entered into a time where there is so much uncertainty, I want more than ever to stay positive and remain helpful in serving our residents, making sure that I have taken an interest in their requests and that I have gone the extra mile so that they can leave feeling comfortable and satisfied with the assistance that has been provided.
I truly believe that working together we can build a better community and make a difference.
Tax receiver candidate (unopposed)
Sharon Edick
Biographical information (family, employer, political affiliation, age, number of years in home, etc.):
I am Sharon Mattes Edick, born and raised here in Cicero. I am the eldest of eight children, all living in our town except one. I am married to a very caring and supportive man named Thomas Edick. I was humbled to be elected Republican receiver of taxes for this wonderful town and I have held the position since 1999. I am a board member for the New York State Tax Receivers Association and have been the treasurer for 10 years. I am a member of the Cicero Historical Society and the Greater Cicero Chamber of Commerce, where I serve on the board of directors, recording secretary and former sergeant at arms, working at many events. At Assumption Church, I am a Eucharistic Minister and active in multiple projects. I am an area leader as a cancer fighter for Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
Why are you running for office?
This is a job that I thoroughly love. I have a huge fiduciary responsibility which provides a great challenge. The people that we are in contact with daily make the job more fun than work. Many times there are problems and situations that need a “little extra help.” I am there for just those times. Many of our seniors need assistance with forms, and other residents are having difficulties with their escrow companies. I enjoy finding a solution and seeing the smiles and relief on a person’s face.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
My many years of professional experience and knowledge of the town and the job make me the perfect candidate. I have the knowledge of the principles and the practices of modern, automated office procedures, knowledge of the operation of computer programs, ability to communicate courteously and effectively with residents who are either congenial or very unhappy. I am able to supervise an office staff to run effectively and efficiently. I have skills in working carefully, accurately and quickly in receiving, recording, reconciling, depositing and disbursing many millions each tax cycle. I have initiated a program for our “snow birds” or those going away for a while to visit family and friends. I have a program in place for those families where a notice to a third party is advantageous. I have done a lot of work assisting those with exemptions for disabilities, veterans and Cold War veterans. I have made many changes in the way payments can be accepted and the escrow receipts are handled. I have a great working relationship with our tax services and banks, which has helped many homeowners. I work daily with many attorneys. I have worked diligently to reduce the costs in this office and keep them steady.
What are the major issues facing the town, and what will you do to address them?
The tax receiver is an apolitical job. This means I have no voting powers so I can create no policies or programs, but I am strictly guided by New York state laws and regulations. I work hard to incorporate ways to help our homeowners and save dollars. My proudest moment was when we were successful in getting the 1995 Partial Payment Law revised in September of 2011. This was a three-year effort, and all those who use it are extremely pleased.
In addition, Chris Woznica is running unopposed for highway superintendent. However, he did not respond to our request for information.
