New Year, New Administration

The Copper City welcome in the first third party mayor in history.  And for Renaissance City a familiar face with fresh ideas takes the reigns. City Hall's in Rome and Utica may be closed for today but each was occupied by new leaders. Newly- elected mayors Rob Palmieri and Joe Fusco wasted no time in getting to business. Mayor Rob Palmieri note's what's in store for the City of Utica. "Change, there's no question that there's going to be change, there has to be change. As far as the budget goes, as far as communication goes, as far as the quality of life. If people are going to invest in this city they have to feel that it's clean, safe area and then they're willing to invest." Both Palmieri and Fusco take their new jobs during trying time for not only their municipalities but the country as well. "This is the most difficult economic times that this country, that this community has seen in quite some time and that's really where our focus has got to be, we need to bring back economic development." Fusco says his administration will work by the Marine corps code, saying they will improvise, overcome and adapt. Both newly elected mayors say they are very humbled by the position and Mayor Palmieri has a unique way to describe it."The title doesn't make the person, the person makes the title. And the question was asked, 'is it difficult when people call me Mayor?" I would say that's the most difficult thing at this point, I'm very humbled by that. But again I think the person's going to make the title and let time develop we'll see where that leads but I'm very honored to be classified and known as the Mayor of the City of Utica, New York."