Two candidates vie for Port Jervis City Council Ward 3 seat

Port Jervis Ward 3 residents have two candidates running to represent them on the city council this year: Gerald Oney (Republican, Conservative) and Jackie L. Smith (Democratic, Port Jervis 1st). Ward 3 is the northeastern portion of the city, with the southwestern border being Orange St. to Canal St. to West St. and Beach Rd.

Both candidates were asked to answer the following questions regarding their candidacy and what they hope to accomplish upon being elected. While Oney declined to participate, Smith agreed. Her responses can be found below.

Gerald Oney

Why did you decide to run for this position?

What three key issues facing Port Jervis today do you hope to tackle?

How would you transform Port Jervis government?

What else would you like Port Jervis residents to know about you?

Jackie L. Smith

Why did you decide to run for this position?

I decided to run for a position on the Common Council because I wanted to get more involved in my community. I feel that I have good knowledge and insight to be an effective leader, and make responsible decisions for our residents. Since running, I have become a member of the Tourism Board and the Industrial Development Agency.

What three key issues facing Port Jervis today do you hope to tackle?

Three issues I would like to help resolve are: more services for our area, substance abuse, and crime. I would like to tap into resources to help our community that aren’t readily available to us on the western side of the County. I want to see more mental health services available to us. Absence of mental health services to treat people can lead people to substance abuse (by self-medicating), which can lead to crimes, such as theft. If we are able to have more access to these services, drug use and criminal activity would decrease, creating a safer community.

How would you transform Port Jervis government?

I don’t feel the government of Port Jervis needs to be transformed. I feel the constituents are well represented in the current model. I would actually like to see the constituents get more involved in the government by attending the meetings and speaking publicly when they have concerns or comments.

What else would you like Port Jervis residents to know about you?

I am a hard worker. I am always willing to listen and I enjoy learning and problem solving. I have lived in Port Jervis my entire life. I also work here, which means I am very invested in our community. I hope the Third Ward will support me in this election!