Mayoral Candidate Geoffrey Szymanski's Platform

[Caz5]

Take Back OUR Community:

*Neighborhood Watch Programs & Block Clubs: I want to bring back neighborhood watch programs and block clubs. This is a great way to increase awareness, safety and pride in our community. Funding for these programs is available and I will make sure we go out and get those funds to improve quality of life in our neighborhoods.

Councilman Szymanski/Democratic Committeeman has been questioned numerous times at Council meetings pertaining to this issue. He has not taken this initiative in all the years he has been in office, why now? As a matter of fact, these programs and clubs already officially exist in Lackawanna since 2006. Buffalo and Erie County Board of Block Clubs are already active in Lackawanna.

*Sex Offender Law: While on the Council, I wrote the current local law governing sex offenders in our community. It is one of the most, if not the most, restrictive sex offender laws in New York State. We need to do everything we can to protect our children. This law goes a long way towards ensuring their safety and well being. I am extremely proud of this accomplishment.

Councilman Szymanski/Democratic Committeeman did not write this law. He expanded the NYS Law by increasing the distance from where a sex offender may reside in proximity with a playground and/or school.

Protect and Improve City Services:
*Police, Fire and Public Works: Lackawanna enjoys excellent public services. Our Police, Fire and Public Works Department are made up of dedicated individuals who serve us daily. I will work hard to ensure they receive everything they need to continue performing at the highest level so that all residents receive the best public services of any community in WNY.

Councilman Szymanski/ Democratic Committeeman has already allowed (voted on and passed) millions of dollars that have gone into the DPW for new equipment and trucks.

Revamp Recreation Programs:
*For our Senior Citizens: Our community has a large senior citizen population. We have a wonderful senior citizen complex on Martin Road, but it can and will be improved. I will make sure that it’s utilized to its full potential. Our seniors deserve the best!

The Senior Center just recently had a quarter of a million dollars of repairs done to the building. This money was received from a Senator. As a Councilmember/Democratic Committeman, why hasn’t he been concerned with our seniors before? He has been involved in politics all of his life and only now as mayoral candidate he is concerned with our seniors?

*For our Other Residents: Under my leadership, recreation for all ages will be a major focus. Recreation programs will be overhauled to foster activities that are available to all city residents. Playgrounds will be updated and funding for a recreation center will be sought. Keeping our children off street corners and involved in extra-curricular activities is extremely important.

What recreation programs are you seeking for the “other” residents? Where are you seeking the money from? Where have you been Mr. Szymanski? As Mayor you are going to accomplish all of this? You should have been focused on these issues as Councilman/Democratic Committeeman prior to your announcement as mayoral candidate. Have you seen what the ward you represent currently looks like? Why is he bringing up playgrounds now when he knows Tom Love (Commissioner of Dept. of Public Works and also his relative who he will probably retain) will not allow any new equipment because he has to maintain it? Mr. Szymanski has also stated in the past that the city has too many playgrounds and that the city should only have one centrally located playground for the entire city.

*Unite with Our Schools: Work as team with our schools, we’re all in this together, aren’t we? Our greatest asset is our children. We need to share facilities to ensure our young people have access to all we have to offer. I will work tirelessly to make sure that city and school district leaders are on the same page to make the future bright for our children.

The school and city have worked together for years with agreements on “open” gym and swimming programs for the families in Lackawanna. The school and city have an agreement for the use of the city’s gas pumps located at the city garage. The school also has an agreement to use Veteran’s Stadium for football games. Reciprocal agreements have been in place for the school and city to work together for some time.

Stimulate Lackawanna’s Economy:
*Create a Business Friendly Atmosphere: This is one of my main goals. We need to make businesses want to come here. Lackawanna has everything available to be a powerhouse in the commercial and industrial sector. We have great access to major highways, waterways and railroads. We are in very close proximity to downtown Buffalo and Canada. Lackawanna can and will be a major hub for businesses in our area. We need to work together!

Create a business friendly atmosphere? See Chapter 88 of the Lackawanna Municipal Code. He has constantly voted for business tax increases and then imposes another fee upon them. Mr. Szymanski have you noticed that businesses have and are still leaving Lackawanna under your tenure? Mr. Szymanski voted for the Sorrento Cheese truck ban and for the lawsuit against them. How much did that cost the taxpayers?

*Bring Lackawanna into the 21st Century:
Our city needs to begin utilizing current and future technology to attract residents and businesses. We need to better communicate with our citizens. Individuals looking to move their family or business to Lackawanna need to know that we are community with an eye on the future. We want to use the most effective and up to date technology available. We need to upgrade our current city website to improve services and keep residents informed.

In 2009 Councilmember Haxton had submitted as an agenda item the very same necessity as you are stating above. Why is it of any importance to you now? As far as keeping citizens informed why does Mr. Szymanski constantly vote to restrict citizen participation at council meetings? Why did he not speak out when citizens were told items were not on agenda and couldn't be heard? Why did he refuse to debate/or attend a public forum when he last ran for office?

*Be Aggressive in Seeking Grant Money: In communities all around the country, city leaders are aggressively going after grants that can build recreation centers, improve city services and bring other money to improve their quality of life. My administration will make it a priority to bring in any and all funding available.

Again, Councilman/Democratic Committeeman Szymanski had these opportunities ALL along; he has failed to be as “aggressive” as other community leaders around the country. The city has had grant writers which Geoff has voted on for many, many years. Why hasn’t he sought their help up until now? When asked about obtaining grant money for playgrounds, housing demolitions and a community center, he said the money isn't there and they (the Council) needed to prioritize. Where have his priorities been for the citizens of Lackawanna for the past 6 years?

WORK WITH YOU:
*This is OUR Community! I have many ideas and a strong vision for our city, but I want your input too! We need a strong working relationship between our city government and our residents. If elected, my door will always be open, your phone calls always returned and your emails faithfully answered. I will ask for your input not only on the campaign trail but also each and every day after that. If Lackawanna is going to have a bright future, we need to work together and use all available ideas and resources to make it happen. AND IT WILL!

He hasn’t done that in all of his years in office OR as a Democratic Committeeman!

Why didn't Councilman/Democratic Committeeman Geoff Szymanski do any of this while sitting on the Council for so many years prior to his announcement for Mayor? As Councilman/ Democratic Committeeman he has turned a deaf ear to the citizens of Lackawanna on all of what they have been hounding the City on for years and now he wants us to believe that he will ensure change as mayor to the City??

The Democratic Endorsement for mayor, council president and 4th ward councilmember is scheduled for May 18, 2011; one day AFTER the school board elections. Coincidence or political tactic used to ensure that those candidates seeking the endorsement for city office deliver their support for the candidates chosen by the Democratic Committee to run for school board??

[nogods]

*Neighborhood Watch Programs & Block Clubs: I want to bring back neighborhood watch programs and block clubs. This is a great way to increase awareness, safety and pride in our community. Funding for these programs is available and I will make sure we go out and get those funds to improve quality of life in our neighborhoods.

You need money for that? What for, those silly signs? My neighbors and I watch out for each other and it doesn't require any funding.

[mnb811]

Why does Szymanski say all this now? He's had 6 years or so to do it. I should know I still have my old house in 2nd ward that I can't even sell because of the property next to me. When I complained several times about it to him nothing was ever done or calls weren't returned. Now he wants to be mayor so he says all this bs. Give me a break.

[mnb811]

I just can't wait to see Jaworski's platform because it'll be even a bigger joke. Neither of these guys have done a thing.

[nogods]

Jaworski, Szymanski, is every politician in Lackawana italian?

[CraftyExp]

All good points brought up on Geoff's candidacy. We are also residents of the 2nd ward. We have not seen one improvement in all his years as councilman. The ward is falling to pieces with run down houses, potholed streets and unkempt properties. There's nothing for the children and nothing for the seniors. I hope all your points are read by all and the voters will wake up and see what a scam this city has become. Mr. Jaworski is none the better as a candidate. We sure don't have any good choices for Mayor so far. Someone with true love of this city needs to step up to the plate.

[literal]

Jaworski, Szymanski, is every politician in Lackawana italian?

That would be POLISH!!!!!!

[literal]

Someone with true love of this city needs to step up to the plate.

You mean someone who has money, connections and a political endorsement, don't you?

[CraftyExp]

Guess that would suffice. Too bad it has to come down to money. Someone who has the grit to challenge the corruptness of this regime I guess would also have to have money. Sad but true. Connections can lead you down the wrong path, so can political endorsements. You never truly know who's really on your side. Everyone seems to have their own agenda. With the choices we have at this point in time who is the lesser of the evils?

[Caz5]

City Council Meeting
February 16, 2010

Local Law - Cold War Veterans

A local law in relation to enacting an exemption of real property taxes for Cold War Veterans...qualifying residential real property tax shall be exempt from taxation to the extent of 15% of the assessed value of such property...




(Geoff Szymanski bio: Decorated U.S. Navy Veteran-Machinist)

[Caz5]

An article in New WNY Politics
"Warthling: The Democrats Lackawanna Go-To Guy"

"We elected a good Democrat and a very competent and resourceful executive, Norman Polanski, the mayor of Lackawanna. And as a result, the city has undergone an economic development revival."

A member of both the Erie County Democratic Party Executive Committee and the County Water Authority, Warthling has been known for many years to be an "astute businessman" and a "community activist," long before he was considered a "highly respected political figure."

Warthling takes credit ("we", the Dems) for electing the first Yemeni City Council Councilman, Abdul Noman, for giving Congressman Higgins 85% of the vote (ensuring his victory), for electing Dan Kozub (Legislature), and Mark Schroeder (Assemblyman).

WHERE DOES GEOFF SZYMANSKI FIT INTO THIS?? IS MR. SZYMANSKI PART OF THIS "ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REVIVAL" THAT WARTHLING IS BRAGGING ABOUT? IS HE PART OF POLANSKI, THE "VERY COMPETENT AND RESOURCEFUL EXECUTIVE" FAN CLUB???

[Caz5]

Buffalo News
August 20, 2010

"Steel City Democrat in line for new term"

In reference to Warthling's seat on the Erie County Water Authority's governing board, the article states that Warthling as "an edge" because he leads the Democratic Party in Lackawanna and has "given generously" to the party organization and its candidates.

For example, the article continues: when Warthling was first appointed a water commissioner in 2006, nearly every Democratic legislature who voted to confirm him came away with a campaign contribution. Any Democrat who voted against him did not."

The commissioner, in turn "obtains jobs for foot soldiers. In Warthling's years as commissioner, the Water Authority has hired at least a half-dozen employees who have "beefed up their resumes with service in and around Lackawanna." A part time job with the Water Authority pays $22,500 per year PLUS BENEFITS.

IS IT TRUE THAT GEOFF SZYMANSKI WORKS FOR THE ERIE COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY??

[Caz5]

Buffalo News
April 15, 2011

Erie County Legislature, Daniel Kozub (D-Hamburg) stated that he would not seek re-election for another two year term. Kozub represents District 1, including Lackawanna.

New districts are being drawn this year to adjust the 2010 census - voters have approved that the legislature be dropped from 15 members down to 11. Dan Kozub's district is reported as "leaning Democrat."

As you may or may not know, Geoff Szymanski has been pushing for the reversal of this downsizing and his last article in the Front Page was all about the legislature NOT ABOUT THE LACKAWANNA MAYOR'S RACE. WHY?

[dickypotpie]

Caz5. Who do you recommend we vote for this coming mayors election?

[youcangohome]

Caz5. Who do you recommend we vote for this coming mayors election?

mnb811.....he/she has ALL the answers. Oooops, he/she lives in Boston

[Caz5]

Caz5. Who do you recommend we vote for this coming mayors election?

Not Status Quo. Someone with fresh eyes and ideas. Someone with the knowledge. Someone that is not "in it for himself". Someone who will work with the people. Someone who will work with business. Someone who will with the not "play the game". SOMEONE WHO HASN'T BEEN THERE ALREADY!! Someone who can CHANGE the City of Lackawanna once and for all! Morals. Ingegrity. Transparency. Honesty. Knowledge. Business Sense. Personable.

Now Dicky....who do you recomend?

[dickypotpie]

From all the info you have posted you must know all the candidates running and so I ask the question again. Who are you supporting given the choices of candidates that turned in petitions.

[mnb811]

She just said anyone but status quo.

[mnb811]

mnb811.....he/she has ALL the answers. Oooops, he/she lives in Boston

Thanks for the endorsement but your right I can't "honestly" run because I live in Boston now. But, there are people running for Mayor of Lackawanna right at the moment that live outside the city and that hasn't stopped them from trying. What do you expect when you allowed it to happen before?

[dickypotpie]

So now mnb you answer for andrea,caz5 &sunflower.Got it.

[cath829]

From all the info you have posted you must know all the candidates running and so I ask the question again. Who are you supporting given the choices of candidates that turned in petitions.

Don't think caz5 can answer that just yet....petitions haven't been turned in yet for the mayoral race.

[Caz5]

Dear Dicky, et.al.

Since the petitions don't start getting signed until June 7th and aren't filed until July 14th, it's difficult to even begin to guess or predict or dream up a name to give you for who I personally like.

Sunflower, is/was on the School Board. mnb811 lives in Boston. Andrea, I assume, is Andrea Haxton. And you assume I know these people, because...?

I am a Lackawanna High School graduate and married someone who joined the army soon after graduation. We have just recently moved back to LA. No children...but LOTS of aunts, uncles, and cousins in LA, South Buffalo and Hamburg.

[literal]

An article in New WNY Politics
"Warthling:

WHERE DOES GEOFF SZYMANSKI FIT INTO THIS?? IS MR. SZYMANSKI PART OF THIS "ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REVIVAL" THAT WARTHLING IS BRAGGING ABOUT? IS HE PART OF POLANSKI, THE "VERY COMPETENT AND RESOURCEFUL EXECUTIVE" FAN CLUB???

Hmmmmmm...perhaps soon through marriage to be part of his family?

[Caz5]

You asked who I would recommend as mayor. Let me put it this way...when I last lived in Lackawanna, Monarch was a K-Mart and that video store across the street was a Pizza Hut. Where Save-A-Lot is now, there was a Goodwill, a grocery store, Bryant & Stratton, and a thriving gift shop. The so-called "business section" of the City did NOT have a pawn shop, a liquor store, vacant buildings with FOR SALE signs plastered on them, and that little alley way behind City Hall that exits onto Nason Parkway was filled with cherry blossoms each spring. The playgrounds were maintained. I don't remember seeing boarded up buildings on every street.

You asked who I would recommend as mayor? Look at who has been in power all these years and look at the condition of this City. Now, I ask you...is "status quo" the answer? Do you really truly want MORE decay, MORE neglect, MORE corruption? The status quo are strutting around like peacocks...patting themselves on the back for all their "achievements" and are using words like "revitalization," "vision," and "contributing generously" to the community. WHAT PLANET ARE THESE PEOPLE ON???? Do you want more of the same? Then vote the SAME people back into office...and better yet...let's PROMOTE them from Councilman to MAYOR!!!!

[gibbsgal]

mnb811.....he/she has ALL the answers. Oooops, he/she lives in Boston

I live in West Seneca so does that mean I shouldn't care about some of my family members who live in Lackawanna? Have you noticed how disgusting parts of the second ward have become over the past 8 years? Kozub and Szymanski are to blame and you fools stay with the status quo.....makes some wonder what and who are lining your pockets.

[literal]

Democrats back Szymanski for mayorBy Jay Tokasz

NEWS STAFF REPORTER

Published:
May 20, 2011, 12:00 AM


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Updated: May 20, 2011, 6:52 AM


The Lackawanna Democratic committee has endorsed 2nd Ward Councilman Geoffrey M. Szymanski in the upcoming mayoral race.

Szymanski beat out four other candidates, including Council President Chuck Jaworski, in a caucus of 40 committee members Wednesday night in Curly’s Bar and Restaurant on Ridge Road.

In heavily Democratic Lackawanna, the committee endorsement often foreshadows a Democratic primary and general election win.

“It was a very important meeting yesterday,” said Lackawanna Democratic Committee Chairman Francis Warthling. “The new mayor’s going to have a lot on his plate. There’s lots of work.”

Szymanski garnered about three-quarters of the vote, said Warthling.

“He did his homework. He reached out to all the committee people and gathered support,” he said.

In addition to Jaworski, others seeking the party endorsement were Patrick McCuster, the Rev. Dion J. Watkins and Walter Sears.

Szymanski also has the backing of current Mayor Norman L. Polanski Jr., who is not eligible to run again due to term limits.

The committee endorsed teacher Keith Lewis for the 4th Ward Council seat currently held by Joseph

J. Schiavi.

Lewis lost in the 2007 election to Schiavi, who is not eligible for re-election due to term limits.

The committee also endorsed political newcomer Hank Pirowski for Council president. Pirowski has not held elective office before.

Former 1st Ward Councilwoman Andrea Haxton is expected to make a bid for the Council president seat, but she did not seek the Democratic committee endorsement.

jtokasz@buffnews.com

[mnb811]

Good luck the City is Doomed to fail!

[youcangohome]

Good luck the City is Doomed to fail!

Tell us again how you're not NEGATIVE......LIAR!!!!!!

[gibbsgal]

Have you seen what the second ward looks like? If that is what Geoff Szymanski has to offer the rest of Lackawanna, you people are in for a rude awakening! How long has he held a council seat? He is in the race for mayor ONLY for a higher office. he is nothing but a career politician! i heard he and his wife do not even live in Lackawanna! He ruined the 2nd ward!!

[Caz5]

April 19, 2010 AMHERST TIMES

There is an article entitled "Higgins Fights FEMA on Buffalo Flood Maps" with a timeline that included Lackawanna:

Congressman Higgins stated that 34 billion dollars has been paid to FEMA in the last 30 years...15 billion dollars of which went to Louisiana even though that state only paid 3 billion dollars into the program.

Oct. 2006 - Higgins asked the Governor to use FEMA mitigation funds to support dredging of Smokes Creek in Lackawanna.

June 2007 - Higgins advocated for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to allow dredging of Smokes Creek in Lackawanna.

Oct. 2007 - Higgins announces that FEMA has redrawn the flood maps resulting in 90% reduction in flood plain size in the city of Buffalo.

Sept. 2008 - The City of Buffalo signed a local law removing 2,768 city properties from the 100-year floodway boundary.

Oct. 2008 - The dredging of Smokes Creek in Lackawanna was completed.

Nov. 2009 - U.S. Army of Engineers working on analysis and redrawing maps in Lackawanna's Smokes Creek area.

THAT WAS NOVEMBER OF 2009, FOLKS! IF IT'S TRUE THAT GEOFF HAS BEEN FIGHTING FOR PROPERTY OWNERS WITH REGARDS TO THE FLOOD INSURANCE...HAS ANYONE SEEN ANY RESULTS? ANY OPEN COMMUNICATION WITH THE PROPERTY OWENRS?

[gibbsgal]

Geoff didn't do jack for the city of lackawanna. Again, look at his ward and people living there are happy with him??? You have Got to be kidding right...Vote Geoff Szymanski for SLUM and BLIGHT!

[mnb811]

Tell us again how you're not NEGATIVE......LIAR!!!!!!

He had his chance and he's failed miserably and he needs to stay home and that's not negative that's the truth! Take off your rose colored glasses already.

[Caz5]

There are five candidates running for mayor. All are Democrats. That means that once you sign a petition, you cannot sign any others. Please be a responsible and informed voter and at least LISTEN to the 5 candidates...ALL FIVE...before you sign ANYTHING!!! The petitions are supposed to be signed on June 7th. NOT BEFORE! If someone approaches you to sign a petition PRIOR TO THE JUNE 7TH DATE, please DO NOT SIGN IT! Hear what ALL FIVE candidates have to say before you sign anything! Thank you!

[literal]

There are five candidates running for mayor. All are Democrats. That means that once you sign a petition, you cannot sign any others. Please be a responsible and informed voter and at least LISTEN to the 5 candidates...ALL FIVE...before you sign ANYTHING!!! The petitions are supposed to be signed on June 7th. NOT BEFORE! If someone approaches you to sign a petition PRIOR TO THE JUNE 7TH DATE, please DO NOT SIGN IT! Hear what ALL FIVE candidates have to say before you sign anything! Thank you!

WHO are they?

[Caz5]

Chuck Jaworski
Geoff Szymanski
Dion Watkins
Patrick McKusker
Walter Sears

[literal]

I hear that Rev. Watkins has got excellent credentials to be the next Mayor. People seem very encouraged by his candidacy.....

[youcangohome]

I hear that Rev. Watkins has got excellent credentials to be the next Mayor. People seem very encouraged by his candidacy.....

Fact is he lives in Hamburg

[mnb811]

What about Love? Or Estrada or Kozub while they were on the Council? It was ok for them good ol boys to live outside Lackawanna but now its not ok for the REV? What the hell is that? You reep what you sow!

[literal]

Maybe he will move to Lackawanna if he gets the job?

[lackawanna_dude]

Sorry guys the second ward is finished, filled with a new breed of drug dealers that work 9 to 5 jobs, under the radar to be clear. Your problem is not the neighborhood itself, but what comes into the neighborhood is the problem. We need to fund the narcotics department to prevent the import/export of drugs and how easily the drugs flow through the hands of those looking to buy.
We need to focus on rehabilitating our youth that has become strongly dependent on these evil things. We need to set up programs in our neighborhoods to teach kids the difference of someone that lives a honest drugfree life and someone that is addicted to drugs look and live.
As long as drugs continue to flow in the city of Lackawanna, we should start digging the graves because I see destruction and death for the future residents of the city.
Stop this one thing and you'll be amazed how our city will grow and flourish, we have some very smart, determined people in our city and all they need is that chance to prove to someone they are worthy of protecting.

[Caz5]

Blight and decay ATTRACT drug dealers. A city in disrepair ATTRACTS undesireables. Crumbling infrastructures ATTRACT transient people.

[andreahaxton]

So does low rents, cheap property, and an administration who controls assessments anyway they want to.

Bushels of money tunneled through Lackawanna since "The Plant" closed in 83'!
Again, where has all the money gone and who is responsible for signing and depositing all those checks?
Yes the First Ward got some new housing stock, quite a few rehabs throughout the First and Second Wards, but.......

Why hasn't Lackawanna ever been totally revitalized?---Because the same group of "family and friends" has controlled OUR City for decades and their vision is their larger bank account instead of a vision for a better Lackawanna.

Take, take, take--what do they give or volunteer their time for?
When you look at their campaign political contributions on the NYS Board of Elections web page you will see them donating to churches in the First Ward, benefits, or golf outings----but NOTHING is paid out of their own pocket!
They have it all plotted out so they can puff out their chest and take a bow.

P.S. I am not singling or personally attacking anyone in particular, in my above post, the good people people know who who are.

[Caz5]

Turning the city around IS POSSIBLE. The same people who are voted into office again and again all come with the same ideas, the same attitudes, the same support system backing them. More of the same is not going to change this city. Promoting someone who did absolutely nothing thus far makes no sense. In the business world and in the sports world, people who were hired to produce, create, and achieve are FIRED if they don't. Plain and simple. The political world should be no different. Take a tip from Donald Trump...YOU'RE FIRED!!!!!

[Caz5]

Candidate Geoffrey Szymanski's REPORT CARD

It seems appropriate that Mr. Szymanski's performance should be graded both individually and jointly. What grade would you give him on these categories?

1. Independent thinking (is willing to raise questions about infrastructure, street repairs, blight, etc.)
2. Understands complex issues (example: infrastructure maintenance, "heritage protection" of our buildings)
3. Listens to and evaluates the views of others
4. Able to grasp new ideas - is he a visionary?
5. Transparency (i.e., uses the media to inform voters)
6. Can councilman identify at least 5 top priorities of the City?
7. Is VISIBLE in the ward he represents? (i.e. block clubs, 2nd ward public meetings)
8. How much is he doing for the good of the city vs. for the advancement of his career?
9. Does he contribute to council meetings or is he simply a "mannequin occupying a chair"?

[CraftyExp]

You've raised some very good points CAZ5. He's our councilman and I couldn't tell you one thing he has done for our ward since he's been in office. Let's hope the voters search their souls in this election. But as far as the race goes now, there's no one that fits the bill. Let's hope someone with true love of this city surfaces.

[buffalonymann]

What about Love? Or Estrada or Kozub while they were on the Council? It was ok for them good ol boys to live outside Lackawanna but now its not ok for the REV? What the hell is that? You reep what you sow!

The mayor job should go to a person who has lived in the City, paid City taxes, and experience living in the City, and committed to the City.

[buffalonymann]

I hear that Rev. Watkins has got excellent credentials to be the next Mayor. People seem very encouraged by his candidacy.....

Excellent credentials? When did Watkins serve as a Mayor? What did he do for the municipality? The man takes our tax dollars out of the City to give to other municipalities.

Watkins claims to be a Christian, but rather than accept the Christianity that Jesus started, he made up his own brand of Christianity; he created his own gods in his own image.

If Watkins cannot be loyal to God, how could we possibly trust him to be loyal to the residents of Lackawanna?

[literal]

Excellent credentials? When did Watkins serve as a Mayor? What did he do for the municipality? The man takes our tax dollars out of the City to give to other municipalities.

Watkins claims to be a Christian, but rather than accept the Christianity that Jesus started, he made up his own brand of Christianity; he created his own gods in his own image.

If Watkins cannot be loyal to God, how could we possibly trust him to be loyal to the residents of Lackawanna?

Well, that clears up that questions!!!

[mnb811]

The mayor job should go to a person who has lived in the City, paid City taxes, and experience living in the City, and committed to the City.

No kidding:D I was being a smartass. Just have to love it when city minions bring up "residency rules" when they didn't or don't follow them themselves.

[Caz5]

Thank you so much for saving Inee's Pub from the wrecking ball! Yes, Lackawanna needs ANOTHER PUB/TAVERN/BAR with a "beautiful facade"!!!! One building at a time, Mr. Szymanski, one building at a time....???????

[mnb811]

You mean one building at ELECTION TIME? LOL You'll never see him around a building again afterwards. BTW he isn't doing jack! The cop oops I mean local businessman that bought it is. Talk about connections.......same bs, same faces ,same party poopers, even though its a "different /new" candidate the people behind him are one and the same! Nothing will ever change. I don't know which guy is worse Him or "Common Sense and Hard Work" Jaworski LOL. If he had any sense the city wouldn't be where it is.

[Caz5]

Suddenly after six years as city council, Mr. Szymanski has decided to publish a little newsletter to "get the message out" to the citizens of Lackawanna...to "keep you informed of the issues." Other than patting yourself on the back for saving Inee's Pub from the wrecking ball, WHAT ISSUES are you talking about?

[Lackcitizen]

I hear that Rev. Watkins has got excellent credentials to be the next Mayor. People seem very encouraged by his candidacy.....

:confused:

[Lackcitizen]

All good points brought up on Geoff's candidacy. We are also residents of the 2nd ward. We have not seen one improvement in all his years as councilman. The ward is falling to pieces with run down houses, potholed streets and unkempt properties. There's nothing for the children and nothing for the seniors. I hope all your points are read by all and the voters will wake up and see what a scam this city has become. Mr. Jaworski is none the better as a candidate. We sure don't have any good choices for Mayor so far. Someone with true love of this city needs to step up to the plate.
a lot of these problems are due to out of state companies buying up property, turning them into Belmont & just wanting their money. It is happening in every ward!

[Lackcitizen]

the Mayor should have to live in the city, they all should! It just takes one phone call to report!

[Lackcitizen]

Take Back OUR Community:

*Neighborhood Watch Programs & Block Clubs: I want to bring back neighborhood watch programs and block clubs. This is a great way to increase awareness, safety and pride in our community. Funding for these programs is available and I will make sure we go out and get those funds to improve quality of life in our neighborhoods.

Councilman Szymanski/Democratic Committeeman has been questioned numerous times at Council meetings pertaining to this issue. He has not taken this initiative in all the years he has been in office, why now? As a matter of fact, these programs and clubs already officially exist in Lackawanna since 2006. Buffalo and Erie County Board of Block Clubs are already active in Lackawanna.

*Sex Offender Law: While on the Council, I wrote the current local law governing sex offenders in our community. It is one of the most, if not the most, restrictive sex offender laws in New York State. We need to do everything we can to protect our children. This law goes a long way towards ensuring their safety and well being. I am extremely proud of this accomplishment.

Councilman Szymanski/Democratic Committeeman did not write this law. He expanded the NYS Law by increasing the distance from where a sex offender may reside in proximity with a playground and/or school.

Protect and Improve City Services:
*Police, Fire and Public Works: Lackawanna enjoys excellent public services. Our Police, Fire and Public Works Department are made up of dedicated individuals who serve us daily. I will work hard to ensure they receive everything they need to continue performing at the highest level so that all residents receive the best public services of any community in WNY.

Councilman Szymanski/ Democratic Committeeman has already allowed (voted on and passed) millions of dollars that have gone into the DPW for new equipment and trucks.

Revamp Recreation Programs:
*For our Senior Citizens: Our community has a large senior citizen population. We have a wonderful senior citizen complex on Martin Road, but it can and will be improved. I will make sure that it’s utilized to its full potential. Our seniors deserve the best!

The Senior Center just recently had a quarter of a million dollars of repairs done to the building. This money was received from a Senator. As a Councilmember/Democratic Committeman, why hasn’t he been concerned with our seniors before? He has been involved in politics all of his life and only now as mayoral candidate he is concerned with our seniors?

*For our Other Residents: Under my leadership, recreation for all ages will be a major focus. Recreation programs will be overhauled to foster activities that are available to all city residents. Playgrounds will be updated and funding for a recreation center will be sought. Keeping our children off street corners and involved in extra-curricular activities is extremely important.

What recreation programs are you seeking for the “other” residents? Where are you seeking the money from? Where have you been Mr. Szymanski? As Mayor you are going to accomplish all of this? You should have been focused on these issues as Councilman/Democratic Committeeman prior to your announcement as mayoral candidate. Have you seen what the ward you represent currently looks like? Why is he bringing up playgrounds now when he knows Tom Love (Commissioner of Dept. of Public Works and also his relative who he will probably retain) will not allow any new equipment because he has to maintain it? Mr. Szymanski has also stated in the past that the city has too many playgrounds and that the city should only have one centrally located playground for the entire city.

*Unite with Our Schools: Work as team with our schools, we’re all in this together, aren’t we? Our greatest asset is our children. We need to share facilities to ensure our young people have access to all we have to offer. I will work tirelessly to make sure that city and school district leaders are on the same page to make the future bright for our children.

The school and city have worked together for years with agreements on “open” gym and swimming programs for the families in Lackawanna. The school and city have an agreement for the use of the city’s gas pumps located at the city garage. The school also has an agreement to use Veteran’s Stadium for football games. Reciprocal agreements have been in place for the school and city to work together for some time.

Stimulate Lackawanna’s Economy:
*Create a Business Friendly Atmosphere: This is one of my main goals. We need to make businesses want to come here. Lackawanna has everything available to be a powerhouse in the commercial and industrial sector. We have great access to major highways, waterways and railroads. We are in very close proximity to downtown Buffalo and Canada. Lackawanna can and will be a major hub for businesses in our area. We need to work together!

Create a business friendly atmosphere? See Chapter 88 of the Lackawanna Municipal Code. He has constantly voted for business tax increases and then imposes another fee upon them. Mr. Szymanski have you noticed that businesses have and are still leaving Lackawanna under your tenure? Mr. Szymanski voted for the Sorrento Cheese truck ban and for the lawsuit against them. How much did that cost the taxpayers?

*Bring Lackawanna into the 21st Century:
Our city needs to begin utilizing current and future technology to attract residents and businesses. We need to better communicate with our citizens. Individuals looking to move their family or business to Lackawanna need to know that we are community with an eye on the future. We want to use the most effective and up to date technology available. We need to upgrade our current city website to improve services and keep residents informed.

In 2009 Councilmember Haxton had submitted as an agenda item the very same necessity as you are stating above. Why is it of any importance to you now? As far as keeping citizens informed why does Mr. Szymanski constantly vote to restrict citizen participation at council meetings? Why did he not speak out when citizens were told items were not on agenda and couldn't be heard? Why did he refuse to debate/or attend a public forum when he last ran for office?

*Be Aggressive in Seeking Grant Money: In communities all around the country, city leaders are aggressively going after grants that can build recreation centers, improve city services and bring other money to improve their quality of life. My administration will make it a priority to bring in any and all funding available.

Again, Councilman/Democratic Committeeman Szymanski had these opportunities ALL along; he has failed to be as “aggressive” as other community leaders around the country. The city has had grant writers which Geoff has voted on for many, many years. Why hasn’t he sought their help up until now? When asked about obtaining grant money for playgrounds, housing demolitions and a community center, he said the money isn't there and they (the Council) needed to prioritize. Where have his priorities been for the citizens of Lackawanna for the past 6 years?

WORK WITH YOU:
*This is OUR Community! I have many ideas and a strong vision for our city, but I want your input too! We need a strong working relationship between our city government and our residents. If elected, my door will always be open, your phone calls always returned and your emails faithfully answered. I will ask for your input not only on the campaign trail but also each and every day after that. If Lackawanna is going to have a bright future, we need to work together and use all available ideas and resources to make it happen. AND IT WILL!

He hasn’t done that in all of his years in office OR as a Democratic Committeeman!

Why didn't Councilman/Democratic Committeeman Geoff Szymanski do any of this while sitting on the Council for so many years prior to his announcement for Mayor? As Councilman/ Democratic Committeeman he has turned a deaf ear to the citizens of Lackawanna on all of what they have been hounding the City on for years and now he wants us to believe that he will ensure change as mayor to the City??

The Democratic Endorsement for mayor, council president and 4th ward councilmember is scheduled for May 18, 2011; one day AFTER the school board elections. Coincidence or political tactic used to ensure that those candidates seeking the endorsement for city office deliver their support for the candidates chosen by the Democratic Committee to run for school board??
By far Geoff is the best candidate running, some of the things brought up against him. were not under his control. The 2nd ward is full of crack & drugs, the police are working on it. I know, I live there!

[mnb811]

By far Geoff is the best candidate running, some of the things brought up against him. were not under his control. The 2nd ward is full of crack & drugs, the police are working on it. I know, I live there!

By far Geoff is the biggest do nothing running. One of the reasons why I MOVED!

[mnb811]

a lot of these problems are due to out of state companies buying up property, turning them into Belmont & just wanting their money. It is happening in every ward!


People don't want lame ass excuses! They want action. Geoff and Chuck had their chance. We can't do nothing is their answer. People elsewhere react to the problem not give excuses. Chuck and Geoff have done nothing the whole time they have been on the council.

[mnb811]

the Mayor should have to live in the city, they all should! It just takes one phone call to report!

Never had to do it before in Lackawanna and now you have an issue with it? LOL

[gibbsgal]

I have lived in the second ward for approximately 14 years the last six of which have been with Mr. Szymanski as my councilman. I can guarantee you that the crack heads had nothing to do with this ridiculous flood zone that we have and the unsurmountable cost associated with it. I know that I could put some of that money that I would be saving into making my home a nicer property but somehow the crackheads caused that. I had alternate parking on my street during the winter months from November to April well someone had a brainstorm of an idea that it was needed during the Spring, Summer and Fall months too. Probably should thank the crack heads for that also. Mr. Szymanski hasnt done a thing for the citizens of the second ward except use them to try and catapult his career. Wake up Lackawanna lets get off this same ole same ole crap. He will use all the citizens of Lackawanna to take his next step. If he had put as much effort and energy into helping the people of the second ward as he has put into establishing his life long political career we would have much to thank him for. I saqy he has had his chance to proof himself and aqs common as it is in Lackawanna I must give him a failing grade so please lets break tradition and instead of passing him on lets teach him by passing him over. One must wonder how the great police force of Lackawanna like it when someone says that the second wards problems are all caused by the crackheads who took the ward over, and that the police while working on this problem seem not to have been able to stop it in the last six years. I am sorry but I think our police force does a great job.

[Caz5]

I totally agree with what you said, gibbsgal. The 2nd Ward is "full of crack and drugs" is the dumbest statement EVER! And it's Szymanski's ward, but it's NOT HIS FAULT, so let's give the guy a break, shall we, and promote him to MAYOR! Because...?

Buffalo has had success with their "clean sweep" program. If Geoff was pro-active, he'd be doing whatever it took to protect "his ward" by finding the tools and resources the police and courts needed to uproot these drug dealers quickly...sending a CLEAR message: You are NOT WELCOMED in MY WARD!!!!!

We almost lost our DARE Program...now it's barely surviving on bare minimum. Szymanski should have been screaming from the rooftops FOR THAT PROGRAM if he was so concerned about drugs infiltrating HIS WARD!!!

The people in HIS WARD are dealing with blight, high taxes, outrageous flood insurance, absentee landlords who allow their renters to run down and destroy the neighborhood, and yet you say SZYMANSKI IS THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR??? Not only did he DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING during his six years as 2nd Ward Councilman...but his supporters are excusing the condition of his ward and blaming CRACK AND DRUGS for the problem? Are you kidding me????

That property that he's patting himself on the back for saving from the wrecking ball isn't even HIS! I could see if HE purchased the property and HE was paying for the rennovation...then maybe, just maybe, he could strut around a bit...but, seriously??? WHO saved the property from the wrecking ball? A FRIEND OF Szymanski.

[mnb811]

He also constantly tables the absentee landlord law that residents have been pushing for. Mr. Jaworski also has voted to table this law. I know it is not much but it could have been a start. Talk about ineffective leadership from both of these guys. Either of them doing anything about this problem now is just political rhetoric and them saying anything to get elected. They both have had years to accomplish something on this issue and neither of them have put anything of substance out there to rectify the problem. They both had their chance let Seres, Watkins or McCusker have a shot at it.

[Caz5]

O.k., come on, let's be fair...those two have been sitting on the sidelines WAITING FOR A CHANCE TO PROVE HOW MUCH THEY CARE about the city! And the only way they can do that, of course, is with the title of MAYOR in front of their name! The promise is...put me in charge and I'll put on my Big Boy pants and spring into action!!! I'll slap this city into shape! Just watch me! The 2nd Ward was just a footstool...a seat to warm on the council floor...just pretend and nothing serious. But elect me Mayor, and boy-oh-boy just watch me gooooooooooooooooo!

[Lackcitizen]

People don't want lame ass excuses! They want action. Geoff and Chuck had their chance. We can't do nothing is their answer. People elsewhere react to the problem not give excuses. Chuck and Geoff have done nothing the whole time they have been on the council.
on one side of one block of my street there are 5 belmont, owned by out of state deadbeat landlords. Who's fault is that? Not an excuse, a fact.

[Lackcitizen]

Never had to do it before in Lackawanna and now you have an issue with it? LOL
I have always had an issue with it!

[Lackcitizen]

He also constantly tables the absentee landlord law that residents have been pushing for. Mr. Jaworski also has voted to table this law. I know it is not much but it could have been a start. Talk about ineffective leadership from both of these guys. Either of them doing anything about this problem now is just political rhetoric and them saying anything to get elected. They both have had years to accomplish something on this issue and neither of them have put anything of substance out there to rectify the problem. They both had their chance let Seres, Watkins or McCusker have a shot at it.

Seres is unstable, Watkins does not live in Lackawanna, oops he says he moved into the parsonage..right before election time. McCusker does not even let his platform be known, unless you paid $20 to hear it. It is a big mess & it needs fixing. Come election time I hope we get someone who does something good for this city. As far as drugs in the 2nd ward, I said the police department is working on it, but when I can not get off my street to go to work because of the crackheads not moving out of the way. Now that is a problem.

[cath829]

Seres is unstable, Watkins does not live in Lackawanna, oops he says he moved into the parsonage..right before election time. McCusker does not even let his platform be known, unless you paid $20 to hear it. It is a big mess & it needs fixing. Come election time I hope we get someone who does something good for this city. As far as drugs in the 2nd ward, I said the police department is working on it, but when I can not get off my street to go to work because of the crackheads not moving out of the way. Now that is a problem.

Dear Lackcitizen...you are misinformed about Mr. McCusker not letting his platform be known....visit mccusker4mayor.com and you can read his platform for yourself. Obviously if you were aware of his get together the other day, you should have also known about his website.

As far as the mess in your ward, what has been done in the last 6 years other than more decay? If you have ever received a Notice of Violation from the city, you would be aware of the language used as far as the violation may be sent to owners, lessee, lesser, or OCCUPANT! You can not blame landlords for sloppy tenants you can care less about taking PRIDE in the home they choose to live in! The same goes for homeowners who occupy their homes.

[Lackcitizen]

Dear Lackcitizen...you are misinformed about Mr. McCusker not letting his platform be known....visit mccusker4mayor.com and you can read his platform for yourself. Obviously if you were aware of his get together the other day, you should have also known about his website.

As far as the mess in your ward, what has been done in the last 6 years other than more decay? If you have ever received a Notice of Violation from the city, you would be aware of the language used as far as the violation may be sent to owners, lessee, lesser, or OCCUPANT! You can not blame landlords for sloppy tenants you can care less about taking PRIDE in the home they choose to live in! The same goes for homeowners who occupy their homes.
saw the website, found it vague. Never received a violation but the house next door has 4x, they just pay the fine.

[dickypotpie]

I was gonna support Pat Mckusker because he was a fresh face and I liked his blue collar backround. But once I found out people like Mingerelli who already has 3 or 4 pentions. And some of his cronies were backing him I decided to not support him. These people. Have ruined so many canidates after they got into office. And If the canidate doesn't vote the way they want you to. They will dump them and go around town bad mouthing them. It's a shame how these people keep destroying this city. I might not even vote this election.

[cath829]

I guess Geoff's website appears vague to you also? How about Chuck and Dion? Your neighbor does not "just" pay the fine-there is a court process that follows the Notice of Violation. Certain steps need to be followed.

I guess you are not going to be voting this time around Dickey-unless you like to run with the likes of makeyenko and company who are holding a job over your head.

[Lackcitizen]

Dear Lackcitizen...you are misinformed about Mr. McCusker not letting his platform be known....visit mccusker4mayor.com and you can read his platform for yourself. Obviously if you were aware of his get together the other day, you should have also known about his website.

As far as the mess in your ward, what has been done in the last 6 years other than more decay? If you have ever received a Notice of Violation from the city, you would be aware of the language used as far as the violation may be sent to owners, lessee, lesser, or OCCUPANT! You can not blame landlords for sloppy tenants you can care less about taking PRIDE in the home they choose to live in! The same goes for homeowners who occupy their homes.
On Pat's website a man named John said he can not wait to hear Pat's ideas. Pat relied come to my meeting on the 9th at the Lake Erie Club. Nothing on his page about what his platform is! Go to it and read it yourself. I know Pat and he is trying to play it safe & slide in under the wire. He has said nothing about his plans for this city! At least not for free!

[Lackcitizen]

I guess Geoff's website appears vague to you also? How about Chuck and Dion? Your neighbor does not "just" pay the fine-there is a court process that follows the Notice of Violation. Certain steps need to be followed.

I guess you are not going to be voting this time around Dickey-unless you like to run with the likes of makeyenko and company who are holding a job over your head.
Geoff's pass out is on here. As I have stated before I checked out all candidates. If you as you say can point out Pat's platform that you say is on his site...feel free. I would love to know!

[Lackcitizen]

I guess Geoff's website appears vague to you also? How about Chuck and Dion? Your neighbor does not "just" pay the fine-there is a court process that follows the Notice of Violation. Certain steps need to be followed.

I guess you are not going to be voting this time around Dickey-unless you like to run with the likes of makeyenko and company who are holding a job over your head.
the homeowners are out of state,,,they pay all fines including court fines. All candidates have been looked into...let's see who jumps political parties if they do not win the primary

[Lackcitizen]

I have lived in the second ward for approximately 14 years the last six of which have been with Mr. Szymanski as my councilman. I can guarantee you that the crack heads had nothing to do with this ridiculous flood zone that we have and the unsurmountable cost associated with it. I know that I could put some of that money that I would be saving into making my home a nicer property but somehow the crackheads caused that. I had alternate parking on my street during the winter months from November to April well someone had a brainstorm of an idea that it was needed during the Spring, Summer and Fall months too. Probably should thank the crack heads for that also. Mr. Szymanski hasnt done a thing for the citizens of the second ward except use them to try and catapult his career. Wake up Lackawanna lets get off this same ole same ole crap. He will use all the citizens of Lackawanna to take his next step. If he had put as much effort and energy into helping the people of the second ward as he has put into establishing his life long political career we would have much to thank him for. I saqy he has had his chance to proof himself and aqs common as it is in Lackawanna I must give him a failing grade so please lets break tradition and instead of passing him on lets teach him by passing him over. One must wonder how the great police force of Lackawanna like it when someone says that the second wards problems are all caused by the crackheads who took the ward over, and that the police while working on this problem seem not to have been able to stop it in the last six years. I am sorry but I think our police force does a great job.
I never implied the drug users had anything to do with the flood zone. I have lived here for 50 plus years.

[Lackcitizen]

flood zone become informed...www.ci.lackawanna.ny.us/minutes/031510.htm Geoff tried to get the burden of extra insurance off of the 2nd ward people. Everyone talks but no one looks up information.:eek:

[andreahaxton]

the homeowners are out of state,,,they pay all fines including court fines. All candidates have been looked into...let's see who jumps political parties if they do not win the primary

++++++++
I was supposed to have a Hearing with the Director of Development and my Lawyer pleaded with them to follow OUR OWN LOCAL LAW but........NO-----they chose to break it in order to continue their dog and pony show/personal attacks and tarring and feathering of me on TV! I was, well you all know pretty much the story, except how many lies were told, starting with the homeless men ( one a Viet Vet literally sleeping on park benches), I let stay up in my old building....
They were promised new apartments for turning on me and going on TV against me. Well guess who calls me ALL the time and wants to expose the crooks for what they are guilty of?
P.S. I went from being given housing violations on TV by a City employee who received over-time for doing it, at about 8pm Jan. 7, 2008--to conviction in a record time of appr. eight months. $1000.00 fine paid on time! Yes, I had a very old building that needed a lot of work but I never forced the men to live there-----they had NOWHERE else to live and winter was coming. It was better than a park bench that the Vet was sleeping on. There is serious "Selective Enforcement" that has been going on far too long in Lackawanna!

Boy oh boy Lackcitizen---you really know the poli-tricks! I am impressed!

[cath829]

On Pat's website a man named John said he can not wait to hear Pat's ideas. Pat relied come to my meeting on the 9th at the Lake Erie Club. Nothing on his page about what his platform is! Go to it and read it yourself. I know Pat and he is trying to play it safe & slide in under the wire. He has said nothing about his plans for this city! At least not for free!

Ummm, there is a difference between a website and a social setting known as facebook. Mccusker4mayor.com is the website. Do you read the official paper of the city? Mr. McCusker had three articles. Oops, you had to pay .50 for that!

[cath829]

Here are the things you are looking for to TRULY be an informed voter:

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to those that do not know me. My name is Patrick A. McCusker. I am making this announcement to declare my candidacy for the office of Mayor of the great city of Lackawanna, NY.
I was raised in Lackawanna, and graduated from Lackawanna High School in the year 1978. Much has changed since that time. The strength and resolve of the citizens has remained. As I raise my two children as a widower I see many of the challenges single parents must deal with each and every day. They are the same issues two parent families have; however I never imagined losing my loving wife to cancer in 2007. In 1983 we never imagined the city of Lackawanna without Bethlehem Steel either. The time has come for this great city of Lackawanna to take control of its future and leave the loss behind. We have a fantastic opportunity to use the resources here for the betterment of our citizens. If you believe Lackawanna can once again bring industry to our industrial areas, affordable housing to our residential neighborhoods, and business back to our commercial buildings; safety in our streets, fairness to all residents; Patrick A. McCusker is the person you want leading your city.
I spent eighteen years as a union ironworker, taking a leave from Ironworkers Local #6 due to an injury. As an ironworker I took initiative to serve as an executive board member for 6 years. During that time I was involved in two contract negotiations. I believe that experience in negotiating with the contractors will carry forward when the time comes to negotiate fair and equitable contracts with the union membership that represents our city. Negotiations should be a well thought out plan for the future that is fair and equitable to the labor force and also the taxpayers of Lackawanna.
In the year 1999 I was retrained as a tax professional, and hired at H&R Block. From that time forward I was very rapidly promoted to the position of district manager. Those promotions were earned through developing plans to increase revenue and control spending. As district manager I was responsible for 43 offices throughout Niagara and Erie Counties. My labor and management skills make Patrick A. McCusker the most qualified candidate to run this great city of Lackawanna!
In the coming months I plan to have town hall meetings throughout the city and visit as many homes as possible to get to personally know as many residents as I can. Please attend the planned meetings so the voters can make an educated, informed decision when they cast their votes.


Now that the Lackawanna School Board election has been completed, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the candidates on a well-run campaign. A special congratulation goes out to Dave Joyce, Ken Motyka, and Maureen Gambino on achieving the support of the voters to be entrusted with the responsibility of our school children.
In the next few months the voters will have another opportunity to give Lackawanna the positive future that we all deserve. I encourage the voters to listen to each candidate and make an informed independent judgment on whom they wish to lead this great city of Lackawanna. We will have choices to make for the best possible future for our residents, one and all. I wish the residents of Lackawanna the courage to discuss the issues in depth with friends and family
I have heard it said, ‘If you can’t pick the people up in your life, for God’s sake don’t let them take you down!’ The time is now for the residents of Lackawanna to let go of the old, outdated policies that have left our city behind. We must move forward with a solid plan to bring new residents into the city. We must drive new business into our business and industrial areas.
In the upcoming months leading into the primary election I will come to the residents of Lackawanna with my plan to drive industry into Lackawanna. I will work with the Department of Development to promote Lackawanna, and educate prospective businesses regarding the resources Lackawanna has to offer.
I will inform voters on my plan for the infrastructure of Lackawanna, promoting an annual maintenance of the parks, streets, fire and police, and public works facilities. With Patrick A. McCusker leading the great city of Lackawanna we will have a progressive approach to repair rather than a reactive system that causes catastrophic repairs to be done under less than ideal circumstances. Working with the Commissioner of Public Works, together we will be able to more efficiently manage the resources to effectively control expenses. Come join us on June 9, 2011 at the Lake Erie Italian Club to become a better informed voter. This is just a beginning of my plan for a positive future in Lackawanna, New York!
I look forward to meeting as many residents of Lackawanna as possible in the coming months.


Come join us
MEET PATRICK A. MCCUSKER
Your next mayor of the great city of Lackawanna
Thursday June 9, 2011
Lake Erie Italian Club
3200 South Park Avenue
6-8 p.m.
Beer- food-pop-raffles
Donation $20.00 per person
POSITIVE IDEAS-POSITIVE ACTIONS-POSITIVE FUTURE



PLATFORM FOR THE GREAT CITY OF LACKAWANNA, NY
Pat has the plan for the positive future of Lackawanna------
Drive business back into Lackawanna;
Lackawanna will be an industrial leader once again. The director of development will be an aggressive salesperson for our great city. We will reach out to small business entrepreneurs and the largest manufacturers alike!
When we make Lackawanna an inviting city all residents will benefit from an increase in the property values!
City Services
I will work with the leaders of our fantastic fire department, police department, and public works to ensure a safe work environment, tools to complete their work load, proper manpower, and a budget that affords the infrastructure will be maintained on a yearly basis so as to avoid having to make emergency repairs after years of neglect.
Residents
Residents of Lackawanna deserve the best possible representation. As mayor of the great city of Lackawanna I will work with and represent ALL residents regardless of the political party they have chosen of their own free will to be a member of. At no time will I ask, nor research which party you are affiliated with. My approach will always be decided upon the issues and how it will affect the city of Lackawanna.
Recreation
Lackawanna has limited recreation activities. We need to keep that alive; we also need to add more recreation during the days for our children. Under my leadership there will be programs that bring our children together for a variety of activities.
I will work closely with the senior citizens to make sure their desires are met.
Grant Money
Lackawanna will actively seek grants for every aspect of the city, from recreation to roads, from senior activities to firefighter equipment. Nothing will be neglected under my leadership.
Leadership
Common sense will rule while Patrick A. McCusker is mayor of Lackawanna, NY
Neighborhood Beautification
Residents will be encouraged to keep their properties beautiful. The city of Lackawanna will set the standard with public land being improved with trees, flowers, benches where possible. City hall will reach out for neighbors as to how they wish for the vacant land surrounding their homes to appear.
Dilapidated Property
City hall will take an aggressive approach to removing properties that have been neglected to the point where they are no longer valuable. I will take advantage of laws and court rulings to effectively develop residential and commercial land.


POSITIVE IDEAS POSITIVE ACTIONS POSITIVE FUTURE

[gibbsgal]

I was gonna support Pat Mckusker because he was a fresh face and I liked his blue collar backround. But once I found out people like Mingerelli who already has 3 or 4 pentions. And some of his cronies were backing him I decided to not support him. These people. Have ruined so many canidates after they got into office. And If the canidate doesn't vote the way they want you to. They will dump them and go around town bad mouthing them. It's a shame how these people keep destroying this city. I might not even vote this election.

You are jealous that Mr. Mingarell worked his whole life to qualify for his 3 or 4 pensions? How sad that you were unable to obtain that in your life. He worked for them and DESERVES them, if you are positive that he receives 3 or 4 pensions! City, County, State and Federal, I take it - what a man! Sad that your jealousy inhibits your own mind on picking the best qualified candidate. If Mr. Mingarell is supporting Mr. Mccusker, as you say- maybe you should thank him for not giving you someone that has already ruined your fine city. Do you have your own mind or do you listen to how the rest of the cronies TELL you to vote for? You get what you vote for and as far as I can see with that statement and the rest of the city of Lackawanna - you deserve the slum and blight surrounding your homes! From what I have read - Mr. Mccusker has the best qualifications to put Lackawanna back onto the map and not be the laughing stock of Erie County anymore!

[Lackcitizen]

++++++++
I was supposed to have a Hearing with the Director of Development and my Lawyer pleaded with them to follow OUR OWN LOCAL LAW but........NO-----they chose to break it in order to continue their dog and pony show/personal attacks and tarring and feathering of me on TV! I was, well you all know pretty much the story, except how many lies were told, starting with the homeless men ( one a Viet Vet literally sleeping on park benches), I let stay up in my old building....
They were promised new apartments for turning on me and going on TV against me. Well guess who calls me ALL the time and wants to expose the crooks for what they are guilty of?
P.S. I went from being given housing violations on TV by a City employee who received over-time for doing it, at about 8pm Jan. 7, 2008--to conviction in a record time of appr. eight months. $1000.00 fine paid on time! Yes, I had a very old building that needed a lot of work but I never forced the men to live there-----they had NOWHERE else to live and winter was coming. It was better than a park bench that the Vet was sleeping on. There is serious "Selective Enforcement" that has been going on far too long in Lackawanna!

Boy oh boy Lackcitizen---you really know the poli-tricks! I am impressed!

thank you Andrea, coming from you, that is a compliment! I am very greatfull for the things you do for our city!

[Lackcitizen]

Ummm, there is a difference between a website and a social setting known as facebook. Mccusker4mayor.com is the website. Do you read the official paper of the city? Mr. McCusker had three articles. Oops, you had to pay .50 for that!
how petty, yes I do read it. I am very sorry that you told me to check his web site & that his agenda was there..I read it all the time, also went to highschool with him, so I do know Pat!

[Lackcitizen]

You are jealous that Mr. Mingarell worked his whole life to qualify for his 3 or 4 pensions? How sad that you were unable to obtain that in your life. He worked for them and DESERVES them, if you are positive that he receives 3 or 4 pensions! City, County, State and Federal, I take it - what a man! Sad that your jealousy inhibits your own mind on picking the best qualified candidate. If Mr. Mingarell is supporting Mr. Mccusker, as you say- maybe you should thank him for not giving you someone that has already ruined your fine city. Do you have your own mind or do you listen to how the rest of the cronies TELL you to vote for? You get what you vote for and as far as I can see with that statement and the rest of the city of Lackawanna - you deserve the slum and blight surrounding your homes! From what I have read - Mr. Mccusker has the best qualifications to put Lackawanna back onto the map and not be the laughing stock of Erie County anymore!
Do you even live in Lackawanna, guess not! He has the right to his opinion.

[mnb811]

on one side of one block of my street there are 5 belmont, owned by out of state deadbeat landlords. Who's fault is that? Not an excuse, a fact.

Geoff's isn't it his ward? I can't do nothing is bs. Other cities, towns and villages eliminate the problems with proactive enforcement.

[Lackcitizen]

Here are the things you are looking for to TRULY be an informed voter:

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to those that do not know me. My name is Patrick A. McCusker. I am making this announcement to declare my candidacy for the office of Mayor of the great city of Lackawanna, NY.
I was raised in Lackawanna, and graduated from Lackawanna High School in the year 1978. Much has changed since that time. The strength and resolve of the citizens has remained. As I raise my two children as a widower I see many of the challenges single parents must deal with each and every day. They are the same issues two parent families have; however I never imagined losing my loving wife to cancer in 2007. In 1983 we never imagined the city of Lackawanna without Bethlehem Steel either. The time has come for this great city of Lackawanna to take control of its future and leave the loss behind. We have a fantastic opportunity to use the resources here for the betterment of our citizens. If you believe Lackawanna can once again bring industry to our industrial areas, affordable housing to our residential neighborhoods, and business back to our commercial buildings; safety in our streets, fairness to all residents; Patrick A. McCusker is the person you want leading your city.
I spent eighteen years as a union ironworker, taking a leave from Ironworkers Local #6 due to an injury. As an ironworker I took initiative to serve as an executive board member for 6 years. During that time I was involved in two contract negotiations. I believe that experience in negotiating with the contractors will carry forward when the time comes to negotiate fair and equitable contracts with the union membership that represents our city. Negotiations should be a well thought out plan for the future that is fair and equitable to the labor force and also the taxpayers of Lackawanna.
In the year 1999 I was retrained as a tax professional, and hired at H&R Block. From that time forward I was very rapidly promoted to the position of district manager. Those promotions were earned through developing plans to increase revenue and control spending. As district manager I was responsible for 43 offices throughout Niagara and Erie Counties. My labor and management skills make Patrick A. McCusker the most qualified candidate to run this great city of Lackawanna!
In the coming months I plan to have town hall meetings throughout the city and visit as many homes as possible to get to personally know as many residents as I can. Please attend the planned meetings so the voters can make an educated, informed decision when they cast their votes.


Now that the Lackawanna School Board election has been completed, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the candidates on a well-run campaign. A special congratulation goes out to Dave Joyce, Ken Motyka, and Maureen Gambino on achieving the support of the voters to be entrusted with the responsibility of our school children.
In the next few months the voters will have another opportunity to give Lackawanna the positive future that we all deserve. I encourage the voters to listen to each candidate and make an informed independent judgment on whom they wish to lead this great city of Lackawanna. We will have choices to make for the best possible future for our residents, one and all. I wish the residents of Lackawanna the courage to discuss the issues in depth with friends and family
I have heard it said, ‘If you can’t pick the people up in your life, for God’s sake don’t let them take you down!’ The time is now for the residents of Lackawanna to let go of the old, outdated policies that have left our city behind. We must move forward with a solid plan to bring new residents into the city. We must drive new business into our business and industrial areas.
In the upcoming months leading into the primary election I will come to the residents of Lackawanna with my plan to drive industry into Lackawanna. I will work with the Department of Development to promote Lackawanna, and educate prospective businesses regarding the resources Lackawanna has to offer.
I will inform voters on my plan for the infrastructure of Lackawanna, promoting an annual maintenance of the parks, streets, fire and police, and public works facilities. With Patrick A. McCusker leading the great city of Lackawanna we will have a progressive approach to repair rather than a reactive system that causes catastrophic repairs to be done under less than ideal circumstances. Working with the Commissioner of Public Works, together we will be able to more efficiently manage the resources to effectively control expenses. Come join us on June 9, 2011 at the Lake Erie Italian Club to become a better informed voter. This is just a beginning of my plan for a positive future in Lackawanna, New York!
I look forward to meeting as many residents of Lackawanna as possible in the coming months.


Come join us
MEET PATRICK A. MCCUSKER
Your next mayor of the great city of Lackawanna
Thursday June 9, 2011
Lake Erie Italian Club
3200 South Park Avenue
6-8 p.m.
Beer- food-pop-raffles
Donation $20.00 per person
POSITIVE IDEAS-POSITIVE ACTIONS-POSITIVE FUTURE



PLATFORM FOR THE GREAT CITY OF LACKAWANNA, NY
Pat has the plan for the positive future of Lackawanna------
Drive business back into Lackawanna;
Lackawanna will be an industrial leader once again. The director of development will be an aggressive salesperson for our great city. We will reach out to small business entrepreneurs and the largest manufacturers alike!
When we make Lackawanna an inviting city all residents will benefit from an increase in the property values!
City Services
I will work with the leaders of our fantastic fire department, police department, and public works to ensure a safe work environment, tools to complete their work load, proper manpower, and a budget that affords the infrastructure will be maintained on a yearly basis so as to avoid having to make emergency repairs after years of neglect.
Residents
Residents of Lackawanna deserve the best possible representation. As mayor of the great city of Lackawanna I will work with and represent ALL residents regardless of the political party they have chosen of their own free will to be a member of. At no time will I ask, nor research which party you are affiliated with. My approach will always be decided upon the issues and how it will affect the city of Lackawanna.
Recreation
Lackawanna has limited recreation activities. We need to keep that alive; we also need to add more recreation during the days for our children. Under my leadership there will be programs that bring our children together for a variety of activities.
I will work closely with the senior citizens to make sure their desires are met.
Grant Money
Lackawanna will actively seek grants for every aspect of the city, from recreation to roads, from senior activities to firefighter equipment. Nothing will be neglected under my leadership.
Leadership
Common sense will rule while Patrick A. McCusker is mayor of Lackawanna, NY
Neighborhood Beautification
Residents will be encouraged to keep their properties beautiful. The city of Lackawanna will set the standard with public land being improved with trees, flowers, benches where possible. City hall will reach out for neighbors as to how they wish for the vacant land surrounding their homes to appear.
Dilapidated Property
City hall will take an aggressive approach to removing properties that have been neglected to the point where they are no longer valuable. I will take advantage of laws and court rulings to effectively develop residential and commercial land.


POSITIVE IDEAS POSITIVE ACTIONS POSITIVE FUTURE
the 1st one was in the paper, READ THAT are you his sister?

[mnb811]

I was gonna support Pat Mckusker because he was a fresh face and I liked his blue collar backround. But once I found out people like Mingerelli who already has 3 or 4 pentions. And some of his cronies were backing him I decided to not support him. These people. Have ruined so many canidates after they got into office. And If the canidate doesn't vote the way they want you to. They will dump them and go around town bad mouthing them. It's a shame how these people keep destroying this city. I might not even vote this election.

So does/has Makeyenko, Polanski and that group also. So whats the problem? Why is it bad for Mingarelli but not for the others? Please enlighten all of us.

[Lackcitizen]

Geoff's isn't it his ward? I can't do nothing is bs. Other cities, towns and villages eliminate the problems with proactive enforcement.
which can not be done by only one member it takes a majority vote!

[mnb811]

BS he can do it himself talk to Mickey Kearns. You'll learn what real leadership is about! See what he has done for the South District against all of the BS the Brown Administration has thrown at him. Be informed already would you.

[mnb811]

which can not be done by only one member it takes a majority vote!

No initative equals lousy representation. I know all about Geoff since I dealt with him on several occasions about nothing being done about eyesores in the neighborhood I recently moved from. Excuses excuses excuses and no action.

[Lackcitizen]

BS he can do it himself talk to Mickey Kearns. You'll learn what real leadership is about! See what he has done for the South District against all of the BS the Brown Administration has thrown at him. Be informed already would you.
so you no longer live in Lackawanna & use Buffalo as an example. Love it lol

[cath829]

the 1st one was in the paper, READ THAT are you his sister?

Does it matter if I am his sister or not? Did you visit the website and see for yourself the platform I posted for you? I don't think you saw that on Facebook...again the website is mccusker4mayor.com.

[mnb811]

Shows how dense you are when it comes to politicians actually doing things for the citizens they represent. No wonder why Lackawanna looks the way it does. I suppose we will get a boatload of excuses on why it can't be done. The main reason is because the person in question has no intiative whatsoever. Any excuses you make up is just BS!

[Lackcitizen]

Does it matter if I am his sister or not? Did you visit the website and see for yourself the platform I posted for you? I don't think you saw that on Facebook...again the website is mccusker4mayor.com.
I have read the website, who wrote it for him. I know alot more about Pat & politics then you ever will!

[Lackcitizen]

Shows how dense you are when it comes to politicians actually doing things for the citizens they represent. No wonder why Lackawanna looks the way it does. I suppose we will get a boatload of excuses on why it can't be done. The main reason is because the person in question has no intiative whatsoever. Any excuses you make up is just BS!
prior to election a candidate will say what the people want to hear. The question is can it be done & will they follow through?

[mnb811]

Who cares who wrote it for him? Who wrote Geoff's Cuffy Caferro? LMAO Get real.

[Lackcitizen]

Who cares who wrote it for him? Who wrote Geoff's Cuffy Caferro? LMAO Get real.
so Pat did not write it? Is that what you are telling me?

[mnb811]

prior to election a candidate will say what the people want to hear. The question is can it be done & will they follow through?

What the hell are you talking about? Geoff had 6years Chuck had 11 years . People know they are full of BS. The point I was trying to make was he has done absolutely nothing to rectify any problems in the ward he represents. Not even a meeting to address concerns. Council Meetings do not count as 9x out of 10 the dictator who runs it won't let you speak.

[mnb811]

so Pat did not write it? Is that what you are telling me?

Who cares who wrote it? I don't know and I don't freaking care.You guys are morons I swear. How does this actually have anything to do with what the real problems of the city are?

[cath829]

I have read the website, who wrote it for him. I know alot more about Pat & politics then you ever will!

Who wrote it or "designed" it? Big difference there. Yeah I am sure you do...that is why you are so happy with the sloppy city. I see that you were able to get off the street and back home safely from work...crackheads weren't too busy today huh?

[cath829]

prior to election a candidate will say what the people want to hear. The question is can it be done & will they follow through?

I cannot believe that you actually wrote that????? How long have you lived here? You have been the one complaining about the mess you live in....who followed through for you? Your councilman??

[Lackcitizen]

Who cares who wrote it for him? Who wrote Geoff's Cuffy Caferro? LMAO Get real.
Are you telling me he did not write that himself?It did not sound like him.

[cath829]

Are you telling me he did not write that himself?It did not sound like him.

Hmmmm....who did it sound like?

[mnb811]

Don't worry about the following:

Blight _________________________ Businesses Leaving

Taxes ________________________ Business Taxes

Schoool System __________________ Infrastructure

Housing __________________________ Drug Problem


More Important things to worry about obviously are:

Pat McCusker

Who wrote Pat's website

Pat's Platform

You got to love Lackawanna Politics!!! All this coming from a guy who said he was running a clean campaign on issues. Yeah right!

[Lackcitizen]

I love how people who do not live here mock Lackawanna, back a candidate & have no say in the election. I will not reduce myself to your level of name calling, I grew out of that when I was 12.

[mnb811]

I love how people who do not live here mock Lackawanna, back a candidate & have no say in the election. I will not reduce myself to your level of name calling, I grew out of that when I was 12.

Geez you describe Geoff's cousin DPW HEAD TOMMY LOVE to a T. By the way he lives in Hamburg but votes here and works here. LOL BTW the only thing I mock are the fools running the show. Your the one that mentioned crackheads are you not? Get a brain.

[Lackcitizen]

Don't worry about the following:

Blight _________________________ Businesses Leaving

Taxes ________________________ Business Taxes

Schoool System __________________ Infrastructure

Housing __________________________ Drug Problem


More Important things to worry about obviously are:

Pat McCusker

Who wrote Pat's website

Pat's Platform

You got to love Lackawanna Politics!!! All this coming from a guy who said he was running a clean campaign on issues. Yeah right!
You spelled school wrong, is that how they spell it in your new fancy house?

[cath829]

I know for a fact that Pat wrote everything on his website and newspaper articles submitted to the Front Page himself. Yes, there is a WEB designer, but Pat has done ALL of his written material on his own.

[Lackcitizen]

Geez you describe Geoff's cousin DPW HEAD TOMMY LOVE to a T. By the way he lives in Hamburg but votes here and works here. LOL BTW the only thing I mock are the fools running the show. Your the one that mentioned crackheads are you not? Get a brain.
not news to me

[mnb811]

You spelled school wrong, is that how they spell it in your new fancy house?

LOL ohh thought you don't stoop to a level of a 12 yr old. I guess you like going to a 5 year old though.

[mnb811]

I love how people who do not live here mock Lackawanna, back a candidate & have no say in the election. I will not reduce myself to your level of name calling, I grew out of that when I was 12.

I never said I was backing anybody by the way. Read what I did say 2 people I wouldn't back Jaworski or Szymanski.When you attack a new person involved in politics it must mean you have some sense of worry about him. If you can't beat him on the issues then you attack his character and associates that makes you a peice of s--t in my book. Just saying. There's a lot of issues in Lackawanna and Szymanski and Jaworski had their opportunity to fix them and they failed. They voted 4-1 or 5-0 for years and still accomplished nothing.

[Lackcitizen]

I know for a fact that Pat wrote everything on his website and newspaper articles submitted to the Front Page himself. Yes, there is a WEB designer, but Pat has done ALL of his written material on his own.
Well good for him! I'm impressed, maybe I would have voted for him, until this, naw just kidding. The 50 cent paper has articles about crack all the time.

[Lackcitizen]

I never said I was backing anybody by the way. Read what I did say 2 people I wouldn't back Jaworski or Szymanski.When you attack a new person involved in politics it must mean you have some sense of worry about him. If you can't beat him on the issues then you attack his character and associates that makes you a peice of s--t in my book. Just saying.
Who cares you can't vote for anyone here. Please get off your high horse before you fall & get hurt.

[cath829]

But I thought you already knew him so well?

[Lackcitizen]

LOL ohh thought you don't stoop to a level of a 12 yr old. I guess you like going to a 5 year old though.
Just pointing out a fact.

[mnb811]

Who cares you can't vote for anyone here. Please get off your high horse before you fall & get hurt.

I'm still registered here in the 2nd ward never changed it yet. Maybe I'll do what Tommy,Arc and the rest of them do. Why not? Whats good for the goose is good for the gander.

[cath829]

Who cares you can't vote for anyone here. Please get off your high horse before you fall & get hurt.

What makes you so certain mnb can't vote in Lackawanna? Dead people are still voting in Lackawanna as well as people from Lancaster and Hamburg. Why not Boston? Come on in MNB811, join the fun!!

[Lackcitizen]

But I thought you already knew him so well?
Prior to tossing hi hat in the ring, he was always quite the instigator on face book! Now he writes nothing,playing it safe. Not even being himself.

[Lackcitizen]

What makes you so certain mnb can't vote in Lackawanna? Dead people are still voting in Lackawanna as well as people from Lancaster and Hamburg. Why not Boston? Come on in MNB811, join the fun!!
Just stating facts, if she wants to vote illegally for Pat, that would make him just like the present Mayor!

[mnb811]

What makes you so certain mnb can't vote in Lackawanna? Dead people are still voting in Lackawanna as well as people from Lancaster and Hamburg. Why not Boston? Come on in MNB811, join the fun!!

Why not? I'll register a few of my buddies at my house in the 2nd ward to boot.

[mnb811]

Just stating facts, if she wants to vote illegally for Pat, that would make him just like the present Mayor!

You mean the one backing Geoff?

[Lackcitizen]

I'm still registered here in the 2nd ward never changed it yet. Maybe I'll do what Tommy,Arc and the rest of them do. Why not? Whats good for the goose is good for the gander.
Great illegal voters for Pat, great concept!

[mnb811]

Half of the city hall, Fire ,DPW, Police voters are illegal themselves. Where's your issue on that?

[Lackcitizen]

You mean the one backing Geoff?
exactly, just because he is backing him does not mean Geoff is like him, did you get the cousin thing off Walt's page?

[mnb811]

Great illegal voters for Pat, great concept!

How is it illegal? Please enlighten me then please please enlighten City Hall!

[Lackcitizen]

Half of the city hall, Fire ,DPW, Police voters are illegal themselves. Where's your issue on that?
Hello they lifted restrictions on police & fire department

[mnb811]

exactly, just because he is backing him does not mean Geoff is like him, did you get the cousin thing off Walt's page?

LOL If he's backing him its more of the same damn BS!!!!!

[mnb811]

Hello they lifted restrictions on police & fire department

ON voting ? Really when?????? Show me a law that says that. I'm talking state election law not residency requirements.

[Lackcitizen]

How is it illegal? Please enlighten me then please please enlighten City Hall!
Their time will come, Walt is having them all arrested

[cath829]

Prior to tossing hi hat in the ring, he was always quite the instigator on face book! Now he writes nothing,playing it safe. Not even being himself.

I just went through Pat's whole Facebook page.....you are wrong.

[Lackcitizen]

ON voting ? Really when?????? Show me a law that says that. I'm talking state election law not residency requirements.
So sorry I thought you were talking about residency law, got names or just rumors on the police & fire department. I know a lot of them, I'll tell them you clued me in.

[mnb811]

Figures more garbage from the I'm running a clean campaign camp. LOL

[cath829]

Hello they lifted restrictions on police & fire department

For them to live outside of the city - doesn't mean they can vote here - ohhh wait yes it does....refer back to the dead and Lancaster and Hamburg talk about illegal.

[Lackcitizen]

I just went through Pat's whole Facebook page.....you are wrong.
On other peoples statuses he sure was

[mnb811]

So sorry I thought you were talking about residency law, got names or just rumors on the police & fire department. I know a lot of them, I'll tell them you clued me in.

Look up the voter registrations. Last time I went to vote I saw 3 city people who live in Hamburg vote. When I bitched to election inspector she says most of them do it. Go figure.

[Lackcitizen]

Figures more garbage from the I'm running a clean campaign camp. LOL
I am not running for anything

[cath829]

Ok, if you say so!

[mnb811]

On other peoples statuses he sure was

Where's the proof?

[Lackcitizen]

Look up the voter registrations. Last time I went to vote I saw 3 city people who live in Hamburg vote. When I bitched to election inspector she says most of them do it. Go figure.
Should have reported it to state attorney generals office, we would have helped you.

[mnb811]

Should have reported it to state attorney generals office, we would have helped you.

LMAO LMAO yeah right. Considering I saw the Mayor vouch for one saying he is still living in Lackawanna. I don't think so.

[cath829]

I will send him a message and ask.

[Lackcitizen]

Where's the proof?
lol too funny, he commented all the time, always a jab here or there one was even a joke about hitting a child!

[Lackcitizen]

I will send him a message and ask.
Ask when he last commented on someones status

[cath829]

Should have reported it to state attorney generals office, we would have helped you.

OMG! What a leap you just took! LMFAO!!! Now you have just proven to everyone on this site that you are a complete liar! Maybe your office can help the police remove the crackheads from your street so you can get to work on time!!!!

[mnb811]

What does any of this have to do with fixing the city? LMAO Pathetic

[Lackcitizen]

Look up the voter registrations. Last time I went to vote I saw 3 city people who live in Hamburg vote. When I bitched to election inspector she says most of them do it. Go figure.
that inspector should have been fired

[cath829]

Ask when he last commented on someones status

I see June 9th....

[mnb811]

lol too funny, he commented all the time, always a jab here or there one was even a joke about hitting a child!

Like I said where's the proof? You can't just say it you have to produce it.

[mnb811]

that inspector should have been fired

LOL why the inspector? Why not the people who put them up to it? How about the Mayor for vouching for the person? Naw can't do that right. Trust me the guy knew the person in question does'nt live in Lackawanna.

[Lackcitizen]

OMG! What a leap you just took! LMFAO!!! Now you have just proven to everyone on this site that you are a complete liar! Maybe your office can help the police remove the crackheads from your street so you can get to work on time!!!!
so you don't use our serves too bad, we can connect you with who you need!

[cath829]

so you don't use our serves too bad, we can connect you with who you need!

What??? Can you please tell me where your office is located?

[Lackcitizen]

LOL why the inspector? Why not the people who put them up to it? How about the Mayor for vouching for the person? Naw can't do that right. Trust me the guy knew the person in question does'nt live in Lackawanna.
inspector is there to ensure all rules and regulations are followed and that should have been reported, it is illegal.

[mnb811]

I'm outta here this stuff is hilarious. Pathetic politics in Lackawanna I'll tell you.

[mnb811]

inspector is there to ensure all rules and regulations are followed and that should have been reported, it is illegal.
Like that really happens in Lackawanna.

[Lackcitizen]

But I thought you already knew him so well?
Since high school

[cath829]

Funny, I think I have met just about everyone in the AG's office----

[Lackcitizen]

Like that really happens in Lackawanna.
you report to NYS go through Attorney Generals Office, it's in the phone book, everything annonymous

[Lackcitizen]

Funny, I think I have met just about everyone in the AG's office----
Really now? Some volunteer, paralegals, lawyers (not too often with them) but use the service it's great!

[Lackcitizen]

Like I said where's the proof? You can't just say it you have to produce it.
Ask him, if he is honest he will tell you,

[cath829]

Quick change there huh....thought everything went through Albany.....backtrack and choke on your own words! Where is your office located??????????

[Lackcitizen]

Quick change there huh....thought everything went through Albany.....backtrack and choke on your own words! Where is your office located??????????
right by Rosewell are you happy, corner of Elm & Carlton

[cath829]

No, no name calling....just calling it like I see it!!

[Lackcitizen]

Bye Pat's sister

[Lackcitizen]

not choking here

[cath829]

That would be Roswell and of course I see why you can NOT make it to work:

The NYS Attorney General's Office is located at:

Main Place Tower, Suite 300A
350 Main Street
Buffalo, New York 14202

[Lackcitizen]

No, no name calling....just calling it like I see it!!
was the address ok for you?

[Lackcitizen]

That would be Roswell and of course I see why you can NOT make it to work:

The NYS Attorney General's Office is located at:

Main Place Tower, Suite 300A
350 Main Street
Buffalo, New York 14202
not where I work it is up by Rosewell, call center

[cath829]

Follow along Lackcitizen......follow along.....no your address was not ok with me.

[cath829]

I can call the AG's office right at Main Place...need the number too?

[cath829]

What calls do you handle?

[Lackcitizen]

No, no name calling....just calling it like I see it!!
Give us a call
Elm Street & Carlton St
Buffalo, NY 14263-0001
(716) 845-8682

[Lackcitizen]

I can call the AG's office right at Main Place...need the number too?
no I do not but thanks

[cath829]

No I go right to the top office when I need anything.

[Lackcitizen]

No, no name calling....just calling it like I see it!!
Press releases, speeches, reports, and information on protecting families, improving communities and keeping government honest. This is what I answer at work if we can not help you we can refer you to our other offices, even in Albany! Look us up, I hope I can help you put all these illegal people where they belong.

[Lackcitizen]

No I go right to the top office when I need anything.
yes I do

[cath829]

Government honest?? Why haven't you spoken to someone where you work about the city you live in....you can even call it in .....all confidential...and quiet!! You can save all the people of Lackawanna and beyond...it is far reaching. Civic duty!

[cath829]

It's been nice chatting with you but now I must report to the voice calling me to come to bed....tomorrow maybe we can resume!

[Lackcitizen]

No I go right to the top office when I need anything.
Then call Attorney General Schneiderman yourself, if you really go to the top. Sorry if my job is better then yours.

[cath829]

Maybe your job is better then mine, but your morals and integrity aren't !

[Caz5]

It's interesting that Szymanski and Jaworski are permitted to have fundraisers, but McCusker isn't. When my aunt heard Szymanski's name, she asked "Isn't he Micky's boy?" When she heard Jaworski's name, she wanted to know if he was "Ron's boy?" In other words, you have to be somebody's "boy" to be considered eligible to run for an office in Lackawanna?

What are the "hot buttons" (issues) in Lackawanna these days?
(1) When people enter Lackawanna via Route 5, what do they see all along South Park? Empty businesses. Boarded up, abandoned, condemned, graffiti'd buildings and vacant lots full of weeds.
(2) When people drive through "Main Street", what do they see? FOR RENT and FOR SALE signs where businesses used to be, a pawn shop, a liquor store and bars.
(3) When people walk to the post office or bank from OLV or from Baker Victory Services, what do they see? Dirty sidewalks, people standing outside of bars smoking and spitting, scary homeless-looking people talking to themselves.
(4) When people drive into the city from South Buffalo, have you noticed all the hundreds of trees lined along the route ready to be planted and the clearly marked bike lanes painted on their streets? Once you cross the South Buffalo/Lackawanna border...you KNOW IT!
(5) Why are people allowed to simply walk away from buildings that they can't rent or sell and move across town to a "better location" and take up residence there while the neighborhood they abandoned have to watch the building crumble and decay and bring down THEIR property values? Where is the accountability? What are the consequences?
(6) Why are the City Council passing regulations and ordinances and then BACKING THEM UP to send out a clear message to criminals, drug dealers, absentee landlords...YOU ARE NOT WELCOMED IN OUR CITY?

[gibbsgal]

Lackcitizen what you are telling me then is that Mickey Kearns is a much better politician than Szymanski because Kearns was able to get rid of the flood insurance for 2500 of the people he represents in South Buffalo. Therefore the only conclusion that I can draw from this is Szymanski's best isnt good enough and he should just quit the race because he cant accomplish what other people have. As I have said before six years of this guy and nothing now its election time again and its lets see what I can do for you. Also I must state that Mr. McCusker has been out talking with residents and discussing his plans, however somehow through your ignorance you want to make it seem like how dare he hold a fund raising event. Is he the first to do this? Doesnt every politician and cadidate hold fund raisers? Hasnt Jaworski, or Szymanski ever held them. I havent to date heard either of their messages maybe I shoukld buy a ticket to theirs. They sure havent visited my house. You dont think the Rev holds one every Sunday? See it is very clear that your only intent is to bash candidates that you dont want in office which makes you a droid. Heres a thought why dont the 5 candidates actually hold a debate at lets say the senior center or the school and actually discuss the issues facing this City of ours !

[Caz5]

I saw the mayor on Channel 4 the other evening all concerned about the train tracks. What Ward is that? Which councilman should have/could have/would have addressed that issue YEARS AGO? The mayor just now realized those arms didn't come down? He's concerned about a train that comes by 4 times a month (according to the news), but isn't concerned that the sidewalks aren't plowed all winter for the school kids to get to and from school safely? Again...which councilman is in charge of that Ward??

[gibbsgal]

Doesn't he live on Martin Road?

[gibbsgal]

Quote from Lackcitizen:
This is an election that I have been researching tediously. I have confronted candidates, been threatened, been lied too and bullied. I will stand my ground and if I have problems resulting from them, I will take it higher then it has ever been taken before. I believe you can fight city hall. Andrea does it all the time, it may not always work out in her favor but I give her credit for saying what she believes in.

Did you report this to the office you say you work at? According to your posts, they are there to keep government honest. I think someone asked you about doing your civic duty. Well, what stops you?

[Lackcitizen]

Quote from Lackcitizen:
This is an election that I have been researching tediously. I have confronted candidates, been threatened, been lied too and bullied. I will stand my ground and if I have problems resulting from them, I will take it higher then it has ever been taken before. I believe you can fight city hall. Andrea does it all the time, it may not always work out in her favor but I give her credit for saying what she believes in.

Did you report this to the office you say you work at? According to your posts, they are there to keep government honest. I think someone asked you about doing your civic duty. Well, what stops you?
Unless I witness it, it is all hearsay in a court of law

[Lackcitizen]

Quote from Lackcitizen:
This is an election that I have been researching tediously. I have confronted candidates, been threatened, been lied too and bullied. I will stand my ground and if I have problems resulting from them, I will take it higher then it has ever been taken before. I believe you can fight city hall. Andrea does it all the time, it may not always work out in her favor but I give her credit for saying what she believes in.

Did you report this to the office you say you work at? According to your posts, they are there to keep government honest. I think someone asked you about doing your civic duty. Well, what stops you?
No criminal threats, unless they are going to physically harm me, there is nothing legally to report!

[Lackcitizen]

Government honest?? Why haven't you spoken to someone where you work about the city you live in....you can even call it in .....all confidential...and quiet!! You can save all the people of Lackawanna and beyond...it is far reaching. Civic duty!
you need proof, why don't they ask for ID at poling places? I witnessed nothing.

[Lackcitizen]

Maybe your job is better then mine, but your morals and integrity aren't !
are you physic? Otherwise how would you know. I do volunteer work also, do you?

[Lackcitizen]

Lackcitizen what you are telling me then is that Mickey Kearns is a much better politician than Szymanski because Kearns was able to get rid of the flood insurance for 2500 of the people he represents in South Buffalo. Therefore the only conclusion that I can draw from this is Szymanski's best isnt good enough and he should just quit the race because he cant accomplish what other people have. As I have said before six years of this guy and nothing now its election time again and its lets see what I can do for you. Also I must state that Mr. McCusker has been out talking with residents and discussing his plans, however somehow through your ignorance you want to make it seem like how dare he hold a fund raising event. Is he the first to do this? Doesnt every politician and cadidate hold fund raisers? Hasnt Jaworski, or Szymanski ever held them. I havent to date heard either of their messages maybe I shoukld buy a ticket to theirs. They sure havent visited my house. You dont think the Rev holds one every Sunday? See it is very clear that your only intent is to bash candidates that you dont want in office which makes you a droid. Heres a thought why dont the 5 candidates actually hold a debate at lets say the senior center or the school and actually discuss the issues facing this City of ours !
you are talking about 2 different governing systems. Buffalo & Lackawanna do not operate the same way!

[Lackcitizen]

I saw the mayor on Channel 4 the other evening all concerned about the train tracks. What Ward is that? Which councilman should have/could have/would have addressed that issue YEARS AGO? The mayor just now realized those arms didn't come down? He's concerned about a train that comes by 4 times a month (according to the news), but isn't concerned that the sidewalks aren't plowed all winter for the school kids to get to and from school safely? Again...which councilman is in charge of that Ward??
That was a contract signed by Mayor Polanski.

[Lackcitizen]

It's interesting that Szymanski and Jaworski are permitted to have fundraisers, but McCusker isn't. When my aunt heard Szymanski's name, she asked "Isn't he Micky's boy?" When she heard Jaworski's name, she wanted to know if he was "Ron's boy?" In other words, you have to be somebody's "boy" to be considered eligible to run for an office in Lackawanna?

What are the "hot buttons" (issues) in Lackawanna these days?
(1) When people enter Lackawanna via Route 5, what do they see all along South Park? Empty businesses. Boarded up, abandoned, condemned, graffiti'd buildings and vacant lots full of weeds.
(2) When people drive through "Main Street", what do they see? FOR RENT and FOR SALE signs where businesses used to be, a pawn shop, a liquor store and bars.
(3) When people walk to the post office or bank from OLV or from Baker Victory Services, what do they see? Dirty sidewalks, people standing outside of bars smoking and spitting, scary homeless-looking people talking to themselves.
(4) When people drive into the city from South Buffalo, have you noticed all the hundreds of trees lined along the route ready to be planted and the clearly marked bike lanes painted on their streets? Once you cross the South Buffalo/Lackawanna border...you KNOW IT!
(5) Why are people allowed to simply walk away from buildings that they can't rent or sell and move across town to a "better location" and take up residence there while the neighborhood they abandoned have to watch the building crumble and decay and bring down THEIR property values? Where is the accountability? What are the consequences?
(6) Why are the City Council passing regulations and ordinances and then BACKING THEM UP to send out a clear message to criminals, drug dealers, absentee landlords...YOU ARE NOT WELCOMED IN OUR CITY?
Great points, if there is a debate, submit those questions & every candidate will have to answer!

[gibbsgal]

you are talking about 2 different governing systems. Buffalo & Lackawanna do not operate the same way!

Both are corrupt.

[gibbsgal]

Lackcitizen while they are both different governing systems the simple truth and fact is that the mandated flood insurance for both was from the same entity. The difference is in personal fortitude Mr. Kearns was able to recognize a problem that was effecting his constiguents, he researched the problem with a lot of his time and energy, he then fought for a resolution. It doesnt matter what city each is from or how each ones city government operates. In the end only one who set out with the goal of getting rid of the flood insurance between these two were successfull. Oh by the way the same thing was accomplished by Tonawanda also, seems like you just have excuse after excuse for Mr. Szymanski. Great research.

[toms]

are you physic? Otherwise how would you know. I do volunteer work also, do you?

YES.......SHE'S AN ATTACK DOG AS A SECOND JOB......no wait...she does do that for free..good luck Lackcitizen with these name calling bunch...

[gibbsgal]

I bet her bite is worse than the bark too! Woof Woof!

[Lackcitizen]

YES.......SHE'S AN ATTACK DOG AS A SECOND JOB......no wait...she does do that for free..good luck Lackcitizen with these name calling bunch...
Thanks Toms but I think I can handle myself! Name calling is just an immature way of not knowing what to say.

[Lackcitizen]

I bet her bite is worse than the bark too! Woof Woof!
I don't bite, but I do box, just for fun though!

[cath829]

An attack dog huh? Whatever. Well, I too LOVE to box Lackcitizen....shadow boxing too...just so you know, I do NOT sucker punch though!

[cath829]

you need proof, why don't they ask for ID at poling places? I witnessed nothing.

As per the BOE, the signatures are to match - if they don't, take the other necessary steps.

[mnb811]

you are talking about 2 different governing systems. Buffalo & Lackawanna do not operate the same way!

Both run by democrats but yet different. Go figure. That's just a lame ass excuse from a do nothing Lackawanna Politician.

[Lackcitizen]

As per the BOE, the signatures are to match - if they don't, take the other necessary steps.
I know that but have you ever seen anyone even look twice at the signature? Just throwing out ideas.

[Lackcitizen]

Both run by democrats but yet different. Go figure. That's just a lame ass excuse from a do nothing Lackawanna Politician.
not a Lackawanna politician here

[mnb811]

Same lame ass excuse given by your buddy Geoff though along with every other person in office here. Pathetic.

[Lackcitizen]

Just wondering, how high of an education do you have? MnB

[Lackcitizen]

Same lame ass excuse given by your buddy Geoff though along with every other person in office here. Pathetic.
We will see. Glad you moved btw [/B]

[Lackcitizen]

An attack dog huh? Whatever. Well, I too LOVE to box Lackcitizen....shadow boxing too...just so you know, I do NOT sucker punch though!
Try not to hurt yourself

[Lackcitizen]

Same lame ass excuse given by your buddy Geoff though along with every other person in office here. Pathetic.
which one would that be, try to be clear, it might be hard, just try[/B]

[mnb811]

All of them give the same ol this is Lackawanna we can't do what others do routine. It's bs.

[cath829]

Try not to hurt yourself

It is a great work out - and I am more than capable of taking care of myself - but thank you for your concern! :p

[Caz5]

Everyone has a right to his or her opinion. Anyone voting for Mr. Szymanski already know what type of councilman he has been for the past SIX YEARS...invisible. From reading all the council meeting minutes, it looks like his focus is on BIGGER and HIGHER goals (Assembly?) and that Lackawanna is just but a stepping stone...and the title "Mayor" will look good on his resume. Obviously Mr. Szymanski has supporters, otherwise he wouldn't have gotten two terms out of his council position. Obviously, his supporters don't really care about the condition of the 2nd Ward...they must live on the streets that don't face the boarded up buildings, or they choose to take a different route to and from work to avoid the blight. From what I'm reading, Mr. Szymanski's supporters have an excuse for the condition of his ward...IT'S NOT HIS FAULT. But, let's vote him into the Mayor's seat and give him control over the entire city, o.k.? Once he's finished with Lackawanna, he's on his way onto the Legislature!!! Wanna bet?

[CraftyExp]

"From what I'm reading, Mr. Szymanski's supporters have an excuse for the condition of his ward...IT'S NOT HIS FAULT.'
You are absolutely right! This is the lame ass excuse we hear all the time. I've been told he has had to play the game, and once he gets in and becomes King he'll be able to do things his way. For the last 6 years why didn't he show some integrity and stand up to the do nothings... no he became one of them too! Sorry, he sure as hell is not getting my vote.

[andreahaxton]

*Remember,
In 2009 Geoff ran unopposed for his second term as Second Ward Councilman.
I believe he walked back into office without anyone saying a word.

[andreahaxton]

*Remember,
There is always things going on behind the scenes that will/have happened that no one tells the average Citizen about. Stay vigilant regarding all of the dirty poli-tricks.
*Remember,
Back in 1999 the absentee/affidavit vote box disappeared and someone/s got two cushy City jobs out of it?
*Remember,
In 2003 a certain current City employee was going to run for Councilman, BUT.......
*Remember,
We have had 12 years of "TEAM POLANSKI family and friends"----is OUR City any better?
*Remember,
Who are the "50" or so Democratic Committee People and How they have voted to endorse. Check who they voted/supported over the years------This Speaks volumes!
*Remember,
Politics makes strange bed-fellows---watch and see.


*PLEASE Remember,
September 13 and November 8, 2011 who the good guys/gals are and who the...........self-serving are!

P.S.
*Remember,
I hate poli-tricks, I am a grass-roots type of person, I want to effect change through clean politics because I like to help people and want to make Lackawanna a better place to live and do business in! NO hidden agendas, hard *** (guy term, sorry) for anyone, games, or........ from me. I use my own name on here and am proud of it!

[Lackcitizen]

Good for you Andrea, you should be proud!:)

[Caz5]

My sister-in-law just called me...seems Mr. Szymanski's posted on Facebook that he's now WALKING THE STREETS and telling people to vote YES to adopt the budget...because he's "for the children" of this city and doesn't want them to suffer. What about the conditions of the playgrounds in your Ward, Mr. Szymanski???? Why are you so interested in the School District and not with the children's welfare and safety AFTER SCHOOL, on weekends and during school holidays and summer break when they want to play in the playgrounds that are in disrepair?

[mnb811]

I thought he was for fiscal responsibility? How can you vote no on your city budget but tell people to vote yes on the school budget when it makes up most of your property tax bill? You can't have it both ways. Besides the only reason this guy didn't vote for the city budgets 2 years in a row is because the budget cut JOBS!


While Jaworski is on vacation. Council President Pro Tempore Geoff Szymanski calls a:
Special Meeting August 26,2010


Ordinance- Budget Amendment – Reinstate Employees

An ordinance amending the 2010-2011 budget ordinance adopted June 1, 2010

Be it enacted by the City Council of the City of Lackawanna, New York as follows:

Section 1. That the 2010-2011 budget is amended to reinstate the laid off employees and provide funding for one additional laborer and season laborers in the department of public works.

Section 2. That the budget is amended to add $25,000 to code A1620.0101, $5,000 to code A3120.0101, $7,000 to code A3410.0101, $23,000 to code A3620.0101, $37,000 to code A5110.0101 and $6,000 to new code A5110.0104

Section 3. That the 2010-2011 budget is amended to appropriate $38,000 of the city's fund balance and transfer $40,000 from Code A9000.9050, unemployment insurance and $25,000 from A3120.0101, 1 (one) police captain position removed upon retirement.

THIS ORDINANCE SHALL TAKE EFFECT IMMEDIATELY.

Moved by Szymanski, seconded Schiavi, to amend ordinance.

Yeas: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi. Carried 4-0

Moved by Szymanski, seconded by Schiavi to adopt ordinance as written.

Yeas: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi. Carried 4-0



Moved by Szymanski, seconded by Kulczyk to adjourn meeting.

Yeas: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi. Carried 4-0

GEOFFREY SZYMANSKI, COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO-TEMPORE

[mnb811]

From Council meeting minutes at very next meeting:

Approval of Minutes:

Moved by Schiavi, seconded by Kulczyk to adopt the minutes of the regular meeting of August 16 th and the Special Meeting of August 20 th , 2010 as written.

Yeas: Noman Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi, CARRIED 4-1

Nays: Jaworski


Council President "pro tempore" Szymanski called a special meeting to reinstate jobs that were cut in the June budget. Jaworski wouldn't allow this previously so they waited till he went on vacation called a meeting and threw Jaworski under the bus. In his recent Front Page article Mr. Szymanski said that the spending of the "reserve fund " as the reason why he did not vote for the last 2 budgets. If you would have went to the meetings you would have saw the reason as being that "Were cutting jobs." I can't vote for this." His biggest issue on the most recent budget was the police captians position. That is the reason he gave for not voting for the budget. Nothing was ever mentioned about the "reserve fund".

[mnb811]

Wow no rebuttals after a week amazing!!! Remember If it don't look kosher it isn't kosher lol. Council meeting minutes confirm it!

[mnb811]

Councilman Szymanski votes against City budget/tax increase



2nd Ward Councilman and endorsed democratic candidate for mayor Geoff Szymanski

was the lone vote against the council amended budget for 2011-2012. In fact, Councilman

Szymanski also voted against the 2010–2011 budget as well. With regards to his votes the past

two years, Szymanski had this to say: “Yes, I did vote against both budgets. There has to be a

better way to balance the budget than raising taxes and raiding the reserve fund.”


Szymanski continued, “When we raise taxes, everybody is affected. It hurts all of our

residents, especially our senior citizens, who are on fixed incomes. To have taxes go up and

pensions or Social Security payments not keep pace, their ability to maintain a quality standard

of living is adversely affected.”


“It doesn’t stop there, however,” Szymanski declared. “What about our businesses?” I

know many business people who have invested their lives into making a go of it in Lackawanna,

many of who grew up here. We can’t continue to raise taxes and overspend as a government to

the point where our local businesses, the backbone of our community, may have to either leave

or close their doors,” continued Szymanski.


“I also want to emphasize that besides raising taxes, we have transferred funds from the

city’s reserve fund in both budget years as well. Reserve funds are “rainy day fund,” used in

case of unforeseen circumstances, should they occur. In 2010–2011, we transferred $1,000,000

from the reserve fund to balance the budget. In 2011–2012 it was even worse, totaling

$1,250,000. We just can’t continue to operate like this. At the rate we’re going, the entire

reserve fund will be gone in a couple of years. We will be unprepared when we need it most

and I just can’t support that. The time has come to change the way we do business,” concluded

Szymanski

NO specifics just political rhetoric that means buisness as usual for the City of Lackawanna under Szymanski's watch! What actually is the amount of the "reserve fund" no specifics given once again. It must be a lot if you took 2 million plus out of it in the last 2 years. BTW how can you claim to be fiscally responsible if you voted yes for a 5 million dollar bond which will burden the city with even more debt?? Shouldn't the reserve have been used for repairs repaving etc..Top this off with the previous 2 posts regarding jobs this guy is just spewing BS!

[andreahaxton]

"“I also want to emphasize that besides raising taxes, we have transferred funds from the

city’s reserve fund in both budget years as well. Reserve funds are “rainy day fund,” used in

case of unforeseen circumstances,""

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If they had an appr. $6 million " Fund Balance " in 2009 and they used over $ 2,125,000 million from it because they over-spent/mismanaged The City Budgets for 2010/11' and 2011/12'.................. and had to use ""rainy day funds"" to balance the tax levy; in order to keep Lackawanna taxes from sky-rocketing the past two years; something is not jiving!

Now they have to "Float that $5.1 million Bond" to do critical maintenance of public buildings/road paving that they let go year after year.....then ........ They are leaving the next administration/Lackawanna Citizens a huge DEBT-Load to pay off and No more ""rainy day funds""!
BTW: They refuse to tell us how much was/is spent on "Norman's Way", behind the Mayors' house on Martin Road!
What's Up With ALL of THEIR management/fiduciary responsibilities of public funds?

BTW....Where did the $15,000 "Retirement Bonus" for the 7 or 8 employees each who were going to retire anyway last year, come from? The ""rainy day fund""?
Were their retirements "unforeseen"?
Is this a legal way of buying their family support? I am sure we could think of many other ways the >$100,000+ could have been spent. Their generous NYS Retirement on top of their top of the scale Social Security checks is more than enough to live on. (Not knocking the hard work of those who really earned their paychecks at all----but an extra lump sum of $15,000! For What?)

Greed:There is no fire like passion, there is no shark like hatred, there is no snare like folly, there is no torrent like greed. (Quote by - Buddha)
P.S. My post is not meant for anyone specific---just stating the facts.

[sunflower]

Any particular reason Szymanski signs are being posted on people's properties??? Lower Franklin Street to be specific. Thought there was some sort of City ordinance about this??????

[Caz5]

City Code 230-41-B-5 Political Signs


"Political signs not exceeding four square feet in area erected no earlier than three weeks before an election and removed within seven calendar days following the election."


QUESTION: WHY ISN'T CODE ENFORCEMENT JUMPING ON THIS CODE VIOLATION???????

[andreahaxton]

" The City " ( Democrat Club)because they ALL backed Stahowski, hauled Tim Kennedy's Headquarter Office into court last year March 2010, when he put his signs in his storefront windows on South Park at Ridge........Thank goodness he persevered and won out----he did NOT play into their election year tricks!

Selective Enforcement is the name to their game!

[mnb811]

Councilman Szymanski votes against City budget/tax increase



2nd Ward Councilman and endorsed democratic candidate for mayor Geoff Szymanski

was the lone vote against the council amended budget for 2011-2012. In fact, Councilman

Szymanski also voted against the 2010–2011 budget as well. With regards to his votes the past

two years, Szymanski had this to say: “Yes, I did vote against both budgets. There has to be a

better way to balance the budget than raising taxes and raiding the reserve fund.”


Szymanski continued, “When we raise taxes, everybody is affected. It hurts all of our

residents, especially our senior citizens, who are on fixed incomes. To have taxes go up and

pensions or Social Security payments not keep pace, their ability to maintain a quality standard

of living is adversely affected.”


“It doesn’t stop there, however,” Szymanski declared. “What about our businesses?” I

know many business people who have invested their lives into making a go of it in Lackawanna,

many of who grew up here. We can’t continue to raise taxes and overspend as a government to

the point where our local businesses, the backbone of our community, may have to either leave

or close their doors,” continued Szymanski.


“I also want to emphasize that besides raising taxes, we have transferred funds from the

city’s reserve fund in both budget years as well. Reserve funds are “rainy day fund,” used in

case of unforeseen circumstances, should they occur. In 2010–2011, we transferred $1,000,000

from the reserve fund to balance the budget. In 2011–2012 it was even worse, totaling

$1,250,000. We just can’t continue to operate like this. At the rate we’re going, the entire

reserve fund will be gone in a couple of years. We will be unprepared when we need it most

and I just can’t support that. The time has come to change the way we do business,” concluded

Szymanski

NO specifics just political rhetoric that means buisness as usual for the City of Lackawanna under Szymanski's watch! What actually is the amount of the "reserve fund" no specifics given once again. It must be a lot if you took 2 million plus out of it in the last 2 years. BTW how can you claim to be fiscally responsible if you voted yes for a 5 million dollar bond which will burden the city with even more debt?? Shouldn't the reserve have been used for repairs repaving etc..Top this off with the previous 2 posts regarding jobs this guy is just spewing BS!


This per 2008 city council meeting minutes:
Budget Committee

To: City Council

Governor Patterson is calling for drastic state funding cutbacks. I ask your body to schedule a work session to discuss our future city budgets. I suggest a budget committee, which I volunteer to chair, to meet regularly in order to keep proactive on budget matters.

ANDREA HAXTON, COUNCIL MEMBER

Moved by Haxton to form a budget committee, no second on motion – motion failed.

If your for fiscal responsibility why would you vote against forming a budget committee? All talk and no action makes you look very stupid Geoff!

[andreahaxton]

This per 2008 city council meeting minutes:
Budget Committee

To: City Council

Governor Patterson is calling for drastic state funding cutbacks. I ask your body to schedule a work session to discuss our future city budgets. I suggest a budget committee, which I volunteer to chair, to meet regularly in order to keep proactive on budget matters.

ANDREA HAXTON, COUNCIL MEMBER

Moved by Haxton to form a budget committee, no second on motion – motion failed.

If your for fiscal responsibility why would you vote against forming a budget committee? All talk and no action makes you look very stupid Geoff!

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++

Special Council Meeting

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Special session of the Lackawanna City Council met in the Council Chambers, Council President Chuck Jaworski presiding. The meeting was preceded by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Pro-Tempore Geoffrey Szymanski.

Meeting called to order/Pledge of Allegiance

NB: Meeting being recorded.

Roll Call: Present: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi

Excused: Jaworski
Ordinance- Budget Amendment – Reinstate Employees

An ordinance amending the 2010-2011 budget ordinance adopted June 1, 2010


Be it enacted by the City Council of the City of Lackawanna, New York as follows:

Section 1. That the 2010-2011 budget is amended to reinstate the laid off employees and provide funding for one additional laborer and season laborers in the department of public works.

Section 2. That the budget is amended to add $25,000 to code A1620.0101, $5,000 to code A3120.0101, $7,000 to code A3410.0101, $23,000 to code A3620.0101, $37,000 to code A5110.0101 and $6,000 to new code A5110.0104

Section 3. That the 2010-2011 budget is amended to appropriate $38,000 of the city's fund balance and transfer $40,000 from Code A9000.9050, unemployment insurance and $25,000 from A3120.0101, 1 (one) police captain position removed upon retirement.

THIS ORDINANCE SHALL TAKE EFFECT IMMEDIATELY.:rolleyes:

Moved by Szymanski, seconded Schiavi, to amend ordinance.

Yeas: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi.:rolleyes: Carried 4-0

Moved by Szymanski, seconded by Schiavi to adopt ordinance as written. :rolleyes:

Yeas: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi. Carried 4-0

Moved by Szymanski, seconded by Kulczyk to adjourn meeting.

Yeas: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi. Carried 4-0

GEOFFREY SZYMANSKI, COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO-TEMPORE

JACQUELINE A. CAFERRO, CITY CLERK

************************************************** ************************************************** ***************************

COUNCIL MEETING

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2010

COUNCIL CHAMBERS

Roll Call: Present: Noman, Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi, Jaworski



Approval of Minutes:

Moved by Schiavi, seconded by Kulczyk to adopt the minutes of the regular meeting of August 16 th and the Special Meeting of August 20 th , 2010 as written.

Yeas: Noman Szymanski, Kulczyk, Schiavi, CARRIED 4-1

Nays: Jaworski[/[B]
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++

Plotted, planned, and executed to their perfection.......They ALL were using people's jobs/livelihood as their political pawn----it came back to bite them all because, They forgot, WE were at the " Special Meeting ".
How could anyone say they voted NO for the budget and then a few weeks later hold a " Special Meeting " RE-VOTE and put EVERYTHING back in and pretend they were for cutting taxes for Seniors because they care sooooo much about their financial struggles?
What Gives----" is he on foot or horseback "?

(I did not agree that anyone should ever lose a job---it should be done through attrition.....I know where lots of hidden pork is that should have been cut, starting with their free gas, vehicles, insurance, free magazines, etc.,etc.,etc.,!) Citizens should demand to know where THEIR money is spent!

Yes, I I I!

[mnb811]

" The City " ( Democrat Club)because they ALL backed Stahowski, hauled Tim Kennedy's Headquarter Office into court last year March 2010, when he put his signs in his storefront windows on South Park at Ridge........Thank goodness he persevered and won out----he did NOT play into their election year tricks!

Selective Enforcement is the name to their game!

You can best believe that Lackawanna will get no help of substance from Senator Kennedy for doing this to him.

Did you ever wonder why the city never gets any help from anyone here's one reason: Stupidity! See Below:



Council Meeting Minutes January 2010

Lack of Federal Aid:

• To: City Council

Recently, the Buffalo News reported that a massive bill of 1.1 trillion dollars was passed by congress. Western New York was getting forty (40) million dollars. Call it congressional pork or legislative earmarks or simply our local representatives making sure they get their fair share. We in the City of Lackawanna did not receive anything. It is apparent that Senator's Gillibrand and Schumer and Congressman Higgins have forgotten the City of Lackawanna again, as usual. We as a community should forget them.

Three million dollars more for the waterfront projects, when will they improve South Park Avenue ? This letter is to inform the council and our citizens about the lack of concern from our representatives for the City of Lackawanna .

NORMAN L. POLANSKI, JR., MAYOR

Moved by Jaworski, seconded by Schiavi to receive and file.

Yeas: Noman, Kulczyk, Schiavi, Jaworski

Nays: Szymanski
Look who voted not to recieve and file? Geoff Szymanski. Mayor Polanski's attitude toward other people in high places is one of the main reasons why the city gets stiffed. With him backing Szymanski and Geoff following his every whim you can best believe that the city will continue to get nothing from anybody!

[andreahaxton]

Disagree Quotes


I particularly recognize that reasonable people can disagree as to what that proper balance or blend is between privacy and security and safety.
John Pistole

I think every American has a role in saving this country. Whether you're Democrat, Republican, independent, it doesn't matter. We all know the country's in trouble. We may disagree on how to solve it, but we all know the country's in trouble.
Glenn Beck

I've learned by hanging out in Hollywood, where I disagree politically with most people, that most people's hearts are in the right place, and the only thing we have to argue about is the way to solve the problems.
Tom Selleck

If two men on a job agree all the time, then one is useless. If they disagree all the time, then both are useless.
Darryl F. Zanuck

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++

You forgot the past 8 years they shunned/bashed Erie County Government because the Dems are not in!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++
Wisdom

What is CLASS?


Class never runs scared. It is sure-footed and confident in the knowledge that you can meet life head on and handle whatever comes along.

Jacob had it. Esau didn't. Symbolically, we can look to Jacob's wrestling match with the angel. Those who have class have wrestled with their own personal angel and won a victory that marks them thereafter.

Class never makes excuses. It takes its lumps and learns from past mistakes.

Class is considerate of others. It knows that good manners are nothing more than a series of small sacrifices.

Class bespeaks an aristocracy that has nothing to do with ancestors or money. The most affluent blueblood can be totally without class while the descendant of a Welsh miner may ooze class from every pore.

Class never tries to build itself up by tearing others down. Class is already up and need not strive to look better by making others look worse.

Class can "walk with kings and keep its virtue and talk with crowds and keep the common touch." Everyone is comfortable with the person who has class because he is comfortable with himself.

If you have class you don't need much of anything else. If you don't have it, no matter what else you have, it doesn't make much difference.



Ann Landers Encyclopedia:)

Class Can't Be Bought at ANY Price!

[sunflower]

Wow, SOMEBODY is reading this blog...those Szymanski signs are finally down!

[gibbsgal]

So the newest gossip in Lackawanna is that Tony Mingarell and Dennis Koziol are backing Geoff Szymanski for Mayor. So now you have Makeyenko backing Jaworski and Bokan, Mingarell and Koziol backing Szymanski......so where will there be ANY change in Lackawanna? Same people, same game, same messed up corrupt city IMO.

[dickypotpie]

I dont think Makeyenko is with Jawarski. Koziol & Mingerelli will get something promised to them. You can bet on that. Koziol already got two jobs @ the water authority for his girlfriends two sons, So whats another. Koziol has been telling everybody he is done with politics. lol.... It will be funny seeing Makeyenko & Mingrelli at the same Szymanski party. Gonna be a long season......

[lackawanna #1]

So the newest gossip in Lackawanna is that Tony Mingarell and Dennis Koziol are backing Geoff Szymanski for Mayor. So now you have Makeyenko backing Jaworski and Bokan, Mingarell and Koziol backing Szymanski......so where will there be ANY change in Lackawanna? Same people, same game, same messed up corrupt city IMO.

Thats what you are gossip queen!

[gibbsgal]

Just letting you know the talk at the newest hang out! But then again, YOU think YOU know everything!!!

[gibbsgal]

Just spoke to someone regarding the gossip I heard yesterday and he told me that Koziol is the one running around saying that he and Mingarell are backing Szymanski. So.....................truth?

[gibbsgal]

I dont think Makeyenko is with Jawarski. Koziol & Mingerelli will get something promised to them. You can bet on that. Koziol already got two jobs @ the water authority for his girlfriends two sons, So whats another. Koziol has been telling everybody he is done with politics. lol.... It will be funny seeing Makeyenko & Mingrelli at the same Szymanski party. Gonna be a long season......

Why does Makeyenko plant his behind at Jaworski headquarters then?

[lackbrokejoke]

Desperate times calls for desperate measures… It’s sad Chuck is a great guy but putting myself with John will only hurt him in the long run. People of this city are sick of John and his bullying of people.. Someone needs to step up and put john in his place for good…

[gibbsgal]

Desperate times calls for desperate measures… It’s sad Chuck is a great guy but putting myself with John will only hurt him in the long run. People of this city are sick of John and his bullying of people.. Someone needs to step up and put john in his place for good…

Where does the line form? I am sure there will be a lot of people wanting to put him in his place!

[lackbrokejoke]

i wonder what John the Dirtbagg holds over all of these peole heads that he keeps getting what he wants?? I mean the guy is white trash yet he keeps getting elected onto the school board.... and again they vote him president of the board??? did he bully the fellow board members too?? WAKE UP people... Elect people who are stick of him and his antics and soonerthen later he will be packingg to screw up another city

[getalife123]

I dont think Makeyenko is with Jawarski. Koziol & Mingerelli will get something promised to them. You can bet on that. Koziol already got two jobs @ the water authority for his girlfriends two sons, So whats another. Koziol has been telling everybody he is done with politics. lol.... It will be funny seeing Makeyenko & Mingrelli at the same Szymanski party. Gonna be a long season......

jaworski runs his own employment agency son city & school job, son-law city & school job, nephew school job, brother in-law sanitation more family to come if elected I'm sure. makeyenko & jaworski one of the same

[gibbsgal]

Is Makeyenko still working for the housing authority?

[lackbrokejoke]

i herd john got the job he wanted being a mechanic at LMHA. what a joke of a city.... what do you expect when your mayor is a former plumber!

[gibbsgal]

So maybe he is just using Jaworski? I am sure Norman is with Geoff, so he owes his support to Geoff IF he got the mechanic job. So the political corruption continues.

[lackawanna #1]

Just spoke to someone regarding the gossip I heard yesterday and he told me that Koziol is the one running around saying that he and Mingarell are backing Szymanski. So.....................truth?

Mingarelli is backing Mccusker & Pirowski. Lets get it right.

[gibbsgal]

Mingarelli is backing Mccusker & Pirowski. Lets get it right.

And Makeyenko is backing Bokan and Szymanski!

[lackawanna #1]

And Makeyenko is backing Bokan and Szymanski!

Bokan/Stanisewski for sure but Szymanski not sure.

[italy2011]

hello to everyone...i am new here and dont know how to even post the right way yet..i just signed up today..i am very excited toget involved in your posts..

[lackawanna #1]

hello to everyone...i am new here and dont know how to even post the right way yet..i just signed up today..i am very excited toget involved in your posts..

hi anthony

[italy2011]

anthony who??? dont even try to guess who i am..you will never find out!!

[lackawanna #1]

anthony who??? dont even try to guess who i am..you will never find out!!

your too easy!

[YNOTNOW]

hello to everyone...i am new here and dont know how to even post the right way yet..i just signed up today..i am very excited toget involved in your posts..

Welcome italy2011, it's good to see some new names here lately. Election time around here is always a blast, hold on to your hat (hope it's the right color)!:)

[mnb811]

your too easy!

Wait I thought.....I was...ugh!!!!

[mnb811]

Bokan/Stanisewski for sure but Szymanski not sure.

Stop the game playing he's backing Jaworski or gaming both of them like ...nevermind.

[mnb811]

Mingarelli is backing Mccusker & Pirowski. Lets get it right.

Koziol says he is backing Geoff so Tony is with his buddy Koziol on this one. 2 peas in a pod.