We've asked each of the candidates in the city council and county legislature races to answer a couple of questions regarding why they're running and what they hope to accomplish if elected. Election Day is Tuesday.
Here's the response from John Deleo, candidate for county legislature, District 7.
I am running for District 7 Genesee County Legislator because I want to give back to the community. I was born and raised in both the 1st and 6th wards, and have lived here my whole life. I love this city and Genesee County. I worked with my father in the family business, Deleo's, a tavern that was located first on Ellicott Street, then moved to Main Street. When the business closed because of family illness, I began working for the NYS Department of Correctional Services. I just retired this year. My children still live in the area and I want them to stay, yet I see how hard it is to do that with the economy.
I was an employee assistance program coordinator, working with people and helping them find the resources to address their personal problems. I really enjoy interacting with people and helping them.
Having served on the last City Charter Commission, I worked to streamline our city government and make it more efficient. I currently serve on the Batavia City Planning Board, helping both people and businesses.
I don't owe anybody anything except the voters.
I believe that you don't lay people off as proposed by the county and not share the pain. That's why I will fight for a 10-percent cut in the pay legislators receive and end other perks. Again, you have to take cuts yourself if you lay off dedicated county staff.
Genesee County is a wonderful place to live, but it is facing hard financial times. The economic recession, a limited tax base, a state tax cap and increasing state mandates have put a squeeze on our budget. As a result, Genesee County might lay off more than 20 people. I want to make sure that if there are layoffs, public safety is not endangered.
I want to end the practice of giving kids our tax money that they use to "learn how to budget" by shopping in Monroe County. That is outrageous.
I will fight to see the NYS auditors recommendations on reforming the Genesee County Economic Development Committee (GCEDC) put in place. No more bonuses and perks. I want all job creation claims verified and want the public to know if the jobs are really new or just relocated around the area.
I feel the proposed Genesee County tax on our cars is wrong. Working families cannot afford another new tax and I will fight it.
I will work hard and do my best for you, if through the grace of God and voters, I am fortunate enough to be allowed to serve you in the legislature. Thank you for taking the time to read this.