OPINION: Why Gearity Should Be The Village of Ossining's Next Mayor

Victoria Gearity has successfully created quality programs, community outreach, and collaboration that have improved the tenor of local government.  Her accomplishments and experienced leadership speak volumes about how she would lead as Mayor.  In addressing claims of Gearity’s inexperience - the current Mayor began with less experience at running municipal government than has Trustee Gearity at this juncture.

My experience with Gearity include the following  which I have had the pleasure to work closely with her on:

*Green Ossining: a grassroots envirinmentakl resurce group

*Ossining Documentary & Duscuyssion Series: engages our community and creates a dialogue on important issues (Gearity’s branchild to launch)

*Energize Ossining: a state-funded energy efficiency program for homeowners

*Grow Ossining: a community-based investment fund aiming to improve our business district

I’m certain there are other initiatives for which she has been responsible, work on or spear-headed, all with a positive affect and all with proof that she's an ambassador hard-at-work for this community.  Just think of the possibilities with a mayor whose Trustee status has already shown what her administrative and governing principles are.

The incumbent has created few material changes to change the way the majority of people currently view Ossining.  There has indeed been some small progress, but after eight years there should be.  How is it that other river towns have blossomed into destinations for families, young and mature adults alike? Other river towns have been riding out the financial downturn too, so that os no excuse for a lackluster downtown local economy.  Our downtown is still not a destination to be proud of.  We do not have an administrative leader that collaborates with stakeholders where working together makes for effective policies.  How much more times does the current administration need?

Gearity’s list of endorsees include our Senator (Carlucci), Assemblywoman (Galef), County legislator (Borgia), cross-Westchester municipal leaders, the Democratic, Independent and Republican parties in Ossining, and a host of local leaders and stakeholders that recognize the value Gearity has brought to our community by the work se has already done on our behalf.  The incumbent, with eight years at the helm, was not given nearly that level of confidence.  You must ask yourself why and trust that these endorsements reflect on a work ethic and drive to collaboratively problem solve that they can all appreciate.

If what we ask of government is to reflect and represent the people's needs then I assure you that Gearity’s ability to willingly listen to those needs, act in the interest of them, take care in thinking about them, weigh the balance needed in making hard decisions, will serve you well.  She brings an otherwise unrepresented perspective to government and her young family is what I would imaging we would like to see more of in our great community.

One vote can make a difference. Let it be for the candidate who has the support of the majority of community leaders that need work together to make for real change.  Let it be for Victoria Gearity.

Suzie Ross

Chair, Green Ossining

Town Liaison, Energize Ossining

Founding Member , Ossining Documentary & Discussion Series

Founding Member, Grow Ossining

Member, Environmental Advisory Committee, Town of Ossining

Ambassador, Riverkeeper