I am running for Cayuga County Legislature District 7, covering Scipio, Ledyard and Springport. I am 59 years old, have been married for 34 years and have two sons, ages 29 and 25.

My family came to Cayuga County in 1988 and we have a deep love and respect for this community and the exceptional quality of life we have here.

As a paramedic, I have worked tirelessly days, nights, weekends and holidays to answer the call for help. I am a member of numerous community organizations and volunteer my services to help those in need and to better my community.

We are currently faced with extremely high county taxes, the virtual absence of meaningful economic development, the loss of huge amounts of state funding for mental health due to the lack of action and foresight by the current administration, a looming scandal involving federal prosecution for violations of the Clean Air Act, approximately 30 lawsuits related thereto along with enormous legal fees and potentially devastating financial consequences.

We also face the growing threat of losing tax base to Indian land claims and “land into trust” strategies. In the midst of this, our county wants to spend $75 million on capital projects! You might say we're in quite a mess.

When I was asked to run for office, I heard a loud and desperate call for help. I want to respond to that call as I have many others.

I am confident that my lifetime of community service and business experience will bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to our many very serious problems. I pledge to work only for the people, not special interests.

Lon A. Fricano

Cayuga