Third Democrat plans run for Town Board
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Manna

"Amherst can do better," town resident Mark Manna said about his decision to run for Amherst Town Board as a Democrat.

Involved with several development proposals, Manna said he wants to use his experience to serve the public.

"I have done a lot of work with Amherst residents in their fight for smart development. I think we can have both leaner and more efficient government and leaner and more efficient development," he said.

Manna is employed by United Food & Commercial Workers Local 1. He is also on the board of directors for the Coalition for Economic Justice, a non-profit group that works with community, religious, labor and school groups on issues that affect the community.

"I have a lot of experience talking in front of groups, both friendly and hostile," he said, adding the key is to reach an agreement on the important issues.

Through his work in the private sector, Manna has worked on contract negotiations, experience that he plans to bring to the Town Board.

The Amherst Democratic Committee was scheduled to meet Tuesday to announce its endorsements for the Town Board. To date only Democrat Jerry Schad, has announced his candidacy.

Dennis Ward, chairman of the town Democratic Committee, said, prior to the meeting, he expected the three nominees, Manna, Schad and Robert Foladare to be endorsed. At press time they were the only three names presented to the committee.

According to Ward, Foladare has been involved in youth and community programs, including Parkview Basketball League.

Manna said he will also be seeking other party endorsements throughout the campaign.

"Tax fairness and community involvement cut across all party lines," he said.

The race for Amherst Town Board includes incumbent Bill Kindel, Guy Marlette, Dr. Barry Weinstein, and Schad. Three seats will be on the November ballot.

Council Members Michael McGuire and William A. O'Loughlin Jr. are not seeking re-election.

e-mail: jfinch@beenews.com