Third Ward Alderman and Little Falls Common Council President Mark Ruffing was asked to respond to Evening Times questions about issues before the Common Council.
Ruffing began his fifth term in office in January. He has won five contested elections, and holds an upper leadership position at the House of the Good Shepherd, where he has worked for 25 years. A graduate of Utica College, Ruffing was raised in Utica and moved to Little Falls more than 20 years ago. He has been married to his wife, Judy, for 17 years and they live at 603 Garden St.
Q: A resolution was recently passed calling for the Common Council and Finance Committee to begin discussions on raising the annual salary paid to the alderpersons and mayor, could you share your reasons on why you think the raises should be explored?
A: The mayor and alderpersons have not received an increase since the Eisenhower administration. That is 50 years ago. We receive no benefits and most of us are committee heads that require numerous hours. As I said before nobody does it for the money, but we would like to be compensated for the time we put in. Currently we are the lowest paid elected officials in the county. Last election six out of eight seats was not contested. This does not make for good government. All we are asking for is to be paid what others in similar jobs are compensated for.
Q: The city budget process is beginning, what factors will have an impact on the 2011 budget?
A: Factors on developing a city budget are numerous. The finance committee puts a lot of effort into developing a budget that everyone can live with. The current out look of New York state will have a trickle down effect on Little Falls and other small cities. Health costs and benefits continue to climb making the city having to struggle to meet these obligations. The council will do every thing they can to control spending.
Q: The city-run solid waste and recycling program is a month old now, are you satisfied with the program thus far?
A: I have not received any complaints on the garbage pick up. To me it seems to be working well. We will see if this will save the taxpayers money.
Q: C.A.R.E. recently presented a plan for downtown revitalization, can you share your thoughts on the plan and what you feel can be done to bolster the city's Main Street commercial district?
A: C.A.R.E. presented a plan for downtown revitalization to the mayor and Common Council. It was well received. They had many good ideas and had a blueprint to help our downtown. What the area needs to keep downtown is jobs. Jobs translate into people that can spend money in our city. More people spending money, more stores can open or expand.
Little Falls, N.Y. —
