Nick Weiser

Councilman-at-large Nick Weiser offered a procedural update on the city of Dunkirk’s 2026 budget talks Thursday.

Weiser spoke during a speedy Common Council meeting. The session lasted just 15 minutes and saw zero comments from anyone in the audience.

“I want to begin by thanking each of our department heads for their professionalism and preparation you brought to the process,” Weiser said. “It’s clear that everyone understands the realities of the city’s delicate financial situation and the need to approach this year’s budget with care and discipline.

“Earlier this week, I met with representatives from the Office of the State Comptroller to outline council’s timeline for review and passage of the budget under the Dunkirk Fiscal Recovery Act. The Comptroller’s Office is required to review our budget and issue recommendations council must incorporate into the final plan. Their guidance will again play an important role in ensuring we remain on the stable financial path.”

Weiser went on, “We continue to work to operate under tight physical constraints. We are seeing signs of progress. The work we did last year to align with revenue is paying off, and that discipline positioned us to make more informed, sustainable choices moving forward. This will remain a cautious budget, but continues to prioritize core services and responsible growth where possible.”

The councilman-at-large commented on the Election Day decision by city voters to abolish the treasurer position.

“That change will require further adjustments to next year’s budget as we finalize a physical rupture that ensures continuity, accountability, and efficiency,” Weiser said. “Those discussions are already underway and council will work closely with the Mayor’s Office and the Comptroller’s Office to ensure a smooth transition.”

Weiser closed by noting the council’s next Finance Committee meeting will be 9 a.m. Monday, followed by what is intended to be council’s final budget review session. The council is legally required to approve a budget by mid-December.

“I’m looking forward to building a more stable and transparent financial future for the city,” Weiser concluded.

Other Common Council business Thursday included:

— A request by Dunkirk’s Juneteenth committee to hold the 2026 event was tabled.. Councilwoman Nancy Nichols said the city should hold off on approving any requests for 2026 until it has approved a budget, and Weiser and Councilwoman Abigail Zatorski agreed. Councilwoman Natalie Luczkowiak and Councilman James Stoyle did not attend the meeting.

— Council approved resolutions for state court reimbursement and the emergency purchase of equipment for snow removal at the wastewater treatment plant. It also approved a bid by Greener Gardens Nursery to plant 100 trees in city rights-of-way under a recently awarded state grant.