James Palumbo is one of five residents are running for two trustee spots on the Village of Camillus Board of Trustees. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday March 18 at village hall.
James Palumbo
16 South St.
Occupation: High School Principal
How long have you lived in the village of Camillus?
As a home owner, for the last two years. Prior to this I rented in the village for about 6 years in the 90s. Are you involved with any clubs or organizations?
Camillus Parks and Recreation as a Karate Instructor, Feb Fest Volunteer
Why are you running for trustee?
I am running for Trustee because it is part of a civic responsibility. Living in a small village requires us to be involved. As a community member I want to see our Main Street revitalized. The Village has a lot to offer and we need to continue the work being done in this area. The former Camillus Cutlery building is a focus for all of us as is the vacant gas station. We also have other commercial properties that need to be redeveloped as well. Exploring ways to assist business owners and developers with this process is critical for our Village. Quality of life issues are also important to me. Maintenance of side walks, roads, and commercial realty properties are items that need to be addressed. In addition I would like to make certain that the current levels of Village services remain for all home owners. As a resident of the South St. Neighborhood I have a great deal of interest in flood mitigation. This is also a concern for residents of Mechanic St. and residents near Monroe Park. What do you think you would bring to the table as trustee?
As a Trustee I would bring to the table the ability to work with people and leadership experience. I recognize that individuals in this position are truly working on behalf of the entire community. They have previously done a great deal of work and I would continue these efforts. When you think about your village, what do you consider to be the biggest “missed opportunity” of village board? Not certain that the Board has missed any opportunity for the Village. {Q}I would operate as if the Board is always working in the best interest of the community.{Q} What is an accomplishment of the board that you applaud or admire?
The recent development of policy that provides more independence to the Fire Department is a step in the right direction. Prior to this there has not been a written plan for management or oversight. The new plan places significant fiscal responsibility directly with the fire professionals, provides more independence, and provides greater fire safety for all of us through revised alignments with surrounding departments. The current work on the “Streetscape” plan is an accomplishment that will guide us through the process of revitalizing the Village of Camillus. This is a basically a blueprint for our future and when completed will enable us to much more effectively seek dollars that are available through grants. If elected, what is the first goal or project you would like to tackle or address?
If elected I would like to first get a strong understanding of the current work being done by the board. I could not be an effective contributor/representative for our residents unless I know what is currently being done. I would spend time reviewing the Comprehensive Plan. I would then get involved with revitalization planning and flood mitigation. How many meetings attended in last year (an estimate)?
Four.