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Lead with Civility, Integrity, and Accessibility

When I ran for mayor, I promised to restore respect and order to City Hall — and I delivered. Council meetings are once again civil, productive, and welcoming to the public. We implemented clear rules for public comment, brought professionalism back to City Hall, and created an open-door culture that encourages transparency and trust.

 

I believe every citizen should feel comfortable walking into City Hall, getting straight answers, and being treated with dignity. As mayor, I will continue to be a calm, steady hand who leads by example. Good government starts with respect — and that respect will always be the foundation of my administration.

Deliver Real Affordable and Workforce Housing — Without Delay

We took meaningful action to address Saratoga’s housing crisis by supporting developments that prioritize affordability and the working families of Saratoga Springs. I worked closely with the Saratoga Springs Housing Authority, the Governor’s office, and our legislative partners to get projects off the ground — including a 98-unit workforce housing complex and a policy to set aside 40% of units for workforce residents.

 

These aren’t promises — they’re results. We need housing that works for nurses, teachers, firefighters, and service workers who are the backbone of our city. In my next term, I will continue to prioritize practical, results-driven housing solutions that ensure Saratoga remains livable for all. Growth must be balanced, sustainable, and fair.

Build a Stronger, Healthier, More Connected Community

I believe a mayor’s job goes beyond paperwork — it’s about showing up and building relationships. From planting trees with Tree Toga to expanding support for Shelters of Saratoga and the Senior Center, I’ve been proud to help strengthen the programs and places that hold our community together. I supported therapeutic horses, participated in early childhood development events, and helped fund vital nonprofits like the Center for the Family. We celebrated our schools, our farms, and our traditions — because a healthy city is more than roads and budgets.

 

As your mayor, I’ll keep investing in people, partnerships, and the quality-of-life services that make Saratoga Springs the most livable city in upstate New York.

Strengthen Public Services and Modernize City Operations

City government should be efficient, responsive, and forward-thinking. I took office and immediately implemented a long-delayed agenda system that had been shelved for three years, cutting down on confusion and bureaucratic backlog. I introduced new building department software, secured an electric vehicle through a grant, and signed a significant amount of approved contracts within one business day — because the people of Saratoga deserve action, not excuses. I’ve also cut administrative overhead while keeping services strong, so your tax dollars go further.

 

In the next two years, I will continue investing in technology, sustainability, and accountability across every department. We’ll modernize operations without losing the small-town service our residents count on.

Promote Economic Growth and Protect Saratoga’s Unique Identity

Saratoga Springs is a historic spa city with a world-class reputation — and I intend to keep it that way. I’ve built ties with 10 European spa cities, helped lead our hosting of the 2024 Belmont Stakes, and supported local businesses with efficient permitting and community events. At the same time, I’ve pushed for smart growth that respects our neighborhoods, our architectural heritage, and our environmental resources.

 

Economic development must never come at the cost of what makes Saratoga Springs special. In my next term, I will continue to promote tourism, innovation, and job creation — while protecting the charm and character that draw people here in the first place. Our future is bright, but only if we protect what’s made Saratoga strong.

Mayor Safford's 5-Point Plan

to keep Saratoga Springs moving forward with steady, proven leadership

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MAYOR

JOHN SAFFORD

A Steady Hand for Saratoga Springs

My name is Mayor John Safford, and I’m running for re-election to continue the work of restoring professionalism, expanding housing, and improving quality of life for every resident of our city.


I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together — and I’m asking for your vote to keep Saratoga moving forward.

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Experience.   Integrity.   Community Leadership.

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