Oneonta Town Supervisor Candidates: In Their Words

With the November 4 election fast upon us, and early voting underway as of Saturday, October 25, AllOtsego continues its pre-election coverage with questions and answers to Brett Holleran (REP) and William Rivera Jr. (DEM), who are running against each other for Town of Oneonta supervisor. Below, in alphabetical order, are their answers to the eight questions posed.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

HOLLERAN: In the last year, through the efforts of my predecessor Randy Mowers and myself, the Town of Oneonta has been awarded over $6 million in both state and federal grant funding. Winning the grant awards is only the first step in the process. Now that the awards have been funded, my top priority will be to make sure the funded projects are not just started but completed without delays or cost overruns. Some of these projects include the Greater Plains Pool and park renovation, the Woodland Water District infrastructure replacement project, the Hemlock Road water main extension project, the Blanchard Avenue, Winney Hill and East Street culvert replacement projects, and the Smart Water meter replacement project. The focus and goal of these projects is to improve our infrastructure for both the residents of today and provide a robust infrastructure for future development.

RIVERA: If I receive the privilege of representing the Town of Oneonta as its next supervisor, my priorities are as follows: 1) Update the town’s Comprehensive Plan and its zoning code to balance the need for smart development with the protection of our community from harmful projects like the so-called AI-powered hydroponics facility. 2) Promote responsible spending on our infrastructure by developing a five-year capital improvement plan and hiring a town engineer. 3) Create a Community Board focused on mutual aid, government transparency and placemaking.

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