I recently had occasion to read an opinion piece by Austin Randazzo and I could not agree more; it was from an ass’ mouth. Mr. Randazzo advocated the involvement of the Rensselaer student body in influencing city elections. On that point I agree with him. Beyond that, I truly wonder what, if anything, Mr. Randazzo knows about me, or my views of Troy and the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

In 2003, when the topic of RPI students registering to vote in Troy became an issue, I was the only candidate in favor of students voting in local elections. In fact, I have been the only member of the City Council consistently on the side of Rensselaer students.

For example, I have advocated long and hard for a proactive strategy to deal with absentee landlords, many of who rent substandard apartments to students, without care for their safety. Isn’t it time someone other than your parents cared about where you live?

I have been the only council member concerned with the ongoing cable TV franchise negotiations with Time Warner and the importance of developing a citywide state-of-the-art fiber optic telecommunications infrastructure in Troy. We must develop a job market for the Rensselaer student here in Troy. Tech Valley can happen here. If more Rensselaer students were to make the decision to stay in Troy after graduation, this city would be a far better place.

Finally, Mr. Randazzo, I have never once had a conversation or exchanged any correspondence with you, so how could you possibly know what I stand for or how I feel about Rensselaer Polytechnic? Regrettably, despite your great education, you have not learned very much, have you? Next time, try giving me a call before you criticize me.

Bill Dunne