Editor:

I have known Darlene Rich her entire life—from her childhood to the raising of her own family with her husband Mike.

She has always been dedicated to any endeavor she has undertaken. When she became Shelby Town Clerk, she worked very diligently to obtain all the education she could to tackle the job successfully and to the best of her ability for our residents.

Darlene has been our Town Clerk for 16 years, and I encourage Shelby’s residents to re-elect her.

Dave Green

Shelby

Editor:

Thank you to the leaders involved in the local events, services, libraries, museums, churches, benevolences and fundraisers in our area.

However the Albion community, in particular, needs to unite and let the public know how they can support and get involved. The key to a more successful event seems to be advertising everywhere, asking for volunteers and joining with other organizations.

It’s disheartening to see happenings after the fact or there is overcrowding of the calendar. Be a proud team, expand together and grow our town into what it once was.

Let us as a community know what we can do.

Cynthia Clute

Albion

Editor:

In the 12 years I served on the Medina Village Board I learned how difficult a job it is and how hard it is to gain the trust of the people you serve.

John Pratt is just such man who has worked diligently for the people of Shelby as a councilman. While he first decided to step aside and not seek reelection he changed his mind for the good of Shelby and has decided on a write-in campaign for Shelby Town Council. He is honest, is fair and was a  pleasure to work with on inner municipal dealings.

In the recent past, John has brought up issues of transparency within the current board, a quick way to lose the trust of the people you serve. He also feels that consultants have ill advised the Town Board on many dealings costing the town time, money and trust.

John feels that the town’s bookkeeping has issues with inconsistencies and withholding information making correct decisions by members of the board difficult. John is also concerned about high water rates from Medina.

I can tell you that no one from Shelby has asked the village to sit down and discuss the rates in over two or three years. John is also concerned by individuals turning a blind eye to a toxic workplace for women. In today’s world, that is unacceptable. Thankfully, John has brought that to the forefront and it can be corrected.

In true transparency let me say that I am not a resident of the town as I live in village but town of Ridgeway nor am I related to anyone holding or running for office. With all the problems facing Shelby, most notably STAMP, a good qualified individual is needed to help on the board.  John is a good man, is honest, hard working and is fair and I believe can help the Town Board as it faces those issues.

I urge the residents of Shelby to write in his name for councilman.

Owen Toale

Medina

Editor:

We, the below signed Shelby Town Board members categorically deny any knowledge of any type of harassment occurring at the Shelby Town Hall.  Any occurrence of this type of activity will be dealt with immediately.

These accusations from current board members appear to be the normal political rhetoric that is usually thrown at the oscillating device to see what sticks. The usual political, watch my left hand…but don’t look at my right.

The taxpayer needs to see what is being accomplished at the town, and for the town, not listen to the political B.S. being spewed. Get involved, come to meetings, see what really is going on, ask to speak with the town supervisor – he will meet with anyone.

Signed,

Scott Wengewicz, Shelby Town Supervisor

Steve Seitz, Town Councilman

Jeffrey  Schiffer, Town Councilman

Editor:

I’m not a very political person but I’ve worked in the Town of Shelby office long enough to know who would be best for these jobs, so I’m asking you to vote Republican this November.

I worked with Dale Root and Scott Wengewicz and know first-hand that they have the town’s best interest at heart and also have a network system that benefits us as a whole.

My cousin, Christine Pask, is running for Town Clerk this year. I feel she will be great at it. She is used to working with the public and is professional, courteous, fair and friendly to everyone. She’s very good with people and is a team player. She has more experience coming into this position than our current clerk did when she started. Chris has some great ideas on how to tighten up office spending along with decreasing accounting discrepancies. Chris’ strong work ethic will be essential as she is up to the challenge!

Remember, this is not a popularity contest. I’ve seen politics bring out the worst in some people. It even divides families! Life is too short for this type of nonsense. Vote Republican!

Respectfully,

Dorothy Nolan

Former Deputy Clerk in Town of Shelby

Editor:

When considering the Shelby Town Board, the heart of the matter lies in open dialogue, informative exchanges, and unwavering respect for all voices. It’s these foundational principles that drive my candidacy.

With a BBA in accounting and over 35 years in finance, serving in key positions as financial analyst and controller across manufacturing and banking, there’s a depth of knowledge I can apply to benefit our community. I’ve picked up practical skills, from budgeting to team collaboration, that I believe will benefit Shelby. This experience translates to sound financial decisions and an eye for ensuring resources are used to their fullest potential.

The value of local government is immeasurable, and the involvement of every resident amplifies its impact. Work sessions historically have provided a platform for these crucial discussions. One of my goals is to revitalize public work sessions, making them a cornerstone of community engagement again.

Town board meetings should be more than decision-making arenas; they should be inclusive spaces where opinions, popular or not, are heard and respected. My commitment extends to fostering this environment, promoting the exchange of essential information, and ensuring the community remains at the forefront of the town board’s decisions.

Medina is more than a location to me; it’s home. My family has been a part of the community for over 100 years. My three sisters and I were born and raised in Medina, children of John and Lorraine Limina, who owned Limina’s Jewelry Store on Main Street for 46 years.

Should Shelby voters choose to support me, know that I will work thoughtfully and diligently. Even though I am a Republican-endorsed candidate I am eager for the opportunity to serve everyone in Shelby. I stand for careful spending and researched decision-making. In our rapidly changing world, staying informed and engaged in local governance is more crucial than ever. Decision-making is not merely about choices; it’s about attention to detail and ensuring these choices best represent the collective insights and needs of the people.

I realize the chance to serve Shelby’s residents as a Town Councilmember is a privilege. I kindly ask for your vote.

Linda Limina

Candidate for Town Council in Shelby

Editor:

My name is Jeff Schiffer. I am currently a Town Councilman for the Town of Shelby. I take great pride in where I live and the people of Shelby.

There has been much discussion concerning the division in the town government. I believe if all members put the good of Shelby first, we can do some amazing things in the future. I will not be drawn into the negative histrionics.

My only concern is the good of Shelby. In closing, I would like to mention that we have a great town supervisor with great vision and is extremely honest. I would appreciate your vote in November.

Thank you,

Jeff Schiffer

Shelby Town Councilman

Editor:

My name is Dale Root and I am the Republican- and Conservative-endorsed incumbent for the Town of Shelby Highway Superintendent position. I will give you some documented facts of what has been accomplished during my first four years in office.

The town of Shelby has 45.9 miles of paved road, and as of this date 25.1 miles of roadway has been repaired and paved, along with 2 miles of reconditioned dirt roads. This includes cold pave, grader pave and chip sealing. We are currently on track with the town’s 5 year plan.

It wasn’t long after I assumed office that the pandemic hit. This resulted in escalating prices for everything as everyone knows. My Department persevered and continued, plowing, fixing roads, repairing water main breaks (of which there has been plenty).

During the pandemic the new truck order was cancelled with the uncertainty of covid. This past summer we were able to order a new plow truck to help bring our aging fleet up to date. Our High Liftfront end loader is on a 3 year lease, which saves the Town expensive repair bills.

We were able to purchase a new mini excavator, which is used routinely to repair water leaks.2 major leaks were recently found and repaired.One was two valves under Oak Orchard Creek, which resulted in substantial savings for the town resulting in no water leaked and less water purchased.

We are continuously testing and flushing water lines to ensure the quality required by state and county guidelines were not only met but exceeded.

This past summer was a banner year. The road crews assisted the village of Medina during their road paving project, in accordance with municipal agreements, enabling the town to obtain excess road millings which were used on town roads, and the town hall side parking lot, saving taxpayers untold tax dollars.

The Town Hall parking lot was milled and repaved. The courtroom was repainted (thank you Job Corps) at no labor expense to the town, and the carpet was replaced bringing our town hall up to date on much needed repairs. More will be accomplished next summer on the exterior.

So, it was a banner year on roads, water savings, shared services with other municipalities, trees cut, and stumps ground. I am proud of the work accomplished by the crew I work with.

In closing, are we better off than 4 years ago? I would say yes. My Democrat-endorsed opponent does not think so. When we work together we can accomplish much and move forward as a department.

I enjoy serving the Town of Shelby and would greatly appreciate your support November 7th for another term.

Thank you,

Dale Root

Shelby

Editor:

I have known Darlene Rich for at least 50 years ,and worked with Darlene for 12 years at the Town of Shelby as highway superintendent. I found her to be a dedicated worker.

Over the years Darlene  has gained valuable knowledge and perfected her ability to serve our community.

Our town would be very fortunate to have Darlene Rich for another four years as Shelby Town Clerk.

Respectfully,

Michael Fuller

Retired Town of Shelby Highway & Water Superintendent

Editor:

Bring back honesty and integrity! Choose someone who has the Shelby constituents’ best interest at heart. Vote Bill Wolter! Bill will actively listen to the citizens of Shelby and give 110% to any questions or situations that arise.

If he can not, he will use his communication skills to keep all parties involved and apprised of progress on a solution. He will hold himself accountable for living up to the expectations of Shelby residents as well as the commitment he has made to himself to uphold his duties as a Shelby Highway Superintendent.

He will show empathy and respect for all in a positive manner. Bill humbly has the courage and emotional intelligence to run a campaign where he is not slandering or spreading untruths about his opponents which proves his respect and empathy for everyone.

He is not stooping to a level of spreading untruths or creating rumors for political gain, like many candidates do. Ask yourself, do you want someone in office, for any position, that you don’t have the utmost trust and respect for? I know I don’t.

People in these positions have access to a lot of personal information and if they’re misrepresenting their opponent during a campaign, imagine what they are going to spread once they are in office with so much information at their fingertips.

Having known Bill in the capacity of a friend, employer, worker, husband, father, and now grandfather, I can say that he is fair, honest and hardworking. He is the type of guy that will work as a team, knowing when and how to delegate fairly.

He is self aware of when things need to change and not afraid to look at things from another perspective. He has passion and drive to do the job, do it right and to the best of his ability. Bill is also the type of person that will be grateful and proud of his staff for their hard work every day.

Being the son of a former highway superintendent, I know the long hours and dedication it takes and I know that Bill Wolter has what it takes to do the job and do it well.

Choose a leader that holds himself accountable to the community he serves by being  humble, courageous, respectful, listening actively, fair, honest, hardworking and grateful. Vote Bill Wolter and you will not be disappointed after the election because these qualities are not a false pretense to get your vote.

Respectfully,

Jim Blackburn

Medina

Editor:

We are writing this letter in support of our friend, BILL WOLTER, for the position of Shelby Highway Superintendent.

Bill has done lots of landscaping work for us over the years when we built our home and also at our cottage on the lake. His work ethic is phenomenal.  He is always on time when he says he will be there.

He’s such a hard worker and has proved that at his job at the Shelby Highway Department over the years. Safety is his main concern at whatever job he is on. Bill is very knowledgeable, capable and a pleasure to do business with.

He is more than qualified for the position of Town of Shelby Highway Superintendent.

Sincerely,

Thomas C. Mack and Janice Kelly-Mack

Town of Shelby

Editor:

Shelby voters have a fabulous opportunity to re-elect Darlene Rich as their Town Clerk. She has aptly served the residents for 16 years with compassion, kindness, knowledge and professionalism.

With the office of Town Clerk being the hub of the town, Darlene has and will continue to be a dedicated public servant stressing that the residents are number one. She has been answering your needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Whether at the supermarket or a community event, Darlene has and will continue to be available.

Darlene’s resume speaks for itself.  She has continued to be educated in the regulations and laws to benefit the residents of Shelby, having earned the prestigious designations of Registered Municipal Clerk, Certified Municipal Clerk and Master Municipal Clerk. Years of public service and numerous hours of extensive education is needed to receive these honors.

It has been my honor to have worked with Darlene over the years, while serving as Somerset Town Clerk.

To continue the exemplary service you have been receiving for the past 16 years, vote to retain Darlene Rich as your Town Clerk.

Rebecca A. Connolly, MMC/RMC

Retired Somerset Town Clerk (Niagara County)

Editor:

Today, I am reaching out to express my support for Bill Wolter as the next Shelby Highway Superintendent.

Having known Bill personally and professionally for over 23 years, I can vouch for his outstanding character. Bill is, without a doubt, one of the most reliable, trustworthy, and honest individuals I’ve had the privilege of knowing. In all my years in business and life, I’ve found no one more honest than Bill.

In our many years of collaboration, Bill has always been committed to doing his best. He tackles challenges with determination. Often, when faced with a problem, he’ll say, “Let me think about it and get back to you.” And he always comes back with a top-notch and affordable solution.

His tenacity, combined with his dedication to providing quality results, makes Bill an ideal candidate for Shelby Highway Superintendent. His ability to always find a way to get things done, while also ensuring affordability, is precisely what every town needs.

I urge citizens to cast their vote in favor of a candidate who embodies reliability, honesty, and a commitment to excellence. Please elect Bill Wolter for Shelby Highway Superintendent.

Pat Fox

Medina

Editor:

I commend John Pratt’s honesty and echo his frustration about how the Town of Shelby is being run. Everything and more that John said is true.

The town’s advisors have, on more than one occasion, provided inaccurate information to the board and the community. This has influenced certain voting decisions, causing board members to unknowingly support resolutions contrary to their views.

Not only have consultants provided misleading, and at times, untruthful information to both the board and the public, but certain officials have also exerted undue influence over them. It’s concerning that taxpayer dollars, which should be directed towards the betterment of our community, are being used for questionable purposes under such influences.

I believe in real transparent governance, not just loose references to it, and feel it’s our duty to keep the public informed of these alarming developments. The integrity of our town’s operations is at stake, and I urge Shelby’s citizens to stay vigilant and hold those in power accountable.

Ed Zelazny

Shelby Town Councilman

Editor:

Hi friends, our names are Paul Lauricella Jr. and Steven A. Colon.

We are hoping to earn both of the councilman seats up for election in the Town of Yates. Next year reassessments are coming (could be 20 to 50 % increases) and the town budget is up about $25,000 from last year. Someone has to put their foot down with these no-end in sight tax increases. That is why we are running.

We want government to take less of our money. We don’t want you to have to choose between paying out-of-control taxes, putting food on your table or giving your family a nice Christmas. We want you to be able to stay in your home, maybe pass it down to your children, but the taxes are not affordable right now to many.

Will your children be able to afford the taxes down the road? Will you or they have to sell or worse lose the lifetime of sacrifice to taxes? The property tax is most immoral and despicable tax ever inflicted on mankind.

That is why we will put “You the Taxpayers First,” meaning there will no support for any spending that is not absolutely necessary for the town to function. All spending will be put under the microscope of  “Can the taxpayers afford it?”

We will put priorities first. For instance we must build up our equipment reserves. We need to put money away to paint the water tower that is coming soon.

We will work with the businesses here in our town, all of them. They provide much-needed jobs and income to many of our residents. We are a farming community first and foremost. We need to get out of the “Real Estate Business, the Manure Business, the Entertainment Business, the Litigation Business and the Legacy Building Business.”

We need to get back to “Doing the People’s Business.” We say this because we see your money being wasted on these things with no shame or regard for you. We will leave all that to the entrepreneurs and farmers by clearing the way for them.

It is essential that you not sit this one out and vote for the two of us. There are part-time residents that have switched their addresses to try to influence our local elections for team incumbents.

Every single vote will matter. Do you think that if more taxation is collected by our town government that they will do the right thing with it? Cut your taxes? Do you think they will just spend it and beyond? Coming back the following year for more. Grow government. We know you are smart enough to figure that one out. That is why we want to earn your trust and to elect both of us to those seats so we can make a difference and bring some balance.

For fiscal responsibility, sanity, and limited government please get out and vote early, send in your absentees, or vote in person on November 7th for Paul Lauricella Jr. and Steven A.Colon on the Conservative Party Line or the Taxpayers First Line. Thank you for your support.

Paul Lauricella Jr.

Steven A. Colon

Candidates for Yates Town Board