Editor’s Note: In the print edition of this story, it actually jumps to Page 24 versus Page 9 as stated. Sorry for any confusion.

During a press conference Tuesday afternoon at his Saratoga Springs home, Anthony “Skip” Scirocco stated he was standing in the same place when he declared his candidacy for Commissioner of Public Works 180 days earlier. 

While the Republican challenger’s math was off by a few days, it was evident from his speech that if elected, his approach to the position will be a 180 degree turn from how Democratic incumbent Thomas McTygue currently runs things.

The main purpose of Scirocco’s meeting with the press was to officially announce Pat Design as his Deputy Commissioner of Public Works. The candidate spoke of Design’s dedication and achievements, and called him “everything I could ever want in a deputy.”

“We both are excited to bring a new spirit to the DPW and a renewed pride to the city of Saratoga Springs,” Scirocco said.

McTygue chose his deputy commissioner back in June. He believes James Brophy, who has more than 25 years of experience under his belt, knows the department inside and out.

While Scirocco and McTygue agree on some matters, they couldn’t be further apart on others.

Both men are confident about their chances in the upcoming election.

Both Scirocco and McTygue believe a new public safety facility is necessary, and that a location and cost need to be agreed upon. McTygue said the facility should be incorporated as an addition on City Hall. He doesn’t believe there is a need to construct new courts.

“There are wants and there are needs. We need to focus on the latter,” McTygue said.

Since real estate is market driven, both candidates admit that affordable housing is a difficult situation. Scirocco said keeping taxes under control is the first step to making the city a more affordable place to live for new and longtime residents. McTygue suggested providing more affordable rental units.

As for where the city should get its water from, the verdict is split. McTygue said Saratoga Lake is the answer, but Scirocco believes the city has plenty of water right now and doesn’t need a new source.

If elected, Scirocco hopes to build public trust and provide the citizens of Saratoga Springs with a positive change in how DPW business is conducted. He also hopes to bring more teamwork, openness and professionalism to the City Council.

Scirocco commented on how there is currently too much fighting going on amongst the members of the City Council. He said that if somebody has a good idea he will support it, no matter which party the individual is from.

Of his opponent, Scirocco said McTygue has a difficult time working with people and is very set in his ways. He believes it will be a tight race, but that in the end people are looking for a change, for someone they can work with.

“I am prepared to rebuild the broken bridges between the DPW and the other departments within City Hall. I will bring civility back to the City Council by working with my fellow council members to carry out the work of the city,” he said. “This is a big department, but I’m up to the challenge. I know I can do this job.”

McTygue said Scirocco is a nice guy, but the wrong man for the job. The longtime commissioner said the DPW is very busy, and that his opponent is in for a rude awakening if he thinks the office just runs itself.

McTygue said his experience and knowledge of the city make him the best candidate. He believes his record and accomplishments speak for themselves. McTygue has been elected 15 times and served the community for more than 30 years.

Whether or not he is re-elected McTygue said this will be his last term. He is tired of nasty campaigns.

“I’m not a party person. I represent the whole city. I believe I’ve taken good care of Saratoga Springs,” McTygue said. “The best endorsement is the residents of the city. That’s the one I want.”