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.