Why This Biz Owner Decided to Run for Mayor

I'm doing something that I never thought I'd do in my lifetime. Something that opens me up to skepticism, criticism, and even personal attack. Before I tell you what I'm doing and why, I'd like to share an 1899 quote from former President Theodore Roosevelt. This quote is the best way for me to explain why I am embarking on a journey that involves negative connotations.

"Far better to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows not victory, not defeat."

So, with that said, I hope you understand, in part, why I decided to take on my newest project. So here it goes.

I am running for Mayor of East Hills, a community of roughly 7,000 residents in Nassau County. For those of you who know me, you know that I'm a business man. I love running my small business, studying business practices and even lecturing on topics like marketing, branding, and sales. 

So what possessed me to step outside my comfort zone and subject myself to public scrutiny?

There are a lot of reasons but none as compelling as those relating to my Village's fiscal health. I'm scared. Village taxes have gone up 12 years in a row and have more than doubled since I moved into my home. We're running a $21 million debt which is almost double our annual budget. And 15 percent of our revenues goes toward debt service.  

After learning of the Village's dire financial situation, I felt that someone had to step up.  I also felt that my strong business training and experience would allow me to hold the line on tax increases, eliminate waste (without affecting fundamental services) and restore fiscal responsibility. Being more of a doer than a talker (and not seeing anyone else stepping up), I decided to throw my hat in the ring.
Of course, nothing comes easy. I am running against a 16-year incumbent who has many impressive accomplishments, including acquisition of 54-acres from the Federal government for a mere $3 million to build a beautiful park. 
So here I go daring a mighty thing and seeking to win a glorious triumph. 
Wish me luck.