This month, we’re pleased as a pickled pepper to shine the spotlight on Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, MO#300.  As a member of the New York State Assembly representing Schenectady in NY's 111th District, a founding member of the Schenectady County Food Council, and passionate advocate for people with disabilities, Angelo brings his love for community and expertise in civil engineering to the work of increasing equitable access to food and other essential resources in our community. Angelo knows that food is more than just a basic need; food is at the heart of community life and thriving neighborhoods. He knows this because he's lived it his whole life, beginning with growing up in the Mont Pleasant neighborhood of Schenectady, where he and his family grew food and community together.  More recently, Assemblyman Santabarbara introduced an Urban Farming Land Initiative Bill, which has now passed through both Houses. The legislation encourages the establishment of community gardens on land bank acquired property in New York State, transforming vacant lots into nourishing community spaces. Where do his many ideas for legislation come from?  You guessed it - his constituents! Angelo and his Chief of Staff, Nicole Parisi (MO#1048) show up at community meetings and events so they can listen - if you have an idea for change, don't hesitate to reach out!  

1.What do you like about being part of the co-op community? 

As a state representative and member of the Schenectady County Food Council who has worked on various initiatives to address food insecurity and expand access to healthy options, I truly appreciate the collaborative spirit of the co-op community. It brings people together with a shared purpose—to support local farmers, promote sustainable food systems, and create access to affordable, nutritious food for everyone. Co-ops embody the values of community empowerment and mutual support, which aligns with my work in promoting urban farming, advocating for SNAP, and supporting programs like Nourish NY. The co-op community is a great example of what can be achieved when we work together to strengthen local economies and take care of one another.

2.What will having a downtown grocery mean to you?

Having a downtown grocery in Schenectady will be transformative. It will mean more than just convenience—it represents access to fresh, healthy food for families in our urban center, helping address the food deserts that have impacted so many. It’s also an important step in revitalizing our downtown, creating jobs, and supporting local farmers and producers. For me personally, it will be a point of pride because I’ve seen firsthand the struggles many families face in securing nutritious meals, and this is a tangible solution. It will serve as a central hub where the community can come together, not only for groceries but as a gathering place where the vibrancy of Schenectady shines through.

3. What do you love about Schenectady?

I love Schenectady’s resilience and its spirit of community. I grew up in the Mont Pleasant neighborhood, and the support I received as the son of immigrants from my teachers and neighbors shaped who I am today. Schenectady has a rich history, but more importantly, it has a bright future. The people here care about one another and work hard to build a community where everyone can thrive, from the arts to education to our incredible diversity. Whether it’s through events like ItaliaFest or initiatives that promote food security and public safety, Schenectady is a place where people come together to create meaningful change, and I’m proud to call it home.