POUGHKEEPSIE – Republican Scott Emslie has filed petitions to run for 7th Ward Councilman for the city’s common council. The seat is currently held by Democrat Randall Johnson II who is prevented from seeking re-election due to term limits.
Emslie is running “to help to bring back civility and common sense to city government. We need to stop the infighting and concentrate on what needs to be done to improve the Queen City.” He expressed his disappointment in the multiple lawsuits involving the council as well as the actions taken by the council against Mayor Rob Rolison.
Emslie recently retired from the New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) after a 32-year career. He started as a toll collector and rose up the ranks including serving as a manager of three of five of the bridges at various times in his career. The political newcomer says his experience at the bridge authority, including budget preparation, human resources, and public interaction, will make him an effective member of the council.
“As a city resident and homeowner for the past 30 years, I share the same concerns as my neighbors with the issues that affect everyday life, namely crime, economic development, and the city’s youth,” the candidate said. “I want to work on economic development, assisting our youth to find opportunities for education and employment and the infrastructure of the City.”
