Paul van der Sommen
CANDIDATE FOR ONEONTA COMMON COUNCIL
NAME: Paul van der Sommen
COMMUNITY OF RESIDENCE: City of Oneonta 1st Ward
EDUCATION: BA Sociology – SUNY Oneonta 1976
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Owner/operator of the Oneonta Tennis Club, Owner/operator of Lommerrijk, Inc. – tennis court construction.
FAMILY: Married to Susan King van der Sommen. Children: Kevin, Nicole & Samantha. Grandchildren: Connor & Chloe.
IN TWO OR THREE SENTENCES, EXPLAIN YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF GOVERNMENT: Government is an essential part of maintaining the democratic rights of our society. Our elected officials must be dedicated to building a better society in which all citizens can thrive and prosper. Citizens should exercise their right to participate in government through voting, serving as an official and abiding by the laws.
WHAT ARE THE THREE MAJOR ISSUES THE COMMON COUNCIL FACES, AND HOW WOULD YOU ADDRESS THEM?
City Manager – The council needs to re-assess the need and intended role of a city manager. If determined that it is a necessary position, it is essential to find the right person to fill the role to avoid wasting more of our taxpayer dollars on turnover.
Vacant store fronts – we have many thriving businesses downtown among many vacant storefronts. The council needs to determine ways to encourage new business while ensuring we continue to support those who have made downtown a more vibrant and attractive place to shop and dine.
Empty houses – The council needs to focus on infrastructure. In the first ward, there are many vacant houses, yet we have one of the best elementary schools in the city! It is time to focus on improving our neighborhoods within the city to encourage more residents to live here.
WHAT QUALITIES/EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE THAT MAKES YOU THE BETTER CHOICE IN THIS RACE: Oneonta has been my hometown since college. I have been first ward resident and business owner since the 1970’s and take great pride in our city. As such, I understand the concerns of not only our first ward residents, but those in the city of Oneonta. I will represent their voices on the council to make our city a more attractive place for residents and business owners alike.
IS THERE A STATEMENT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH VOTERS? Applying my experience as a small business owner, SUNY graduate and long-time resident of the city, it would be a great honor to serve the residents of the first ward and our city on the Common Council, ensuring all voices and views are heard and represented.