“Alejandro Santana is an immigrant success story. He has been an Ithacan for 25 years. He has raised his four children and established his small construction business here. Alejandro knows the First Ward and understands the Ward’s cultural diversity because he is part of it. He understands the housing affordability challenges that working people face in Ithaca because he has experienced them firsthand. Alejandro’s goal on the Council is to serve his constituents. He will listen to them. He will represent them.”
GEORGE MCGONIGAL and CYNTHIA BROCK
Former Ward 1 Alderpersons
Alejandro Santana
“There were tough times growing up in the Dominican Republic when we didn’t have money for food, clothes, and shoes. At times I had to use wire to keep my all-occasion shoes on. I struggled in poverty, but knew that with hard work, I could learn English and that it would open doors. It did. I was fortunate to meet, who are now lifelong friends, but then strangers, from Tompkins County, who were able to bring me to the US where I was able to build a life. America has been good to me, blessing me with citizenship, a business, and four beautiful children. It’s come at a cost, but one that I’ve paid and been able to keep the life I’ve built and make it better. I want that for everyone in the 1st ward. I want them to achieve their dreams, have new dreams, and have their families and friends protected and have the ability to live safely and enjoy all Ithaca has to offer.
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