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David Gantt
David Gantt was born in 1941. He attended Roberts Wesleyan College and the Rochester Institute of Technology. Before joining the New York State Legislature, he spent 9 years in the Monroe County Legislature.
David Gantt is the assemblyman for the 133rd district in New York State, which consists of the northeastern and southwestern sections of the City of Rochester and the Suburban Town of Gates. He was originally elected to the legislature in 1983. Assemblyman Gantt is chair of the assembly transportation committee.
Red Light Camera Scandal
Assemblyman Gantt was a long time opponent of cameras to enforce traffic signals. However, his opposition to red light cameras switched to support after an Albany firm CMA Consulting Services paid ex-Gantt aid Robert Gaddy $80,000. Gantt then introduced a bill which would have mandated that all red light cameras in New York State be purchased from CMA Consulting. The New York Daily News says simply, "There is no other conclusion but that Albany is for sale."
Opposition to Bus Lane Enforcement
On June 18, 2008, Assemblyman Gantt rushed a vote through his committee to table a bill that would have allowed for bus camera enforcement in New York City.
Here are a few links to stories about Mr. Gantt:
New York Times Cityroom 6/19/2008: An Assemblyman Vexes Two Cities
New York Daily News 6/8/2008: Green Light for Corruption
http://monroerising.com/2008/06/16/more-democrat-david-gantt-political-corruption-uncovered/
Despite citing civil liberties concerns about camera enforcement, Gantt's civil liberties record is weak. For example, he has voted against extending equal marriage rights to same-sex couples:
http://nicksnotesblog.blogspot.com/2007/06/new-york-state-assembly-passed-gay.html
Brief bio on NYS Democratic website
Story with talk of how Gantt is perceived in local Rochester politics
Contact information for Assemblyman Gantt:
District Phone: (585) 454-3670
Albany Phone: (518) 455-5606
Albany Fax: 518-455-5419
ganttd@assembly.state.ny.us
