POUGHKEEPSIE – Vincent Pedi, a member of the City of Poughkeepsie IDA and Dutchess County Democratic Committee Executive Board has announced that he is seeking the Democratic nomination to run for the councilperson-at-Large seat on the common council.
Former Common Councilman Chris Petsas who was term-limited from his First Ward council seat during the last election cycle is also interested in seeking the Democratic nomination to run for the “At-Large” seat. Petsas told Mid-Hudson News on Thursday that he is “Exploring several exciting opportunities in the new year, with one of them being a candidate for the councilmember-at-Large position.” When pressed about a potential campaign, Petsas said, “I will be making an announcement in the coming week and I look forward to serving the residents of the City of Poughkeepsie once again.”
Pedi works as an outreach coach for Dutchess Community College and says he has expertise in local workforce development, career education, and people management. Pedi also serves as a volunteer educator, teaching local high school students in the areas of college and career planning. In 2022 Pedi was named one of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s “Forty Under 40 Mover and Shakers” and joined the board of Community Matters 2, Inc.
“Though it’s my first time seeking office, I’m experienced in the political process as president of the Dutchess County Young Democrats. A lifelong progressive, I will work hard to support democratic values, protect our rights and freedoms, and ensure we are forging stronger partnerships with elected officials at all levels whether county, state, or in Washington,” Pedi said in his announcement.
Pedi says he is focused on progress and moving the city forward. “We need leaders who will unite our community, and our city has shown that we are at our best when we come together,” he said while calling for more programs for young people along with placing crime and violence intervention high on his list of priorities. He explained that he is also focusing on economic sustainability and strategic planning to determine the best use of tax dollars.
