Sheehan, Ellis have big wins in Albany

Democratic candidates in the city of Albany had some big wins this election.

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan has declared a victory in the race for her third term. Sheehan, a Democrat, was running against Republican Alicia Purdy, Independent candidate Gregory Aidala, and write-in candidate Valerie Faust.

Sheehan won by a large margin, claiming 64% of the vote. After a year full of pandemic-related challenges and issues surrounding gun violence, she says ready to serve another term.

"I think we have such a great opportunity and potential in our city, and there’s so much reason to be hopeful as we come out of these unprecedented, challenging times," she told NewsChannel 13.

Democrat Corey Ellis also had a strong night, winning re-election for Albany Council President. Ellis had a decisive victory over Republican Jesse Calhoun, claiming 79% of the vote.

Voters were also asked to decide on two proposals in the city of Albany.

Proposal six asked voters if the charter should be amended to require someone seeking election to be a resident of that ward for a full year before taking office. The proposal passed easily, with 77% of people voting "yes." Only 22% voted "no."

Voters also had to decide on whether the city’s community police review board should have more power.

Proposal seven, would allow the board to conduct its own investigations into complaints against police officers. The board would also be able to subpoena records.

Supporters argue it would bring more transparency to policing, but the union representing Albany police officers strongly opposed it. The union argues it would be a takeover of the department’s disciplinary process.

With 100% of precincts reporting, 69% of people voted "yes."

Before, the board could only review investigations that the police department had already conducted. This will likely change how officers are disciplined.