All of the seats on Plattsburgh’s Common Council and the Mayor’s position are open in this year’s election. On Monday, city Republicans introduced their line up of candidates for each of the seats in City Hall.
Two weeks ago city Democrats introduced their slate of candidates for the six Common Council seats and mayoral race. Only two of those candidates have past or current experience in city governance.
On the steps of City Hall Monday afternoon, city Republican committee chair Rich Cantwell introduced their candidates for Common Council and mayor. It’s a mix of Independents and Republicans that Cantwell says offers a rich diversity of political and business experience.
Each candidate talked about the need for fiscal stability while fostering business and cultural development. Ward One’s Bill Ferris is a self employed businessman.
Self-employed business owner Mike Drew served on the council for six years. He was mayor pro tem for four years and was interim mayor in 2006 when then mayor Dan Stewart resigned to accept a state job. Drew was then defeated in a primary race for mayor. The Ward 2 candidate says this is one of the strongest Republican slates he’s seen.
Dale Dowdle says it’s an exciting time to enter the Ward 3 council race.
An Independent endorsed by the Republicans to run in Ward 4, Peter Ensel now teaches at SUNY Plattsburgh following a career in broadcast journalism.
Ward 5 Republican Bruce Lawson, who recently retired as general sales manager for a local television station, emphasized the need for stable tax rates in the city.
In his early 30's James Wemette is the youngest of the candidates, running in Ward 6. He says the city must save money where it can and become more efficient.
Mayoral candidate Jim Calnon, a registered independent endorsed by the Republicans, is the current Ward 4 councilor and mayor Pro Tem. He says the Republican campaign will highlight effectiveness and leadership, with candidates that understand investments, budgets, decision making and fiscal stability.
Candidates must submit petitions with the signatures of 5 percent of their ward’s registered voters to the Board of Elections by July 11th to be placed on the ballot.
According to the Clinton County Board of Elections, 24 percent of registered city voters are Republicans, 42 percent Democrats, and 7 percent Independent.
