His business success and community involvement are what Democrat Michael Heagerty says is his strongest pitch to voters in the Common Council’s First District.
“I’ve got a proven track record. I’ve done this. I’ve dealt with these people. I’ve worked with the Planning Commission at City Hall. I can get the job done.” [Heagerty]
Heagerty is running against Republican Albert Julian and Conservative candidate Kurt Schmelling. The seat is now held by Republican Jeff DeFrancisco, who is stepping down.
While making his pitch to voters this week, Heagerty says he is stressing his appeal across party lines. He says he has been knocking on doors throughout his district and explaining to voters how his goals and experiences can help him meet their needs in office. Heagerty has operated several successful businesses in Syracuse. Those businesses include the restaurant Pastabilities in Armory Square and The Palace Theatre in Eastwood. He says he believe voters will respond to his message, regardless of party affiliation.
“I believe that I have the ability just because of my reputation and my community work that I have the ability to grab some Republican votes.” [Heagerty]
According to the Board of Elections, the Common Council’s First District has 15,400 registered voters. Of those, 41 percent — 6,335 voters — are registered Democrats; 25 percent — 3,934 voters — are registered as Republicans; and 1 percent — 222 voters — are registered with the Conservative party. Jeff DeFrancisco, who has represented the First District for the last four years, says his constituents care more about issues than parties.
“People, as long as you can convey your message, people look at the person and they vote on the person. If they think someone will do a good job then they’re willing to cross party-lines.” [DeFrancisco]
The election is November 6th.
For Democracywise, I’m Jordan Meddy.
(Jordan Meddy is a graduate student in broadcast journalism.)
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