Dennis Merlino Announces Re-Election Campaign for Fulton City Council

FULTON – Fulton City Councilor Dennis Merlino today announced his campaign for re-election, pledging to continue the progress that is helping move the City toward renewed growth, responsible government, and long-term prosperity.

“I am running for re-election because I believe Fulton is turning the corner,” Merlino said. “For many years our community experienced economic decline and stagnation. Today, we are building a stronger future through responsible planning, neighborhood investment, recreation, economic development, and sound financial management. I want to continue the progress we’ve started.”

Merlino currently serves on the Fulton City Council, where he chairs the Parks and Recreation Committee and works with fellow Council members to develop responsible budgets, strengthen parks and recreation, and advance legislation that benefits residents while protecting taxpayers.

During his service on the Council, the City successfully secured a $10 million New York State Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) award, helping position Fulton for future investment and economic growth.

Beyond City Hall, Merlino has served in leadership positions with the Oswego Housing Development Council, Fulton Public Library Board of Trustees, Oswego County Opportunities, the Oswego County Planning Commission, and several City planning and advisory boards, contributing to housing, community development, strategic planning, and public policy throughout Fulton and Oswego County.

Merlino is also a longtime community volunteer, serving with the AARP Tax-Aide Program, the Oswego County Pioneers Search and Rescue Team, Fulton Sunrise Rotary (Past President), Friends of Fulton Parks, Fulton Block Builders, the Fulton Jazz Festival, and numerous other civic organizations.

“My philosophy has always been simple,” Merlino said. “If you want your community to improve, you don’t wait for someone else to do it—you get involved.”

Merlino said his campaign will focus on continuing the City’s positive momentum by strengthening neighborhoods, supporting responsible economic development, expanding parks and recreation, growing tourism, improving infrastructure, maintaining responsible budgets, and keeping City government transparent and accountable.

“We have tremendous opportunities ahead,” Merlino said. “I believe Fulton can become one of the premier small cities in Central New York by building on our strengths, investing in our neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, and planning for future generations.”

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this community. I respectfully ask for your support so that together we can continue building a Fulton that is stronger, more prosperous, and filled with opportunity.”