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“We all are on this earth for a purpose. My purpose is to serve people with integrity. It means looking into the eyes of an individual and not imposing my expectations, but meeting them where they are and speaking life into the possibilities of who they can be.”

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My journey has prepared me for this moment. I am seeking your support to continue this journey as your next mayor.

<h2>My Journey</h2><h4>Choosing Syracuse</h4>Born and raised in Geneva, NY, I arrived in Syracuse in 1981 as an 18 year old freshman on the Syracuse University campus and discovered the first members of my extended family in Manley Field House with the newly formed women’s track and field team. During my time at SU, I gained a top tier education and broadened my horizons by traveling the country with the team. I also became a Big East Conference champion (that's me high jumping 😊), Orange Plus Hall of Fame inductee and achieved Olympic qualifying status in the women’s long jump event.&nbsp;<img src="https://run.imgix.net/51cc5861-f442-464c-9995-3a9a3811898d/7679a00e-fe36-43a7-b680-af378adf42dd/7679a00e-fe36-43a7-b680-af378adf42dd.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C680%2C1198&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="25" variant="framed">Sports has always been my "north star”, the internal compass that honed my competitive nature, self-discipline, and belief in the power of teamwork. Those accomplishments were a result of the commitment and hard work that equipped me with the qualities and skills needed to be a leader and mentor off the field. While many SU students miss the opportunity to meet the community, it was athletics that led to my "first date” with the Syracuse community.&nbsp;What I didn’t know was how that experience would introduce me to my new home and feed my passion for serving people.&nbsp; What I couldn't imagine was four decades later I would run for Mayor in what would become my adopted and beloved home.The strength of Syracuse is its people. Since coming to this town I have worked, laughed and cried with wonderful people. During great highs and humbling lows the grit and tenacity of the folk in this town resonate with who I am.&nbsp; The people of Syracuse are fighters and so am I. Dedication and commitment to family and community is what I see in Syracuse and its people.&nbsp; I’ve long recognized the potential of this city, and will continue to fiercely stand for and with Syracuse.&nbsp;<h4>Helping Families Prosper</h4>The Dunbar Center was seeking SU athletes to serve as interns during the summer months.&nbsp; I’m sure they were expecting a football, basketball or lacrosse player but they got a hard working track athlete instead. That experience changed my life and led to relationships with people in this community that exists to this day.&nbsp;<img src="https://run.imgix.net/51cc5861-f442-464c-9995-3a9a3811898d/39f772e2-b850-4c5a-907d-a75bf227bb50/f94c4f1a-a825-4972-ae04-a1cacf6b9e7c.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3586%2C2768&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">From the SU campus my journey continued in the nonprofit world with PEACE, Inc., Jubilee Homes, Home Headquarters and Syracuse Community Connections at the Southwest Community Center.&nbsp; Each of these agencies provided more opportunities to further learn from the people of this great city and fostered my enduring commitment to their wellbeing.While at SU I believed my academic focus was directing me to Wall Street, the center of worldwide financial influence. My summer internship at Dunbar challenged that perspective.&nbsp;&nbsp;Financial stability is a critical element for the wellbeing of families, neighborhoods and the larger community. What that internship&nbsp; revealed, and my experience in the nonprofit world reinforced, was a clear understanding of how economic policies and practices were bypassing large sections of our community.&nbsp;Poverty rates in Syracuse, especially among black and Latino children are a direct result of their financial status. While poverty is defined as a financial condition, I believe it operates and influences the lives of people like a virus attacking the physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing of those it infects.&nbsp; We are in an economic moment that presents an opportunity to administer an antidote to fight it. The injection must be strategic, intentional and steadily infused through workforce training, placement and small business development.At PEACE, Inc. I worked with women on the city’s lower east side where infant mortality rates were critically high in the 90’s, in order to facilitate greater access to health care. This is personal to me. My family lost our second of three children in 1993 when I went into premature labor.&nbsp; My experience doing this work gave me a greater understanding of the power of community engagement through kitchen table, door to door, person to person interactions for improving critical health care for moms and unborn children.&nbsp; While there, I also worked with the Head Start program to assist families, particularly those headed by women as they strived to raise healthy and whole families.&nbsp;<h4>The Power of Education</h4><img src="https://run.imgix.net/51cc5861-f442-464c-9995-3a9a3811898d/e9ce19e7-33a2-4192-ba41-94b6fc030a1b/e9ce19e7-33a2-4192-ba41-94b6fc030a1b.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1050%2C1050&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Education is the foundation for prosperous families and communities. Syracuse is an education rich community. My commitment to lifelong learning begins with early childhood development and extends to the eldest in our community expanding their education and skills. Again, my personal experience drives my commitment. As the mother of a differently able young man, I know first-hand how educational pathways must be diverse and opportunities extensive.&nbsp;Education in our community must take many different forms, starting with school attendance and graduation; that leads to multiple paths including skilled trades, college, and military or public service.&nbsp; As Mayor I will work collaboratively with the Syracuse City School District Superintendent and School Board to identify resources that promote effective learning environments for our children.This moment for Syracuse demands a laser focused approach on preparing our community's young and old for the skills required for present industries and the flexibility to adjust to future demands. Education is a pathway to our collective prosperity and will be a critical component of my mission.<h4>Coalition Builder for a Better Syracuse</h4>The ability to listen to&nbsp;and learn from people is critical for establishing and achieving&nbsp; common goals across socio-economic, neighborhood, cultural and ethnic boundaries.&nbsp;Coalition building doesn’t happen just for the sake of bringing people together. It empowers them to believe in the power of their impact on our community.While at Home Headquarters I witnessed the spark of belief in first generation homeownership. At Syracuse Community Connections, I worked with the team and community to lead the Southwest Community Center (SWCC) to the next level by providing a safe environment and wide variety of services.&nbsp; This involved listening and learning from the people about what was required to strengthen the confidence of the community, funders, and staff to ensure that impactful community conversations and action planning took place at SWCC.&nbsp;We can do nothing alone. Coalition building is a vital component of mayoral leadership. I have always been a coalition builder. Listening, understanding and collaborating is and would continue to be my leadership style as mayor to ensure successful outcomes that benefit Syracuse.&nbsp;<h4>Creating Thriving&nbsp; Neighborhoods for Families&nbsp;</h4><img src="https://run.imgix.net/51cc5861-f442-464c-9995-3a9a3811898d/b5882598-3b26-4a70-80ad-11f7062eb828/b5882598-3b26-4a70-80ad-11f7062eb828.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1600%2C1200&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Women and men I worked with at Head Start would walk into Home Headquarters ready to buy a home. As we reconnected, they shared their accomplishments: “I got my GED”; “I went back to school and got a degree”; “I have a good job”; “My baby is going to college!”&nbsp;During our work together, these individuals were making progress but their surroundings didn’t support their newly formed expectations of what they envisioned for themselves and their families.&nbsp; Where a person lays their head at night should not predetermine their opportunity for success.&nbsp; How a person lays their head at night surely affects their ability to prepare for success daily. For me, policy work in city government presented a new path to serve Syracuse and help people through housing and neighborhood development. This experience, shaped by the lived experience of the people of Syracuse, propelled my decision to accept my first offer to serve in City Hall during Mayor Stephanie Miner’s administration as Deputy Commissioner of Neighborhood and Business Development and MWBE Compliance officer. In these roles I was empowered to advance my desire to shape city wide policy and affect the way residents and stakeholders live, conduct business, work and play.&nbsp;As Deputy Mayor in the Ben Walsh administration, I’ve been afforded the opportunity to again create and implement policy to improve housing, business and neighborhoods. I continue to be committed to a housing trajectory that involves safety, health and affordability.<h4>Economic Prosperity and Inclusion</h4>People won't believe our local economy is growing until they feel it in their purse or pocket. City Hall has a direct impact on the local economy by enabling business growth and job creation. That impact must be inclusive of all of Syracuse's residents.I’ve always said downtown is the economic beating heart of Syracuse and we must keep her strong and thriving. While downtown is the heart, our neighborhood business corridors are the arteries carrying downtown’s growing prosperity into our neighborhoods. Empty buildings where business existed sends neighborhoods a message: “You’ve been abandoned”. These structures which once housed local business must be restored or repurposed so that abandoned commercial or retail spaces are ready for a local business to move in and turn on the lights.&nbsp;<img src="https://run.imgix.net/51cc5861-f442-464c-9995-3a9a3811898d/3c1235fa-b8fb-4f5d-b28e-39b5affe3d35/b8e2a23f-2cf8-48a8-a105-ec9b4de50855.webp?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4096%2C2304&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="37" variant="framed">Those businesses need access to technical assistance and capital.&nbsp; I am committed to continuing the work of the Resurgent Neighborhoods Initiative to invest in our neighborhood business corridors to foster small business opportunities and meet neighborhood amenity needs.<h4> </h4>

MY JOURNEY

<h2>Thank you your support through check donation!</h2><h3>Make your check payable to: Owens for Syracuse Mail check to: PO Box 6037 Syracuse, NY 13217</h3>Contributions to Owens for Syracuse are not deductible as charitable contributions for Federal income tax purposes (Section 6113 of IRC).&nbsp; Contributions are subject to New York State election law and are subject to limits and public disclosure.&nbsp;

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<h2>Your support by check donation, thank you!</h2><h3>Make your check payable to: Owens for Syracuse Mail check to: PO Box 6037 Syracuse, NY 13217</h3>Contributions to Owens for Syracuse are not deductible as charitable contributions for Federal income tax purposes (Section 6113 of IRC).&nbsp; Contributions are subject to New York State election law and are subject to limits and public disclosure.&nbsp;

<h2>Your support by check donation! Thank you!</h2><h3>Make your check payable to: Owens for Syracuse Mail check to: PO Box 6037 Syracuse, NY 13217</h3>Contributions to Owens for Syracuse are not deductible as charitable contributions for Federal income tax purposes (Section 6113 of IRC).&nbsp; Contributions are subject to New York State election law and are subject to limits and public disclosure.&nbsp;

<h4>As Deputy Mayor, each day I'm committed to giving power to perspectives that have historically been overlooked. Each day my time in City Hall is filled with conversations and actions that require bringing multiple stakeholders together to establish a common vision and path to achieve effective services for the people of Syracuse. It is the recipe for success I helped to build in the Walsh administration.</h4><h4>In various settings, I ask:</h4><h4>Why are we doing this?</h4><h4>How will it impact the lives of all people of Syracuse?</h4><h4>What should be addressed to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion?</h4><h4>Serving in the capacity of the Chief of Staff, I have oversight of departments providing direct constituent services (public safety, housing, business and neighborhood development) and various initiatives that include:&nbsp;</h4><ul><li>Addressing housing affordability, blight and lead poisoning&nbsp;</li><li>Led creation of High Occupancy Monitoring and Enforcement (HOME) unit, resulting in the identification of health and safety violations of the city’s largest residential dwellings.</li><li>Working with agencies and intergovernmental teams to initiate integrated services for an increasing homeless population. This initiative has aided in assisting homeless, mental and substance use afflicted persons in our community to move from the uncertainty of the street to care services.</li><li>During the COVID 19 pandemic, through intergovernmental relationships, coordinated efforts for food distribution, well checks, vaccination information sharing to disprove misinformation, and shared vaccination site and virus testing locations. Specifically worked to ensure outreach was conducted in low-income neighborhoods and high-risk communities.</li><li>Led city’s effort to coordinate its Police Reform and Revitalization efforts as required by NYS Executive Order 203.</li><li>Worked to establish Syracuse Build and Pathways to Apprenticeship initiative, created to ensure construction training for Syracuse residents, particularly low-income and persons of color. This nationally recognized program established a training collaboration with the Central-Northern New York Building &amp; Construction Trades Council to facilitate training and pre-apprenticeship opportunities in the construction unions. Pathways has completed 6 cohorts of trainees, graduating over 100 individuals.</li><li>Engaged in the development of the One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships (ON-RAMP). This New York State initiative will establish three workforce development centers in NYS, with a fourth to be built in Syracuse as the flagship New York State facility. The initiative’s vision matches my own: to create equitable opportunities for every citizen to enable their individual growth and capacity to financially support their family.</li><li>Oversight of city Department of Neighborhood and Business Development, responsible for development and implementation of City of Syracuse Housing Strategy, a comprehensive approach to address the findings of the Housing Study which identified two specific challenges: The affordability gap: the difference between what it costs to build or maintain housing and what households are able to pay and the market gap: the difference between the cost to build or repair housing and what the households are willing to pay. The Syracuse Housing Strategy has laid out a plan to address these challenges. You can learn more at: <a href="https://www.syracusehousingstudy.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://www.syracusehousingstudy.com/home</a></li><li>Established Mayor’s Office to Reduce Gun Violence to coordinate community violence initiative (CVI) services in response to reduce gun violence incidents. The initiative facilitate the provision of service to individuals identified as high-risk of gun violence engagement. They include: mediation, intervention, case management and referral services to ensure their success.</li><li>Established the City of Syracuse Police Athletic and Activities League (PAL) in 2020 to create opportunities for community and police engagement.</li><li>Serve on NYS-Micron Community Engagement Committee. To date, facilitated community engagement focus groups and aided in development of CEC priority document which will determine NYS and Micron funding priorities.</li><li>City representative in East Adams Neighborhood Transformation Plan, a generational redevelopment strategy of Syracuse Housing Authority residential units and neighborhood infrastructure. In this role, secured with SHA, a $50 million award from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development and $30 million from the US Department of Transportation in collaboration with NYSDOT.</li><li>Prioritizing and implementing contracting opportunities for MWBE, DBE and SDVOB firms&nbsp;</li><li>Services and support to the Syracuse business community</li><li>New methods for the building permit process</li><li>City coordination of the Summer Youth Employment program</li><li>Ensured the inclusion of local labor hiring requirements on the I-81 project in collaboration with the Urban Jobs Taskforce and NYSDOTMy candidacy presents the best option for the continuity of care of the Syracuse community. While there is much work still to be done, I have been an integral part of the decisions and services that have moved Syracuse into a position for growth.</li></ul>

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<h4>The people in our lives we call family are crucial to our well-being. I am blessed with family who support and stand beside me through the highs and lows of life. </h4>

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Join us for a can’t-miss celebration in support of Sharon Owens for Mayor!On March 29th from 12:30-4 PM, the Westcott Theater (524 Westcott St.) will come alive with music from UAD Show Group, DJ Joe Driscoll, and the Brownskin Band. Let’s come together, celebrate our community, and maximize the moment for Syracuse’s future.See you there! 🎶🔥<a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/owensreception3.29.25" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Get your tickets here!</a>

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Sharon Owens Fundraiser: Music &amp; Community

Join us for a can’t-miss celebration in support of Sharon Owens for Mayor!On March 29th from 12:30-4 PM, the Westcott Theater (524 Westcott St.) will come alive with music from UAD Show Group, DJ Joe Driscoll, and the Brownskin Band. Let’s come together, celebrate our community, and maximize the moment for Syracuse’s future.See you there! 🎶🔥

Join us at The Collegian for a night of community, conversation, and momentum in support of Sharon Owens for Mayor!✨ 5:15 - 6:00 PM – Private Reception with Sharon Owens (Trailblazer Ticket Levels)🥂 6:00 - 6:30 PM – Cocktails &amp; Appetizers🍽️ 6:30 - 8:00 PM – Dinner &amp; DessertEnjoy an inspiring evening with great company, lively music, and the excitement of coming together to support a leader who knows Syracuse and is ready to take it forward.

An Evening for Syracuse: Fundraiser for Sharon Owens

Join us at The Collegian for a night of community, conversation, and momentum in support of Sharon Owens for Mayor!Enjoy an inspiring evening with great company, lively music, and the excitement of of coming together to support a leader who knows Syracuse and is ready to take it forward.

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens inaugurated her campaign office in downtown Syracuse, setting up her headquarters in the historic University Building in Hanover Square, which was originally completed in 1897.

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Syracuse Deputy Mayor Opens Campaign Headquarters

Syracuse Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens has received a significant endorsement in her campaign to become the city's next mayor.

Sharon Owens Endorsed for Syracuse Mayor 

Sharon Owens has submitted nearly triple the number of signatures required to secure a spot on the Democratic primary ballot for Syracuse mayor.

Sharon Owens first to file petitions to get on Syracuse mayor’s race ballot

SYRACUSE, NY&nbsp;— Mayoral candidate Sharon Owens today released her “Thriving Neighborhoods” policy agenda, a bold and comprehensive vision to improve the quality of life across all Syracuse neighborhoods. The plan emphasizes investment in affordable housing, vacant property revitalization, and public infrastructure improvements, ensuring that every resident feels the impact of a stronger, more vibrant city. Owens was joined by State Senator of the 48th District Rachel May, who formally announced her endorsement of Sharon Owens for Syracuse Mayor.“Every neighborhood deserves investment by expanding affordable housing, tackling vacant properties, and improving parks and public infrastructure. Syracuse neighborhoods thrive when we understand the health of your neighborhood strengthens the vitality of mine,” said Owens. “This plan reflects a commitment to equitable growth, safe homes, and walkable, connected communities for all Syracusans.”Sen. May said, “I really admire Sharon’s positive, people-centered vision for a city built around thriving and healthy neighborhoods. Our whole region - the whole state, actually - is in a housing crisis, and Sharon will use every tool in the toolbox to help more people make a good home here in Syracuse. I’ve watched her dive into the details, whether it’s financing tools, design options, planning and zoning, street safety, code enforcement, eviction protections, accessibility, or park improvements. She asks good questions and truly listens to the answers. And she brings to every issue and every interaction a genuine passion for this city and its people. As we shift from being a city built for high-speed through traffic to one designed for human beings, I believe Sharon will bring the vision and experience to make Syracuse the kind of home we all want to live in, which is why I endorse her for Mayor.”The Thriving Neighborhoods plan is rooted in findings from the Syracuse Housing Study, which identifies two critical challenges facing the city: the affordability gap—the difference between housing costs and what households can pay—and the market gap—the cost of building or repairing homes relative to potential returns. Owens’s solutions aim to address both.Key Proposals Include:<ul><li>Building 1,000 New Housing Units:&nbsp;Utilizing every available City tool to create mixed-income and mixed-use housing by the end of Owens’s first term.</li><li>Strengthening Code Enforcement:&nbsp;Expanding the capacity of the Division of Code Enforcement to address substandard housing and hold landlords accountable.</li><li>Supporting the Syracuse Housing Strategy:&nbsp;Guiding neighborhood development with a data-informed, community-centered approach.</li><li>Combatting Lead Hazards: Working in collaboration with Onondaga County to eliminate interior lead toxins and continuing the lead pipe replacement program.</li><li>Prioritizing Vacant Properties:&nbsp;Identifying structures for immediate restoration or demolition to remove blight and reinvigorate communities.</li><li>Investing in Infrastructure: Committing to accessible, walkable, and bikeable streets and sidewalks citywide.</li><li>Revitalizing Parks and Green Spaces:&nbsp;Ensuring inclusive access to beautiful, functional green spaces for people of all ages and abilities.</li><li>Cracking Down on Illegal Activity:&nbsp;Pursuing legal actions against businesses engaged in unlawful or harmful practices.</li></ul>Owens’s “Thriving Neighborhoods” agenda promises a city where opportunity is not limited by ZIP code and where strong, resilient communities can flourish together.

“This plan reflects a commitment to equitable growth, safe homes, and walkable, connected communities for all Syracusans.”

Sharon Owens Unveils “Thriving Neighborhoods” Plan

Owens calls it her "Thriving Neighborhoods" policy agenda. She says the plan emphasizes investment in affordable housing, vacant property revitalization and public infrastructure improvements, to deal with what she calls the most critical needs for city residents.

Mayoral candidate shares housing vision

The endorsements come from the College Democrats at Syracuse University, the College Democrats of New York (CDNY), and the College Democrats of America (CDA) — a national organization representing young Democratic leaders across the United States.

Sharon Owens Accepts Endorsements

The 55th Mayor of Syracuse will walk into a transformational moment for our city.I-81 - The redevelopment of Interstate 81 and 690 will require someone with the ability to communicate the city's interests and collaborate with local, state and federal partners through the completion of this monumental construction project.I have participated in multiple community engagement activities through the draft and final environmental impact statement phases and collaborated with community stakeholder groups like, the Urban Jobs Taskforce, NYSDOT and FHWA staff to enact a historic local hiring provision within project contracts.Highway construction is a different kind of hard work! I’ve worked alongside community workforce partners, unions and educational institutions to initiate Syracuse Build and the Pathways to Apprenticeship program to provide an accessible workforce pipeline for Syracuse residents, especially women, people of color, and veterans. The program allows residents to gain access to pre-apprenticeship credentials and opportunities for careers in building trades and construction.The demolition of the I81 viaduct and its redevelopment into the Community Grid will fundamentally change the landscape of Syracuse and how we move around the City by righting the divisive national policies that decimated the former 15th ward neighborhood when it was destroyed to build the viaduct through the heart of the city.As Mayor I will:<ul><li>Ensure regular and effective communication with the NYSDOT local team through the completion of both project phases that includes all eight (8) contracts of the project.</li><li>Execution of Syracuse's $30 million portion of $180 million secured by NYSDOT in a joint I-81 Connecting Syracuse grant from the federal Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods program.</li><li>Increase the number of trained Syracusans equipped with the skills to work on the redevelopment of the highway and beyond.</li><li>Work with community stakeholders and the NYSDOT to develop reconnected infrastructure that creates safe and productive synergy between roads, bikes, sidewalks, green space and people.</li></ul>SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING ARTS MATH (STEAM) High School - STEAM will be our first regional high school. A partnership between the City of Syracuse, the Syracuse City School District, Onondaga County, and Onondaga, Cortland and Madison County BOCES, STEAM will provide an innovative academic experience to students from SCSD and OCM BOCES component school districts. STEAM is scheduled to welcome its first class of freshman in September, 2025.As mayor I will:<ul><li>work alongside SCSD to ensure the school and its campus remain a welcoming and safe environment for its students and faculty alike.</li></ul>MICRON - the name brings hope for the possibilities that come with new industry investment in our region. Vigilance and strategic action is required to ensure investment and opportunity enhance the possibilities for us all. The company has chosen downtown Syracuse as their office location, sending a significant message regarding Syracuse's place in this moment and how our city lives, works and plays.As Mayor I will:<ul><li>Facilitate housing development that meets the varying requirements of a growing workforce. I am committed to ensuring housing options that address varying needs of a very diverse community.</li><li>Collaborate with our educational institutions to prepare the next generation of tech manufacturing labor force.</li><li>A larger workforce requires varying options of how, where and when they relax, entertain and play after work. I’m committed to expanding the definition of a vibrant city by supporting and attracting amenities that meet diverse expectations.</li></ul>

I see the dynamic change and promise ahead of us, while being keenly aware of the challenges before us. I have equal urgency and hope for both.

Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs.

Big Things Ahead

SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Sharon Owens, candidate for Mayor of Syracuse, Syracuse University alum and Orange Hall of Famer, proudly announced today her acceptance of endorsements from three student organizations: College Democrats at Syracuse University, College Democrats of New York (CDNY)&nbsp; and the College Democrats of America (CDA). The endorsements highlight Owens’ commitment to engaging young voters and advancing policies that address the needs of Syracuse’s diverse communities.Owens said, “I am honored to have the support of the SU Democrats, CDNY and CDA. The energy, passion and dedication of young leaders play a critical role in shaping the future of our city. Their voices matter, and I am committed to ensuring they are heard in City Hall.”College Democrats at SU said, “The Democrats at Syracuse University are proud to endorse Sharon Owens, an alumni and an incredibly dedicated public servant for our city, for Mayor of Syracuse city. As deputy mayor, she has proven to be a capable fighter for the needs of Syracuse Residents and students. We are honored to have the ability to endorse her historic candidacy and look forward to working to elect her as the next mayor of Syracuse.”Alexander Fisher, president of CDNY said, “Sharon Owens has the vision and experience to lead the city of Syracuse forward. Her policies align with the growing, evolving middle class and will serve to strengthen the city’s economy, keep Syracuse neighborhoods safe, and deliver safe and affordable city services. We’re enthusiastically supporting Sharon Owens for Mayor and look forward to working alongside her this election season to deliver a better Syracuse.”&nbsp;&nbsp; Owens has built her campaign on a platform of economic development, public safety, affordable housing, and equitable opportunities for all. She has a long history of leadership and public service in Syracuse, and her campaign has prioritized youth engagement, community-driven solutions, and transparent governance.For more information about Owens for Syracuse, please visit <a href="http://owensforsyracuse.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">owensforsyracuse.com</a>.&nbsp;About College Democrats at Syracuse University The Democrats at Syracuse University aim to be a political advocacy group that gives students an outlet to express their voices. Through professional and social outlets, our purpose is to create a space where students have the opportunity to discuss current events, network, work on campaigns, give back to the community on and off campus, and overall become educated and informed. Membership is open to all undergraduate Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF students.About College Democrats of NY CDNY is the official College Caucus of the New York State Young Democrats (NYSYD) and the campus arm of the New York State Democratic Party.About College Democrats of AmericaCDA is the official collegiate arm of the Democratic National Convention.

“I am honored to have the support of the SU Democrats, CDNY and CDA. The energy, passion and dedication of young leaders play a critical role in shaping the future of our city. Their voices matter, and I am committed to ensuring they are heard in City Hall.”

Syracuse University Student Democrat Organizations, Nationwide Student Organization Endorsement

This move solidifies her candidacy for the upcoming primary election in June.

Owens Secures Spot on Syracuse Mayoral Ballot

The Onondaga County Board of Elections confirms her campaign gathered more than 2,700 signatures.

The Onondaga County Board of Elections confirms campaign gathered more than 2,700 signatures.

Only one candidate for Syracuse mayor submits primary petitions to Board of Elections

Democratic Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens formally announced her run Monday, according to her campaign. This comes about a month after Owens first announced she was setting up an exploratory committee.

IDemocratic Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens formally announced her run Monday, according to her campaign. This comes about a month after Owens first announced she was setting up an exploratory committee.

Sharon Owens announces mayoral campaign

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens on Monday made improving Syracuse’s housing stock the No. 1 pillar of her campaign to succeed Ben Walsh as mayor.Standing in front of six new homes under construction on South State Street, Ownes unveiled her “Thriving Neighborhoods” policy agenda.

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens on Monday made improving Syracuse’s housing stock the No. 1 pillar of her campaign to succeed Ben Walsh as mayor.

First pillar of Syracuse mayoral campaign

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens inaugurated her campaign office in downtown Syracuse today, setting up her headquarters in the historic University Building in Hanover Square, which was originally completed in 1897.

Syracuse deputy mayor opens campaign office

SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Sharon Owens, democratic candidate for mayor of Syracuse, has become the first candidate to submit nominating petitions, filing an impressive 2,800 signatures—nearly three times the required 1,000. With the deadline still days away, Owens’ early submission underscores the strong and widespread support for her campaign. "This overwhelming response is a testament to the energy and enthusiasm of our campaign and the people of Syracuse who believe in our vision for the future,” said Owens. “I’m incredibly grateful to our volunteers, supporters and community members who helped us reach this milestone so quickly.”By turning in petitions ahead of schedule and with a surplus of signatures, Owens’ campaign demonstrates robust grassroots momentum and organizational strength. The campaign’s success in gathering such a significant number of signatures highlights her deep connections within the community and the eagerness of Syracuse residents to be part of her vision for progress. “We are running a campaign that is people-powered and focused on building a stronger, more inclusive Syracuse,” Owens added. “This is just the beginning, and we are ready to continue engaging with voters in every neighborhood to ensure their voices are heard.”The deadline for petition submissions is Thursday, April 3.For more information about Owens for Syracuse, please visit <a href="http://owensforsyracuse.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">owensforsyracuse.com</a>.

Sharon Owens, democratic candidate for mayor of Syracuse, has become the first candidate to submit nominating petitions, filing an impressive 2,800 signatures

Owens for Syracuse Turns in Over 2,800 Signatures to Onondaga County Board of Elections

Owens’ large cash advantage was built on both large and small donors. She reported receiving 202 personal donations between Sept. 11 and Jan. 11,

Owens leads fundraising in Syracuse mayor’s race.

The Owens for Syracuse campaign today opened its campaign headquarters at 120 E. Washington St. The official opening of the office coincided with its petition kickoff event, as the effort begins to engage the community and gather critical support. The Owens for Syracuse petition kickoff had more than 60+ volunteers in attendance.&nbsp;“I am thrilled to open the doors of our campaign headquarters,” said Sharon Owens. “This campaign is about the people of Syracuse, and I invite everyone to join us as we embark on this journey together. We need your voices, your ideas, and your support to make Syracuse a better place for all.”The petitioning kickoff event featured remarks from candidate Sharon Owens, an opportunity for interested volunteers to learn about petitioning, and allowed supporters to use their signature for Sharon, pledging support for her initiatives and candidacy to become the 55th mayor of Syracuse.For more information about Owens for Syracuse, please visit <a href="http://owensforsyracuse.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">owensforsyracuse.com</a>.&nbsp;

The Owens for Syracuse campaign opened its campaign headquarters at 120 E. Washington St.

Owens for Syracuse Opens Campaign Headquarters 

College Democrats at Syracuse University, College Democrats of New York (CDNY), and College Democrats of America (CDA) have officially endorsed Sharon Owens in her campaign for Mayor of Syracuse. This endorsement highlights the growing momentum behind Owens’ grassroots campaign and its commitment to empowering young people and advancing bold, progressive change at the local level.

Endorse Sharon Owens for Mayor of Syracuse

The Owens for Syracuse campaign has officially opened its campaign headquarters at 120 E. Washington St., marking a significant milestone in Sharon Owens’ bid to become the 55th mayor of Syracuse. The grand opening coincided with the campaign’s petition kickoff event, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of over 60 volunteers.

Owens for Syracuse Opens Campaign Headquarters-2

Maximize the Moment Campaign Kickoff

Campaign Launch

Each neighborhood is uniquely special, and therefore, requires strategies tailored to facilitate growth and address issues.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Syracuse Housing Study highlighted two distinct challenges to address:The affordability gap: the difference between what it costs to build or maintain housing and what households are able to pay. The market gap: the difference between the cost to build or repair housing and what the households are willing to pay. The Syracuse Housing Strategy has laid out a plan to address these challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;Learn more at: <a href="https://www.syracusehousingstudy.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">https://www.syracusehousingstudy.com/home</a>As Mayor I will:<ul><li>Support and implement the City of Syracuse Housing Strategy, our city’s roadmap for future housing and neighborhood development.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Promote and preserve high-quality, affordable units in areas of opportunity through continued implementation of policies that encourage mixed-income, mixed-use development, and incentivize scattered-site redevelopment.</li><li>Identify new housing development options, such as manufactured housing to aide development speed and reduce costs.</li><li>Increase the capacity of the Division of Code Enforcement to address substandard housing conditions, including lead and other environmental toxins in homes.</li><li>Prioritize the issue of vacant structures in neighborhoods by identifying immediate restoration strategies or demolition in order to remove blight and make room for future opportunities.</li><li>Use Syracuse’s smart growth and inclusive zoning law to ensure mixed income housing development and the availability of affordable housing throughout the city.</li><li>Root out and follow legal pathways to address businesses operating illegally or harboring illegal activity, negatively affecting the quality of life in neighborhoods. I will establish an ordinance enforcement detail consisting of police, fire, code enforcement and legal personnel dedicated to this service.</li><li>Commit to healthy and accessible roads and sidewalks to ensure a walkable and biking city for all.</li><li>Ensure the Departments of Public Works and Water have the tools and equipment needed to maintain our infrastructure.</li><li>Ensure the continued development of our beautiful parks as a healthy and peaceful gathering space for all people but especially teenagers and those with varying physical abilities.</li></ul>

A person's potential for success should never be based on where they live. I am committed to enhancing the quality of our lived experience in all neighborhoods. Syracuse neighborhoods thrive when we understand the health of your neighborhood strengthens the vitality of mine.

Thriving Neighborhoods

Sharon Owens, deputy mayor of the city of Syracuse, launched her mayoral campaign Monday. She is the first to announce an official candidacy in the 2025 Syracuse mayoral elections.

We often group anyone under 40 as "young people," but children, teens, and young adults represent distinct life stages with unique needs. Each group requires tailored approaches that address their developmental stages, social dynamics, economic circumstances, and family situations. In a city facing one of the highest rates of concentrated poverty among black and Latino children nationwide, we must invest in programs, initiatives, and spaces that nurture their minds and guide them towards positive activities.Children: The youngest members of our community are our most vulnerable, they depend entirely on us…..the adults. Essential components for a healthy start in life include:<ul><li>Prenatal care</li><li>Early education and intervention services</li><li>Full attendance and engagement in school-age academics</li><li>Lead and toxin-free living environments</li><li>Various support services for families</li><li>Safety</li></ul>The Syracuse City School District oversee education of our children, while Onondaga County, public health and child and family services. The City of Syracuse must continue to be an active partner in solution-driven efforts that include supporting the needs of the adults in children's lives.Teenagers: The complexity of teenage years is challenging enough. Add to this, struggles with mental health, anxiety, safety concerns, understanding social norms, and adult responsibilities that many teens face prematurely. Despite their adult-like physical appearance, their brains are still cognitively and emotionally developing. Actions once deemed youthful experimentation may now lead to tragic results. Specific strategies are required to address the challenges they face on a daily basis.Young Adults: Ask a high school graduate or college student their greatest desire, and many will say, "getting out of my parents' house!" As my 30+ year old daughter says: "adulting is overrated!" The reality of managing continued education, entry into the workforce, and for some, parenting, makes "adulting" challenging. Their needs require specific strategies, particularly as they choose whether to stay in or leave Syracuse. Unlike their parents or grandparents, their options for "adulting" look different. Their pursuit of a career requires work-life balance. If they decide to explore the world, we want them to eventually return home.As Mayor I will:<ul><li>Identify partners to add recreational opportunities for families, children, and teenagers to simply have fun.</li><li>Fund the Summer Youth Employment Program, providing summer internships and after-school work opportunities.</li><li>Fund city-owned community centers serving youth during summer and after-school hours.</li><li>Fund the Syracuse Police Athletic/Activities League (PAL) to foster program growth.</li><li>Focus on park design and programming for teenagers and differently abled residents.</li><li>Advocate for and defend our SCSD kids and build upon partnerships with SCSD's successful Career &amp; Technical Education (CTE) programs and existing workforce development initiatives to provide our youth with the skills necessary for future jobs.</li><li>Commission a task force of 20 and 30+ year-old residents to identify their work-life balance desires, including but not limited to:<ul><li>Business development</li><li>Cultural centers</li><li>Safe entertainment options</li><li>Arts and music industry growth</li></ul></li></ul>By tailoring our approach to meet the distinct needs of children, teens, and young adults, we will create pathways in our city where the next generation chooses to put down roots.

We often group anyone under 40 as "young people", but children, teens, and young adults represent distinct life stages with unique needs. They require tailored approaches that address their stages of development, social dynamics, economic circumstances and family situations.

Young People

The New York Working Families Party (NYWFP) announced the endorsement of Sharon Owens for Syracuse Mayor and 23 endorsements for local elections in Syracuse.&nbsp;

NYWFP Endorsement for Syracuse Mayor

“The stars are aligning in our community”

Maximize the Moment Campaign

The New York Working Families Party endorsed Sharon Owens for Syracuse Mayor.

Owens receives endorsement Working Families Party

A couple of days after losing the support of the Syracuse Democratic Committee, mayoral candidate Sharon Owens has picked up the backing of a minor party that could guarantee her a spot on the general election ballot.

Working Families Party backs Sharon Owens

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens become 1st candidate to set up committee for mayoral bid

Official Campaign Filing

Syracuse Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens is the first mayoral candidate to submit her petition.The Democrat's petition had 2,800 signatures. The required number of signatures is 1,000.

Democrat Sharon Owens is first to submit petitions

A Strong Economy + Accessible Jobs = Collective Prosperity.City Hall has a direct impact on the local economy by enabling business growth and job creation. That impact must be inclusive of all of Syracuse's residents.Poverty is a category defined by the financial status of a household. Increase that financial status and we reduce the number of people living at or below the poverty level. Workforce training AND job placement is the pathway to success. I have been closely involved in these efforts and repeatedly declared: “No more people with file folders filled with training certificates and no job!” I also firmly believe that people should not simply enroll in training programs at their own expense, but should be paid while receiving this necessary training. As Mayor, I will identify new collaborations that will expand this successful approach. Our collective workforce skill building efforts must result in a living wage job. I am steadfast in my commitment to raising the economic status of all individuals and their families in Syracuse.Right now in Syracuse, we are in a moment where companies and individuals both locally and globally are seeking to invest in our community, and the business opportunities here. Public-private partnership is critical to meaningful economic growth and must involve digital and physical infrastructure investment.As Central New York becomes a global leader for tech manufacturing and innovation, we must ensure growth is equitable and these benefits are experienced by the people who call our community home.As Mayor, I will:Increase household wealth by supporting individuals and families<ul><li>Continue and enhance training initiatives to assist workforce organizations and colleges align training programs to support high demand industries, while advocating for new solutions that provide financial support to individuals who enroll and graduate from these programs.</li><li>Expand high-speed internet access using programs such as Surge Link in order to ensure every Syracuse neighborhood can experience the benefits of this digital access and the opportunity that comes with being connected.</li><li>Work with community partners and employers to address barriers that are preventing individuals from entering the workforce, such as childcare, transportation access, etc. in order to expand access to new job opportunities.</li><li>Support SMTC, CENTRO and other state and federal partners to implement a Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) and enhance the frequency and scope of bus service so that all residents of Syracuse have access to work, education, shopping and leisure facilities.</li><li>Dedicate greater resources and assistance to entrepreneurs seeking to start and grow a business here in Syracuse, and work to ensure they have the support needed to secure City licenses and permit approvals.</li></ul>Position the City of Syracuse to capitalize on the growth and investment coming to our region<ul><li>Expand city services to spur economic growth that includes digital methods for permit submissions and options for building plan review that reduces process time.</li><li>Fully implement Syracuse’s progressive zoning laws to foster continued growth, continue to build affordable and market rate housing, and incorporate smart growth land use principles.</li><li>Enable the Syracuse Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) to increase technical and financial support for BIPOC, small and LGBTQ+ businesses to ensure inclusion of their vision for a vibrant Syracuse within our growing landscape.</li><li>Identify training and small business pathways specifically for our New Americans who now call Syracuse home, making us an international city. I recognize the education and skills they bring from their native home and see their place in our emerging economy.</li><li>Expand the Resurgent Neighborhoods Initiative to invest in our neighborhood business corridors to foster small business opportunities and meet neighborhood amenity needs.</li><li>Work with the Syracuse Industrial Development Agency (SIDA) to pursue innovative and equitable uses of tax incentives that encourage investment while ensuring they facilitate community benefit from private real estate investments.</li><li>Further advance the redevelopment of vacant land and underutilized property to bring new housing and investment into our neighborhoods. This includes using City-owned land to spur private investment, and continuing to provide financial support to the Greater Syracuse Land Bank as a critical partner in our land use redevelopment plans.</li></ul>

A Strong Economy + Accessible Jobs = Collective Prosperity People won’t believe our local economy is growing until they feel it in their purse or pocket.

An Inclusive and Growing Economy

As a political outsider, I always knew earning the party’s nomination would be challenging, but I am grateful to everyone who supported and voted for me during this process. Our campaign isn't about politics, but about my legacy of service to this community, our children and families, and the future of Syracuse.For over 40 years, I have worked side-by-side with Syracuse residents—helping families secure housing, advocating for essential resources, and ensuring our most vulnerable neighbors have a voice. I have never backed down from hard work, and I understand that addressing our city's challenges demands bold action paired with compassion.The campaign continues. I'll be working hard to secure a place on the election ballot. I look forward to the primary and to building a stronger Syracuse together.

"The campaign continues"

Sharon's Statement on OCDC Endorsement

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Sip & Support: A Fundraiser for Sharon Owens

Join us for an evening of great wine and good company in support of Sharon Owens for Mayor! Hosted by Bob Leonard and Joe Rossi, this special event at Nobody’s Wine Bar in Armory Square is the perfect chance to connect, raise a glass, and rally behind a leader who’s ready to make a difference for Syracuse.