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Politics & Government

City Council Candidate Q&A: Caryl O'Keefe

Albany Patch has compiled background information on all candidates running for office in November, when four hopefuls will compete for two seats on the City Council.

Albany Patch has asked each candidate to fill out a questionnaire to give residents information about his or her background. See other elections coverage here.

What is the primary reason you are running for this office? To promote fiscal and environmental sustainability for Albany, as the city projects a $300,000 budget deficit next year. 

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected? Maintaining Albany's high quality police, fire and recreational services, and protecting Albany's infrastructure, parks and open space within the financially strapped budget.

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What sets you apart from the other candidates? I have professional experience as an economist with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which will be important with the difficult budget decisions facing the council in the coming years. Additionally, I have served on various city committees (Sustainability, Charter Review and Library Board), which gives me broad knowledge in areas of current and future concern to Albany residents. I have extensive volunteer service in Albany, which has given me the opportunity to interact with people from all parts of our community.

Where do you work and what is your job title? Retired supervisory economist, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Age and birthplace? 61; Columbus, OH

What is your spouse's or domestic partner's name, if any? Alan Riffer

What are the names and ages of your children, if any? David, 31; Alison, 29

Please list the schools and colleges you attended, the degrees you attained and when. Illinois College, BA in Economics, 1971

Have you ever held an elected or appointed public office? No

Have you run before for an elected public office? Albany City Council, 2006

Approximately how much money do you expect to spend on your campaign? $4,500

Have you ever served in the military? No

Have you ever been convicted or charged with a crime other than a minor traffic violation? No. I was an innocent defendant in a "SLAPP," civil political nuisance suit, relating to the 2006 Albany election in which the judge ordered the plaintiffs to pay the defendants' fees.

Have you or a business you owned or had principal interest in ever filed bankruptcy? No

How long have you lived in Albany? 26 years

What's your favorite thing about Albany? The people: smart, interesting, dedicated to education.

What is the biggest problem in Albany? Lack of money to fund needed services in Albany.

Campaign contact information: http://carylokeefe4council.com

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