Mayor John S. Tonello

City Hall Third Floor
317 East Church Street
Elmira, New York 14901
(607) 737-5644
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When it came time to buy my first home, I chose Elmira over dozens of other Northeast cities because of all this great city has to offer. In particular, I was drawn by Elmira’s ready access to the Finger Lakes, affordable homes, great arts and recreational opportunities, good schools, an excellent healthcare community, and an abundance of nearby shopping and dining options.

I’m honored and proud to serve as mayor, and I’m committed to helping Elmira thrive by building on its great history and nurturing efforts that help it grow. I want to ensure this city remains a great place to live, work, and play by making Elmira a model for community partnerships that bring together citizens, business leaders, and government to keep the city safe, business-friendly and financially sound.

I was born in Western New York, and came to this area in 1980. I graduated from Corning-Painted Post West High School in 1984 and earned an associate’s degree from Corning Community College in 1985. In 1987, I graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism.

Over the past 18 years, I have worked as a newspaper reporter and editor, a Web developer, and a technology manager. Currently, I am director of communications for Cornell University's Graduate School. My hobbies include playing piano and guitar, studying history, writing, and working on local efforts like RiverFest.

As mayor, I’m committed to listening to and communicating with the people who live and work in Elmira. Please feel free to contact me with your ideas. Let’s work together to keep Elmira a great place to live.

Mayor Tonello serves on the Blue Ribbon Task Force.

Connecting the Dots

On January 22, 2007, the Elmira City Council passed Resolution 2007-036 calling on the Governor and the members of the New York State Senate and Assembly to enact the legislative changes identified in the New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM) report released in November of 2006 entitled "Connecting the Dots: A Blueprint for Revitalizing Our Communities and Our State."

The report analyzes the numerous obstacles currently confronting cities and villages in New York, and offers an agenda of state-level solutions for revitalizing these communities and, therefore, all of New York State.

The City Manager, Mayor, and the Elmira City Council encourage all citizens to read the report and request that their representatives enact the legislative changes to help improve economic prosperity and financial stability for all cities in New York State.
»Read the Report: Connecting the Dots
»Visit NYCOM's website to find out more
»Visit Senator Winner's website
»Visit Assemblyman O'Mara's website
»Visit the Governor's website