Rolison: “… lift the entire
city up”
POUGHKEEPSIE – Long-time Dutchess County Legislature member and
chairman for the past six years, Robert Rolison, wants a new job. Speaking
to about 75 enthusiastic supporters on Wednesday, in his headquarters
on the 400 block of Main Street in Poughkeepsie, Rolison said there is
work to be done in the city.
Among goals, opening a youth services center, a point raised frequently
by citizens speaking at city council meetings. Also on the list, more
drug prevention and mental health services, making streets safer, and,
one he says it the top priority.
“The issue of economic development and maybe that would be the number
one clause, so to speak, where we really have to take a hard look at how
we bring economic development in because when we do that, we prosper and
we bring dollars into the city, which lift the entire city up.”
Among those attending the brief midday announcement is current two-term
mayor John Tkazyik.
“Rob cares about the same things we care about, continuing to rid
our streets of drugs and crime, holding the line on spending and taxes,
and bringing in new development and new jobs to Poughkeepsie.”
Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro is also solidly in Rolison’s
corner.
“I am, and Dutchess County is willing to work with anyone who is
honest and earnest about their service, and what Rob Rolison is, I know,
is honestly and earnestly to the City of Poughkeepsie and we look forward
to working with him.”
Rolison, who has enjoyed generally solid bipartisan support as leader
of the Republican-dominated county legislature, says he has regrets about
wanting to move on.
“You know, everything has a shelf life. The county legislature has
been good to me; I’ve been the chairman for six years. I want to
continue to give back and what a better place to do that here in this
City of Poughkeepsie where I’ve lived for 23 years.”
Two Democrats have announced for mayor – Poughkeepsie School Board
Member Randall Johnson and Alderman Robert Mallory.
