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It is tough for the Chautauqua County government to improve for the better when the same elected officials are calling the shots. Consider some responses from those who are running unopposed when questioned by the two newspapers:
≤ Thomas Harmon, from District 6 that includes Hanover and Silver Creek - "I will not be responding."
≤ Johnathan Penhollow, from District 7 that includes Portland and Brocton - "We have decided to go a different avenue this year, thank you."
So much for accountability.
There are four contested races in the north county region. Here are the endorsements for the Dunkirk races.
≤ DISTRICT ONE - Marcus Buchanan, who is endorsed by the Democrats and Conservative parties, is worried the incumbent Kevin Muldowney is not putting enough emphasis on the city. He may be correct based on Muldowney's vote last week. After Dunkirk Common Council members went on record opposing increased landfill fees, Muldowney tuned out those voices - voting yes on those hikes with fellow Republicans. Muldowney has proven popular with voters in the past, but these types of votes are not reflective of constituent needs. Muldowney was victorious two years ago in this same contest. But he overlooked city wishes this month regarding the landfill. We offer Buchanan our backing this year.
≤ DISTRICT TWO - Dennis Welka is right on the money in his characterization of incumbent Bob Bankoski. He noted last week, "We currently have a legislator who spends a significant part of the year outside of the district, in fact outside of the State of New York." Other than that comment, Welka appears to be a mouthpiece for the majority party that blames Albany for its plight while refusing to map a plan for its future. Bankoski, in the last two years, has become a strong voice for the minority party of the Legislature. He noted - during last week's vote - current county efforts are costing residents. "We did not need a $100,000 per year Media Relations Officer and we did not need $37 million in our fund balance. We need that reduced to provide our residents real tax relief," he noted. But his absence - for three months while being paid - cannot be overlooked. We pass on an endorsement in this race.