I'm running for Albany City Council because I care deeply about this community and believe Albany deserves thoughtful, practical leadership focused on local issues. I want to hear what matters most to you and your family. No issue is too big or too small.
me!
The moment my family and I landed in America: New York's Kennedy Airport.
Jon Destin is Albany's 2026 Citizen of the Year. He immigrated to this country as a child, escaping communism, was educated here, became a teacher, and went on to build a successful business of his own.
For years he's given back to the city he loves: as President of the Albany Community Foundation, a member of the YMCA board, and a trustee of the Albany Education Foundation for a decade. He believes Albany's best days are ahead, and that good local government starts with listening to the community.
More about Jon →Hover a name to learn more.
These are some of the issues I'll keep a relentless focus on, and I'm always listening for what else is on your mind.
A Generational Opportunity
Golden Gate Fields is set to become a spectacular shoreline park, and I'm all in. But when that land goes tax-exempt, Albany and our schools lose nearly $2 million a year. That money pays for paramedics, streets, and classrooms. I support the park and I will be fighting to make Albany whole.
Learn more →Our budget is balanced. It's also razor thin. No time to get complacent.
I've run an Albany small business for nearly twenty years. I know what a tight budget looks like, and Albany's is tight. I'll protect core services, plan for the racetrack revenue loss, and always show you the math.
Learn more →The generation that built Albany should get to stay in Albany.
Growing older here shouldn't mean leaving here. Most of what that takes isn't dramatic: sidewalks in good repair, a ride to the store, a vibrant Senior Center, and a paramedic who arrives fast. I'll protect those everyday services, starting with the paramedic fund through the racetrack transition.
Learn more →Streets that work for everyone. Yes, everyone.
The parent with the stroller, the senior at the crosswalk, the kid on the bike, the neighbor in the wheelchair, the driver headed home, the shopper looking for parking on Solano. All of them are Albany. Here's how I think about our streets, our transportation plan, and the debates ahead.
Learn more →Great schools made Albany. The city's job is to have their back.
I was a teacher. My son went K–12 through Albany schools. I know where the city's job begins: getting kids to school safely, crossing guards, shared gyms and fields, backing our amazing teachers, and making sure our schools don't quietly lose $700,000 a year in the racetrack transition.
Learn more →Real change is possible, and Albany is already proving it.
We've built real climate programs: rebates that save families money, a nationally watched electrification pilot, and serious targets. I'm proud to live in a city that is a leader in climate justice, and I'm certain we can do more. I'll come to this work curious, eager to learn from the many experts right here in our community, and focused on the actions that make a genuine difference.
Learn more →There are always more issues, and I want to hear yours.
These are issues I've been hearing about from a lot of Albany residents, and there are certainly more to come. You'll be hearing more from me, too, on things like housing and affordability, public safety and disaster preparedness, parks and open space, and support for our local businesses. What's on your mind?
Tell me what's on your mind →Community leaders, neighbors, parents, and small-business owners trust Jon to listen, do the work, and bring people together.
"I've worked beside Jon for years in Albany's community organizations. This is an important moment for our city, and Jon understands both the human side and the business side of the decisions ahead. We need him on the council."
"Jon listens first, does his homework, and shows up for this community again and again. I'm proud to stand with him."
"Jon brings people together. It's what Albany needs, and it's what he's been doing here for years."
This campaign will be powered by neighbors who care about Albany's future. Join us in whatever way works for you.
Every contribution fuels a relentless focus on Albany. Thank you. Gifts are processed securely through ActBlue.
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Contributions to Friends of Jon Destin for Albany City Council 2026 are not tax deductible. Paid for by Friends of Jon Destin for Albany City Council 2026 · FPPC ID# 1492565.
Thank you, Albany
Sunday, July 19 · Little Star Pizza
On Sunday afternoon, neighbors filled Little Star Pizza to kick off this campaign. Thank you to everyone who came out, asked questions, signed up to help, and brought a friend. This campaign runs on neighbors, and Sunday proved it.
