: : : Syracuse Tomorrow : : :

Syracuse Tomorrow is the political action committee of the Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce. Our mission is to identify and support pro-business, pro-growth, pro-jobs candidates running for offices at the local and state levels of government.

This year’s endorsement process included candidate questionnaires, more than twenty personal interviews, voting records with particular attention to which candidates had business experience, all focusing on which candidates were the most pro-business, pro jobs in each race. In several races no endorsements were made for two reasons, either the determination of the board members was that the candidates did not reflect pro-business positions or did not return Syracuse Tomorrow’s candidate questionnaires.

Syracuse Tomorrow notices and supports those candidates who own and/or run a business in our community. Clearly these individuals have the best understanding of what it takes to start and grow a business, make payroll, and work for the privilege of employing individuals in our community. They understand the impact of the business climate on our community’s future.

Syracuse Tomorrow congratulates all candidates for their dedication and commitment in running for office this year. We applaud both political parties for running more candidates and reducing the number of unopposed races. We take particular note in the healthy trend that this year’s races show the fewest number of uncontested races in years. We also commend the first time candidates, many of whom are young professionals, who are now vested in raising their families here in Onondaga County and/or the city of Syracuse.

In all cases Syracuse Tomorrow pledges to work with any and all candidates who take office on January l, 2008. Failure to win an endorsement this year in no way indicates whether or not a candidate will or will not receive an endorsement in future races.

Onondaga County Executive
Joanie Mahoney (R)
Onondaga County voters face a once in a generation opportunity for new leadership. The 21st century economy requires public policy vision and leadership appropriate to the new economy. Onondaga County needs energetic, optimistic and passionate leadership to help the county, the city of Syracuse, our towns, villages and even the entire region take advantage of the huge opportunities before us. Many in our community feel a wind building at our backs. For the first time in decades we see new possibilities and a vision for a vibrant and growing community.

Syracuse Tomorrow believes that Joanie Mahoney will well serve Onondaga County to realize our full potential as the next Onondaga County Executive. We welcome her goal of making Onondaga County “the easiest place to do business” by utilizing a regional and collaborative approach. Her prior experience with the city, working with representatives of both parties, has established her ability to bridge different political perspectives. Over 30 percent of all county workers and other local government employees will be retiring over the next ten years. This provides an unprecedented opportunity to change our government operations for decades to come. Syracuse Tomorrow believes that Joanie will lead and manage our municipal operations and services to well serve us in the 21st century.

Our regional economy has key strengths to propel us into the national or even international limelight. We believe Joanie Mahoney, as the next Onondaga County Executive, is the person to boldly take us into a bright and prosperous future.

Onondaga County Legislature, 1st District
Richard Lesniak (R)
Mr. Lesniak shares our concern for local high property taxes, high energy costs and becoming more business friendly. We are encouraged by his idea of a campaign to increase community pride. We recommend a return to his seat on the County Legislature.

Onondaga County Legislature, 2nd District
Don MacLaughlin (D)
Mr. MacLaughlin’s response indicates his support for attracting high technology and green technology businesses to our community, support for strategic government consolidation, less government, and willingness to work with the Chamber. He enthusiastically supports the implementation of the Onondaga Citizens League study for local governments. Although from a suburban district, he understands the importance of a vital downtown.

Onondaga County Legislature, 3rd District
William Meyer (R)
Mr. Meyer has done a fine job as chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. We are encouraged by his efforts advocating for the Polaris system for the Onondaga County Library System, support for investing in our local economy, the arts community and tourism. We look forward to working with him over the next two years.

Onondaga County Legislature, 4th District
James Farrell (R)
James Farrell, a business owner, understands the challenges of growing a business in Central New York. He has been an active, visible advocate for our community with both Syracuse 20/20 and the Chamber to take a serious look at ways to modernize government and government services. He is excited about our potential opportunities for improvement. We welcome a chance to work with him for another two years.

Onondaga County Legislature, 5th District
Kathleen Rapp (R)
In her previous terms at the Legislature, Kathy Rapp has clearly distinguished herself as a truly outstanding representative and advocate for her district and all of Onondaga County. Her work in the areas of economic development, tourism promotion, government modernization, Empire Zone Board, Syracuse Technology Garden, convention center hotel, technology updates in the county social services operations and countless community projects has saved taxpayers millions of dollars, improved operations and our local economy. She is a true leader and deserves to continue her accomplishments for another two years.

Onondaga County Legislature, 6th District
Karen Hanford (D)
Karen Hanford has a long history of community involvement. Her sincere interest in implementing ways to attract and keep college students in our community is one the Chamber and other business organizations share. She also supports efforts to make local government more transparent and effective. Her multidisciplinary experience will be valuable on the Legislature. We are pleased to endorse her candidacy.

Onondaga County Legislature, 7th District
James DiBlasi (R)
James DeBlasi has been a consistent supporter of pro-business, pro-growth legislation, supporting tourism, CNY Works, the Syracuse Technology Garden and economic development incentives. He specifically references continuous improvement for county operations as a means to improve taxpayer return on investment. We commend his efforts in support of utilizing Sheriff’s department patrols helping the city with Operation Impact. A believer in the positive power of free market enterprise, we again endorse Mr. DiBlasi this year.

Onondaga County Legislature, 8th District
James Corbett (R)
James Corbett has again earned Syracuse Tomorrow’s endorsement for a return to the Onondaga County Legislature. He has demonstrated open communication, and an open-minded and balanced style to his work on the Legislature. He brings an important pro-economic development approach that benefits his district and the county at large.

Onondaga County Legislature, 9th District
Mark Stanczyk (D)
As a business owner, Mark Stanczyk has a good grasp of how public policy can enhance or hinder the local economy. We appreciate the open and candid communications we have enjoyed with him in the past and look forward to that continuing. We appreciate his belief in a level playing field for business interests.

Onondaga County Legislature, 11th District
Patrick Kilmartin (R)
The 11th District is characterized as the location of two significant county facilities: Onondaga Community College and Van Duyn Home and Hospital. Patrick Kilmartin’s professional experience as a lawyer and developer, together with working at the town level, equip him to deal with various aspects of these two critical operations. Mr. Kilmartin is another of the young professionals we applaud for starting a business here and we are pleased to endorse him for a return to the Legislature.

Onondaga County Legislature, 12th District
Robert DeMore (R)
As president of the Onondaga County Supervisors, Robert De More has exercised his leadership at the town level. His business offices are located in the district, giving him additional insights into the needs of the district. He has promoted streamlining local government, since having accomplished several projects to reduce costs for local trash removal. Mr. DeMore can be a helpful partner on efforts for government modernization and an effective liaison to local governments in southern Onondaga County. We are pleased to endorse Mr. DeMore for this 12th District seat.

Onondaga County Legislature, 14th District
Casey Jordan (R)
Casey Jordan is one of a number of young professionals who has decided to live in our community and step up to public service. His affection for the area, belief in our ability to grow our community, support tourism, and foster improved relationships among various municipalities, gives us justification to support his return to the Onondaga County Legislature for another two years.

Onondaga County Legislature, 15th District
William Kinne (D)
Syracuse Tomorrow is again endorsing Bill Kinne for this district. He is well known in the district and is now in business for himself. He has long been connected with the many small businesses in his district and we look forward to his continued public service on their behalf.

Onondaga County Legislature, 16th District
Kevin Kuehner (R)
Mr. Kuehner’s response to us listed his impressive grasp of key public policy challenges and what it will take to address them effectively. His comments also showed a distinct clarity of focus. His already remarkable community dedication and experience will serve him well as a significant contributor to the Onondaga County Legislature. We are pleased to endorse another young professional seeking public service in the Onondaga County Legislature.

Onondaga County Legislature, 17th District
Martin Masterpole (D)
As a business owner and former member of the Syracuse Common Council, we believe Marty Masterpole will contribute significantly to the Onondaga County Legislature. His previous public service showed him to be business friendly, pro-growth and dedicated to the district he represents. He continues to devote much time and effort to the area where he lives and bases his businesses. We are pleased he is returning to public service and are glad to endorse him.

Onondaga County Legislature, 19th District
Deborah Moynihan (R)
Ms. Moynihan demonstrated a balanced, comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the 19th legislative district, from both the residential and commercial side. We are encouraged by her perspective that the county is in a position to be the leader in implementing best of class practices and “bring the other municipalities into the mix.” She also recognizes the opportunity facing the county with the upcoming period of many county employees retiring over the next decade. Ms. Moynihan is passionate about making a difference. Syracuse Tomorrow encourages more individuals to give back to the community through public service. We are pleased to endorse Deborah Moynihan for the 19th Legislative District.

Onondaga County Comptroller
Robert Antonacci (R)
Like the Onondaga County Executive race, the position of County Comptroller has not been an open seat in many years. With the changes and challenges facing county and local governments, the position of county comptroller has the potential to serve the taxpayers in new ways. We believe Robert Antonacci’s qualifications in the private sector, as an attorney, certified public accountant and town comptroller uniquely qualify him for this position. His work in the town of Salina gives him additional skills and tools to perform this county-wide position. We are pleased to endorse Robert Antonacci for Onondaga County Comptroller.

District Councilor, 1st District
Al Julian (R)
Al Julian demonstrated passion and commitment to lower taxes and assist small businesses in his district and the entire city. He is one of the class of young families who have chosen to stay in Syracuse and make a difference. His thoughtful and in depth response to our questionnaire showed his understanding and solution oriented approach to several key business perspectives. We endorse Al Julian to be the next 1st District Councilor.

District Councilor, 2nd District
Patrick Hogan (D, R)
We are pleased to endorse again this year Mr. Hogan’s return to the Syracuse Common Council. He uniquely bridges both political aisles and has been an active friend to the small business community. Mr. Hogan has an important understanding of economic development and what it takes to grow our economic base.

District Councilor, 3rd District
Ryan McMahon (R)
Councilor McMahon has distinguished himself in his term on the Council with his experience and understanding of the local economy and economic development. He has been a visible champion for a number of efforts to improve the business climate. We appreciate his leadership as chair of the Aviation Committee and the efforts he is leading to improve conditions and service at the Hancock International Airport. We commend him as a business owner and someone who has chosen to raise a family in our community. We look forward to continued success in his next term of office.

District Councilor, 5th District
Lance Denno (D)
Syracuse Tomorrow endorses Mr. Denno’s uncontested, first run at a seat on the Common Council. We look forward to working with him and communicating the concerns and priorities of the local business community.

City Auditor
Phil LaTessa (D)
Phil LaTessa continues to demonstrate expertise, professionalism and independent leadership in his continuing tenure as Syracuse’s City Auditor. We are pleased to recommend his return to this position. We believe his experience owning and managing a number of businesses enhances his ability to perform his public duties at a level of true excellence. Mr. LaTessa’s approach has been active and constructive. It is a critical role to be filled on behalf of the city’s taxpayers. We are pleased that Mr. LaTessa will be continuing in this position.

Syracuse City School Board
Syracuse Tomorrow wishes to express their extreme concern and dismay regarding the lack of choice in this year’s election for Commissioners of Education for the Syracuse City School District. We will be making no endorsements for these positions at this time. While incumbents seek to return for each available seat, the dearth of new candidates, irrespective of party, is not a healthy situation for our schools, our community and eventually our economy. We are deeply saddened that there is so little interest in assisting and leading our schools, especially during a period of such disappointing performance.

We will take efforts over the next year to engage both political parties to attract more candidates for upcoming openings. Further, we will reach out to the business community, 40 Below, Leadership Greater Syracuse and other civic organizations to attract and support individuals interested in dedicating time and effort to improving our schools by representing the interests of both students and the Central New York employers who will be providing job and career opportunities to the district’s graduates.

We call for new leaders, new energy, new ideas and new commitment. We pledge to support these individuals throughout the next election cycle and during their terms on the school board.

Town Supervisors
We express support and appreciation for the four town supervisors running this year each of whom did return our questionnaires and provide their perspective on how each of them are working to grow the private sector economy in their towns. We are very interested in the critical role that town supervisors can play in government modernization. We support the election of:

Syracuse Tomorrow, the political action committee of the Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce continues its support for pro-business, pro-jobs candidates in this our fourth year of endorsements.

U.S. Senate
Hillary Rodham Clinton (D, I, WF)
We ENDORSE Democrat incumbent U. S. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton for a second term. Senator Clinton has spent a significant amount of time, attention and effort in Upstate New York, including Central New York. She and her staff have provided superb advocacy and constituent service to our community, including the business community. Among her success we recognize her position on the Senate Armed Services Committee, BRAC (Base Realignment and Closing) successes helping to preserve military jobs, effective collaboration with our congressional representatives, expansion of broadband, support for technology investment, support for manufacturing, making important interregional connections to expand local business markets, working with venture capitalists and more. She recently stated, “What’s important is being accessible and available.” She has delivered on that promise. We gladly endorse her for a return to the U. S. Senate to represent New York state.

U.S. House of Representatives
25th Congressional District
James T. Walsh (R, I, C)
We ENDORSE incumbent Congressman James T. Walsh for another term as our representative in the U. S. House of Representatives. Congressman Walsh’s seniority combined with his prestigious and influential position on the House Appropriations Sub Committee has resulted in increased investment in this growing and critical sector of our community. His initiatives to better link academic and research institutions to commercial applications have already yielded significant, tangible job growth in the Central New York area. The Chamber has seen the direct benefit through support of the Syracuse Technology Garden and the Space Alliance and Technology Outreach Program. Local businesses such as Lockheed Martin, SRC, Sensis, CXtec and PEC, together have grown hundreds of new jobs as a direct result of Congressman Walsh’s efforts. His concerted effort to make sure that research done here is commercially applied locally to get the maximum economic benefit and job spin off possible. We look forward to his continuing focus on growing our information and technology based economy for another term in Congress.

Governor
Eliot Spitzer (D, I, WF)
The Upstate business community took very special note of the fact that this year, for the first time in recent memory, the priorities of both candidates mirrored those of the Upstate Business Community. What’s more, many of their solutions are aligned with our long standing recommendations.

Eliot Spitzer has earned the support of the business community with his consistent attention to our top priorities: workers’ compensation, property taxes, the cost of doing business, energy, and reinvigorating the Upstate Economy. He has spent much time in meetings large and small across Upstate to listen to our concerns. We take him at his word that: “Day One, Everything Changes”. We are counting on the chance to be for the better. He has a track record of hiring the best and brightest, independent of politics, so that is what we expect to see in his administration. Further we are eager to visibly support enactment of the pro-growth strategies and tactics he has described.

Attorney General

Jeanine Pirro (R, I, C)
The position of Attorney General of New York State has gained in importance and visibility over the last few terms. The approach taken by the Attorney General matters a great deal to the business community. Will the leadership be punitive or problem solving in approaching business related situations? We hope the latter. Jeanine Pirro’s resume clearly documents that her experience is relevant and qualifies her for the position. In the system of healthy political balance, having a representative of the opposite party in this position is in keeping with the basic theory of checks and balances.

New York State Senate, 49th District:
After the most thorough vetting, candidate questionnaire, personal interviews, a televised debate, and lengthy discussion of the various considerations in this race, Syracuse Tomorrow has decided not to proffer an endorsement in this race. This year we have two candidates who are equally qualified and tested in actively representing the interests of Central New York businesses and our local economy. While we see far too many unopposed races and too few business friendly candidates, this year both candidates for the 49th Senate District have proven themselves to be very capable, hard working representatives who sincerely desire to improve the Central New York business climate. Both support the efforts of Unshackle Upstate. Both have acted independently rather than follow the easier path of party lines. We note that both candidates have identical ratings from both the Business Council of New York State and the National Federal of Independent Business. Either one would serve our community well.

Senator David Valesky has kept his promise to represent the concerns of his district and strive for meaningful reform of a dysfunctional legislative process. He has been very accessible to Chamber members in all instances, choosing to be particularly active in championing balanced workers’ compensation reform and the challenging issue of low cost power for Upstate’s vulnerable manufacturing businesses.

Assemblyman Jeff Brown has been equally accessible and cooperative with Chamber members and priorities. He has worked closely with the business community, focusing on his Come Home to Syracuse program to help retain and attract more young professionals and families to return to their roots in Central New York. He, too, is always willing to meet with us in Albany or come to a meeting in his district.

We further wish to state our concerns and support for preservation of the two party system in New York state government. Complete domination by one party of all branches of government does not bode well for full consideration of public policy. Checks and balances that come with having more than one perspective are healthy and lead to better legislation, regulation, and oversight.

New York State Senate, 50th District:
John DeFrancisco (R, C, I, WF)
Senator John DeFrancisco has been helpful to the Greater Syracuse area in obtaining financial support of local initiatives and projects, particularly Senate funding of the proposed Convention Center Hotel. He and his staff provide excellent constituent service and accessibility. His position and advocacy on the Senate Tourism, Recreation and Sports Development Committee has been critically important to the hospitality sector of the Central New York economy. The Senator is always direct and honest in sharing his views. His respected senior ranking in the Senate continues to be critical in accomplishing the various efforts that require action in both houses.

New York State Assembly, 111th District:
Bill Magee (D)
Assemblyman Bill Magee has earned the endorsement of Syracuse Tomorrow for his championing of small business issues in Central New York. His down to earth, common sense and independence on several key business issues have not gone unnoticed. We also want to commend Assemblyman Magee for his open communications and ready access in both Albany and his attendance at meetings in Syracuse when his schedule permits. We particularly thank him for his co-sponsorship of the Unshackle Upstate workers’ compensation and worker safety legislation. (A.12000)

New York State Assembly, 119th District:

Joan Christensen (D, WF)
Assemblywoman Joan Christensen is a true friend to the Central New York small business community with her championing of balance workers’ compensation reform and reform of Section 240/241 that has been crippling local contractors and driving up the cost of homes. She is always willing to meet with business constituents and she makes special efforts to attend Chamber and business events. She too is to be commended for her co-sponsorship of A.12000. We appreciate her optimism and practical problem solving and look forward to working with her and her staff for another term.

New York State Assembly, 120th District:
William Magnarelli (D, WF)
Assemblyman Magnarelli’s efforts and position on the University Industry Cooperation Task Force have yielded financial support for such initiatives which resulted in private sector job growth from spin offs of research efforts. Our community is fortunate to have him in this position as it is such a good match for the university and college research infrastructure and activity that underpins our economic future. While the Assemblyman is not always in agreement with the business perspective, he is always gracious and willing to discuss our issues. We acknowledge his efforts to find the middle ground on some thornier issues. We look forwarded to increasing our communication with the Assemblyman when he returns to Albany for his next term.

New York State Assembly, 121st District:

William Meyer, JR., (R, I, C)
We are supporting William Meyer for this seat in the Assembly based on his experience as a business person and in the Onondaga County Legislature. We are counting on this experience to lead him in reforms targeted to reduce local property and school taxes and state spending. As chairman of Ways and Means, he has an in-depth and practical understanding of Albany public policy and decisions that drive up local taxes. We also hope that he can advocate for local government consolidation, collaboration and modernization efforts and incentives.

New York State Assembly, 124th District:

William A. Barclay (R, I, C)
Syracuse Tomorrow has noticed how Assemblyman Barclay’s role in the Assembly is maturing and improving. His continued presence and activism will benefit his district and all of Central New York. Like his other local colleagues, we have excellent communications and access to Assemblyman Barclay, who consistently supports the concerns and priorities of what is best to enhance the Central New York economy.

New York State Assembly, 129th District:
Brian Kolb (R, I, C)
Assemblyman Brian Kolb has again earned our endorsement. We thank him for his yeoman’s work leading the Assembly Republican Manufacturing Task Force. Though only a small portion of his district is in the Greater Syracuse area, he consistently maintains strong communications with our organization. We commend him, particularly, for authoring an important piece of legislation to address the problems of our workers’ compensation system and Section 240/241 of the Labor Law.

There are several races outside the immediate Central New York area that directly and significantly impact key priority policy areas. We repeat prior endorsements of incumbent Assemblymen Joseph Morelle and Robin Shimminger, and add a new endorsement for the Republican challenger to incumbent Rochester area Assemblywoman Susan John.

New York State Assembly, 131st District:
John Ferlicca (R, C)
Syracuse Tomorrow enthusiastically endorses Mr. Ferlicca for this crucial race. The incumbent Assemblywoman Susan John chairs the Assembly Labor Committee and has continually blocked key pro-business reforms from moving through her committee. It is time to send an “Upstater” to Albany to represent the true interests of the Upstate economy. John Ferlicca is that man. He has garnered a 100% on the National Federation of Independent Business questionnaire this year. His questionnaire and interview with our Board further demonstrated that he understands our priorities and supports the key reforms we have been fighting for far too long. We join other business organizations across Upstate who are weighing in this race in support of Mr. Ferlicca.

New York State Assembly, 132nd District:
Joseph Morelle (D)
Assemblyman Joseph Morelle has received our support for the past several elections while he has served as chair of several key Assembly Committees. He consistently proves himself as a true champion for the small and medium sized businesses in Central New York. As current chairman of the Tourism, Recreation and Sports Development Committee he is responsible to the second largest industry in New York State. His business background gives him the skill set to effectively advocate for this important sector. We also congratulate him for his published plan to revive the Upstate economy. We are pleased to endorse him for another term in the state legislature.

New York State Assembly, 140th District:
Robin Schimminger (D)
Previously the chair of the Assembly Small Business Committee, Assemblyman Robin Schimminger currently chairs the Economic Development Committee. He, too, has forged an independent and critical voice in his house. We appreciate the ongoing access and communication with Assemblyman Schimminger and recognize the yeoman’s work he has accomplished in his committee assignments. We support a continued and growing role for him over the next two years.

Mayor of the City of Syracuse
Joanie Mahoney (R, I, C)
We ENDORSE Republican candidate Joanie Mahoney for Mayor of the City of Syracuse because we are encouraged by her openness, energy, optimism, and her goals of attracting and engaging the best and brightest to take the City of Syracuse to a new level. We like her idea of increasing involvement of the community and its leadership, taking a fresh approach to problem solve and excel. We agree with her priorities of economic development, addressing crime and creating a demand for people to live in the City. Most importantly, we share her vision of a city vibrant with new jobs, with clean and attractive neighborhoods, and community based teams of experts working on key priorities. We share her belief that our community can do and be so much more than it is.

President of the Syracuse Common Council
Ronald Otis Jennings (R, I, C)
Otis Jennings can contribute as a more pro-active, more involved Council President. As an independent leader, he can bring about some exciting ideas to lead the Council to be better informed while working more closely with both Syracuse neighborhoods and the business community. He is willing to increase communication between the Council and the community and engage the business community to work more closely with the Council.

Councilor at Large
Van Robinson (D, WF)
Councilor Robinson has always been available to speak with the Chamber and is reasoned in his approach to City policy. Unlike many of the current councilors, he has some business experience to help him better understand the impact of Council decisions on the local economy. We trust he will continue to relate to that context even more in the future. We appreciate his support of the proposed Convention Center Hotel and thus our hospitality industry, and other major economic development projects in our community.

Councilor at Large
Kurt Schmeling (R,I,C)
Syracuse Tomorrow again supports Kurt Schmeling for a seat on the Council. He is passionate in his concerns for City youth and has dedicated effort to find new approaches to address youth truancy in the city in a positive way. With the alarming graduation rate from ninth grade of around fifty percent for our City Schools, we support more efforts to aid the school district in keeping kids in school, holding parents accountable, more police on the street, and increasing the graduation rate.

Council or at Large
Kathleen Callahan (D, I, WF)
As the newest member of the Council, Kathleen Callahan already leads the important Economic Development Committee and is on a fast learning curve. In her interview she demonstrated a willingness to listen and be collaborative, with a particular interest in supporting new home buyers and neighborhood redevelopment in the City. We look forward to a growing collaboration with her on a number of economic development initiatives and improvement in the City’s business climate.

1st District Councilor
Jeffrey DeFrancisco (R, I, C, WF)
Jeffrey DeFrancisco, as the lone incumbent Republican on the Council, will hopefully assist Joanie Mahoney as Mayor by supporting change for the betterment for the City. . We acknowledge and appreciate his continuing and leading support for the Convention Center Hotel. We appreciate the open communication with the Chamber and believe he will join some new councilors in January to bring more balance to Council politics in the next two years.

2nd District Councilor
Patrick Hogan (D, R, I)
We support Patrick Hogan’s candidacy because he has the opportunity to take his experience in City government to help improve City operations by supporting increased auditing of City operations and movement on the DestiNY and Inner Harbor projects. His experience with the School Based Intervention Team has given him special insight into the needs of a sector of city youth that would otherwise not complete their education.

3rd District Councilor
Ryan McMahon
Our second endorsement of Ryan McMahon for Council is even more enthusiastic than two years ago. His passion and preparation to serve on the Council is exemplary. We applaud young professionals like Ryan McMahon who are vested in the community and who step up to be part of the solution to City problems. His idea of “freezing” property tax increases could be helpful in attracting and keeping small business investment in the City. We believe he will be an excellent representative for the Third District and add an important newer perspective to Council deliberations.

5th District Councilor
Bruce McDaniels (R,C)
Syracuse Tomorrow supports Bruce McDaniels for the Fifth District Council seat. Utilizing his experience in state government and the private sector will serve him well in solving the many challenges he will face on the Council. He earned our endorsement through his platform of service and dedication to neighborhood improvements, his role as “customer service representative” and expediter to City Hall on behalf of his constituents, improving the budgeting process, and willingness to “think outside the box”.

Syracuse City School Board:
Syracuse Tomorrow is recommending the following three candidates to serve on the City School Board. These individuals will be charged with working with a new superintendent, facing the challenges of an extraordinary drop out rate, school safety, fiscal accountability and a $600 million renovation plan. We offer each of them the opportunity to connect with Chamber member organizations that can be of assistance to the School District. We support
Rev. Roosevelt Baums (R, I)
Cynthia Kirby (D, WF)
Dorothy Matthews (D)

Onondaga County Legislature
Major projects such as the Convention Center Hotel and DestiNY can trigger increased prosperity for Central New York. Our community has lost tens of millions of dollars of income due to the delayed Convention Center Hotel project. We acknowledge the leadership and dedication in the County Legislature that has brought thus far, in particular Chairman Dale Sweetland, Kathy Rapp and Sam Laguzza. While we are endorsing eighteen incumbent legislators, in the 19th District, we support Republican challenger Tim Stapleton for his focus on constituent service, enhancing our technology sector, and growing the tax base. We also applaud the Legislature for their work on the County budget and support of key economic development projects. We look forward to capitalizing on pent up projects and new opportunities ahead over the next two years.

We endorse the following individuals for the Onondaga County Legislature
Ist District Sandra Baker (R, I, C)
2nd District Bernard Kraft (R, I, C)
3rd District William Meyer, Jr. (R, I, C)
4th District James Farrell (R, I, C.)
5th District Kathy Rapp (R, I, C)
6th District Jim Rhinehart (R, I, C)
7th District Jim DiBlasi (R, I, C)
8th District James Corbett (R, I, C, WF)
9th District Mark Stanczyk (D, I, C)
10th District Kevin Holmquist (R, I, C)
11th District Martha Mulroy (R, I, C)
12th District Dale Sweetland (R, I, C)
13th District Robert A. Warner (R, I, C)
14th District Brendan Whelan (R, I, C)
15th District William T. Kinne (D)
16th District Sam Laguzza (D. I, WF)
17th District Edward F. Ryan (D, I, C)
18th District Althea Finch Chaplin (D)
19th District Tim Stapleton (R)

U. S. House of Representatives
25th Congressional District
James Walsh (R)
Congressman James Walsh has done an outstanding job representing Central New York’s interests in Washington, as well as supporting a number of statewide issues as the most powerful New York member in the House of Representatives. His pro-business votes earned him the Spirit of Enterprise award from the U. S. Chamber of Commerce. We especially applaud his work in support of the soon to open Chamber Technology Garden Incubator, bringing the Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program to New York State, programs to improve community neighborhoods, establishing the Air Service Task Force and efforts toward an Airport Authority, the Erie Canal National Heritage Corridor, as well as his efforts to bring the DestiNY USA destination project to reality. His seniority and industry have placed him on the powerful House Appropriations Subcommittee. We are pleased to give a very enthusiastic endorsement to incumbent Congressman James Walsh.

U. S. Senator for New York State
Charles Schumer (D)
Senator Charles Schumer has spent a great deal of time in Upstate New York, has come to understand our issues and take action on them. We give special kudos to his efforts on the Class Action Fairness Act, with the hope that it will be reintroduced with further support from him. He deserves much credit for his efforts, now successful, to bring low cost airlines to Syracuse. He personally assisted with bringing a number of site selection consultants to our community to meet with business leaders and is a strong proponent of DestiNY. We are pleased to endorse incumbent Senator Charles Schumer for another six years in the Senate.

50th District
John DeFrancisco (R)
Senator John DeFrancisco has earned a B grade in the Business Council’s Report Card Index and a 73% from the National Federal of Independent Business (NFIB). He supports many of the business community’s key reforms in workers’ compensation, reform of the Scaffold Law, Medicaid reform, Freedom Health plans, property taxes and many of the reform measures in the Brennan Center report. Overall he continues to be a strong advocate for business concerns, especially small business issues. He and his staff are accessible and provide excellent constituent service. We are pleased to see Senator DeFrancisco at many Chamber events. Syracuse Tomorrow endorses Senator John DeFrancisco’s return to the New York State Senate.

New York State Assembly
119th District
Joan Christensen (D)
Assemblywoman Joan Christensen has worked more closely over the past two years with the small business community, particularly with regard to reforming Section 240/241 of the New York State Labor Law to help solve the contractors' liability crisis. She has worked behind the scenes and publicly in favor of reasonable budget reform, continues to be very accessible to the Chamber and our members, and frequently attends Chamber events. We are particularly hopeful for her efforts to spearhead the formation of an Upstate Legislative Caucus. Syracuse Tomorrow endorses Assemblywoman Joan Christensen for another term in the Assembly.

120th District
William Magnarelli (D)
Assemblyman Magnarelli is positioned to accomplish much on behalf of Central New York, particularly with his chairmanship of the Legislative Taskforce on University-Industry Cooperation. His efforts to bring state funding to worthy projects in our community will result in job creation and technological advancements; among them the New York Indoor Environmental Quality Center and Center of Excellence. He is consistently accessible to us and is a staunch supporter of the DestiNY project. We look forward to working with him for another term.

121st District
Jeff Brown (R)
Our representative in the 121st Assembly District earned a 73% rating from NFIB and a C from the Business Council. Assemblyman Brown is very much in line with our business priorities and emphatically supports reform, such as Power for jobs, single sales factor, Freedom Health Plans, workers’ comp reform, vicarious liability, etc.. He is the creator of the Come Home to Syracuse Campaign, which he is working to expand statewide as the Come Home to New York Network. He has brought together the Armed Forces Legislative Conference and is working to form a Legislative Reform Caucus. Initiative and Referendum has received his open and vocal support for some time now. He, too, is very accessible to the business community and frequents Chamber event. We endorse the re-election of Assemblyman Jeff Brown.

124th District
William Barclay (R)
Assemblyman Barclay earned a B from the Business Council and an 83% from NFIB. Will Barclay encourages the business community to be more visible politically, votes consistently with business priorities and supports the Brennan Center recommendations, especially that members should be present to vote. Reforms he supports include: Freedom Health Plans, Medicaid reform, vicarious liability, and Chamber members have found his door open to them, both formally and informally. Syracuse Tomorrow is pleased to endorse Assemblyman Barclay’s return to Albany.

129th District
Brian Kolb (R)
Although Brian Kolb’s district includes only portions of the Syracuse MSA, we find him to be an important advocate for business issues. He, as a businessperson and entrepreneur himself, has first hand knowledge of how Albany can help or hinder economic growth. With the highest combined ratings of the local delegation, a Business Council B and an NFIB 92%, he has distinguished himself as a business champion when he voted against tax and spending increases and in support of Freedom Health Plans. We are hopeful his Manufacturing Task Force will give rise to some important pro-job initiatives. We are very pleased to endorse Assemblyman Kolb’s return to Albany.

131st District
Michael Slattery (R)
Two years ago Mr. Slattery came within less than 800 votes of defeating Assemblywoman Susan John. We are hopeful that he will prevail this year. Assemblywoman John’s position as chair of the powerful Labor Committee gives her tremendous power over important legislation to help or hurt job development in the entire state. Given also that she earned the very lowest score on the Business Council Index; a D for a –8, and a 33% on the NFIB rankings (nearly the very lowest score) we believe she has done much to impede pro-jobs legislation in the Assembly. Electing Mr. Slattery will send a powerful message to Albany leadership and add to the number of pro-business and pro-reform representatives in the state capitol. We most heartily endorse Michael Slattery’s election in the 131st District.

132nd District
Joseph Morelle (D)
Rochester representative Assemblyman Joseph Morelle has earned our support for his past and present pro-business, pro-jobs performance on a number of fronts. While chair of the Assembly Small Business Committee and now as chair of the Tourism, Arts and Sports Development Committee, he has consistently been a true friend to the small businesses of Upstate New York. He has championed and sponsored key legislation for business tax reduction, reform of Labor Law Section 240/241. In 2002 he received the Chamber Alliance of New York Person of the Year Award. Mr. Morelle’s work in the Assembly benefits small businesses across Upstate, so we are enthusiastically endorsing Assemblyman Joseph Morelle’s return to Albany.

140th District
Robin Schimminger (D)
Assemblyman Schimminger’s district is in Western New York, yet his work as the current chair of the Assembly Committee for Economic Development, Job Creation, Commerce and Industry impacts the entire state economy. In his previous position as chair of the Small Business Committee he led many pro-business legislative initiatives, a practice he has continued. The Business Council Index gives this pro-business legislator a B grade and NFIB ‘s ranking is 63%. Assemblyman Schimminger has been accessible and helpful to the Chamber and its members. We look forward to working with him in the future and support his return to the Assembly.

Onondaga County Executive
Nicholas J. Pirro (R, I, C)
Incumbent Nicholas J. Pirro has and continues to provide excellent fiscal management of Onondaga County resources. His is sensitive to our economic climate and the elements needed to preserve and grow jobs. His visible leadership on the DestiNY USA project will go a long way to add to the success of the project. His outstanding record makes him clearly worthy of another term as County Executive.

Onondaga County District Attorney
William Fitzpatrick (R, I, C)
William Fizpatrick’s record is the reason he is running unopposed with broad political party endorsements. Crime and safety are priorities issues for all, including the business community. His office and staff continue to provide efficient, proactive and professional legal services on behalf of the citizens of Onondaga County.

Comptroller
Donald F. Colon (R, I, C)
Mr. Colon’s objective and unbiased approach has given us a Comptroller who does not have an outside or political agenda. He serves the taxpayer’s well as our fiscal watchdog over Onondaga County’s $750 million budget. His accomplishments include conversion to new accounting standards, ongoing audits, payroll and uncovering fraud. His reputation, built from previous positions at the town and village level, coupled with time in the Onondaga County Legislature, have seasoned and prepared him for his current position. We welcome four more years of dedicated public service.

Legislator – 1st District
Sandra Baker (R, I )
Sandra Baker has proven herself to be an asset to the County Legislature and a friend of the business community. She is accessible and responsive to the local business community. Her voting record reflects her understanding of what is best for the local economy and jobs.

Legislator– 4th District
James W. Farrell (R, I, C)
Mr. Farrell’s voting record on business issues is consistent and we appreciate his dedication to constituent service. We endorse his return for another two years and look forward to working with him.

Legislator – 5th District
Kathleen A. Rapp (R, I)
Kathleen Rapp pilots the Planning and Economic Development Committee, which deliberates a large portion of the policies that most directly affect economic development and tourism. Dedicated to her constituents, she is an invaluable champion for jobs and her yeoman’s work in support of the DestiNY USA project has not gone unnoticed. We look forward to working with her for another term.

Legislator – 6th District
James P. Murphy(R, I, C, WOR)
Mr. Murphy serves as vice chairman of both the Health and Ways and Means Committees. He has shown himself to be decisive, goal oriented and mindful of the bottom line. With his pro-business voting record we are pleased to endorse him for another term.

Legislator – 7th District
James L. DiBlasi (R, I, C)
As vice chair of the Safety Committee, and representing a City district, Mr. DiBlasi is an important conservative voice for his constituents in the County Legislature. His voting record on key business issues is favorable and earns him our support.

Legislator – 8th District
James A. Corbett (R I C W)
James Corbett consistently demonstrates a balanced pro-jobs approach to his votes in the Legislature. His optimistic, practical perspective to County government will serve him well over the next two years. The business community values his participation in County government.

Legislator - 9th District
Mark A. Stanczyk (D, I, C)
Mr. Stanczyk’s tenure in the Legislature is marked by fiscal conservatism. His platform of jobs, the economy and taxes is on target. We hope to see a more optimistic approach to fulfilling the economic transformation the DestiNY USA project will bring as it moves forward. We look forward to more dialogue with him over the next two years.

Legislator 10th District
Terry R. Pickard (R, I, C)
Syracuse Tomorrow endorses Terry Pickard for another term in the County Legislature. Mr. Pickard is careful in his decisions and seeks out information to make an informed decision.

Legislator – 11th District
Martha E. Mulroy (R, I)
The powerful chairmanship of the Ways and Means Committee is a weighty position, even more so given this year’s thorny budget. Martha Mulroy has distinguished herself both as a conscientious individual legislator and in that leadership position. Her voting record on pro-business issues is excellent. We endorse her return to the Legislature.

Legislator – 12th District
Dale A. Sweetland, (R, I, C)
Dale Sweetland quickly built a strong reputation on the Legislature representing the southeastern portion of Onondaga County, and has grown in stature as chairman of the entire Legislature. His calm, evenhanded leadership serves the Legislature well. The concerns and priorities of the business community receive his attention and he is consistently available to discuss issues. We enthusiastically endorse him for another term in the Legislature and his seat as its chair.

Legislator 13th District
Robert D. Warner (R, C)
Robert Warner has consistently been returned to office and this year has no opponent. The business community is pleased with his voting record and endorses his return to the Legislature.

Legislator – 15th District
Bill Kinne (D)
Mr. Kinne has served the 15th District for considerable time. He is always willing to discuss issues, sharing his honest and direct voting perspective. While his voting record is not as pro-business as we would wish, he does remain open to discuss our priorities. We hope for more dialogue over the next two years.

Legislator – 16th District
Sam Laguzza, (D, I, WOR)
Mr. Laguzza’s voting record reflects his conscience and the needs of his district. He is practical and down to earth in his approach and demeanor. Clearly jobs and the economy are priorities for him and earn him our endorsement.

Legislator – 17th District
Ed Ryan, (D, I, C)
Mr. Ryan is a seasoned legislator who deliberates issues and votes on a well-reasoned basis. As a business owner, he particularly appreciates the concerns of the business community and what it takes to keep and grow jobs. He has always welcomed input from the business sector. He will continue to contribute to the overall community in his next term of office.

Legislator– 18th District
Althea F. Chaplin, (D)
Ms. Chaplin exhibits a deep concern for her constitutes in the 18th District and actively speaks out on their behalf. She is an important voice in the Legislature for the City district she represents. We hope for increased contact with her over the next two years.

Legislator – 19th District
Timothy R. Stapleton (R, I)
Syracuse Tomorrow believes that Timothy Stapleton will well serve the 19th District. His support for growing tourism, consolidation of services, preparation for DestiNY and opposition to Living Wage earn the support of the business community. We endorse him and hope to work with him in the years ahead.

Syracuse Commissioner of Education
Sehl Burns (R, C )
Mr. Burns has a refreshing perspective on the problem so the Syracuse City School District combined with an appreciation for the basics of education and sensitivity to non-college bound students. He is sincere, practical and demonstrates strong personal commitment. As a businessperson, he can bring a valuable new perspective to the School Board. We hope he is successful and is welcomed by the other Board members.

Calvin L. Corriders (D, WOR)
Mr. Corriders leadership role in the City School Board, given the challenges facing the district and the problems within the district, is needed more than ever. He is intelligent and is personally dedication to the position. The business community sees the District in crisis. We hope that he will stay in touch with business leaders to provide assistance to the District, and more importantly, provide opportunities for the District to be more attuned to the needs of employers, for they will be hiring and training the District graduates.

Ned Deuel (D, WOR)
Mr. Deuel’s approach to long range planning for school improvement is an attractive platform. His goal of remediating the communications between the City and the School District is commendable. We endorse him and wish him success in the challenges facing the School District.

Nancy K. McCarty, (D)
Nancy McCarty is now dedicated to fixing the fiscal problems with the school district and obtaining state grants to bring more modern equipment into the schools. We believe she is focused on the needs of the students. Her direct, sometimes outspoken approach, will, no doubt, yield some action within the Board and the District. She has always been willing to discuss issues with business representatives and we look forward to that openness over her term of office.

Syracuse Common Council, Councilor At Large (Vote for 2)
Kurt R. Schmeling (R, C)
Mr. Schmeling is a long time Northside resident who is stepping forward from personal commitment to turn things around for the City. His business experience will guide him as he addresses crime, the schools and DestiNY readiness issues. His position on living wage and charter schools are attractive to the business community. We endorse him and hope to see him as a new face in the Common Council

Beth Brownson (D, I)
Beth Brownson is an articulate, bright attorney who is passionate about public service. We believe she will be successful in her run for Council and look forward to an ongoing dialogue with her on the business perspective of a number of issues.

Councilor – 1st District
Jeffrey D. DeFrancisco (R, I, C)
Jeff DeFrancisco’s ideas for improving the Syracuse City School District operations and schools are worthy and should be addressed. His support for DestiNY, concern for high taxes, and ideas for consolidation earn our support. We wish him success with his platform of jobs, crime and education; and look forward to working with him on the Council.

Councilor – 2nd District
Martin D. Masterpole (D, I)
In his time on the Council Marty Masterpole has proven to be a dedicated, hard working advocate for City residents. While we do not agree on several issues, Mr. Masterpole has always been willing to discuss various perspectives of an issue. We appreciate his pro-DestiNY stance. His company chose to remain and invest in the City. We encourage him to be ever mindful of that experience as he considers his votes.

Councilor – 3rd District
Ryan McMahon (R, I ,C)
We endorse Ryan McMahon as the voice of the young professional who remained in Syracuse to build his career. He represents a segment that the business community is resolved to attract and retain in our labor force. His can grow to be a very important voice in local politics. His energy, passion and fresh perspective earn our endorsement.

Councilor – 4th District
Melody E. Holmes (R, C)
Syracuse Tomorrow sees Melody Holmes as a rising star in local politics. Her personal dedication and passion for her neighborhood and our community clearly merit her a seat on the Syracuse Common Council. She is optimistic, believes in the power of one, yet has a very practical perspective on City issues. We enthusiastically support and endorse Ms. Homes.

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2002 Endorsements

Syracuse Tomorrow, the new Political Action Committee of the Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce has selected candidates in key local state races in this year’s election. The Board of Directors of Syracuse Tomorrow announced their endorsements following candidate interviews which were conducted in conjunction with the Business and Industry Political Action Committee (BIPAC) in October. Candidates were quizzed on major business issues, namely the cost of health care, workers compensation reform and benefit increases, the burgeoning burden of Medicaid on local property taxes, reform of “Safe Place to Work” laws, solutions for high airfares, in particular the creation of a regional airport authority to operate Hancock International Airport. Here are this year’s endorsements:

119th - Assembly District – Redistricting has created the 119th where two incumbent members of the Assembly are running: Assemblyman William Sanford (R) currently represents the 118th District and Assemblywoman Joan Christensen (D) who currently represents the 119th. Assemblywoman Christensen has been accessible to Chamber members and supports some of our key positions. However, Mr. Sanford’s tenure in the County Legislature gives him a more in-depth understanding of several key issues and he has demonstrated his ability to manage very controversial issues, calmly work for problem solving within both political factions. In his short time in the Assembly he has already created visibility and dedication to achieving results. Syracuse Tomorrow endorses William Sanford for the newly-drawn 119th Assembly District.

120th - Assemblyman William Magnarelli now has four years in the Assembly to his credit, along with the weighty position as Chairman of the Assembly Task Force on University-Industry Cooperation. The Task Force has the potential to do great things for the state and our community. We hope that his continuing tenure in that position with mean increasing support for key initiatives on our community such as the Indoor Environmental Quality Center of Excellence and SUNY Upstate-SUNY ESF biotechnology research center. We are disappointed that he does not share our urgency on solving several key priority issues, instead preferring further study. In his next term, we hope he will be more courageous and decisive. He has the ear of Speaker Sheldon Silver and sits on several key Assembly committees that mirror the concerns of the business community. We pledge to work more closely with him on our key issues. With that hope, we endorse William Magnarelli.

121st - Assembly District – Another newly-drawn seat up for grabs bring Jeff Brown (R) up against former Onondaga County Legislator Steve Delaney (D). Jeff has already won an uphill battle in the Republican primary. His resume shows relevant experience in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. His Blueprint for a Better Central New York is comprehensive and rich with thoughtful detail. Youth and enthusiasm are on his side and are clearly necessary to work on the minority side of the house. Jeff deserves a chance to make his mark in Albany. We endorse Jeff Brown.

124th - This new district, narrow at the middle of its north-south orientation, bulges in Oswego County and in southwestern Onondaga County. The Republican candidate, Will Barclay, is young and possesses strong name recognition, while the challenging Democrat from Camillus Clyde Ohl possesses extensive local political experience as Town of Camillus Supervisor and time in the Onondaga County Legislature. Mr. Ohl energetically supports several of our key issues and keenly understands how Medicaid has come to drain local property tax revenue. We have not always agreed with his positions in the County Legislature, but applaud his passion for economic development. That being said, Will Barclay presents an alternative candidate who is young, well spoken, and knows the impact of legislation on business in his career as a corporate attorney. We believe in sending younger representatives to Albany for fresh perspectives and a chance to spark changes in the status quo. We endorse Will Barclay.

For New York State Governor, Syracuse Tomorrow endorses Republican Governor George Pataki. His administration has created a business friendly, more common sense state government. Significant year after year tax reductions coupled with powerful new economic development tools such as Empire Zones, have resulted in net job creation in Upstate and across the state. We are also encouraged by his efforts to improve education with higher standards. We look forward to more of the same in his next four years.