Oneonta Mayoral Candidates: In Their Words

AllOtsego’s 2025 pre-election coverage begins this week with a series of questions posed to City of Oneonta mayoral candidates Daniel Buttermann (DEM, BON) and Luisa Montanti (REP). There was no word limit given. These are the candidates’ responses as they were received.

1. If elected, what will be your top priorities?

BUTTERMANN:

a. Budget and tax increases—keep taxes within the state tax cap.
b. Find ways to make local government more efficient.
c. Collaboration with the colleges and private developers for economic development initiatives.

MONTANTI:

As the future mayor of Oneonta, my top priorities will center on fiscal responsibility, community balance and long-term sustainability.

First and foremost, the most important responsibility of local government is to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents through effective public safety and public works—including our fire and police departments, water and sewer systems, roads, and parks. These core services are the foundation of a healthy, functioning community. Unfortunately, over the past 25 years, some of these essential areas have been neglected. It’s time to take a step back and realign our priorities. As mayor, I will make sure our city government gets back to the basics—protecting our residents, maintaining our infrastructure, and investing in the vital services that keep Oneonta strong and thriving.

First, fiscal responsibility must come before everything else. Oneonta cannot afford to grow in ways that strain taxpayers or increase dependency on state aid. Every dollar spent must serve the public good. I will ensure city resources are used wisely—focusing on essential services, infrastructure improvements, and supporting local businesses that generate real economic value and long-term stability.

Second, balanced development is critical. For too long, Oneonta has carried a disproportionate share of tax-exempt and low-income housing, leaving middle-class families and small businesses to shoulder too much of the burden. I will advocate for responsible growth that strengthens our tax base, attracts employers, and provides housing opportunities for working professionals and young families—ensuring a vibrant, diverse community.

Third, we must revitalize our downtown and strengthen community partnerships. That means working hand in hand with Hartwick College and SUNY Oneonta to encourage graduates to stay, support local entrepreneurs, and fostering civic pride that unites our permanent residents and student populations.

Lastly, I am deeply committed to public safety and quality of life. A clean, safe, and welcoming Oneonta benefits everyone—residents, visitors, and future generations. My administration will prioritize collaboration, transparency, and accountability to restore trust in city government and ensure that Oneonta thrives once again as the heart of Otsego County.

2. What are the top three challenges currently being faced by the City of Oneonta, and how will you address these?

BUTTERMAN:

• Housing. Encourage private developers to build single-family homes, multi-unit buildings and condos.
• Budget. The city has limited ability to grow, but the city needs to grow in order to continue to provide services without significant increases to the properties already on the tax system. We need to ensure spending does not exceed revenues.
• Economic development. Encourage new businesses to locate in the city and for existing businesses to expand.

MONTANTI:

As a mayoral candidate, I believe the City of Oneonta is at a pivotal moment—full of potential but facing serious challenges that require steady, practical leadership. Under the current administration, spending has grown out of control—with taxpayer dollars too often directed toward pet projects instead of real priorities. Meanwhile, too many homes and commercial buildings sit vacant, dragging down our neighborhoods and stifling economic growth.

It’s time for responsible leadership that puts residents first. As mayor, I will end wasteful spending, say no to political pet projects, and make sure City Council members remember who they serve—the people of Oneonta, not their own personal or political interests.

The top three challenges we face are economic stagnation, housing imbalance, and public safety and community well-being.

1. Economic stagnation and fiscal responsibility. Our small businesses and local workforce are struggling under the weight of inflation and limited opportunity. We need to grow our tax base—not through higher taxes, but through smart development that brings jobs, supports local entrepreneurs, and keeps dollars circulating in our community. I’ll focus on streamlining business permitting, attracting responsible investment, and ensuring every city dollar is spent wisely. Fiscal discipline will be at the heart of every decision.
2. Housing imbalance and property tax equity. Oneonta has built a significant amount of low-income and tax-exempt housing, far more than many cities our size. While compassion and inclusivity remain important, we must also protect the long-term fiscal health of our community. I will advocate for balanced growth—encouraging home ownership, market-rate housing, and responsible redevelopment that contributes to the tax rolls. Any future housing proposals must be transparent, carefully reviewed by real estate and municipal experts, and reflect the needs of all residents, not just one sector.
3. Public safety, mental health and community well-being. We’re seeing increasing challenges related to homelessness, addiction, and mental health that affect residents, visitors, and businesses alike. I will work to strengthen partnerships with mental health providers, expand access to local treatment programs, and support our police and first responders with the tools and training they need to ensure safety with compassion.
   In short, my approach is rooted in fiscal responsibility, balanced growth, and community integrity—ensuring Oneonta remains a safe, thriving, and welcoming place for all who call it home.

3. What is your stance on the proposed RSS Solstice Commons housing proposal and why?

BUTTERMANN:

I would like to see RSS invest in Oneonta and build the apartments in some form as they are proposing. We need more housing options in Oneonta, and RSS can answer for part of those needs.

MONTANTI:

As a mayoral candidate, I believe the RSS Solstice Commons proposal must be approached with both compassion and fiscal responsibility. While I support efforts to provide safe and supportive housing for those in need, I have serious concerns about the financial and long-term impacts of this particular project on the City of Oneonta.

At present, our community already carries a significant number of tax-exempt and low-income housing properties. Each additional nonprofit development of this scale further reduces our tax base and shifts the burden onto homeowners and small businesses. Before moving forward, we must ensure that any proposal includes a fair financial contribution to the city—whether through a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) agreement or another form of shared responsibility.

Furthermore, this process should not be rushed. It deserves a full review by qualified municipal and real estate attorneys experienced in nonprofit development contracts to ensure that the city’s interests are fully protected. Decisions of this magnitude should be made transparently, with community input and careful consideration by the next administration.

In short, I believe the RSS proposal, as it stands, is premature. We must slow down, ensure accountability and pursue housing solutions that balance compassion with fiscal sustainability for Oneonta’s future.

4. Though in the Town of Oneonta rather than the city, what do you think about the proposed data center?

BUTTERMANN:

I do not know enough about the project to have an opinion. Generally, I think it is a good sign when a developer or entrepreneur wants to open up in the greater Oneonta community, and I welcome it.

Like any other commercial project, there will be a community impact, and I hope the Planning Board works through all parts of the application and proposed project to adequately address and solve for the kinds of challenges or problems this kind of project might include, such as environmental impacts or energy usage.

MONTANTI:

While the proposed data center is located in the Town of Oneonta rather than within the city, it is a project with regional implications that deserve close attention. Any large-scale development of this nature must be evaluated with fiscal discipline and full transparency.

Economic growth should strengthen our community—not burden taxpayers or strain shared infrastructure. If this project represents genuine private investment that creates stable, well-paying jobs, broadens the tax base, and operates responsibly within our environmental and energy capacities, it could be a benefit to the area.

However, if it depends on public subsidies, excessive incentives, or results in increased costs for residents, it would not reflect sound or sustainable governance. My priority is to ensure that any development contributes to long-term fiscal health, respects local resources, and aligns with the responsible stewardship that our residents expect and deserve.

5. The City of Oneonta has a large and transient student population. What do you see as your responsibility to them? What policies and programs do you support to keep them here after graduation, if any?

BUTTERMANN:

We are so lucky to have two colleges in our community, and I think we absolutely have a responsibility to the students. As a city, we have a responsibility to welcome them as members of our community, even if their stay here is only a few years. I think the Town-Gown Task Force that Mayor [Mark] Drnek created is an excellent way to collaboratively find ways to build and act as a community together. This is an initiative I will continue to support as mayor.

As noted above, locating new businesses in Oneonta as well as supporting the expansion of existing businesses will allow for many students to stay in Oneonta after graduation.

MONTANTI:

The students who come to Oneonta bring energy, innovation and talent to our city. As mayor, I believe we have a responsibility to make sure they feel safe, respected and connected while they’re here — not just as temporary residents, but as part of the broader community.

That means maintaining good communication between the city, colleges, landlords and neighborhoods to ensure that students understand local expectations while also feeling valued. I’d like to see us strengthen partnerships with both SUNY Oneonta and Hartwick College, encouraging more internships, community projects and entrepreneurship opportunities that connect students to our local economy.

Keeping graduates here depends on opportunity. If we can make Oneonta a place where young people can find affordable housing, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging, many will stay. My focus will be on fostering small business growth, supporting downtown revitalization and expanding collaboration with our colleges to help graduates start their careers locally.
Ultimately, I want our students to see Oneonta not just as a college town—but as a hometown worth investing in.

6. If elected, what will you do to ease the homelessness issues in the city?

BUTTERMAN:

This is an issue that cannot be addressed by one agency or municipality. The city can refer individuals to Opportunities for Otsego and support the programs offered that can help homeless individuals. The city does not have a social services department, and the city can support the county’s responsibility.

MONTANTI:

If elected, my approach to easing homelessness in our city will focus on compassion, accountability, and practical solutions that strengthen both individuals and our community.

First, I believe homelessness is not simply a housing issue—it’s often rooted in mental health challenges, addiction and economic instability. We need to address the causes, not just the symptoms. I’ll work to partner with local service organizations, faith-based groups, and county agencies to coordinate mental health and substance abuse resources, ensuring people get the help they need to become self-sufficient.

Second, I’ll support pathways to work and housing readiness pro-grams—initiatives that teach skills, connect people to employers, and help them transition responsibly into stable housing.

Third, I’ll make sure our taxpayers’ dollars are used wisely. While compassion is essential, we cannot continue funding programs that enable dependency or lack measurable results. Every dollar should move someone closer to independence, not sustain a cycle of homelessness.

In short: We’ll combine compassion with accountability—helping people rebuild their lives while maintaining the safety, cleanliness and fiscal responsibility our residents deserve.

7. Local municipalities often rely on funding from the state to meet their needs. What are your priorities in securing funds from the state, and how will you approach that process?

BUTTERMANN:

Apply for all grants that the city is eligible for and that support its development.

MONTANTI:

Local municipalities like ours depend on state funding to maintain essential services and invest in growth. My priority will be to advocate for funding that directly improves quality of life—infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic development—while ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely and transparently.

I believe our approach must be both proactive and collaborative. That means building strong relationships with our state representatives, staying engaged in Albany’s budget process and being prepared with data-driven proposals that demonstrate clear community impact.

At the same time, I’ll work to reduce over-reliance on state aid by strengthening our local economy, supporting small businesses and promoting responsible budgeting. My goal is to make sure Otsego County and the City of Oneonta receive their fair share of state support—not by asking for handouts, but by presenting strong, well-planned initiatives that show return on investment for both our community and New York State.

8. The national political climate has grown intense, including multiple assassinations and assassination attempts over the last year. What do you believe are local answers for maintaining peaceful political engagement?

BUTTERMANN:

More engagement. More events. We see on TV the words and actions of politicians delivering repressive rhetoric that can chill even communities like ours that are not directly related or connected to them. It is not in the city’s interest to engage in national politics, however, citizens of Oneonta should express their positions freely and safely.

MONTANTI:

As a mayoral candidate, I believe our greatest defense against political violence is to strengthen our sense of community right here at home. National tensions may be high, but Oneonta can and should be an example of what civil, respectful engagement looks like.

Locally, that means encouraging dialogue and understanding rather than division or conflict. Our small city cannot truly grow or move forward if we remain divided or allow divisiveness to guide our planning and decision-making. We can host community forums, town halls and listening sessions where people feel genuinely heard, not dismissed. It also means training our local leaders, law enforcement, and volunteers in de-escalation and conflict resolution, so that disagreements never turn dangerous.

Our schools, churches, civic groups, and local media can also play a role in restoring a culture of respect—one that values facts, kindness and accountability over outrage. We can promote civility campaigns and youth engagement programs that teach how to debate ideas without attacking people.

At the heart of it, peace begins with how we treat each other. If Oneonta stays rooted in neighborly compassion and responsibility, we can be a calm, steady light amid a very turbulent national climate.

9. President Trump has made mass deportations one of his top priorities, often in partnership with local municipalities through arrests, detention, sharing data about immigrants, and more. Should Otsego County/the City of Oneonta collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement? If so, how?

BUTTERMANN:

My wife is an immigrant and one of the most inspiring days in my life was watching her take the oath of citizenship on November 17, 2017. I would be honored to see more and more people take such an oath. My life and family is immeasurably better due to the bravery and courage shown by my wife to come to the United States, and I will always and forever support immigration to our country.

MONTANTI:

The City of Oneonta’s first responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who lives here. I believe in fairness, accountability, and working cooperatively with state and federal agencies when serious crimes or threats to public safety arise. At the same time, I don’t believe our local police should be used for routine immigration enforcement. Their focus should stay on protecting our community, building trust and keeping Oneonta a safe and welcoming place for all.

Our police resources should remain focused on community safety, not immigration status. Collaboration with federal agencies like ICE should be limited to instances where an individual poses genuine criminal threats, such as violent offenders or those involved in trafficking or gang activity.

At the same time, Oneonta should remain a community where all people feel safe to report crimes, send their children to school and seek help when needed. That’s how we build trust, uphold the law and maintain order.
In short: Yes, we should cooperate with federal authorities when public safety is at risk, but we must not erode local trust by turning our police into immigration agents. Our focus must stay on protecting and serving the people of Oneonta.

10. Housing costs continue to be a challenge for many New Yorkers and Otsego County residents. What policies and programs do you support to keep the cost of housing affordable for your constituents?

BUTTERMANN:

We need to increase housing options in order to keep prices from raising too much. As discussed above, we need to go after all forms of housing, from apartments to single-family homes. Specifically, I think the city can work to rehab older homes that are not currently habitable or abandoned, and can do so with strategic partnerships with local developers that have a long-term plan.

MONTANTI:

Housing costs continue to be a challenge for families, young professionals and seniors across Otsego County. As mayor, I believe we must take a balanced and community-driven approach that supports affordability while protecting taxpayers and neighborhood integrity.

First, I support targeted incentives for workforce and first-time homebuyers, especially teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders who serve our community but struggle to live here. Partnering with local banks and housing agencies to create down-payment assistance programs and low-interest loans will help residents build equity instead of relying solely on rental housing.

Second, I will work to revitalize existing housing—preserving and improving our older housing stock through grants and low-interest rehabilitation programs. This keeps properties safe, energy-efficient and affordable without requiring major new developments.

Third, I believe in responsible development and zoning reform. We should streamline the permitting process for mixed-income and senior housing while ensuring new projects fit the character and capacity of our city. Developers who include affordable units should receive clear, transparent incentives—but not at the expense of overburdening local taxpayers.

Finally, I will strengthen partnerships with nonprofits and state agencies to access funding for housing stabilization and energy efficiency, ensuring that affordability goes hand-in-hand with sustainability.

Our goal must be a community where those who work here can afford to live here, and where every decision on housing reflects fiscal responsibility, fairness, and long-term vision.