Four seats are being contested for Dunkirk Common Council in this year’s election. Ward Two, held by Martin Bamonto, is unopposed. Today, we offer our selections in Wards Three and Four.

¯ WARD THREE — Miriam Alfaro-Lugo got her message across at the League of Women Voters debate earlier this month. She spoke about programs for skilled workers and a belief that Dunkirk is moving in the right direction. We believe things are improving, but we are not sold on her take that “the city is now alive.” That’s far too generous.

Her opponent, James Stoyle, promises to run on a platform of honesty. As a former city firefighter, he is more likely to be plugged in to budget issues that affect residents. We give the nod to Stoyle in this race.

¯ WARD FOUR — Nancy Nichols and her family have a history of giving to the city. She previously served on the Board of Education when the highly touted JROTC program began while her late husband served for years as chairman of the city’s Harbor Commission that put an emphasis on Lake Erie. Incumbent Michael Civiletto is just as community minded, serving on boards of the Historical Society, Boys & Girls Club of Northern Chautauqua County and the Adams. He, like his opponent, is passionate and cares about Dunkirk. Sometimes, however, he forgets he needs to listen to concerns, not defend them. We back Nichols in this race.

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Agree or disagree?

The OBSERVER encourages letters to the editor regarding local and state races. Letters regarding the election must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 29. We will be publishing letters on the election Nov. 2-3. Any questions can be directed to jdagostino@observertoday.com or 366-3000, ext. 401.