For the first few days of this week, I attended the NYCOM (New York State Conference of Mayors) Annual Meeting in Saratoga. Three-hundred-fifty experienced and brilliant mayors from north, south, east and west attended. We were treated to various workshops and forums about finance, operations, legislative action, ethics, and economic development. It was enlightening and inspiring. I came away with this:
1. integrity and faith above all else;
2. do the right thing (not the political thing);
3. don’t let people get you down; and
4. our reputation in this State is in dire need of protecting.
Half a dozen mayors from all parts of the State came to me (unsolicited) to find out why we’d spoil a deal with a developer for the Chalmers project in this economy. This is frightening.
Our business and community leaders need to speak out. Everything I have predicted in regard to our reputation regionally is coming true.
At the same time, Harmony Mills in Cohoes has received its written nod from HUD approving their mortgage insurance for phase two. Their mayor is thrilled.
Are we willing to let this monumental deal slip through our hands? Will you weigh in? It’s your turn to act. Call your elected representatives.
COMMON COUNCIL MEMBERS
First Ward: Joseph Isabel
843-5185 P.O. Box 581, 26 Yale Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Second Ward: Daniel V. Roth
542-0723 7 Creekway, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Third Ward: Kim Brumley
843-4311 75 Evelyn Avenue, Amsterdam, NY 12010
Fourth Ward: William Wills
843-4660 17 Catherine St., Amsterdam, NY 12010
Fifth Ward: Richard Leggiero
843-0808 101 Florida Ave., Amsterdam, NY 12010
