Originally published online at TapInto Greater Olean in October 2017
OLEAN, NY -- Downtown revitalization dominated the civil conversation Wednesday between two mayoral candidates debating at Olean High School. Challenger Linda Witte and incumbent William Aiello spoke on the importance of economic development within Olean. “You have to jump on those opportunities,” Witte, who served as mayor from 2010 through 2013, said. She noted that her largest project as mayor had been starting the North Union Street revitalization, and she referred to that as her proudest achievement. Aiello looked to the future and talked about revitalizing Whitney Avenue. Plans for a trail revamp include a park for children, a place to park cars along the trails and a community kitchen.
Both candidates agreed that the community’s voice needs to be heard to make changes within Olean. “I learned in politics if you don’t have thick skin, you shouldn’t be here," Witte, First Ward Alderman and a former member of the Cattaraugus County Legislature, said. “At the time (of the revitalization project’s start) I had a pretty good idea I wasn’t going to get re-elected,” Witte added. But at the time, that was okay because Olean was more important than myself getting elected.”
“Business leaders wanted the project, but our residents were skeptical,” Aiello responded. The retired Olean police captain emphasized his record as mayor. “My administration worked with all the city departments and the businesses along the street,” he said. “Through a team effort we brought Olean through the most challenging infrastructure project in the city’s history.” Both candidates were given seven minutes for closing statements. Aiello ended his speech with, "God bless you. God bless Olean, and God bless America." Witte chose to use part of her closing statement with a moment of silence for the officer who recently died on duty in Buffalo. “He is a prime example of what a public worker is and ultimately gave his life," Witte said. Larry Sorokes, president of Olean Business Development and CEO of the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce, moderated the debate. The questions primarily came from the Olean Times Herald; others were from constituents. The event was sponsored by the League of Women Voters and the Olean Times Herald. Election Day is Nov. 7. Aiello is a Republican and on the ballot on the Republican and Independence lines. Witte is a Democrat and on the ballot on the Democrat and Conservative lines.
By Sarah Waychoff and Tyler Grudi
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