ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com

---

First-Ward Alderman John Lombardi announced Wednesday his intention to run for city treasurer, as reported last night on ENP.

This morning, he issued a press release explaining his reasoning and qualifications for the position.

The five-time member of the Common Council said he is "familiar with each line of the budget, the operations at City Hall and duties and responsibilities of this critical office to City taxpayers," adding that his experiences as alderman would prove valuable to the position.

Lombardi's press release follows in its entirety:

Alderman John Lombardi III (R-1st Ward) announced his candidacy today for Treasurer of the City of Lockport this fall.

Lombardi emphasized that his private and public sector experience makes him uniquely qualified to handle the duties of City Treasurer. Lombardi stated, “ As a member of the Common Council and past Common Council President, I am familiar with each line of the budget, the operations at City Hall and duties and responsibilities of this critical office to City taxpayers.

“I truly understand the needs of city taxpayers and the direction that we need to continue to bring this great City back to what I remember it was. I believe that, in spite of the difficulties recently presented to us, this objective can and will be accomplished. It takes leadership to make the hard decisions necessary to improve the quality of life that people expect. I know firsthand this is happening and I believe that I can continue making a positive contribution in this important role for the betterment of our community.” Lombardi said.

“If elected, my role at City Hall would be much different than the position I am privileged to now hold, but my experiences as an Alderman will prove extremely valuable in ensuring that the Treasurer’s office will function in an effective, efficient and transparent manner. Be assured, that revenue reports will be timely filed with the Mayor and Common Council, that the Treasurer’s office will monitor cash flow on a daily basis, and that it has the proper checks and balances in place to ensure that recent events do not repeat themselves again,” Lombardi continued,

“Lockport residents know that I have a history of being very independent and outspoken at times and these characteristics will continue if I am elected City Treasurer. My responsibility will be to the taxpayers - not the Mayor, not the Common Council and not the Finance Director. I will be cooperative with fellow elected and appointed officials, but I will be fiercely independent and ensure that proper revenue reporting is provided to them, the State, the auditors and the public at all times and on a frequent basis.”

“As for the current City Treasurer, I like Michael White personally and I do not know for sure whether he plans to seek re-election. However, the time for circulating petitions for election this fall is nearly upon us and I have made the decision to run for Treasurer based upon the new  criteria established knowing that I have the ability, knowledge and desire to do the best job possible for our great City. Regardless of what Mr. White does, I believe the time has come for a fresh prospective in this critical office.” Lombardi added.

“Further, please be advised that I have decided to abstain from any Common Council vote on changing the duties of the Treasurer or setting the Treasurer’s salary next year to avoid any appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest.” Lombardi said.

Lombardi has represented the First and Fifth Wards in different stints on the Common Council. He has served on the Zoning Board of Appeals for over nine years. And has over three decades of business experience in private sector management with Lombardi Overhead Door Co. of Lockport. Lombardi has been very active in several community based organizations, including: Lockport Community Television LCTV, Niagara Community Action Program NIACAP, American Red Cross, Lockport Community Services, Inc., Concerned Citizens for a Better Neighborhood, Lockport Little Loop Football, Lockport Invader Semi-Pro Football.

Lombardi is married to Della Marie, and has three children. Lombardi plans to seek the endorsements of the Republican, Conservative and Independence Parties.

---

Get breaking news delivered. 

with the ENP Mobile app for Android.