TROY – A local businessman is looking to represent the city as a member of the Rensselaer County Legislature.

John Mainello announced Tuesday that he will seek a District 1 seat on the Republican ticket this fall and that he planned to put his decades of experience to work towards revitalizing the city and protecting quality of life.

Mainello filled the vacant ballot spot left by former city councilman Jack Mahoney, a Democrat who originally had planned to run on the Republican ticket but chose to drop out of the race Monday.

“I will use my experience as a businessman to continue revitalizing Troy, stabilizing taxes and encouraging smart, green development in our city. We have a great city and we can make it even better by working together,” said Mainello, who planned to focus on stable taxes, quality economic development, and affordable housing for seniors and veterans. “I love Troy and I always love it when I can help the people and the city. We need to create opportunity for Troy while protecting the special things that make our city great.”

Mainello was introduced to the business community by working with his father, Jerry, at the popular Mainello’s Tavern in Sycaway and later ran a livery service while a member of the Commercial and Industrial Real Estate Brokers, as well as the national and state Association of Realtors. He has since worked on the development of several commercial and residential projects in the county and is currently an associate with Heer Realty in the city.

“My dad taught me the value of hard work and service to the community. I have chosen to invest in Troy because I believe in the city and know we have a brighter future ahead of us,” said Mainello.

Legislative Chairman Neil Kelleher said he was excited to attract someone with Mainello’s experience to seek office in the Legislature.

“John Mainello has helped make Troy a better place and we are delighted to have someone of his experience and talent step forward and be ready to serve the people of Troy in the county Legislature,” said Kelleher. “I am confident John will be an outstanding legislator.”

TROY – Jack Mahoney, a former city councilman, dropped out of the race for county Legislature, Monday.
The Democrat was running as part of the six person ticket in District 1, which includes the City of Troy.
“I find you have to be a politician to be in politics and to get anything done you have to be a member of one of the major political parties, Democrat or Republican,” he said. “So, while I appreciate the support they offered me I’ve always wanted to be my own voice so the best thing for me to do is drop out of the race.”
Mahoney ran with the Democrats when he served on the council but was endorsed by the GOP to run for Legislature. It remains unclear who the GOP will get to take his place since petitions are already on the streets.