As Dunkirk’s fiscal troubles continue, one thing is evident in this year’s election: Republicans appear to have abandoned their efforts to be part of the process to fix the problems they had a role in creating over the last six years. Even though budgets may have been proposed by Democratic mayors, Republicans were the majority in the council.

Those Republican lawmakers had the final say in approving all the flawed spending plans without any financial documentation or spread sheets. In addition, in 2021, those same party members — and one renegade Democrat in Don Williams — approved $300,000 in bonuses that went to staff and, selfishly, themselves.

How thoughtful, especially when you consider the city’s path to fiscal ruin at the time that led to last year’s 84% tax hike.

It has been stated before but needs to be repeated. Dunkirk’s financial doomsday was not a Democratic or Republican blunder. It was, instead, a truly bipartisan effort that is downright embarrassing.

This year, three council races are uncontested. Nick Weiser and Natalie Luczkowiak are seeking re-election to the at-large and First Ward seats, respectively, while Gary Frederickson is unopposed for Third Ward. All candidates are from the Democratic party and lack Republican opposition.

Contested races include:

— SECOND WARD — It’s a spirited competition between a community icon in Frank Torain and newcomer Colby Garza. Torain has a reputation of always lending a helping hand and while educating our region’s youth in leadership programs. He cares deeply about what’s happening and believes in more communication regarding city government. Garza, since he is not ingrained in the area, is likely to be more open to sharing services and consolidations. That is one of the few solutions that can be done locally. No matter who wins this seat, we think they will be an excellent representative to their constituents. Torain’s history of contributions to the region give him a slight nod here.

— FOURTH WARD — We know three-term incumbent Nancy Nichols responds to constituents’ concerns, but she has failed them — big time — when it comes to being a fiscal watchdog. Too often, Nichols fell in line with Republican leadership over poor decisions — including voting for those bonuses that were downright insulting to city residents who now have to fork over lots more money in property-tax payments. Challenger Michael Civiletto is no stranger to city government. He served on council before being defeated by Nichols in 2019. Watching from the outside, we believe he has learned from the recent mistakes by those who have been quite successful at spending taxpayer dollars with no remorse. Civiletto is our choice in this race.

No matter who wins in these races, Dunkirk’s troubles are bound to continue in the future. Our newspaper, through our editorials, will continue to advocate for a Control Board that has the authority to look over contracts, staffing and finances.

No candidate in this race is of that same opinion. How unfortunate.

When it comes to the big-money issues in a $29 million municipality, they are ultimately powerless — as proven by the punitive 84% tax increase last year.