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Eloise Campfield

Eloise Campfield of Spruce Street is the latest Lockport resident to enter the ever-growing list of candidates running for the Lockport Common Council.

Running on the Republican line, the 1999 LHS graduate is seeking the 4th Ward seat currently held by Democrat Pat Schrader, who is seeking re-election. Retired Command Chief of the 107th Airlift Wing David Wohleben is also running for the seat as a Republican.

Campfield, employed by Claims Recovery Financial Services in Albion as a claims analyst for post­foreclosure mortgage claims says she brings financial experience to the table with 13 years of various positions in the retail banking and mortgage services industry.

Her previous political experience includes working as a Niagara County legislative intern under John Cole for the 1998­-1999 legislative session.

She said she enjoys time with family and friends, photography, singing and songwriting, and attends church services regularly at Community Bible Church.

Her announcement of candidacy follows in its entirety:

Today, I'd like to announce to the great people of the city of Lockport, my candidacy for the Republican nomination for the 4th Ward. As Alderman, I will work with the people and the city to see that the voices of my constituents are heard. I would like to carry those voices to 1 Locks Plaza as your 4th Ward alderman.

For years, I've listened to the yearning of Lockport citizens who want an open, simple, and not­stand­in­your­way government. I've heard many express their hopes and dreams of starting various business ventures. Of course, all of us want to embrace the safety and assistance of those great individuals who've put their hearts and devotion into serving all of us with distinction and honor in our great community.

The question then becomes: How do we acknowledge that we have heard those voices? The answer to that is simple; we take common sense action toward everyday issues we all face together. It’s not just Republican or Democrat, rich or poor, own or rent, and male or female. We need to all work together for the common good to honor those who’ve gone before us, as well as those who will come after us.

We can start with an honest and transparent government that serves its people, rather than an expectation for it's own benefit. As such, I wholeheartedly support term limits and will fight to install them. I also support serious ethics reform in all elected and city appointed positions. The cloud of conflict of interest should never hang over a candidate or public servant. Integrity is key, and a life goal to which I aspire every single day.

Next, we should take away that which dampens the spirit of the American dream. There's great reward that comes from working hard, but it shouldn't come in the form of a high tax bill or government regulations that tie you down. That is why I believe the role of government should be kept small, simple, and a source of encouragement. Balanced budgets help reduce taxes and responsible spending helps prepare confidence in those wanting to start a business and take up residence here in Lockport. To be successful, you need a plan, and it helps immeasurably if you have confidence in what to expect on the road ahead. If we can keep taxes low, regulations to a minimum ­ those wanting to start a business or move here can develop that plan, have confidence, and enjoy a greater chance for success. Government needs to get out of the way as much as possible to encourage private enterprise.

Budget spending is a huge issue. Everyone has to live within a budget so why shouldn’t government? Each month when I review my own personal budget, I have to account for my income and bills ­ it’s simple, more cannot go out than what comes in. If that happens, there’s bound to be trouble. A balanced budget idea is common sense and something I will work to see maintained.

Public safety and those who make it happen are of utmost importance to the function of our fair city. Without it, order would not be in place as needed. To respect those that have chosen to put themselves on the line everyday, it is our duty to take care of them and make sure their sacrifices do not go unrecognized.

The city and it’s fire and police departments need to work together to create a fair and balanced approach to provide their needs, the needs of our residents, and the resources with which we have to work. Those that serve these departments, and our residents deserve no less!

I would also like to mention my passion for seeing Lockport’s infrastructure tended to as well as capitalizing on the wonderful tourism opportunities we have to make this city great. City streets are minefields of notifications to the city of pending damage vehicle claims. Taking care of our city’s roads and utility lines before issues arise gives credence to the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” A Band­Aid approach doesn’t work ­ that’s why we’re seeing some of the same streets from last winter needing more work again this year. As for taking advantage of what we have to offer and showing it off... the Erie Canal is our greatest asset! Let’s show it off to our region, state, country, and even the world!

I may be new to the inner workings of our great city, but as a 21­year resident, I have seen some great days and times here in Lockport, and would love to see them again. The days gone by are not days forever gone. We can all work together to accomplish great things in our city. I humbly ask for your support, and a hardy welcome if you see me about town. I would love for all of you to get to know me, and I look forward to becoming acquainted with all of you as well as we move forward together, for Lockport.

Thank you!

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