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Ruberto and Walto Face Off in DebateBy Jen Thomas - October 30, 2007
PITTSFIELD - Election Day is right around the corner and mayoral candidates James M. Ruberto and Donna M. Walto are taking every opportunity to tell the public their plans for the city.
In a Berkshire Chamber of Commerce-sponsored debate on Tuesday morning, incumbent Ruberto faced off against Walto on economic development strategies, ways to include the growing immigrant population in politics and plans for public funds. Fielding questions from Berkshire Eagle staff reporter Jenn Smith, the candidates expressed their vision for the next stage of the city's development.
"I am running for mayor because I care about our city," said Walto in her opening statement. "We need to restore Pittsfield and all of the people need a voice, not just a chosen few."
The mother of three said her "personal touch" would make all the difference if she is elected to lead the city into the future. As an entrepreneur (she owns Berkshire Sightseeing Backroad Tour Co.), Walto said the attributes that make her a successful businesswoman would also help her effectively run the city.
"I will use my knowledge, my integrity and my honesty to bring our city forward," she said.
For Ruberto, a third term would mean continuing the initiatives he's already put in place and working to produce "more results."
"We're looking at new businesses while also working hard to retain what we have," said Ruberto.
The mayor also said the next step in his plan is to move into the neighborhoods and establish revitalization efforts that include improving streets and sidewalks.
Investment in Education
When asked about incentives to strengthen the school system, Walto and Ruberto agreed on the value of education for the city's youth but little else.
Ruberto outlined his administration's commitment to placing more teachers in classrooms as an indicator of his dedication to education. While much had been done in the schools, he said, there are still certain elements where "critical improvement is still needed," including a still-escalating high school dropout rate and less-than-outstanding Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System test scores.
Walto said her plan to aid the youth of the city begins with strong family support. She recommended educating young mothers and single parents, while also promoting confidence in youngsters from preschool onward.
Additionally, Walto said city youth needed motivation to pursue education.
"We're failing our children by not giving them the background of economic viability," she said.
Business Oppotunities
A key issue for both Walto and Ruberto, the Pittsfield Economic Development Authority site is a topic of contention among city residents. Acquired by the city following an agreement with General Electric to clean up PCB-contaminated areas, the William Stanley Business Park has yet to welcome its first tenant.
"There are a series of steps that are needed to lay the infrastructure of what will be the most prestigious and most attractive business park in western Massachusetts," said Ruberto, adding that he "won't be pushed into making bad decisions" at the site.
Earlier this year, Walto called for an investigation of the goings-on at the site and at Tuesday's debate, she said she'd replace the entire PEDA board if elected.
"The PEDA site is a failure," she said. "Right now, it is a barren wasteland. [The site] has given the city of Pittsfield a very bad reputation and it reflects our very poor governmental leadership."
According to Ruberto, some construction is moving forward at the site, including road development, the laying of sewer lines and landscaping.
Another major project in the works is the construction of a $12.9 million Beacon Cinema in the Kresge-Kinnell building. One of Ruberto's most-celebrated cultural development projects, the cinema will be located at 49-55 North St. and would draw up to 200,000 visitors each year, according to Ruberto.
"Will this mayor continue to drive to Boston to find more money for this project? Absolutely. Will this mayor be there when 200,000 people flood to the downtown and more businesses flourish? Absolutely. Will this mayor rejoice when people call this the best community in the world. Absolutely," Ruberto said.
According to Walto, the cinema would only benefit those who could afford to attend movies there, which is not the taxpayers of the city.
"The Beacon Cinema may be a good idea but it should not be on the backs of taxpayers," she said. "Without sound economic development, people are not interested in going to theaters or movies. They're interested in finding ways to put food on the table."
Moving Forward
With the Nov. 6 election day next week, both candidates are hoping to gain the public's trust.
For Walto, that means going door to door in neighborhoods and educating residents on the importance of civic engagement.
"A vote for me is a vote for you," she said. "I want an open and honest government and I will practice democracy in my office. This city is our city and this government is our government and I will make sure everyone is treated fairly, not just the wealthy."
Ruberto said he plans to follow the city's values of creativity, innovation, compassion, tolerance and entrepreneurship, if re-elected.
"We've layed out a vision and we've begun to implement that vision and we will continue to do so. There is history and evidence that this administration has moved forward effectively and efficiently," Ruberto said. "I've seen all the difference." |
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