Democratic candidate for Mayor, Dan Cerutti, is focusing on public safety as his campaign kicks off the 2025 petition season.

“For over a year, the people of Albany have been opening their doors and inviting me into their homes. Nearly every conversation includes a discussion of public safety. The thousands of people I have met with fully endorse my straight-forward position: “As Mayor, making our streets safe will be my number one priority. If people do not feel our streets are safe, they will not live, work or visit our city,” Cerutti said.

“Fear is on the rise in Albany, despite the tone-deaf rhetoric about crime being down 21 percent,” Cerutti said. “Businesses and residents are choosing to leave. It is the responsibility of our elected officials to turn this tide, rebuild confidence, and provide a reason to stay.”

“I will not rest until we make our streets safe. We need to dramatically increase treatment services and beds for those that inhabit our neighborhoods. They deserve our compassion and help. At the same time, Albany residents should not feel uncomfortable or be harassed while out and about our city.”

“I understand that the Albany Police Department is down 79 officers, but within a budget of $65 million and a staffing target of 342 people, we need to dedicate more than only 11 officers to walking beats in the communities,” Cerutti said.

Cerutti also addressed the recent wave of shootings by young people. “We need to address the root causes of gun violence, and help our youth find more hope and more constructive ways of dealing with issues. Let’s bring back after-school engagement and ramp-up gang prevention programs. What is being done today is not working.”

Dan For Albany Petitioning Underway

Candidates seeking to qualify for the June 24 democratic primary ballot are collecting petition signatures starting Tuesday, February 25.

“Every day I hear from Albanians frustrated with current elected officials and demanding change,” Cerutti said. “This week the campaign is entering a new phase. The primary is in 119 days. Our supporters are anxious to get me on the ballot.”

In addition to meet & greet and door-to-door efforts, the campaign, is holding a special event during which petitions can be signed on Wednesday, February 26 at the Ancient Order of Hibernian Hall at 375 Ontario Street in Albany from 4 to 7 pm.

“I love this city – and I believe I can bring a new perspective and leadership approach to City Hall,” Cerutti said. “I am grateful for their encouragement. I know together we can do better.”

A campaign website www.DanForAlbany.com; and Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/DanForAlbany are available for people to access statements, interviews and video messages.

Dan Cerutti grew up in the Pine Hills and graduated from Christian Brothers Academy. After earning degrees from Harvard College and Syracuse University he embarked on a career with IBM and other business innovators. He has held several general management positions in large businesses and has been the chief executive of five smaller businesses.

He is a proud democrat running for mayor.

Contact: News@DanForAlbany.com