Michael Ferguson

Michael Ferguson has announced his goals running as a candidate for the mayor of Fredonia. “Fredonia has been a great place to raise my family, make friends and have the opportunity to participate in community activities,” he said. “There is no more important measure than how our residents and businesses feel about their quality of life. My job will be to make sure we offer services as efficiently as possible, promote the Village, both internally and to the outside world, and be willing to find avenues not taken before to accomplish this.

“My platform is:

“Solve the water crisis – Using all resources available we will develop a plan not only for the supply, but also the transmission of water in the Village. I plan to draw from the professional study that will be completed soon, from our local officials who have knowledge on the issue and from the residents who are willing to devote time and energy to assist. My opponent has had the chance to solve this and failed. With a fresh look and open mind I am confident we will resolve this.

“Ensure our hospital is built – The hospital is essential to resident safety and economic development. If we are to attract employees, businesses, and young families to our Village we must have a hospital. I will work with the Brooks board, our state representatives and Gov. Kathy Hochul to get this built.

“Transparent, participatory government – I will provide the type of leadership that ends the petty politics and bickering. I am committed to working with trustees, employees, and residents regardless of affiliation. Community input and open information will be priorities of my administration. We want a Fredonia government that we are proud of.

“Promote our Village – With well over 30 years of experience marketing multi-million dollar companies and projects I will seek out growth and development. I know our area and gained valuable perspective as President of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau. To accomplish this we must have efficient services, such as water and clean and safe streets. I plan to work with groups like Festivals Fredonia and The Farmers Market to continue to give us events we can be proud of and that attract outside interest.

“Create strong relationships – We need to have positive and ongoing relationships with our neighboring municipalities, organizations, and the elected officials who represent us at all levels. This will lead to efficiencies, cooperation, and funding. We also need to integrate SUNY Fredonia into our daily lives and work with them to enhance our village as well as working to avoid negative events. This includes our relationship with our employees. The condition of the Police Department is deplorable and must be brought into compliance. We need to help our paid and volunteer firefighters get the tools to do their job. I need the employees of the Village to know they are valued and I want their input. They will be an important part of any improvements and we need them to love their job and their Village.”