Tuesday, February 09, 2010 - 9:33:18 AM

Local News

Final Faceoff Between Binghamton's Mayoral Candidates - 10/28/2009

With the election less than a week away, Binghamton's mayoral candidates came together for their final faceoff.

"I'm Douglas Walter Drazen.
I'm an Independent candidate for mayor.
I'm running to get my hometown back on top," said Binghamton Mayoral Independent Candidate Doug Drazen.

"In short, the reason why I'm running for mayor is because I'm very concerned about the direction of this city," said Binghamton Mayoral Republican Candidate Rich David.

"The whole world and country is suffering--and we need to recognize this and stop playing political games," said Binghamton's Democratic Incumbent Mayor Matt Ryan.

On Wednesday, the candidates debated in the City Hall in front of about 100 people.

And many audience members wanted specific answers.

"I want hear about the quality of life here in the city of Binghamton.
I think it's been entrapped in blight for far far too long," said Binghamton Resident Edward Green.

"One of the contenders operates two small businesses.
And my concern is, how is he going to run a city," said Binghamton Resident Michelle Lewis.

The candidates answered questions on public safety, gas drilling, economic development and more--but the top topic of the night: taxes.

"I want to know why the taxes have doubled in ten years," said Bill Gorton of Binghamton.

And each candidate had someone to blame: the incumbent, previous administrations, the economic times and more.

So some audience members left the final mayoral debate with an idea of who they'll vote for next week.

"The candidate that I'm going to vote for is the one who has the best ideas on how to promote economic development and reduce the tax base," said Ken Kamlet of Binghamton.

***FOX40's Jacqueline Kane Reporting***

VIEW VIDEO

View Related Articles: Binghamton or comment on this one below.

blog comments powered by Disqus

Back Back

Binghamton web design and website hosting by EFX internet

Additional Articles

Mayor Delivers State of City Address

VIEW VIDEO
After making some tough decisions in 2009, Mayor Matt Ryan was looking ahead to 2010 and beyond during his State of the City address Monday. He admits it's a tough road ahead, but thinks... more

Ryan Uses Impromtu Prop to Inspire Optimism

VIEW VIDEO
The mayor also made a point of the power of positive thinking during his speech, even to the point of using an impromptu state prop. While taking a sip of water during a pause in his speech, Mayor... more

Young Professionals Honored For Achievements in Community

VIEW VIDEO
Many economists agree that one key component of an area's economic and social growth is keeping young professionals in the area. The Southern Tier Opportunity Coalition honored its third annual... more

Binghamton's State of the City Address

VIEW VIDEO
Binghamton's Mayor Matt Ryan will give his State of the City address on Monday. The Mayor's spokesman, Andrew Block, says the mayor will speak about the city's financial challenges, like rising... more

Binghamton Simulator Company Wins Army Contract

VIEW VIDEO
Flight simulation technology's come a long way since Edwin Link designed the Blue Box in the 1940's. Binghamton Simulator Company says more advances are on the way with the $4.5 million its... more

Child Caused Fire on Murray Street

VIEW VIDEO
Fire investigators say a child playing with a lighter caused a Binghamton fire that happened Sunday night. The blaze at 55 Murray Street, that started at 8:15, left nine people, including seven... more

Congressman Murtha Dies at Age 77

VIEW VIDEO
Representative John Murtha of Pennsylvania is dead at age 77. Murtha's office says the Democrat died at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington Monday afternoon. Murtha was admitted to the... more

Click here for more local news...

Request A News Story

If you are looking for a copy of a news story that we recently aired, simply click here to find out how.

FOX 40 Poll

Breaking News

Do you have a tip or information about a breaking news story? Contact the FOX 40 News Desk at 607.798.0070 or send us an email .