Names in the News: James O'Toole

Name: James O'Toole
Age: 46
Occupation: Bartender 
How long a New Rochelle resident: 46 years

Q: You are a regular at Citizens to be Heard and public hearings. Why is it important to be there and speak?
A: I feel that issues need to be addressed that I see first hand in the downtown and around this city and feel it's best to get it on the record. This way residents and city officials hear it first hand.

Q: Do you consider yourself conservative, liberal or some other mix?
A: Conservative and independent.

Q: When did you become "politically aware"?
A: At the age of 15 I started to go to council meetings.

Q: What are the pressing issues in New Rochelle that are being addressed?
A: The facades of the downtown building's are starting to look better thanks to the BID (New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District) and city working together. Our parks are looking great and new places to eat are always popping up.

Q: What are some issues in New Rochelle that receive little or no attention?
A: The safety concern of the downtown. People have a feeling of not feeling safe downtown. There is a fear from the gangs of kids and homeless that hang around downtown. The police department needs more manpower. They are down too many people and there is no way to cover a city of our size with the police manpower they have now.

Q: Any advice to your fellow New Rochelleans on getting involved or speaking up?
A: Yes, speak up. All of your city officials have e-mail. I must say that when I e-mail the Mayor or City Manager, I get a fast response. Maybe it's not the response I want, but they do get back quickly. Also if you see a article on Patch or anywhere else and there is a comment section, write on it. Believe me, city officials are reading it. More New Rochelle people must get involved. Sometimes I go to council meetings and there are no residents at the meeting. Remember, all issues affect every resident in some way, so please speak up either for it or against it.