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Ryan's Second Term Begins in Binghamton

Originally printed at http://www.wbng.com/news/local/80480682.html

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Binghamton, NY (WBNG Binghamton) After a heated campaign in the fall, and the recount of the closest election in county history, Binghamton Mayor Matt Ryan was sworn in for his second term today.

Action News reporter Reed Buterbaugh tells us the mayor's goal is to save taxpayers' money by making government more efficient.

And just like that, Matthew T. Ryan was sworn for his second go-round as mayor of Binghamton.

Despite a struggling national and local economy the mayor is confident the city can rebound by cutting costs and focusing on energy efficiency.
"We're uniquely positioned to take advantage of that and that's what government is going to be like for the next few years," (D) Ryan said. "We need to really create an affordable government, one that's efficient as possible."

He anticipates federal grant money for weatherizing homes, businesses and city buildings will lead to the recovery.

"That will not only save our taxpayers and our businesses money. The energy costs but it will also affect the carbon footprint of anything else you can do," Ryan said.

Ryan is optimistic Binghamton University's investment in the community will pay dividends.

As it looks to spur innovation for the new green economy.

"All the different promises of technology that really could transform not only our economy but also help our environment," Ryan said. "We need to be really vigilant about keeping those ideas here."

Ryan is pushing for further consolidation of services with neighboring municipalities to lessen the burden on property owners.

"We're going to start a real significant dialogue about how we could possibly share whether it be police, fire, public work different functions. We all have to be looking at ways to control costs," Ryan said.

In his speech Ryan emphasized that despite the recent struggles, he is sure the city's best days are still ahead.

After the swearing in ceremony, Mayor Matt Ryan presented a $500 check to the Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse.