Fredonia’s decline in recent years – and its gouging of residents in high taxes and fees – can be traced back to a group of four people on the Village Board.

Its record is shameful. When residents come forward to speak, those who lead the meetings – one in particular – talk down to them and offer sarcasm. The majority then burdens those same residents with the highest water and sewer bills ever charged while raising taxes as well.

Most current board members may falsely believe it’s good government, but it is a real slap in the face to those paying the bills who have watched business leave the area and not come back.

On Nov. 3, village voters will see six names for three open trustee positions. It is time for a new attitude in Fredonia that embraces residents and makes a true effort for fiscal responsibility. Recent budgets and meetings are anything but.

With that in mind, voters need to select candidates they can count on to shake up the reprehensible status quo. Those three include James Lynden, Mary Jane Starks and incumbent Marc Ruckman.

All three have a history of service to the village. Ruckman is a four-year trustee who does not vote “yes” to irresponsible plans, like the most recently approved budget and fees. Lynden, who served on the Planning Board, has been a vocal critic in meetings over the years of village decisions.

Starks consistently assists in the Festivals Fredonia efforts and events, which drive foot traffic and business to downtown merchants. She also attends nearly every village meeting, which means she understands the current woes.

Peter Eckman’s candidacy for a more efficient and open government also is strong, but we give the others the nod for their outspoken ways in recent years.

We applaud the other two candidates, but find flaws in their campaigns. Former village administrator James Sedota incorrectly believes the village can continue to maintain its high-cost water system and not be part of a future district. One glance at the most recent water and sewer bills are scary enough to dispute that point. Incumbent Kara Christina received the support of the current board when she was appointed in July. That in itself, unfortunately, sends the wrong message to this corner.

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