ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com

---

Mark Devine

Former Lockport Firefighter Mark Devine threw his proverbial hat in the political ring, announcing today that he's seeking the seat of Third Ward Alderman.

Devine, a lifelong Lockport resident, said the Third Ward is unique and lacks representation on city committees, boards and commissions.

He said in a press release that he hopes "to not only make our ward the Jewel of the City, but to make Lockport one of the Jewels of New York State."

Devine is the third candidate to announce for the Third Ward. Incumbent Kitty Fogle is seeking re-election. Zachary Parker has also announced that he's running with the endorsement of the Democratic Party.

Devine's release follows in its entirety:

Living in the northwest section of the city my entire life, I have a firm grasp of our ward’s issues. I did not make my decision to seek office without a lot of thought. My decision was made after discussions with family, friends, and highly respected city residents and community leaders. It was not an easy decision to make. I could have stood on the sidelines and have had little or no say in the direction our city is heading, or as I chose, run for Alderman and make a difference.

Our ward is unique in relation to the rest of the city. It is home to Lockport’s largest manufacturing plant, steel mills, chemical plants, small businesses, many small individual neighborhoods, and the beautiful but under utilized Outwater Park. Our city’s Wastewater Treatment Plant and CSX and Falls Railroad tracks bisect our ward. A good portion of 18 Mile Creek and the Erie Canal also call the Third Ward home.

The city has over 20 committees, boards, and commissions. I have looked at the list of members of these appointed positions and the lack of representatives by Third Ward residents is eye opening. This needs to change. In the very short time that I have been walking my ward I have spoken to many highly intelligent and creative people who are willing to serve our community as members of city boards and commissions.

The ideas and knowledge that these individuals have will make Lockport an even better community to live and work in.

As I continue to walk our ward, I look forward to meet with you and listen to your thoughts and ideas to not only make our ward the Jewel of the City, but to make Lockport one of the Jewels of New York State.

---

Get breaking news delivered. 

with the ENP Mobile app for Android.