City Council

As the city of Watertown continues to change, develop and chart its course, leadership and vision are needed on the City Council as well as fiscal prudence.

Three candidates are competing for two seats on the city's legislative body — Councilman Jeffrey M. Smith, the sole incumbent running; former Councilman Stephen J. Bradley, who served a term from 2003 to 2007; and Teresa R. Macaluso, who is running for the first time.

The City Council has worked cooperatively in recent years to address the day-to-day issues that arise as well as the long-term challenges. There have been improvements such as the Public Square renovation that have enhanced the city's appearance. Several businesses have been added on the city's west side and just outside the city.

Watertown is poised for growth. As Fort Drum continues to expand, and as soldiers return from deployments, there will arise new challenges and opportunities for Watertown. We must be ready to accommodate military personnel and their families, and other new arrivals.

Attracting new businesses, improving the quality of life in the city and setting the stage for economic development will be a continuing quest — in which council members play an important role. At the same time, budget restrictions occasioned by dwindling state aid will call for careful fiscal management.

Jeff Smith is a veteran councilman who works well with his colleagues on the council and city officials. He knows the issues and is forward-looking in his approach.

Teresa Macaluso, a city native and business owner, would bring a new voice to the council. She advocates fiscal responsibility, particularly during these lean economic times, and has said the city needs to "spend smarter."

Stephen Bradley's handling of the VanWaldick case, in which he acted unilaterally in seeking a state investigation of the city Police Department's handling of officer Michael K. VanWaldick, should disqualify him from consideration for the council. His action as a council member ended a police investigation of the case as well as a judicial probe that the council had agreed upon.

City voters get two votes for the council. The Times recommends Jeffrey M. Smith and Teresa R. Macaluso.