Economic Development/Jobs

As Mayor I will take a three-pronged approach to creating jobs in the area and have a thriving economy.
 

1) Most importantly we must assist entrepreneurs in their efforts to start businesses in Syracuse. This can be done by providing them with resources that the community has to offer, such as setting up mentoring with local businessmen, and partnerships with our local colleges. A prime example of this is the Tech Garden, and the Welch Allyn/Syracuse University business incubators, but more can be done by offering these groups support from City Hall. Furthermore entrepreneurs in the city simply face too much red tape as they are going through the process. I would simplify the process and stop scaring entrepreneurs away from chasing their dreams.
 

2) Deter employers from leaving the region. For far too long our political leaders have idly watched as many of our large employers have left Syracuse for what they perceive as greener pastures.
 

3) Recruit companies to relocate to our city. I will continue to do what I have been doing during my career as a television executive. Market the region as a great place to do business. 
 

There are several tactical moves that can be made to make my goals easier to achieve. For one, I would work closely with the county government. Both the city and the county have Economic Development Offices that overlap in their duties. By modernizing these offices, and combining their efforts, we will be able to achieve more. On top of combining these offices efforts I would create a Municipal Venture Capital Fund, which would invest in local companies, and give them the resources they need to succeed. 
 

Also, downtown has several empty offices and store fronts, particularly on Warren and Salina Streets. I propose moving the Syracuse City School District’s central office, and all of its employees, from Harrison Street to downtown. By doing this we will increase the number of people working downtown and more stores, delis etc. will open to serve the workers. Creating a more attractive business district suitable to other employers, and jumpstarting economic growth. Furthermore, Upstate Medical would be willing to purchase the property on Harrison Street and continue their growth as part of the Connective Corridor. 
 

Finally, I see great potential in the Inner Harbor area. I worked with the Mayor of Baltimore when he turned an abandoned pier into a vibrant tourist attraction. I see no reason why this cannot be done in Syracuse as well. Some steps have been taken to beautify the area, but more