Frank Proto (Republican, Taxpayers)
RELEVANT PERSONAL INFORMATION: I have resided in Tompkins County for more than 40 years and am the father of three adult children. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from Cornell University. I am the President of Cannonbrook Associates, Inc.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR OFFICE?: Working hard as your County Legislator to make sure our towns have been fairly represented has been both a rewarding and challenging experience. I pledged to you that I would be a committed, informed, available and responsible
official, and I believe my record reflects achievement of these aims. I’ve kept you abreast of county business through personal contacts, area newsletters,and Town Board meetings. It has been a privilege to serve you for over 25 years, and I would appreciate your vote on November 5th, so that I may continue to do so.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE TO TACKLE IN THE POSITION YOU ARE SEEKING?: Providing leadership, remaining sensitive, and examining options will continue to be part of my agenda. Budget gimmickry and debt expansion caused me to question several county budgets, and introduce discussions to curb debt and interest expansion.
As the state and federal priorities change, the pressures locally will require more objectivity and review. Providing services in tighter financial times requires both a pragmatic and humanized approach. I have a track record that supports these aims, and a commitment to stick with them! I have always been accountable for my vote on issues.
Dan Klein (Democratic, Working Families)
RELEVANT PERSONAL INFORMATION: I am the landscaper for the City of Ithaca. I take care of all the public flower plantings in Ithaca. I live with my wife, Diane Olden, in Danby.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR OFFICE?: I have been on the Danby Town Board for 6 years. During that time I have focused on environmental issues, youth programs, quality-of-life issues, and good governance. I introduced the fracking ban to the Danby Town Board, which we passed in 2011.
During my time on the Town Board, we have stayed below the 2% tax cap, not cut any services, and taken on almost zero debt. Our district is currently represented by someone with a very conservative viewpoint who does not represent the opinions of a majority of our residents. I am running to keep industrial activity out of our rural landscape, to support programs that contribute to our quality of life, and to do so in a way that does not unduly burden taxpayers.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE TO TACKLE IN THE POSITION YOU ARE SEEKING?: The Towns of Caroline and Enfield were dropped out of the NY State grant for high speed internet coverage. I see this as a County issue, not a Town issue. In the same way that the County takes responsibility for recycling, the library, the health department, etc., high speed internet is something all residents of the County need access to. The County should play a role in solving this problem.
