To the editor:

In January of 2015, I was appointed and later that same year elected to serve the Third District of Cicero and Manlius on the Onondaga County Legislature. Now, just two years later, the conclusion of my first term is approaching. Serving on the legislature has not always been easy, but I am always encouraged by the good work that we do at the county. My commitment to Cicero and Manlius is unwavering, and it’s because of that commitment that I have decided to run for reelection this fall.

Despite the increasing cost of living and healthcare, I am proud of the responsible budget we were able to adopt in the legislature this year. By taking steps to build out a sensible county budget, taxes were reduced overall by $1.75 million. By merging the Metropolitan Water Board (MWB) and Onondaga County Water Authority (OCWA), county taxpayers are saving $10 million annually. We were able to both curb spending and maintain funding for key organizations like the Greater Syracuse Land Bank, the Syracuse Law Clinic and veteran services at Clear Path.

Speaking to our district specifically, I advocated for funding the Brewerton Revitalization project, the Skyway Park playground and pipe and manhole repairs in Oneida Park. By securing county funding for these improvements, the town has saved more than $300,000.

My campaign for legislator has already begun, and as I start the election process again, I want to hear from residents of my district about what is important to you. Visit my website timburtis.com, Facebook page or send me an email directly. I want to hear your concerns and ideas on how we can make our corner of Onondaga County even better. I appreciate the support you have shown me over the years, and I look forward to serving you for a second term on the Onondaga County Legislature.

Tim Burtis

Onondaga County Legislator – District 3