LOCKPORT
Incumbents, newcomer air plans for Council races
LOCKPORT — Four people have announced their candidacies for Lockport Common Council.
In the 2nd Ward, Alderwoman Amanda L. Alexander, R-2nd Ward, announced she will seek election to a second term. Also announcing for the 2nd Ward seat is Jack Smith of Waterman Street, a heating and air conditioning technician, who will run as a Democrat in this fall’s election.
Alexander, a licensed charter boat captain who, with her husband, owns a charter business based in Olcott, said the city’s neighborhoods need more attention.
“We have come a long way in addressing some of the distressed portions of the city, but there is still much progress to be made,” Alexander said. “The fruits of our labor are noticeable. Every city department has been working hard to accomplish the goal of beautifying our city.”
Smith, 43, who is president of United Neighborhood Watch and the newly formed not-for-profit Lockport Neighborhood Revitalization, said, “My goal is to improve the neighborhoods in Lockport, and I’m not afraid to speak up.”
Smith studied accounting at Niagara County Community College and now works for Vastola Heating and Air Conditioning. He is married and has four children.
In the 3rd Ward, Alderwoman Flora
M. McKenzie, a Democrat, has announced her candidacy for a third term.
McKenzie has hosted two Unity Music Festivals in Outwater Park and the Young Man of Character class through Lockport New Beginnings, now in its third year of meetings in City Hall.
McKenzie, the Council representative on the Police Board, said she is working with her colleagues on new sidewalks near the Outwater Park football field and skateboard park so pedestrians don’t have to walk in the streets.
“I believe in working with the youths of Lockport to help them be productive citizens. My goal is to make our community safer, cleaner and a great place to live and raise our families,” McKenzie said.
In the 4th Ward, Alderman Patrick
W. Schrader, the longest-serving member of the Common Council, is running for his sixth full term in office.
“Ten years ago, Lockport was stagnating. With my help, many projects have come to fruition, and many more will become a reality. I was there at the beginning and hope to continue in my efforts to ensure that all projects are moving in the right direction,” said Schrader, a Democrat.
As chairman of the Water and Sewer Committee, Schrader helped to establish a permanent in-house water and sewer construction crew to save money over hiring contractors. He’s also president of the club that sponsors the Monday night classic car cruises.
In his ward, Schrader said his accomplishments include pushing for widening and stricter speed enforcement on South Transit Street, which he said have increased traffic safety.
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