Many people may try to pigeon hole me as a strictly math and numbers guy, but I spent nearly 15 years investing in and/or operating high growth technology companies at the cutting edge of innovation. In those roles, I was forced to think strategically and solve dynamic problems that had nothing to do with financial management and budgeting. I believe this outside of the box thinking will be extremely valuable as Town Supervisor and something the Town Council has been missing.  

 

While the current Town Council views Pelham’s  lack of street parking as a problem for Village boards to solve, I disagree and believe strongly that the Town is uniquely positioned to help in this crisis. Specifically, behind the Town Hall and Daranco Townhouse on 5th Ave is a centrally located parking lot with ~40 spots. If you drive over there at night or on the weekend, you will see the lot is largely empty save for a few Town vehicles. To me, this represents an incredible opportunity to help alleviate some of the near-term street parking challenges before Pelham House is completed along with its 60 public spots.

 

As Town Supervisor, I would look to hold a lottery for at least 20 permits for residents in the nearby apartments who lack dedicated parking. These permits will provide a dedicated parking spot in the Town lot from 5pm to 9am on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends and federal holidays. No longer will our neighbors have to drive around for hours after work looking for parking or be stuck at home for fear of leaving their parking spot. Admittedly, 20-25 spots is not a lot, but it is for those who are struggling daily with parking anxiety. It will also open up street parking spots that would otherwise be occupied for those visiting our local business local stores

 

As the only executive elected by voters from both Village of Pelham and Pelham Manor, I believe the Town Supervisor needs to be a leader addressing the challenges we all face whether it is a lack of parking or increasing municipal debt or excessive tax increases. The Town Supervisor needs to set the tone, speak up, and execute on difficult challenges that will often require creative solutions and I plan to do just that when elected.