SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon gave his State of the County address on Tuesday, February 26th at 5:30 p.m. at LeMoyne College. The event was open to the public and was McMahon’s first State of the County address since he stepped into the role four months ago.
During his address, McMahon discussed what he refers to as his “PIE” plan, which prioritizes fighting poverty, fixing infrastructure, and improving the economy. Onondaga county residents agree that these are the issues that deserve the most attention.
“I mean infrastructure probably. You know, when you hear about water main breaks pretty often, that’s kind of concerning,” said resident John Torrens, when asked which of the three issues is the most important. In addition to fixing aging water pipes, McMahon is proposing a radical change to the sewage system. His plan includes buying out all of the sewer pipes so they are under county control. McMahon says this is a cost effective and efficient way to make repairs to the damaged pipes.
Another one of McMahon’s big goals: get Syracuse University students and other members of the community to stay in Onondaga County. A resident of the city of Syracuse says that McMahon’s “PIE” plan will improve her quality of life and give her a reason to stay.
“You know I pay taxes. I have a home in the city. So, all of these things are going to help me not only navigate my city easier, but you know resale value on my home and just sustainability in the city. Sort of a reason to stick around,” Andrea Acey said.
In general, the conversations with residents seemed to stray from fighting poverty, and mainly focused on growing the economy and fixing the infrastructure.
