In a democratized backlash last night to incumbent mayor Mike Lenz’s $500-a-plate fundraiser, Val Keehn hosted a $5-per-plate informal gathering at the Union Gables Inn on Union Ave. Cheese and crackers abounded, as did a sea of red — supporters were encouraged to show support by wearing red. Jen and I arrived on the early side and mingled a bit, introducing ourselves to Val and chatting with her for a bit about the campaign, the success she’s having in speaking with Republicans and undecided voters, the general sense of frustration that residents have with Lenz, over-development of our city and Broadway, the water issue, and that big rigs illegally take shortcuts down Broadway since they know they won’t be ticketed. I’m really glad we had the chance to meet Val before election day.
If the plethora lawn signs around town — including one outside our house — combined with the full house at the Inn last night is any sign, things are looking good for Saratoga Democrats. The key, of course, will be getting out the vote. I’ll do my part by continuing to attend these events and encouraging others to do so. It will also be my mission to make sure all my friends get to the polls on Tuesday, November 8.
Join me, Saratogians, in electing Val Keehn for mayor! Let’s take back our city from over-development, condensed affordable housing zones (it should be spread throughout the city), unfair property assessments, and threats of getting Saratoga Springs voters to pay for a county-wide Hudson River plan whose only goal is to fuel suburban sprawl.
1 response so far ↓
1 shane williams-ness // Oct 28, 2005 at 12:33 pm
Hi Gabe: I love your site and think you’re wonderful! I am a rabid Democrat and care very much about our city. I would highly recommend you go over to Menges & Curtis and talk to Mike directly about the issues you mention in today’s blog—over-development and assesment as well as affordable housing. I think you would be happily refreshed by receiving solid facts rather than inflamatory retoric.
I’ve thought hard about who I want leading the future of this city, and want what we all want–someone who has a strong vision, honest, competent, credible and is running a campaign based on progress not politics.
In any event, just wanted to suggest that if you have a chance, it might be worth your while to hear what Mike has to say. I did and am glad I did.
It would also be interesting to find out how many people in the community who are concerned about the future of our city and our downtown shop at a local pharmacy verses CVS or Hannaford. Always wondered about that.
Thank you again for this great website/blog. See you soon I hope!