There are no choices when considering the election slate in the city of Dunkirk. Willie Rosas, by virtue of his primary win in September, is the only candidate for mayor.

Council pickings are just as slim. Voters will see candidates Don Williams Jr., Marty Bamonto and Andy Woloszyn on the ballot while Adelino Gonzalez and Stacy Szukala also are seeking re-election.

This is no contest.

But here’s what is worth watching in the election on Nov. 3. Gonzalez and Szukala are incumbents. During their tenures, they have no accomplishments. Dunkirk is in decline and the current council has a responsibility for the mess the city is in.

In a sense, how many votes these two get – compared to the newcomers – is a referendum on the job these council members have done. If they receive more than the newcomers, it is a sign that voters approve of their work. If Gonzalez and Szukala receive less, then they have lost support and keep their position by default because no one challenged them.

Council members are not the face of city government, but they ultimately hold the cards, through their votes, in the direction Dunkirk moves. Just their lack of being vocal about the north county water district, which benefits the city more than any other municipality by expanding its customers and sales, is the greatest indictment on their office tenures.

Until the last couple of months, we have had no idea where they have stood. Rosas, however, is a strong advocate.

That is one good sign for the city’s future.

Note to readers

As part of our annual election coverage, the OBSERVER is endorsing candidates. If you disagree with our voice, yours is welcome. Send letters to editorial@observertoday.com or drop off at our office at 10 E. Second St., Dunkirk. Our last day to accept letters is Oct. 28 and our final day to publish election letters is Nov. 1.