Kathleen Harrington is the leader we need, right now
As a small business owner in downtown Rochester, I’ve always known how important it is to get involved in local elections. For the first time ever, I am very worried about the future vitality of our community. During the past 25 years in business downtown, I have never experienced a level of economic disruption like we have seen in the past eight months. My business and my employees have felt the sad results of this pandemic even more than after 9/11 and the great recession of 2008-2009.
I’m convinced that the outcome of the upcoming election will have a lasting impact on the small businesses that are the foundation of our wonderful city. Times of great disruption require genuine leadership. This is why I strongly support Kathleen Harrington for City Council President.
With Kathleen’s help through the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, I was able to save my business. From the beginning of this pandemic, she invited any business that needed help to join zoom meetings that the Chamber offered. She arranged professional legal aid at no-cost to businesses and found many people in this community with the expertise needed to help small business. Kathleen circled back each week to make sure we knew what was being offered to us by the state and federal governments. Kathleen worked tirelessly to support small businesses and the jobs we provide. Most importantly, she helped us believe that we were not alone. She gave us a feeling of being part of a business community that cares and helps each other. Without her leadership, I do not think this would have happened.
Kathleen Harrington not only cares, she listens, she understands our needs, and advocates to preserve and protect the jobs small business provides. I am convinced she will do the same for the City. She will lead in a way that will promote a strong economic recovery for everyone, not just a few.
Rochester is in a very fragile state right now: many more businesses will go under unless the City works quickly to eliminate barriers and reduce the cost of doing business and creating jobs. Kathleen Harrington is strong. She has the experience, skills, and heart, to ensure all of us are heard and valued.
Please support Rochester by supporting Kathleen Harrington for City Council President. She understands the challenges, and will do the tough, important work that our small businesses need to survive and thrive. Best of all, she will not need to learn on the job. She’ll roll up her sleeves on day one and start making things happen.
Kathleen Harrington is the leader we need, right now.
Carol Bitton, Rochester
