On a statewide level, our region has benefitted from Democratic leadership. Who would have thought, before 2011, current Gov. Andrew Cuomo would have put so many resources — and dollars — into Buffalo, Niagara Falls and Chautauqua County? It has been an impressive investment.

In the village of Fredonia, however, Democrats who make up the Village Board have done nothing to promote progress. They turn their backs on regional solutions. They took on new village employees when the municipality lost its largest private employer and utility consumer in ConAgra. And, most recently, the party was responsible for increases in water and sewer rates by more than 31 percent and 19 percent.

Here’s the reality that Fredonia may not ever grasp, though it’s touted consistently by New York state and Cuomo: without true attempts at partnerships, government costs cannot and will not be contained.

This year in the village, seven candidates are seeking office. We appreciate the willingness of all who run for office, but our endorsements come down to the history of how poorly Fredonia has been run — publicly and behind closed doors — in recent years by one party.

In the four-candidate race of Leslie Wille, Steven Yunghans, Douglas Essek and Roger Britz Jr., we are backing Essek and Britz. Essek, in his one-year term, has brought a hint of balance to an otherwise snarky board and is not afraid to speak his mind. Britz, who has a background in business, has high hopes in using his experience to revitalize the downtown and boost tourism.

In the three-person race between Michael C. Barris, Dale Ricker and Ron Sellers, we note that Ricker would have a strong voice if elected. However, we back Sellers on the Village Vitality line based on his wide range of experience in the health-care industry and developing partnerships.

Agree or disagree?

Readers are welcome to give us their opinions on the upcoming elections. The OBSERVER publishes letters through Sunday on election issues and candidates. Letters can be dropped off by 5 p.m. today at our Dunkirk office at 10 E. Second St. or e-mailed to jdagostino@observertoday.com