Candidate Information (full)
Candidate Information
Genie Abrams
Hello! Since I’d like to represent the Second Ward on the Newburgh City Council, I figure I should tell you a bit about myself.
I was born and raised in Newburgh, but left when my dad got a job in Albany in 1963, when I was going on 13. I got my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism at Syracuse U.
I worked as a reporter and copy-editor at the Times Herald-Record and then did public relations for the Civil Service Employees Assn. and for nonprofits (Planned Parenthood, the Sea Grant Institute, the African American Institute, the Lung Association, the New York State Nurses Assn. and New Hope Community) for many years, before starting my own desktop publishing company. It was in the year 2000 that my husband-to-be said, “Why don’t we buy a house in your old hometown of Newburgh?” The more interesting question was: Why didn’t I think of that?!”
I was a single mom, living near Albany with my daughter Rachel and I was in the midst of writing my novel, “Louey Levy’s Greatest Catch,” which is set in Newburgh in the late 1950s and early 1960s. It was coming home that enabled me to finish that book.
Being in Newburgh also inspired me to run for City Council, since I have been haunted more or less continuously by flashbacks to a gentler, sweeter time in Newburgh. So, if the good people in the Second Ward (Broadway to Bay View, and Colden to Mill Street) don’t mind being represented by a haunted person, then I’m your gal!
My family comprises my husband Tim Riss, a Methodist pastor who has been assigned to a church in Hicksville, Long Island for the past eight years but who is being transferred to the Poughkeepsie United Methodist Church starting July 7; my two stepsons – Jon, a music teacher and organist in Hastings (Westchester County) and Sam, a grad student in trombone performance at Temple University’s Boyer School of Music – and my daughter, Rachel, a radio producer for the local NPR show “All Sides with Ann Fisher” in Columbus, Ohio. They’re all in their 20s, God help them.
I’m a public relations consultant working from my home. Currently, I am also a tour guide at the wonderful Gomez Mill House museum in Marlboro.
My chief strength is that I have really, really smart friends and neighbors, and I’m not afraid to ask their advice about how to make this city sparkle again.
Cher Vick was very kind recently to do a long interview with me; it’s at newburghrestoration.com.
I’m at 32 Bay View Terrace and you can often find me walking around the city, talking to my neighbors. You can always reach me at genienewburgh@gmail.com, or give me a jingle at 569-2075.
More from Genie:
I agree in essence, if not in every way, about the importance of Action Newburgh’s “Five Big Issues,” though I may phrase them slightly differently from the group, and I wholeheartedly endorse its idea of demanding hard data from our Council … which, for years and years and years now, has not been forthcoming. Action Newburgh wants the Council to set numeric goals for its issues, and then judge the Council on how well those goals have been met. Where I can imagine numeric goals for certain top issues, I shall name them below.
Each of my own Big Issues involves the next, so that they are all interconnected. In other words, they form a circle, rather than a hierarchy. They are:
Safe Streets > Jobs > Codes > Youth > Good Citizenship
Safe streets is something we all want. I would like to see the Council set a goal of a 15% reduction in violent crime in 2014. If they haven’t achieved this, then the residents can hold them accountable for it. When you look at it that way, you’ll see that they would then have to devise action steps to achieve that goal by creating conditions where we don’t attract gangs and drug-dealing. Those steps involve the next Big Issue: Jobs.
Jobs are in short supply here, and the jobless can be seen every day selling drugs and committing other crimes throughout the city. But jobs of any kind, much less well-paid jobs that offer health insurance and other benefits, won’t be coming to Newburgh until we have a highly educated, motivated workforce; businesses in and around the city to train and hire them; and reliable transportation to get them to and from work. In the midst of a recession, it would be hard for the Council to strive for a set reduction in the unemployment rate here, but it can set a goal of bringing 10 new businesses to town in 2014. Still, businesses won’t come here until the city looks, sounds and feels safe and welcoming. This leads us to the next Big Issue: Code Compliance.
Code Compliance is sorely lacking. We have some 500 vacant buildings, many of which are abandoned. Absentee landlords let their properties continue in rundown, dangerous conditions that scare businesses away. The Council could set a goal of zero tolerance for gang tags on buildings and back that up by having the Codes Department immediately notify landlords of their buildings being “tagged” and providing them, free of charge, with the necessary paint or removal materials. The city could also institute a more “get-tough” approach to landlords who don’t repair broken windows, clean their sidewalks or provide enough trash cans for tenants, and who allow tenants to consistently violate open-container and noise ordinances. The power of public shame is a tool that should be wielded more often and more effectively. Council members can work with the Land Bank and other agencies to identify abandoned buildings in their own wards and set a goal of reducing them by 10% in 2014. This project can involve the young people of our city also – which brings us to our next Issue: Youths.
Youths: Our young people need organized activities from 2:30 to 9 p.m. during the school year, and daylong and evening activities all summer as well. The city Youth Bureau could provide training and supervision of youths as they help paint murals on abandoned buildings and remove or paint over graffiti. The city should work more closely with the School District – for example, to ensure that Twilight Program participants (students who have chronic discipline problems) are productively engaged during daytime hours. Most of all, to help Newburgh’s youths, we must provide them with good role models. That brings us to my next Big Issue: Good Citizenship.
Good Citizenship: This involves voting; getting involved with civic committees and good-government groups; attending city meetings, but all of these require time that many parents don’t have. Just as importantly, however, it involves reporting to police accidents or crimes you witness, reporting to the Codes Department buildings that are in bad repair or that present fire hazards, and speaking out at city meetings. In my ward, especially, with its large immigrant population, many residents are afraid to have any interaction with police or city officials. The Council can address this by working with Latinos Unidos and other neighborhood organizations; talking with school groups and sports clubs; and more. Council members could set a goal of speaking at or attending at least six such meetings per year. The citizenship education that would result from this outreach would have a positive impact on every one of our other issues: code enforcement, crime, youth opportunities safe streets and therefore, jobs.
So, each Big Issue is connected to all the others. I’d like to help by joining the City Council, but please join me in helping with whatever issues grab you the most. Hold hands with your neighbors and jump in!
Christine Bello
In 1979, my mother Thomasina Bello and I took a chance on a dream, rented a little storefront at 279 Broadway, and established Chris-Dian Florist. The early years were tough going, so in order to get my business off the ground; I worked as a florist by day and a Dental Hygienist in the evenings. Nine years later in 1988, I purchased the building. I currently operate the business as the sole proprietor since the untimely loss of my mother in 1995.
Chris-Dian Florist has been open for 35 years. Although times have changed, my work ethic, great customer service and my dedication to commitment have remained constant. I believe that these are the qualities that have been the key to my success in business.
I am the Vice Chairwoman of the City of Newburgh Republican Committee. I served on the Newburgh City Council from 2008 through 2011. During my tenure on the council I sponsored many pieces of legislation that were beneficial to the city taxpayers. I am a dedicated advocate for the people committed to supporting positive and well thought out ideas that will benefit the city as we move into the future.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
- Sponsored the legislation to increase tax installments from 3 to 4 making each payment less and easier to pay.
- Saved the city over 2 million dollars through my oversight and by identifying the misuse of city funds.
- Sponsored the legislation to accept partial payments on the water and sanitation bills.
- Sponsored the legislation for alternate side of the street parking on Broadway.
- To protect businesses I sponsored legislation to prevent peddlers from vending within 1000 ft. of a business selling the same product.
- Sponsored legislation to eliminate the double dipping holiday pay for non-bargaining employees.
- Got a metal detector gifted to the city.
- Sponsored legislation to give tax incentives to homeowners on improvements to their properties.
LOOKING FORWARD:
- We must work together with dignity for the good of the city.
- I would add a much needed business perspective to the city council.
- We need to make taxes and fees more affordable to keep people from losing their homes.
- Improved Public Safety and Code Enforcement
- Improved quality of life
- Restore the once a month bulk garbage pick up.
- Parking Permits for Business Owners who have businesses with metered parking in front of them.
My responses to Action Newburgh Key Issues:
SAFETY:
If the City of Newburgh truly wants to experience a renaissance it has to start by seriously addressing the issue of crime. Crime and the perception of crime is the genesis of all our problems. With a high crime rate it’s difficult to attract new homeowners. It is the reason why we see an exodus of existing homeowners. New businesses are reluctant to locate in an unsafe city and without new businesses there are no new jobs. Without new homeowners and new businesses our tax base remains stagnant. Without a solid tax base we can’t afford the best quality of essential services. It is one vicious circle.
We must find a way to increase the number of police officers on the street. Perhaps through more joint task forces with the State Police or the Orange County Sheriffs, or possibly negotiating with the PD to allow for some part time police officers. We currently spend over a million dollars per year on police overtime because we have a shortage of officers. We could take some of that overtime money and spend it on part time officers who would work for an hourly rate without benefits. Of course the ideal situation is to have full time officers however we must deal with the reality of the situation. We simply don’t have the money to hire more full time police officers right now however we can’t go on without enough police officers on the street. Part time police officers are something that the town of Newburgh recently instituted and it has thus far served the purpose of giving more coverage on the streets. If it works in the town it can certainly work in the city.
Additionally we need many more streetlights. In my opinion this city should be lit up like a Christmas tree to deter crime.
CODE COMPLIANCE:
Driving through our city on any given day you would be able to see unsightly garbage strewn throughout. I believe that one of the most costly mistakes made by our city government was to eliminate the once a month bulk garbage pick up. The reality of the situation is that for the most part this is a low-income community. The folks here can’t afford to be paying $10.00 or more per item for bulk pick up. That would be quite a costly haul if clearing a garage. As a result people dump in the dark of night to get rid of the old mattresses, tires and other junk. The current city council raised the sanitation fees by 10%. There is no longer a reason to say that we can’t afford to have a once a month bulk pick-up. This policy needs to be reinstated, as the poor appearance of the city is a deterrent to growth. This is a quality of life issue that must be addressed.
We need to identify the abandoned buildings that are currently occupied by squatters and drug dealers and make sure that they get boarded up. Having an abandoned building on your block is an attraction to criminals as well as an eye sore. We need to hold the absentee landlords or the banks that own these properties accountable for the appearance of these properties.
Code compliance needs to be equitable and fair. City employees that own properties should be held to the same standard that the rest of us live by. Anything short of that is the appearance of impropriety and a real ethics issue.
YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES:
I have always been a supporter of youth activities. Pop Warner, Little League, Boxing Club, Soccer Teams and others. We get quite a bit of money from community development block grants. It needs to be used wisely and there needs to be accountability within each group that applies for these funds. Unfortunately we recently lost the 21st Century Grant money. We need to reapply next year for these funds as the money from this grant enabled us to have many more activities for the children at the Activity Center.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
What I would like to see is a taxpayer group in each Ward. People need to get involved with their city government. Keeping the public informed is the way that folks can control their public servants. As I go door to door in my ward I have been collecting emails from the residents so that after I am elected I can keep them up to date on issues. We need people to feel comfortable enough to express their needs and address their council representative with their concerns. Residents need to be involved in order to achieve change.
In closing I would like to thank Newburgh Strong for giving us the opportunity to get our views out to the public. Should I be lucky enough to become a council representative you can be assured that it won’t be on the job training for me. I spent 4 very successful years on the council from 2008-2011 with numerous accomplishments that were beneficial to the city taxpayers. I’m familiar with the laws, contracts and how to lobby for a cause. Having a Broadway business affords me the opportunity to be very accessible to the residents. When I was on the council people always stopped in the flower shop when they needed me. I put them in touch with the proper department heads or other city employees to resolve their issues. I never failed to answer an email or phone call from a resident. My 35 years of business experience gives me a unique perspective on many issues and a business perspective is much needed on the council.
I look forward to serving. I can be reached at:
christinebello@aol.com
Home phone: 562-1945
Business phone: 561-1414
Patrick J. Berardinelli, Sr.
Representing the City of Newburgh and the Town of Newburgh
Contact: 845-561-5372
Web Site: www.citizensforpatberardinelli.com
E-Mail: pjberardinelli@verizon.net
Personal:
- Born in Newburgh, NY
- Saint Francis of Assisi Grammar School
- South Junior High School
- Newburgh Free Academy
- Orange County Community College
- Married to Elizabeth. Three children, Pat Jr., Michael and Dina Marie
- Served 12 years in the Army National Guard
Business/Government Experience:
- Served four years as a City of Newburgh Councilman
- Board Member of the Newburgh/Stewart Empire Zone Committee
- Member of the New York State Committee on Welfare Reform
- Member of the New York State Association of County Government
- Member Orange County Information Technology Project
- Retired from IBM Corporation
- Assignments included: Office of Export Regulations, Washington D.C., responsibility included working with members of the U.S. Department of Commerce to develop an automated export reporting system.
- Foreign Trade Zone Commission, Lexington, KY, IBM Team member working with the U.S. Foreign Trade Commission on a feasibility study to develop a Foreign Trade Zone in Lexington, KY. IBM Export Classification System, Hong Kong, responsibility included developing educational seminars on U.S. Export Law and Compliance.
- High Volume Order Management Systems, Argentina, responsibility included the development, system installation and user education of a new Order Process Control System. Community Involvement* (Civic Boards, Veterans Associations)
- Member, City of Newburgh Board of Ethics
- City of Newburgh Charter Review Commission
- City of Newburgh Land Use Committee
- Member, City of Newburgh Development Corporation
- Member, Citizens and Veterans Advisory Committee
- Member, County Minority Women's Revolving Trust Fund
- Stewart Airport Committee
- Orange County Transportation Committee
Political Affiliation:
- Republican/Conservative/Independence
Important Issues:
- I will work to improve programs for our seniors and insure they receive all the Federal, State and County benefits they are entitled to.
- I support Transportation initiatives that expand bus transportation in the City and Town of Newburgh.
- Job creation is critical to the future of Orange County. I will work with local Chambers of Commerce and State Agencies to create job opportunities for our children.
- Education is key to development. I will work with the County to provide affordable tuition to
- Orange County Community College and grants for our children who may need financial help.
County Roles: (Chairs, Committees, Subcommittees, County Board, Agencies)
- Served as County Legislator for sixteen years-"
- Eight years as Chairman of the Social Service Committee
- Four years as Chairman of Finance Committee
- Chairman of Orange County Foreign Trade Zone Management Board
- Orange County Deferred Compensation Committee
- Orange County Urban Task Force Committee
- Orange County Planning Board
- Present Chairman of Ways and Means Committee
- Member of Health and Mental Health Committee
- Member of Human Services Committee
- Past Chairman of Education and Economic Development Committee
- Labor Relations Advisory Board
- Electrical Licensing Board
Action Newburgh Questionnaire
Safety
I believe we need to work on public safety in a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach for the City. I support the efforts of the City to hire additional police officers who are trained to understand the challenges facing all of our residents. The difficulties in Newburgh are different than those in other areas and we need to be honest with ourselves and those who serve the residents of our city.
From the infrastructure side I believe many safety issues require the attention of all levels of government. I have been working with the City, County and State government to get traffic surveillance cameras at critical locations throughout the City. I believe cameras could play a crucial role not only in combatting the problem of reckless drivers but give police another tool when tracking criminal activity.
Moving around a large city such as Newburgh can be a challenge even to those who live here. I support and will work to obtain funding to help the City revamp its signage program. I believe that this is an important way to help residents and newcomers find their way around the City and will help improve safety, economic development and tourism.
A Cleaner City & Code Compliance
I believe the City must first clean up all the properties it has taken in-Rem. Securing and cleaning these parcel would show adjoining property owners that the City is serious about cleaning up the neighborhood and makes these properties more marketable for future owners. Effective code enforcement is also important and our code enforcement department needs to have the cooperation of property owners and the understanding that their job is the health and safety of all City residents.
In August 2011 Governor Cuomo signed into law the Complete Streets Bill. This Complete Streets design principle allows localities to apply for federal and state funding to facilitate improving joint use of roadways by all users. Design features may include sidewalks, bicycle lanes, crosswalks, and Pedestrian Control Signalization. I believe this is an excellent program and the City should take advantage this opportunity.
The more people utilize our public facilities and sheets the more they feel connected to our City and the more people will pay attention to those important quality of life issues we all are concerned about.
Youth Opportunities
I fully believe that our youth need and deserve every opportunity to be competitive in a global environment. We now compete with the world in every market and we need every child to reach his or her full potential. As your legislator, I fought for and help get our SUNY Branch Campus for the City of Newburgh. Now our residents can get a quality, affordable education right here in Newburgh. I have also supported grants for the arts, school ambassador programs and increasing access to all County services for our residents. If you need to access the County Clerk, Health or Social Services Department I want to make sure those services are available to you and remain here in Newburgh.
Community Engagement
I have always believed being accessible to constituents is one of the most important jobs of any elected official. During my career I have made a concerted effort to attend as many events as possible, conduct neighborhood visits and work with our local officials to be accessible to them and our residents. I appreciate the opportunity to meet with any and all residents and to learn what their concerns are and how I might help them to reach their goals.
Patrick J. Berardinelli, Sr.
Cindy M. Holmes
- Born and raised in Newburgh, New York
- High School Diploma, Newburgh Free Academy, 1977
- Associates Degree in Computer Information Management Westchester Business College, 1999: Deans List, President’s Awards, White Plains, New York
- Certificate, Intensive Secretarial Office Skills
- Bachelor’s Degree, Fordham University; Business Administration.
I’ve worked at International Business Machines for seventeen years, in East Fishkill, Poughkeepsie, Vermont, Gaithersburg and Bethesda, Maryland. I was also employed, at St. Lukes Hospital for eight years as a critical care secretary and Treasurer of Cub Scout Pack 9 in the City of Newburgh for five years. I worked as a Sales Associate at Barney’s of New York for seven years in high end retail sales.
Currently, I am presently employed per Diem for Newburgh Enlarged City School District as a Substitute Teacher and Home Tutor. I’ve voluntarily worked many democratic campaigns since 1970 for County Legislator, Congressman, Mayor and other constituent’s. Also, I am a Consultant/Civil Service Commissioner in the city of Newburgh Municipality, as well as a member of the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee, and a member of the Newburgh Substitute Teachers Union, NYSUT and a member of the Democratic Committee. I am a pillar of the community.
Statement of Purpose
Newburgh is my hometown, so developing a safe community and creating employment opportunities while advocating for the residents are amongst my key initiatives and my primary purpose for becoming your city councilwoman.
Safer Community
Newburgh is a city that is rich with beautiful historic sites located in the Hudson Valley adding to its magnificence. It was stated that Newburgh has been ranked as being one of the top ten cities with the worst crime rates. Many city residents are unemployed, under-employed and, living under the poverty level. Many have been initiated into gangs, dealing drugs, involved with various levels of criminal activities and using drugs as a means of survival.
Conversely, our community also has amazing residents who enjoy the sights of our historic city; however, they aren’t able to totally enjoy it because the inner-city roads, sidewalks, and buildings have become so dilapidated that they question its safety. Also, the children that live in the midst of this do not have a local outlet. There are not many activities or organizations that appeal to them or are affordable. The city needs more activities for the children so they do not become accustomed to the ways of demolishing all the city has to offer. I will advocate that the city hires more protection; henceforth, more police officers in the community to serve and protect our city and its residents and reduce the crime rate to ensure safety.
Employment Opportunities
Creating more jobs begins by making the city more attractive to appeal to all businesses, and franchises. We need to renovate abandoned buildings so that people will not be discouraged about purchasing the buildings. This way we can keep our money flowing through our city instead of paying outsiders who are paying taxes somewhere else.
Tax Payers Dollars
Gaining insight about how taxpayer’s dollars are being spent is a critical area. Taxes have increased nearly 100%; however, the residents haven’t seen how their money is being spent nor does the city display how the money is being spent. There is no transparency. Therefore; I want to be your “ears and eyes” so the community will know how their tax dollars are being spent.
Advocate for Those Who Cannot Advocate For Themselves
The homeless, elderly, and disabled are residents of Newburgh just as much as everyone else and because many do not vote or do not express their opinions; they are neglected and overlooked. Therefore; I want to stand in on their behalf by reaching out and asking “How can I help Newburgh be a better home for you?”, and taking the information forward.
Action for Newburgh!
Safety
Safety is a secure feeling that every resident in city of Newburgh is entitled to have. I, as a councilwoman, will work hard with the Chief of Police in the City of Newburgh to get all the assistance he needs from the State Police and the Sheriff’s Department to further encourage collaboration. The grants we have for the Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement, to assist in the city, needs to remain stable in our city to ensure safety.
Stable Neighborhoods
To create and sustain stable neighborhoods, it is up to the citizens to engage in community activities and team with the government and work together. I believe it is important for people to take ownership and step up to the plate. There are many advisory boards and committees that need members and it will only take a letter of interest to be submitted in order for a person to become a member. I encourage all citizens to take advantage of support and services offered by local government. For example, Congressman Maloney and our Assemblyman Skartados have been very supportive and have and open door policy. Communication is the key in all forms word of mouth, social media, emails, texting, tweeting, or use of instagram. If we do not let the government know what we want; how can they help?
Codes and Compliance
Code Compliance needs to be reviewed specifically in the City of Newburgh. Currently, there are only thirty percent of homeowners that actually live in their own homes in the City of Newburgh. Code Compliance needs to be reorganized and reviewed in detail by a least one homeowner in each ward who has lived in their own home and maintained it for many years in the city of Newburgh. Each neighborhood needs to have their own society or team to improve the surroundings. One person from each area needs to form a Code Compliance Committee Board, not an advisory board. Businesses do not find our city attractive. They find the waterfront attractive but not our inner city. We need to change this by obtaining HUD funding to rehabilitate the abandoned, foreclosed properties and make them livable, take our city residents and give them jobs rehabilitating our properties just as Habitat for Humanities does and put our properties back on the tax roll. We have to audit Code Compliance with our own formed committee. Code Compliance’s first priority should be cracking down on our slum landlords.
Youth Opportunities
Youth Opportunities need to be accessible to every youth in every part of our city. The Recreation Park should be utilized to the fullest for all youth. The Boys and Girls Club, the Performing Arts, and the Armory also should be used to the fullest. We need to audit the youth services to ensure that our youth are getting academic assistance afterschool, sports activities sponsored, music, art, job skills, and citizenship skills. All these activities are needed but we have to ensure they are being provided. We do not need duplication of services such as five afterschool programs on Liberty Street and maybe one of them only have three students. Duplicate programs for our youths need to collaborate together and our city needs to ensure this is done. These services need to be audited as well.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement is vital and public input needs to be made easier and incorporated in civil action by communication, email, person to person, and the U.S. mail. Every person has a voice and should be heard in a professional and civil manner. Our City Council meetings are one place that residents should be able to share their input and, if validated, actions should be taken. I know that for the past two years, a traffic light was taken off of what I still call River Road. A citizen has been trying to get that traffic light back for two years now. This is very important because that traffic light can prevent a fatal accident from happening. As a Council person that will be one of the first items on my agenda because many citizens, as I, travel that road all the time. I want to be proactive and not reactive.
Even our own City Council meetings have become out of control and our own residents are afraid to come and will only watch on video. It is stated in our charter, that if any person from the public or the council disrupts our city council meetings they can be disciplined or not allowed for a certain period of time. I would enforce that rule to the fullest because that becomes a safety issue. If you cannot feel safe in city hall with your own residents, then it is out of control; and order, professionalism, and respect needs to be enforced.
Safety, Stable Neighborhoods, Code Compliance, Youth Opportunities (jobs for our youth) and Community Engagement are all very important and there should be a committee in our city for each one. We have to fix what is not right. I want to work for the residents as a councilwoman and each of the aforementioned items have been emphasized by residents that I have spoken with over the past few weeks. We have to work together to build and bring businesses into our city.
United We Stand Divided We Fall
Drew Kartiganer
4th District Orange County Legislature Candidate
representing portions of the City and Town of Newburgh
Background
- Born and raised in Newburgh
- Graduate of NFA &
University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Architecture degree - Licensed Architect, NYS
- Business owner since 1987 providing Architecture Services and acting as Developer, Contractor and Property Manager.
- Renovated 18 abandoned building shells and 48 apartments in Newburgh over 20 years.
- Developed 3 major subdivisions including Montgomery Views in the City of Newburgh
- Development and Architecture work recognized in multiple publications including Architecture Magazine, September 1998
- Has served on many public, civic and service organizations including: Stewart Airport Commission, Orange County Planning Board, Glenn E. Hines Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors, YMCA Board of Directors. Temple Beth Jacob Board of Directors, Chamber of Commerce and multiple other community service and social organizations
- Awards include “Quality of Life Award,” Orange County Citizens Foundation, 1999
RESPONSE TO ACTION NEWBURGH ISSUES:
- SAFETY -
The single greatest issue related to safety in Newburgh is crime, both violent and nonviolent. We need to recognize that this issue is most critical in the City of Newburgh East End where the highest concentration of poverty exist.Unfortunately there are many significant challenges in the East End of Newburgh that undermine citizen safety in addition to the criminal activities. This will require multiple systems and methods to deal with the issue because there is no single solution. Defining the source of the problems is a first step to dealing with this issue which includes:
1. Understaffed police force in the City of Newburgh, which has approximately 75 officers and should have closer to 110. Newburgh needs to reestablish a credible Police force that is sufficiently staffed to address its responsibilities. The budget issues that have resulted in understaffed police, fire & DPW needs to be addressed at the City government level, never the less, as Newburgh’s county Legislator, I will press the County to support these efforts at every level. .
2. There needs to be a greater focus on establishing opportunities for jobs, training and related activities to address the lack of productive activities for people living in this area. It is important to increase this part of the “fighting crime” equation because simply increasing law enforcement is not the going to solve the problem.
3. We need to provide more positive things for youth ages 12 to 21. Youth programs, including increased support for education, summer job activities and similar efforts are needed because it is those activities that set the pattern of productive citizenship. As your Orange County Legislator, I will work to provide that support from any source I can access on the County level.
4. Decreasing the population of probation, paroles and ex-convicts in Newburgh is of major importance. In comparison to other Orange County communities, we have a disproportionate share of this population.
- STABLE NEIGHBORHOODS -
What is often forgotten is that most of the neighborhoods in Newburgh are stable. The most unstable areas are where the highest concentration of crime, poverty, and transient housing exist and the two issues are linked. The important issue on Neighborhood Stabilization is to limit the spread of unstable areas and support the stabilization of neighborhoods at risk. An intelligent method to address this need is long term planning that does not change with each change in City government administration.
The common sense strategy of mixing home ownership and rental housing to provide a stabilizing influence remains the most effective strategy to improve neighborhoods. When used properly, housing diversity is the planning tool that Newburgh can use to stabilize and improve neighborhoods. In this strategy, governmental support must be effectively targeted to succeed. As your County Legislator, I will seek that governmental support
- CODE COMPLIANCE -
Building should be maintained to conform to building codes as they exist. The overwhelming number of building owners who maintain their properties are tarnished by the building owners who do not.County and City support for rebuilding portions of the inner city housing needs to be expanded; building code enforcement with support and expertise from the City and governmental sources needs to be followed up; citizens, renters and owners, need to take pride in their neighborhoods and community.
10 to 15 years ago there was a consistent pattern of older building stock in Newburgh being renovated and revived. There needs to be a return to the focus of coordinated technical ability and funding to address this issue. I have been a part of this solution in the past and I will work to establish this focus as Newburgh’s County Legislator.
- YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES -
Many accessible school and community sponsored activities in sports, music, art, job skills and citizenship skills.
We need to provide structure and support for youth activities with a module where adults can be seen as role models to followed and emulate. These activities need to be established in each neighborhood with particular focus on areas where high crime and high poverty are concentrated.
Many of the children and young adults in these areas will not walk 10 to 15 blocks to reach the Recreational Park or Unity Center. Activity centers in the East End of Newburgh are particular lacking especially during after school, evening hours, poor weather conditions and during the summer months.
Localized activity areas for outdoor and indoor events and study centers need to be established for the area youth with a focus on training, education and physical activity.
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT -
In many of Newburgh’s neighborhoods the communities are engaged; they are committed, active and fighting for a greater Newburgh. In specific portions of the City, particularly in the poverty, high crime higher concentrations of transient and rental housing, the communities are not engaged. The reason for this gap includes a lack of credibility and/ or continuity in leadership and a lack of trust in outsiders claiming to be leaders. In addition, the failure of any success in these non-engaged neighborhoods often undermines any real progress that is made in other neighborhoods.Community Engagement required quality representation from the Community, as well as consistent communications and real results that are definable and visible at all levels of the City.
I have been actively working in the Community for the last 20 plus years; people in Newburgh know I have been working for the best interest of our community in rebuilding the infrastructure; providing decent housing and hiring local people. They also know I treat people with respect and try to do the right thing.
I will continue this effort as a County Legislator to move Newburgh forward and be engaged in my Community.
Karen Mejia
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As a child, my family migrated to the United States from El Salvador, leaving behind a war torn country and loved ones. I have a master’s degree in Latin American & Caribbean History from New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Brown University, where I concentrated in Hispanic Studies. Knowing that the personal is often the political, I’ve made conscious decisions regarding the type of employment I pursue. These decisions have taken me from the outdoor garden classrooms of New York City Parks to the boardrooms of New York’s major hospital systems to the office of former Congressman Maurice Hinchey, where I proudly served as his Deputy District Representative in Orange and Sullivan County. I am presently working with the Greater Newburgh Partnership, a public-private venture in the City of Newburgh, as their Director of Community Partnerships.
I am running to represent Newburgh's Historic First Ward on the Newburgh City Council because I believe that Newburgh and all of its citizens deserve better. I believe that Newburgh's government can be part of the solution instead of always being part of the problem. And I believe that change requires leadership, vision and energy able to capitalize on our assets and help us build a better future together.
Newburgh’s East End is and should be the crown jewel of this city. Its potential is evident everywhere you look. It’s in the beauty of its historic buildings and breathtaking waterfront. It’s in the commitment of its colleges, hospital, churches and small businesses to improving the lives of Newburgh residents. And it’s in the passion and resilience of its hardworking residents who never, ever gave up on the potential of this great city. These are the city’s most important and vibrant assets. They must be honored, cared for and cultivated if we are to move this city forward.
Unfortunately, decades of urban renewal, mismanagement and neglect have taken its toll on this part of the city, leaving behind crumbling buildings, sidewalks and streets. We can and must do better.
I am committed to making Ward One number One in terms of the Quality of Life for all of its residents. That means we need community policing to make our streets safer. We need to repave our streets, sidewalks and crumbling infrastructure. We need to reclaim our vacant buildings and hold slumlords accountable. And we need an economic development strategy that promotes innovation, tourism, and mixed use, mixed income development along the waterfront in order to create better housing and job opportunities for all of our residents.
My platform is simple – to work towards the equitable revitalization of the City’s First Ward and it looks like this:
SAFER STREETS AND BETTER PUBLIC SERVICES
- Public investment in community policing: Make our streets more secure by increasing the number of police officers walking the beat; recruiting a more diverse and better trained police force; and improving police-community relations.
- Investment in the East End's roads, sidewalks, lighting, streetscapes and infrastructure to make Newburgh a walkable city again: Repave our pot hole laden streets; rebuild and beautify our sidewalks and green spaces; invest in historic lighting as well as infrastructure improvements to jumpstart tourism and job creation.
- Invest in the City's Public Transportation System, including the creation of an East End Historic Trolley Loop and Circulator to connect the waterfront with historic sites and shopping attractions on Colden, Liberty Street and Broadway.
STRONG COMMUNITIES
- The revitalization of the city's vacant and blighted properties through rigorous code enforcement, preservation and redevelopment.
- Creation of decent rental housing and homeownership opportunities for all.
- A commercially revitalized waterfront, lower Broadway and Historic District, that includes improved support for Newburgh's small businesses.
- The creation of new employment and workforce training opportunities for Newburgh's working families.
- Improved recreational opportunities, parks and public facilities for Newburgh's youth and families
TRANSPARENT AND ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT
- Clear performance and accountability benchmarks for all city employees, agencies and department heads
- The creation of a citywide economic development strategy and incentives for stimulating investment in the city's historic district
I look forward to serving and representing the First Ward. You can always reach me via email at kmejia@mindspring.com or on my cell at 646-251-3123. In the words of Dr. Seuss, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” –Oh the Places You’ll Go!
Regina Angelo
CANDIDATE FOR WARD 3 CITY COUNCILWOMAN
Fifteen years ago, I and nine other women opened Landmark Collectibles on Liberty Street-an antique and collectible shop in the area of Washington's Headquarters. I worked with my colleagues to save this three-block area. In August 2013, we celebrated our 15 year anniversary.
I was also instrumental in formulating the Newburgh Citizens Advisory Committee along with Corporation Counsel William Kavanaugh in 1993. All nine of the old wards and districts are represented. They in turn act as eyes and ears for the City Council. I act as liaison for the City Council.
For many years I have also been instrumental in many beautification and clean-up campaigns in the entire city.
I was instrumental in establishing the first International Waterfront Festival twenty five years ago.
1. Safety:
Reducing crime and substance abuse must be a priority. Our citizens must be the eyes and ears of the community through organized “Block Watch Efforts”. Mobile citizen patrols could be implemented and put back in action; possibly emulating the successful program a few years ago in the Heights. Substance abuse must no longer be tolerated. The “eye on the street” approach should be in cooperation with and under the guidance of our Police Department who can train volunteers as to what to observe at a potential crime scene. This program has worked before for the city in previous years. We must re-implement this program.
2. “A Cleaner City”
For many, many years I was instrumental in all our Cleanup and Beautification Programs. I instituted Pride Month always in the month of May, where many citizens participated. This was always the clean-up, fix-up, paint up month.
I also instituted a barter system where citizens could exchange their skills to help those in need or individual home owners with a dire need of minimal tasks such as grass mowing, house repairs, painting, carpentry and many other needed jobs to improve their properties. The change back from the recipient was minute, a home cooked meal, dinner or punch, baked pies or cakes or housework chores inside. Many of the people helped were Senior Citizens unable to maintain the exterior of their homes. I would like to implement this barter system again.
3. Code Compliance
We have always talked so much about adopting a stronger code enforcement program. Dwellings and commercial buildings in the city must be safe. Owners of apartments, homes and multi-family dwellings must provide for the safety of the tenants. To facilitate compliance without creating undue hardship, funds should be made available commercially through banking institutions. The city should not adopt an adversarial stance, but rather work hard hand-in-hand in a spirit of cooperation to assist and landlords to voluntarily comply.
Subsidized Rehabilitation Loans hardship and high-risks cases must be given access to loan money. In order for code enforcement to be effective, there should be a specific time frame (as allowed by law), then the city must step in and pursue involuntary compliance through whatever legal channels may be open and/or available.
4. Youth Opportunities
For over 30 years, I was involved as a member of Glenn Hines Boys and Girls Club. This organization provided many opportunities for our children in Newburgh. After school computer courses, homework help always available with teachers present. Basketball games, dance lessons and entertainment also. These programs are still available.
I also served on the YMCA and Big Brother and Big Sisters Board. These organizations are very much youth oriented. They have always and still are contributing to the welfare of our children.
I was a former 4-H Leader at the Newburgh Free Library for 25 years. Our club was called the “City Slickers”. There was always a good attendance from the community. Our meetings and outreach were held at the library. Twenty five members participated in Community Service, crafts, clean-ups, beautification, tree planting, cooking and health related projects. We also held dog training classes.
Our library also offers so many programs for youth participation.
5. Community Involvement
Former co-chairman of the Orange County Democratic Committee and member of the Committee since the 1950-1960s.
I have served on the City Council from 1972-1979, from 1987 to1991 up to the present time as Councilwoman and Deputy Mayor for a number of years.
Former member of the Glenn E. Hines Boys and Girls club of Newburgh for the past 30 years having previously served as secretary for a long length of time.
I am a member of UNICO, an Italian American Organization. I was nominated to be the first Italian-American woman for the presidency of UNICO in New York State.
Additional Boards I served on are as follows:
- Downing Park Planning Committee
- Historical Society of the Newburgh Bay and the Hudson Highlands since 1973
- Board member of the Friends of Historic Sites
- Member of the Newburgh Democratic Committee since 1952
- Member Club 60
- Member of NAACP
- Member of the Opti-Mrs
- Board member and former membership chairman for Trestle
- 4-H Leader at the Newburgh Free Library for 35 years...The City Slickers
- Member of the Foreign Trade Zone Committee
- Former board member of YMCA and Big Brothers, Big Sisters boards
- Secretary to the Joint Memorial Day Parade committee for the past ten years
I am also responsible for the Memorial Day Parade, the July 4th festivities and the annual Christmas tree near City Hall for twenty-two years. These projects are sponsored by the City of Newburgh.
In July 19, 2008 I was honored by Downing Park as one of Newburgh's most dedicated citizens, honored by Community Garden Club of Marlborough, NAACP Support Award plaque, Nov 4, 2001, Daughters of the American Revolution, Excellence Community Award Feb 16, 1996, American Cancer Society Volunteer Leadership Award Sept 13, 1990, plaque from Hispanic and Black Coalition, Sept 20, 2008.
James M. Kulisek, Sr.
Dear Neighbors,
I’m Jim Kulisek and am again seeking to represent you in Goshen as your legislator in the 6th Legislative District, a position I had held from 2006 to 2010.
This 6th Legislative District has new boundaries this election year due to reapportionment following the census of 2010 as required by law. Along with this reapportionment the City of Newburgh has also made changes and has now a four ward layout which has divided the City into four equally populated Wards. The 6th Legislative District includes all four Voting Districts of the 3rd Ward, 3-1, 3-2, 3-3 and 3-4. It also includes most of the 4th Ward, with Voting Districts 4-2, 4-3, 4-4 and 4-5 all being within the boundaries of the 6th Legislative District. In the Town of Newburgh the 6th Legislative District includes Election Districts 3, 4, 5 and 6 with Districts 4, 5 and 6 being added this year.
Personal
I was born here in the City of Newburgh, I am 58 years old, attended Newburgh schools, NFA Class of 1972. In 1978 I married the former Colleen Flannery with whom I have two children, James Jr. and Trevor, 34 and 32 respectively.
In 1978 I entered the apprenticeship program of the United Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local No. 269 which was located here in the City of Newburgh on Pierces Road. Successfully completing the Steamfitter Apprenticeship program in 1982, I became an active member of U.A. Local No. 269 holding many offices which included 10 years as Financial Secretary/Treasurer, as an Instructor at their Training School, as a Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee Member and as a Delegate. In 1997 we merged with the Rockland County Local No. 373 of which I now serve as President.
I have worked for a few different contractors over my 35 year career and have been with my current employer, Armistead Mechanical, Inc. of Waldwick, N.J. and the Town of Newburgh, N.Y. for what has been my longest tenure, 20 years.
Community Involvement
I have always been active in the community, from activities with my kids as they were growing up as a Youth Soccer League Coach, Little League Manager and Coach as well as serving as Vice President of the Town of Newburgh Little League for one term.
I am a past member of the Newburgh Citizens Advisory Committee and currently sit on the City of Newburgh Zoning Board of Appeals.
I am also currently a Member of the Board of Directors of the Hudson Valley Chapter of National Honor Flight Network and a Member of the Board of Directors of The Purple Heart Hall of Honor, Inc. These two organizations proudly serve our Veterans both locally in the Newburgh area as well as across the United States.
I am a past Member of the Board of Directors of the Leadership Orange Program, recently relinquishing that position following two 3 year terms, 2007-2013.
Safety
I have, from the beginning of my campaign, stated that Public Safety is paramount to any kind of development in the City of Newburgh. The one thing that I want to make very clear is that if we expect someone to invest their time, effort and money to open, relocate or expand their businesses in the City of Newburgh, they have to know that the streets are safe for them, their employees and most importantly their customers or clients.
Newburgh needs more patrolmen on the job. Following the major law enforcement sweep of gang and drug participants of the past few years we needed to fill the streets where most of those activities took place with new and safe opportunities for the community. I know that the residents of those areas were relieved that a lot of bad had been removed from the streets but we have failed them by not filling that void with something positive and sustaining.
A Cleaner City
I am sure am sure that there are some ordinances, laws and other regulations that are in effect regarding cleaning in front of businesses, homes and other common areas of the City. The public need to be made aware that they may be responsible for some of the cleanup that is needed and complain about. Store owners and other businesses throughout the city and especially along the Broadway corridor should make an effort to keep their sidewalks tidy. If it is a recurring problem generated by others we will have to look at solving the problem in another way. This problem is not just in our city, it’s in all municipalities where there is a lot of traffic. The general public, you and I, also has to step up and be more cognizant of the litter problem we see everywhere and the image it projects.
Code Compliance
I am not as well versed as I would like
to be on the day to day operations of Code Compliance protocol or methods of
action taken. I do believe that all actions and methods should be equally
enforced regardless who is the subject of the complaint or who is the enforcing
officer.
Youth Opportunities
The youth of inner city Newburgh need a staffed, safe welcoming place to be able to congregate after school to do homework, socialize and build relationships. A mentoring program for these youth would help them stay on track to acquire skills to enter the workforce or continue on a course to college. These spaces should be located in the neighborhoods where the need is most apparent. Take a property or two that is owned by the city and transfer it into a place where someone’s dream can start to become a reality. This should be a collaboration between all levels of government. The city should seek County, State and Federal funding assistance toward this effort which would surely improve the quality of life in the inner city.
Community Engagement
Community engagement is the lifeblood of a democratic society. If the community does not choose to or is not allowed to be active participants in the discussions and decisions that will ultimately govern their state, that state will ultimately fail. We as a community need to have all of the information pertinent to the topic and collectively come through the decision making process with compromise and cooperation.
Let’s make commitments and changes for the betterment of the community as a whole and not for any one individual or group. When more of the community is engaged there is a greater chance for advancement of the ideas that are put forth. The actions of some at recent meetings in the past have discouraged others from attending and thereby limiting some of the community from engaging in the discussions. Everyone should be afforded the opportunity to have their ideas and comments heard. Their comment or alternative idea may contain the solution to the issue that no one else had offered.
To those of you who are hesitant to get involved, put your fears aside and get in the mix of things. Not everything under this Community Engagement banner need be about government. There are so many opportunities to give back to the community locally and county wide, from being a Literacy volunteer to helping out at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center, Big Brothers-Big Sisters and of course Habitat for Humanity just to name a few.
Closing Comments
I would like to thank Action Newburgh for this opportunity to introduce myself to you and give you my thoughts on the issues they have listed as their most important. My most important issue is increasing the commercial tax base and fostering economic development here in the East end of the county. We have to reach out to the other entities that have been doing this successfully and collaborate with them and their efforts.
The City of Newburgh IDA, Orange County IDA and the Orange County Partnership are all in the search to lure businesses to Orange County. We should use every resource we can to attract businesses to locate here in the East end of the county, in areas where the infrastructure exists, such as the City of Newburgh.
We, the residential property owning Taxpayer cannot afford to pay any more Taxes. We are being Taxed out of our homes. The County Tax Rate has increased each of the last four years, from $2.96/thousand in 2009 to presently $3.5489/thousand which is a 20% increase with another $.34/thousand in the Proposed Fiscal Year 2014 Budget. That will set the rate at $3.8889/thousand. Do the math, that’s an increase of $.9289/thousand. That equates to 31.38% increase if the proposed budget is approved.
Residents in the City of Newburgh have not yet seen an out of pocket expense yet due to the assessed valuation of their property being reduced this past year, with a lower assessment and a higher tax rate, out of pocket stayed close to the same. When the housing market makes a rebound and the assessed value goes back up, the rate has already been raised and your out of pocket tax will then be felt. Although you have a breather in 2014 from any increase in City of Newburgh Property Tax, increases in 2015 are sure to come.
James
M. Kulisek, Sr.
26 Memorial Newburgh, New
York 12550
845-561-3850