Shhhh! Be quiet. We are about to offer our selections in the Chautauqua County Legislature races for Districts 1, 3 and 4.

We ask for silence because we believe residents are not receiving the best representation from Mayville. Some of you may not even know who your county legislator is and that is because most often, they are not speaking publicly regarding the issues.

Consider last week’s tax hike. Many legislators said nothing while voting yes. Is that what you want from a part-time $9,000 per year position?

District 2 Legislator Robert Bankoski is unopposed.

¯ DISTRICT ONE — Legislator Kevin Muldowney has major ties to the Republican party, especially in the north county. But his lack of action — or response — has not benefitted his district. He has said little to nothing regarding two major issues: potential relocation of Brooks Memorial Hospital and the shuttering of NRG Energy Inc. His opponent, Phillip Collier, seems to fit the same mold since announcing he would be running. We back Ron Hall, who has the endorsement of the Conservative and Libertarian parties. He vows to be more vocal if elected. That would be a good start.

¯ DISTRICT THREE — Christopher Schaeffer has been solid as a Pomfret Town Board member. He has proven he can work in a bipartisan spirit. Incumbent Bob Scudder, who we also have been critical of for not having a greater voice in Mayville, is asking the right questions in regard to the future of two county airports. It is a discussion that needs to continue. We offer our endorsement to the incumbent.

¯ DISTRICT FOUR — Melanie Mann has been a contributor to the community as a volunteer on the Festivals Fredonia board. She is hoping to become more outspoken for her district as legislator. Incumbent Christine Starks, however, has an advantage as this district is strongly Democratic. Like other legislators, her voice has not been heard enough — even if she is in the Legislature minority. Her predecessor, Janet Keefe, was in the same position but we always knew where she stood on every issue. Mann talks of government efficiency and shared services. We offer our backing to the challenger.

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. today. We will be publishing letters on the election through the Nov. 2-3 edition. Any questions can be directed to jdagostino@observertoday.com or 366-3000, ext. 401.