The Eagle Bulletin requested information from the candidates in Tuesday’s election. Below are their responses. Rocco Conte, who is running unopposed for DeWitt Highway Superintendent, has not responded to the Eagle Bulletin’s request for information.
Town of Manlius candidates
TOWN SUPERVISOR
This year’s election features a race for the Manlius town supervisor seat between incumbent John Deer and challenger Tim Kelly. The position comes with a two-year term.
John Deer (Dem, Wor)
I’ve been honored to serve on the Manlius Town Board since 2020, first as a town councilor, and since 2022 as the town supervisor. I decided to treat this part-time role as a full-time job; residents and staff appreciate being able to reach me, and I can appreciate tracking what is happening on a day-to-day basis. I’ve been able to deal directly with the issues residents have and then advocate for changes to solve their problems.
The Town of Manlius is one of the best prepared for the incoming Micron project, according to the Onondaga County Industrial Development Agency. Since Manlius does not qualify for county assistance for expansion of infrastructure for housing our investments need to be strategic and fiscally prudent. Our town’s first-ever comprehensive plan, which received the ringing endorsement of the Onondaga County Planning Board, has positioned us to know what we will do. We have the tools to work with developers and hold them to our community-written plan for the future of our town.
We’re already seeing the benefits, developing two Planned Unit Developments for difficult parcels that will provide much needed housing and obtaining new grant funding for sustainability initiatives. We have focused on empowering residents to serve on committees and lead on important projects so the local government can better reflect the values of the community.
One of the biggest challenges is informing residents about what is happening in town.
Whenever I interact with a resident I make sure to recommend two actions: 1. Sign up for the Town agendas and minutes through townofmanlius.org and 2. Sign up to receive the Eagle Bulletin, the town’s paper of record. When our community is more engaged and informed, our representatives can better serve them.
Prerna and I were thrilled to bring Theeran Arthur, our first born, into the world in February. This community has welcomed us and provided countless opportunities to get involved. We worked hard to buy our forever home and are devoted to building a community that will attract our son’s generation to live and thrive here. Manlius is well-prepared to move confidently into a new era and I would be honored to implement our plans as your town supervisor for another term.
Tim Kelly (Rep, Con)
I am running for town supervisor to be a voice for all residents of the town. Watching town actions over the last 2 years I have grown ever more concerned when residents’ questions go unanswered and or groups are ignored. I will work with the town board to wisely roll out the comprehensive plan with the understanding of what has made our town great historically while planning wisely for our future.
My occupation: I am director of operations for an internet provider formed originally out of SU that helps people gain access to the internet in rural areas.
The challenges in the community: The current town supervisor has bypassed or ignored established protocols and committees (ex. planning board and police committee) that were put in place as checks and balances. The actions of the town board around public safety particularly with the police have also put our children and residents at risk.
I will rebuild the town’s relationship with all 3 villages, which has suffered over the last 2 years, and I will work closely with department heads to increase efficiency. I will listen to all residents. To me it’s about serving our community. I will never forget that I work for you.
Being a 5th generation resident of the town and having graduated from ESM, I am proud that with my wife Samantha we can raise our 3 children in such a wonderful community that is known for our great schools and is desired by many in our region as a great place to call home.
I have served as president of one of the busiest ambulance agencies in Onondaga County for 8 years. Through this experience and my work history I have managed and collaborated with large teams of people, built and maintained budgets and handled customer support and relationships with municipalities, vendors and end users.
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TOWN COUNCILOR
This election season, there are three open Town of Manlius councilor seats. The candidates running are Democratic incumbents Heather Waters and Alissa Italiano, Republican challengers Dave Barnwell, Karen Ayoub and John Hodges, and Democrat Michael Nesci. The candidates were asked about the experience they’d lend to
local government going forward, their occupations outside of politics, the biggest challenges they see in the community, their ideas for addressing those challenges and what they appreciate most about the town.
Karen Ayoub (Rep, Con)
I have not run for town councilor before, but last year I did run for NYS Assembly. During that campaign Manlius residents told me they did not feel the current board was responsive to their concerns. I will listen to residents and work to build relationships within the community to help address concerns.
My background is in accounting, most recently as an accountant for a family-owned small business.
As we move forward there will be opportunities and challenges brought by the coming of Micron, the need to protect our environment, and providing residents with the best in police, fire, infrastructure, and public services. All challenges need apolitical, or at least bipartisan, compromise and problem-solving skills to arrive at solutions in the best interest of the town.
The town board must foster close working relationships with the county, all three villages, town board sub-committees (i.e. zoning, planning, police, etc.), and most importantly with residents. Fostering these bipartisan relationships will facilitate the development of solutions that are in the best interest of the town overall.
We live in a relatively large town of about 34,000 people. I am appreciative of the small town feel and sense of safety in our community. My appreciation extends to the unseen efforts of our police department in maintaining that safety.
Whatever you decide, I just ask that you exercise your right to vote. All voices should be heard.
Dave Barnwell (Rep, Con)
I am blessed to be married to my wife Casey and father to two wonderful boys that attend the Fayetteville-Manlius School District. For the past 24 years I have worked as an X-ray/CT technologist in an outpatient office in the city of Syracuse. I also have spent the last 31 years working part-time for the Town of Manlius Highway Department. For 26 of those years, I have plowed roads throughout the town and called in workers to keep our roads clear during the winter months.
The biggest challenges I see in the town are the lack of transparency and the breakdown in dialogue. The current town board has consistently gone around the planning board, police committee and neighbors to fill personal agendas. It is actions like these that have caused many in the community to lose credibility in our town board and question their true intentions and transparency.
We need to regain dialogue between the villages and town, while creating a board that has varying viewpoints to make quality decisions. A diverse town board with representation from all parts of the town is very important. We need to utilize and respect the input given from the committees and boards that assist us in decision-making too.
I feel that we are fortunate to have such an incredible police department that provides us with safety both in our community and in our schools. This service is a pillar to our community alongside our outstanding fire and highway departments.
My reasons for running for town board have always been honorable and sincere with no personal agenda attached. Although I have tried to knock on as many doors as possible, I want people to know that my intention for running for town councilor is to create a more equally represented board.
John Hodges (Rep, Con)
In 2020 my wife and I opened Spill the Tea Café in Minoa and began interacting directly with our community. As I invested in our business, my interest grew with our community. Recently, we were made a recipient of a grant through the Onondaga County Main Street Revitalization Fund. This inspired me to give back to the community. I have never run for office but living here for 30 plus years, I know I can make a difference bringing people and ideas together. Through God and our community, a path has been created for me for this to happen.
I have worked at Manth Brownell for 30 years; working my way from a machine operator to director of manufacturing. I am currently the director of supply chain and engineering for our parent company ALCO Mfg.
My evenings and weekends are filled with café business, spending time with my family and community.
As for challenges locally, there is too much politics in politics, meaning there is too much influence of national politics in local government. We need to be more local minded; thinking of the community and not personal gains.
My idea for addressing these challenges: be involved! Making positive changes by working together. Retaining our history and creating a positive future.
What I appreciate most about my community is that we have the tools to do the job and have the people to get it done!
What I’d like to add: “Safety, Health, and Efficiency.” Supporting the people who make us safe: police, fire, EMT, DPW, highway departments. Creating a healthy community both physically and financially in the most efficient way; utilizing local resources.
I want to make use of my life experiences here in this community to provide a better place for all of us.
Alissa Italiano (Dem, Wor)
Our community wants to be a place where our kids come back home to settle, to be a place where seniors can downsize into housing they can afford and maneuver around, and a place that offers housing for people with disabilities. It will take public-private partnerships, connectivity with sidewalks, bike lanes, and better public transportation, as well as updated zoning to make this happen. We are already seeing private property owners who seek to build new high density housing and other property owners who seek to preserve what they love most about their corner of our wonderful town of Manlius. Leaning into our comprehensive plan while listening to resident feedback will be crucial in making sure the character of our community is maintained while also moving Manlius forward.
Each councilor is tasked with studying the broad range of town-wide issues we vote on, but we also each have particular areas of strengths. My strengths are in civil service, government, and housing after almost 12 years at the Syracuse Housing Authority as a management analyst. My experience is in risk management, affordable housing development, and regulatory compliance. The compliance piece dictates how to follow laws, regulations, and rules, as well as write and implement policies and procedures – all integral responsibilities of town councilors.
Manlius is my hometown – it’s a part of me. I was born and raised here and am a proud graduate of the Fayetteville-Manlius School District and Syracuse University’s The Maxwell School. I’ve always been logical, analytical, and an advocate. My education has taught me to analyze policy and weigh options without bias to reach the best outcomes. Serving our neighbors as a town councilor over the past two years has been the greatest honor and privilege of my life. I love this community and remain committed to serving you and showing up as we face our next period of growth while preserving the feel of our small town history and its traditions.
Michael Nesci (Dem, Wor)
As a town resident settled in Fremont between Fayetteville and Minoa and having worked and volunteered for the Villages of Minoa and Manlius, I have a great understanding of the unique composition of our town and its villages.
My decision to run for Manlius town councilor is driven by a deep commitment to democracy, extensive experience, and dedication to public service. As a labor relations specialist, my role is akin to a business agent, representing a diverse group of union members. This experience has honed my skills in effective communication and understanding constituents’ needs, similar to a councilor’s responsibilities.
The most significant challenge facing our community is managing growth while ensuring sustainability and environmental responsibility. This goes beyond addressing environmental concerns; it also involves incorporating public input into decisions affecting existing neighborhoods and businesses. I am committed to holding regular town halls and special meetings to gather residents’ input and ensure minimal disruption to their established communities. A comprehensive plan guides our growth and preservation efforts, with ongoing public input to align with residents’ vision.
I deeply appreciate our community’s beauty, small-town charm, and its willingness to help those in need. Manlius consistently shows its compassionate heart by supporting neighbors, whether local or afar.
If you seek an experienced leader who believes in representational government, prioritizes public safety and health, and values democracy, vote for me, Michael V. Nesci. Read more about me on my website, www.mikeformanlius.com.
Heather Waters (Dem, Wor)
I have been honored to serve as a town board member since 2020 and hope to be reelected to implement our comprehensive plan adopted in July 2023. I ran to create our first comprehensive plan, embrace environmental sustainability, and develop communications systems that inform and engage our residents in their town government. Deputy Supervisor Sara Bollinger and I co-chaired the comprehensive plan and worked with a steering committee to engage thousands of residents. This document is representative of all corners of our community. Town residents include the villages of Minoa, Manlius, and Fayetteville. The villages are our essential economic and cultural centers; we are interdependent, so I value their priorities. Because my professional background is in development and mediation, I have secured grant funding and met passionate debates with civility and an eye toward the win-win.
Citizen engagement is central to my work as a councilor. My first action was to author our updated meeting protocol and introduce the open podium public comment program.
I hope everyone will sign up for email updates at the Town’s website (townofmanlius.org) and know they can join us in person or via video to share concerns, ideas, and feedback at the top of each session through the open podium program.
In my next term, I will help realize our safe streets and sidewalk projects, review a whole-town stormwater analysis, increase retention of our police department members, and coordinate with ESM and F-M School Districts as we respond to housing and economic development initiatives inspired by “NY Forward” and Micron.
I loved growing up in Manlius and feel grateful to raise my son here with my husband. It is because of the natural beauty and the people, like our unsung town hall and highway department staff. They are incredibly experienced and committed to public service. That is why I initiated our pay equity audit. We corrected the salaries of those who had been long-serving and left behind during some raise periods in past years. Together, we can prepare for our future, hold the line on taxes, and bring more revenue to our community.
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TOWN JUSTICE
Jim Hughes, the village justice of Fayetteville, is facing off this election against John Boyd, a member of the Fayetteville Planning Board, for the title of Manlius’ town justice. Both candidates were asked how their experience over the years would serve them in the role of justice, their day-to-day occupations outside of politics, and the challenges they see locally.
John Boyd (Dem, Wor)
I am a court attorney for the Fifth Judicial District at Syracuse City Court. I provide critical legal counsel to both judges and our dedicated court staff on a myriad of legal matters. This role has sharpened my skills in legal analysis, negotiation, and deepened my understanding of the law’s intricacies. Over the years, I’ve been in almost every position in the courtroom: prosecuting and defending individuals, representing both plaintiffs and defendants in civil suits, and advocating for both landlords and tenants. When I was an assistant district attorney, I displayed unwavering commitment to justice. My early foundation was laid as a litigation associate for Bond, Schoeneck, and King.
Our community grapples with challenges that call for a measured approach. For instance, with respect to housing, it’s vital to be informed about and ensure adherence to the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019, while upholding the fair rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. As for issues related to addiction, it’s imperative to adopt a holistic stance, focusing on comprehensive solutions that cater to the well-being of individuals and the community at large.
I’m actively involved with several boards, including the Volunteer Lawyer Project, WHJ Bar Association, Syracuse Law Alumni Association, and the Fayetteville Planning Board. My tenure on the Fayetteville Planning Board, since August 2022, has given me invaluable insights into our community’s evolving needs. It has emphasized the significance of collaborative decision-making and an understanding of local policy implications.
In conclusion, my campaign is rooted in vast and diverse experience, comprehensive understanding of a multitude of complex legal matters, and profound dedication to our community. Drawing upon my professional insights, I strive to champion justice. I treasure Manlius’ dedication to fostering a just, equitable, and bright future and look forward to being a part of it.
Jim Hughes (Rep, Con)
I have served as Fayetteville’s village justice for the past 10 years and have been elected three times. I have sought to conduct the Fayetteville court with diligence, respect and compassion while acting firmly as justice requires. I have been a partner at Hancock Estabrook Law Firm for 40 years. My credentials can be found on our firm website: HancockLaw.com. Please also visit “Judge Jim Hughes for Manlius Town Justice” on Facebook. I also serve as an arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association and as a federal court mediator.
My years of professional and life experience inform my judgement as a local justice.
Manlius is my home as it was for my parents and my mom’s forebears. Carol and I returned home in 1992 so our children could attend F-M as I did.
Court Challenges: Opiate addiction is an ongoing challenge. Addiction is often a chronic condition. I work with probation, support groups and defendants to hold defendants accountable and, when applicable, require them to continue ongoing treatment or face jail time.
Increased theft appears to stem from drug addiction, recent legislative reforms, post-Covid disrespect for law enforcement and increasingly bold criminal behavior. I am staying abreast of the law as it evolves to assure the fair administration of justice in our local court.
Our Community: Our schools, villages, local businesses, dedicated Manlius Police Department, community organizations, churches, parks, well-lit streets and sidewalks cannot be taken for granted. We must work to sustain these resources. I have been fortunate to learn that serving others is a genuine source of happiness. Many in our community struggle to make ends meet. Those of us who can pitch in for the greater good should do so in our own way as we are able. I appreciate your support.
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Town of DeWitt candidates
TOWN SUPERVISOR
Ahead of the election for DeWitt’s town supervisor position, incumbent Ed Michalenko and challenger Thomas Carello were asked how their experience over the years would serve them in local government going forward, what their day-to-day occupations outside of politics are, what they perceive to be the biggest present challenges in their community, their ideas for addressing those challenges, and what they appreciate most about the town of DeWitt.
Thomas Carello (Rep)
Our current supervisor has been in the position for 14 years and he has done a great job on parks and trees, but our assessments have gone up every year for several years mainly for pet projects of the supervisor and the board. The town is stale. We paid 10 million dollars for Carrier Park and not much really happens there, certainly not 10 million dollars’ worth. It’s just time to get back to Town business and give the taxpayers what they pay for: real Town services.
First off, I’m not much of a politician but I am a retired VP of sales for several companies, all in technology and communications. As a matter of fact, my first job after college was with Nu-Tronics in DeWitt. I have run a $62 million division for a Japanese firm, been director of sales for a Canadian company, regional manager for a $40 billion English firm and I retired from a local IT company Kishmish, Inc. I currently hold the rank of Full Bird Colonel in the Air Force Auxiliary with responsibility for five states. I’ve also been the zoning board chairman for the Town of DeWitt for the past 13 years so I know how the town works.
Big challenges in the community would be employee unhappiness resulting in massive employee resignations and not replacing department heads as they quit or retire along with taxes being raised and where those taxes are being spent.
The employee part is easy. Be available for the employees and be respectful of them and for heaven’s sake pay them what other towns pay their employees at least. The second one is a bit harder. I would need to get an audit to find out where the taxpayer dollars are going then readjust to see where we can save or fund differently.
As for what I appreciate most about the community, I would have to say most of us end up here when our kids are small for the great school system we have. Then we just fell in love with DeWitt. This isn’t about political parties this is about taxpayer dollars and people having their mortgages go up every year and this is the first time in many years the residents of the Town can change the whole town’s direction if they wish. They need to know their taxes are going to the town departments not special projects because the supervisor has a Ph.D. in environmental sciences.
Ed Michalenko (Dem)
I’ve been supervisor for nearly 16 years. I know and understand the roles and responsibilities of all layers of government. I am able to see and overcome the limitations of government to get things done. Yet I am still learning, continue to improve and set lofty goals, and look forward to many more accomplishments.
I head the Onondaga Environmental Institute (OEI), dedicated to research, education, planning and restoration of the environment in CNY. I’ve spent over 30 years assisting in the ongoing cleanup of Onondaga Lake; currently working with the Onondaga Nation on coldwater fish and brook trout restoration, tributary re-naturalization, wetland enhancement and flood control, mudboil mitigation, and outdoor-experience-based lesson development compliant with NYS educational learning standards.
My work at the Institute can benefit DeWitt residents and businesses. OEI has secured over $400,000 in grant funds to re-naturalize Ley Creek and create flood storage at no cost to DeWitt taxpayers.
Biggest challenges at the moment: 1. Sustainability; 2. Budgeting; 3. Policing; 4. Aged infrastructure; 5. Climate change and externalities such as flooding; 6. Recreation, parks and trails expansion.
Ideas for addressing these challenges: 1. Update and eliminate fossil fuels from HVAC systems and fleet vehicles. 2. A seniority step program that gives workers a total 3-3.5% annual raise while maintaining the overall budget under 1.5% increase. 3. Expand community policing and resource officer staffing. 4. Use grants and a long-term capital plan to upgrade the water system including meters, hydrants, valves, pipes, pumps, tanks, and electronic monitoring and control system. 5. Implement flood control plan at select sites and continue to plant trees as trees return over 75% of rain events to the air. 6. Increase recreation programming to reach larger audiences, complete super-turf fields at Carrier Park, greenspace at Widewaters Pond, and add trails at Orville Feeder Canal.
What I appreciate most about the community is the people; I believe the public is far more astute than given credit.
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TOWN COUNCILOR
This election, there will be three open councilor seats to fill on the DeWitt Town Board for four-year terms. The incumbent candidates up for reelection, Deputy Supervisor Kerry Mannion and Councilor Jack Dooling, as well as Democratic candidate H. Bernard Alex and Republican candidates Richard Kunz, Andrew Worden and Barbara Stratton were sent questionnaires asking about the experience they’d lend to local government, their occupations outside of politics, the biggest challenges they see in the community, their ideas for addressing those challenges and what they appreciate most about the town. Councilor Karen Docter will not be seeking another term on the board.
Kerry Mannion (Dem, Con)
This will be my 16th year on the DeWitt Town Board acting as deputy supervisor. I bring an experienced logical voice to town government. DeWitt offers the best place to raise a family with strong neighborhoods while also offering businesses a convenient and first-class environment in which to work.
I’ve been an active commercial real estate broker for over 35 years.
One that stands out right now is the successful redevelopment of ShoppingTown Mall. The proper redevelopment of this parcel is key to the quality of life for our residents and a very important contributor to our tax base. I was instrumental in pushing Onondaga County to foreclose on the previous incompetent property owner. Since that time we have been cleaning up legal issues and the property is under contract to a capable local developer. We are working on a plan to create a new town center with a mix of residential, office, and retail combined with sidewalks, park space and green infrastructure. We are doing everything possible within the legal system to bring this gem back to be a productive asset within our town.
As far as addressing these challenges, I am in contact daily with all parties involved in the ShoppingTown site.
What I appreciate most about DeWitt is that the community spirit is unparalleled within our town.
As head of the budget committee I have saved the Town many millions of dollars over the years. I would be most appreciative to receive and earn your vote for one more term.
Jack Dooling (Dem)
At the end of 2023 I will have completed 10 years on the DeWitt Town Board. Moving forward my experiences in serving on various committees helps me to get things done because I am coming in contact with all 10 departments at the Town. I have earned their respect by helping them with the various problems they have had in getting things done in a timely fashion.
I do not have any other job. I am retired from Crouse Hinds after 30 plus years in purchasing. That is why I am the chairman of our procurement committee at the Town of DeWitt. I work full-time for the Town.
Getting our new 2% hotel tax implemented which has been approved by New York State. This will enable the town to collect an estimated million dollars in year one 2024. Finding a way to freeze or lower assessments in the town so that our taxes remain under the NYS tax cap. Get our properties that are in complete disarray fixed or auctioned off so that our neighborhoods look more presentable.
Hotel tax — work with town lawyer to ensure law has been explained to the 30 hotels in town; Assessments — work with county tax coordinator and town assessor to see how other towns in the county have been able to accomplish this task.
I appreciate the many great areas and all the benefits each exhibits, from Jamesville to Court Street, including the Village of East Syracuse which has many wonderful recreation events. The Carrier Park facility is moving along with plans to expand in 2024 to add a very large field to accommodate soccer, lacrosse and baseball for older players. Transforming the old Shoppingtown area into a new vibrant residential/commercial structure for visitors to want to come back and visit to see all that it has to offer.
I am looking forward to working full-time for the town for four more years and continuing to serve on the police commission and the following committees: Water, Procurement, Budget, Insurance, and Carrier Park. I also am the liaison for the Village of East Syracuse and in 2023 I was just appointed to the East Syracuse Library Board of Trustees. Thank you, and call me on my cell 315-278-0495 for any questions you might have.
H. Bernard Alex (Dem)
There is so much going on in Central New York that will have impact on the Town of DeWitt. The 81 and 481 redirecting, and the proposed Micron plant that will be accessed by 481 North which is in our “backyard.” The business growth and redevelopment of properties within DeWitt as well. While in conversation with County Legislator Linda Ervin we discussed some of these concerns. She shared that she was not going to seek reelection to the legislature and if I was interested in serving. I thought about it, and shared I don’t think so. I would much rather serve the people closest to my front door in a very real and tangible way. Town Board Councilor Karen Docter who serves with me on the Town of Dewitt Police Commission shared she was not seeking reelection and that she would support and endorse me as her replacement and well, here I am! I have never run for this position before.
I am the senior pastor of the Victory Temple Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. We are located on the near northside of the city. It is an inner city church that serves the needs of a community in need of support. I am also executive director of ministries of Victory Temple/Ministries Outside the Walls 501c3 which is our direct service not-for-profit that provides weekly homecooked meals, sponsors events, and partners with other agencies to address the needs of people in transition. The needs are great, but the reward of seeing lives helped, changed and redirected is amazing!
I consider the following not challenges but opportunities to engage: the impact of 481 and 81 on the residents of DeWitt, keeping taxes at a rate that is realistic to the values of homeowners, informing all residents in DeWitt of what is currently before the Town Board and maintaining good fiscal management.
We address these areas with communication and transparency. The more engaged the residents are ensures that there will be support and understanding on actions that the board will make. We need to recognize that things are growing and changing and that DeWitt plays a very important role in that process. When homeowners have questions regarding their taxes they deserve an answer. Dedicating days and times for persons to come in and get the information they need, that could result in an adjustment. We can and should use the town website even more to provide information, updates and guidance to residents’ questions; and the outstanding job done by the town board regarding the budget and staying on budget has to continue. I am going to listen, learn and engage as part of an outstanding team that has done amazing work so that we can continue to show that sound fiscal management works and will ensure that the needs of the town residents are delivered.
DeWitt has wonderful neighborhoods filled with wonderful people. Each one is unique and filled with character. We have the privilege of living in a mix of business, shopping, dining and more while walking through neighborhoods where people still say, “hello!” as they go by! Being a Town of DeWitt resident for more than 30 years, I still smile as I drive home!
I want to thank my amazing and beautiful wife Jahnjae for her encouragement, support and understanding, my children who have grown up in DeWitt for helping me with the campaign from graphic design to delivering lawn signs and my grandson who has walked right beside me in parades and neighborhoods saying, “come on Papa, you gotta keep going to win!”
Rick Kunz (Rep, Con)
Over the past several years our property taxes have risen. They have risen “every year.” I can appreciate our property values are rising, but they fluctuate, up and down. That is why most towns reassess every three to five years to equalize the peaks and valleys. Combine the property tax hikes over the last several years with out-of-control inflation. It is making it more difficult for average everyday residents to maintain a decent quality of life. I retired from 47 years in retail, fleet, and municipal sales, most recently the last 30 years with Ford Motor Company Dealerships. This career has taught me how to work with people, deal with budgets and help municipalities get the equipment needed to provide services.
The biggest challenge in the community is transparency. We hear a lot of non-answers to questions asked to our town officials which makes you wonder why they can’t give you a direct answer. That is not transparent. Due to poor management the morale at the DeWitt Town Hall seems to be terrible, and it shows.
We will look at how every penny is spent; we will work with a budget to provide necessary services. We will end a personal agenda that doesn’t benefit all residents, property, and business owners. We will be open, available and will communicate with direct answers, and if we don’t know the answer, we will find it and get back to you. That is transparency, that is truth, that is trust.
We are running as residents and taxpayers; we have no personal agenda. We are retired from business. I am a Coast Guard veteran and a first responder. Our team checks all the boxes to work for you. “It’s Just Time for a Change.”
Barb Stratton (Rep)
There is a need to listen to constituents. I bring that skill, experience, another perspective, and my voice to ask the questions no one is asking. My background includes 25 years of employment with the Town in “the buck stops here,” supervisor’s office! There I learned about every neighborhood, the hamlets, and the village, along with what the Town’s responsibilities are to all residents in spending their tax dollars.
I worked with all departments, the various boards & commissions and acquired knowledge of resources in the CNY community and NYS & federal levels. Experience matters.
I am retired, but continue to work part-time in retail, regularly volunteer for a number of community nonprofits and have served on the boards of the Junior League of Syracuse, Friends of the Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville, and am Treasurer for Republican Women of CNY.
Challenges include constant assessment hikes, taxes that severely affect struggling families and continue to send our seniors fleeing DeWitt. Also, we have many vacant, deteriorating former business properties that need the Town’s attention & action. Plus, the revitalization of ShoppingtTown into District East is crucial but may strain DeWitt resources with 500 additional residences.
First, let’s take a hard look at necessary spending, consider infrastructure needs and plan ahead. Then determine what the current administration has done, or not, to alleviate the vacant business parcels (is there tax money due from them?) and monitor District East progress!
DeWitt, my home for 50 years, is an attractive and desirable place to live, shop, work & enjoy. Many parks, walking trails and has a rich history having been “created” due to the Erie Canal. I’d like to improve my community by appointing a DeWitt historian to properly record/preserve, educate and have display space in the town hall. Most Onondaga County towns have an active historian, and a “home.” Not so in DeWitt.
I truly wish I could have personally met with more of you during the campaign “season,” however I will appreciate your consideration & your vote! My promise to the taxpayers and residents of the Town of DeWitt …. integrity, responsibility, commitment.
Andrew Worden (Rep)
I have had a long-standing career at the town of DeWitt for over 30 years. I started as a code enforcement officer and retired as the director of planning and development. I have seen a lot of changes over those years but nothing more discouraging than what has happened in my old department since I left. Six people alone have left our department and they have raised all their fees considerably to offset the costs of third-party contractors. The personalization of the town offices is almost nonexistent. Sometimes you must walk around for a while before someone greets you. This department is essential to the tax base of the Town of DeWitt as this is where commercial and residential development starts, and it’s important for this department to be staffed sufficiently and supported by the administration for them to do their jobs properly.
My day-to-day occupation is as a private consultant. I work to assist project developers through hurdles of the planning, zoning and permit process. I have enjoyed recently assisting Amazon in gaining approval for 300 electric vehicle chargers which will better serve their delivery vehicles, reduce pollution and noise on the roads. I’ve had success as well with the “Cooke Loch” project in Jamesville, the former redevelopment of the Glen Loch restaurant which will no doubt be a huge asset to that hamlet and our local economy.
There are many challenges currently within our community but one is that we do not have affordable housing. The housing market currently is stagnant in our area as nobody is moving or wants to sell their home. Our apartment complexes are few and far between and very dated.
It is important to have an active and diversified economic development committee that works closely with our planning board and the city-county planning board. I am familiar with several local developers, commercial real estate brokers, lawyers and investors that could be on that committee.
What I appreciate most about our community is its people. We have a truly diverse group of individuals and regardless of what your political views are we always come together to make things happen. We are a unique township with assets that most townships do not have. We have convenient access to a major airport. We have three major arterials bisecting the town. We have an upgraded rail system.
I was also a fire commissioner of the DeWitt Fire District for five years, during which I negotiated union contracts and made the decision to rebuild a new fire station that would more sufficiently house our firefighter and rescue staff. I have also been the treasurer of the New York State building officials conference central chapter for 20 years. I am also a member of the DeWitt Zoning Board as vice chair. I am a person who can work over the table with others. I do not see politics; I see ideas and opportunities.
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TOWN JUSTICE
Ahead of the Nov. 7 election, the candidates for the open DeWitt town justice spot were asked to introduce themselves, talk about the experience they’d lend to the role and what they’d hope to achieve. These were their responses.
Ian Rennie (Dem, Wor)
To introduce myself, I was born and raised in Central New York and have always considered it my home. After completing my undergraduate work at the University of Georgia, I returned to the area in 2007 to finish my law degree at Syracuse University. Soon after, I met my wife Cat who works as a mental health therapist at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Together, we are raising our two children, Franklin and Amelia, who attend Jamesville Elementary.
Upon being admitted to the bar in 2009, I opened a law practice in Syracuse. For the past 14 years, criminal law has been my primary focus and I have extensive knowledge of all areas of that field.
Additionally, I have had the opportunity to begin teaching legal classes as a professor at the Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University. Teaching has always been an ambition of mine, and I have truly enjoyed sharing my passion for the law with our future business and legal leaders.
During my career, I have spent thousands of hours practicing in DeWitt Town Court and East Syracuse Village Court. I have been privileged to observe Judge David Gideon, Judge Bob Jokl, Judge Joe Zavaglia and Judge Sam Young operate these courts. Additionally, I’ve spent countless late nights appearing in front of those judges as well as other town court justices who preside over the Centralized Arraignment Court downtown along with being on call for emergency off-hour arraignments. I have performed these duties since the first days these programs were introduced.
I have spent the better part of a decade preparing for this opportunity. To be elected the next town justice of DeWitt and serve this community would be an immense honor and privilege.
Julian Modesti (Rep, Con)
I have practiced law for approximately 30 years in New York State courts and federal courts. As a judge, I would apply the law impartially, honestly and respectfully. While the quality of a judge’s work is very important, so is judicial temperament; humility would drive my conduct on the bench because I am keenly aware my decisions would affect lives.
I am an attorney and Member/Partner with Harris Beach PLLC in Syracuse. Harris Beach PLLC is made up of approximately 200 attorneys with offices across New York State. The focus of my practice is business litigation, trust/estates litigation, and mediation. I am the former criminal prosecutor for the Oneida Indian Nation.
The Town of DeWitt Court is a very busy court, requiring two judges to each hold court once per week, and the court clerks are an integral part of the team.
My goal would be to run an efficient courtroom. Attorneys and their clients could expect to see a helpful and responsive court.
As far as community, I love the east side of Syracuse – DeWitt, Jamesville, and East Syracuse. I have lived in DeWitt for approximately 40 years. My brother, son, daughter, and I all had the same second grade teacher at Moses DeWitt Elementary School. When my twin brother and I were freshmen at J-D High School, my older brothers were a junior and a senior.
I have served on the Town of DeWitt’s zoning board of appeals, and am a former member of the board for the Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville. I am invested in DeWitt.
For about five years, I have also been the president of the board of directors for Catholic Charities of Onondaga County. In 2011, I presented on negotiation strategy to about 60 commanding officers with the 10th Mountain Division before their deployment to Afghanistan.
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TOWN CLERK
DeWitt Town Clerk Angela Epolito will be running unopposed for reelection to a four-year term this fall instead of a two-year term. In 2022, ballot propositions were passed extending DeWitt’s term limits for the position.
Angela Epolito (Dem, Con)
I have served as the DeWitt’s town clerk and tax receiver since July 2014. I have worked for the Town of DeWitt since November 2000 in multiple offices which has allowed me familiarity with the many facets of town government. I strive to help our constituents be informed and have a pleasant experience while visiting or contacting the town clerk and tax receivers office. I feel in many ways COVID-19 has changed the way we conduct business and has created opportunities to increase services and transparency. Some changes I have implemented are streaming our town board meetings, creating an agenda and minutes center online, accepting credit card payments, installing a drop box for services, and software to allow dog licenses to be renewed online. I will continue to evaluate and implement changes that benefit our constituents. I encourage those with questions, concerns or recommendations to reach out at any time – my email address is [email protected]. I thank you for allowing me to serve DeWitt and I look forward to another four years.
