John Tonello announced today he is seeking a second term as Mayor of the City of Elmira, vowing to continue his commitment to open, transparent, and responsible government that has helped Elmira move forward since he first took office in January 2006.

"I've worked hard to make Elmira City government more transparent and accountable by emphasizing communication," Tonello said. "We've faced many challenges - from the $3 million deficit we inherited to the collapse of the Armory to increasing gun violence - but by listening, fostering bipartisan solutions, and by being open and honest with all Elmirans, I believe we're all better off. I'm committed to continuing that work in the next four years."

Tonello, 40, cited a number of successes over the past year and a half that include ending a decade of deficit spending, supporting efforts to reorganize City departments to make them more efficient, cracking down on delinquent property owners through aggressive new court action, reducing red tape for developers by overhauling City codes, and championing one-block-at-a-time efforts that are breathing new life into downtown.

"Though I'm a Democrat, I've led these efforts in a non-partisan fashion, encouraging debate, not quashing it," he said. "I haven't shied away from tough decisions, and I'm proud of the fact that this Council has yet to cast a single party-line vote. I'm committed to making City government about policy, not politics. With your help, I will continue that important work."

The mayor emphasized that City government is hardly the work of one man.

"Our successes come from the combined hard work of City staff, City Council, business and community leaders, educators, and citizens," Tonello said. "As mayor, I've encouraged people to work together, to challenge old ideas, to take risks, and to get involved. I want to continue to help champion ideas that make Elmira fiscally sound, more dynamic and more responsive."

Tonello, a political newcomer in 2005, has appointed a number of newcomers to City boards, following through on his pledge to get more women and African Americans involved.

"I sought out and appointed men and women of varying ages, races, creeds and political affiliations without prior government experience because I wanted the best qualified people to serve," he said. "I treat all these positions like the important jobs they are, not political plumbs. As a result, these boards are more diverse than ever and better reflect the face of Elmira."

"People tell me they see positive things happening again, and they're right. Together, we're moving Elmira forward," he said. "I'm committed to the future and I'm committed to Elmira."

Also see:

• Record of Commitment
• Biography