Palmer running for re-election

Lewiston Porter Sentinel, August 11, 2007

Ernest C. Palmer has announced he will seek re-election to the Lewiston Town Board.

Palmer, a Republican, was elected last year to fill the unexpired term of County Legislator John Ceretto. He is seeking his first full four-year term on the Town Council. “The past several months have provided me with a unique opportunity to absorb the duties and responsibilities of councilman, and I look forward to having an opportunity to hit the ground running with a new term,” said Palmer.”

Palmer, who lives on Lower River Road, said, “I enjoy serving the people of this town. Lewiston is a progressive community with tremendous cultural and historical ties. I have identified some of the strengths and weaknesses of our town government. I am running to make sure Lewiston continues to be an affordable and beautiful place to live. We are one of the few communities with no town tax. I will continue to fight to prevent any such tax from being introduced. I also feel strongly that our town government must be technologically updated to provide for modern Internet options for residents to access town hall for announcements, meeting minutes and access to water and tax bills.”

“In the past year, I am proud to have been involved in the process of bringing low-cost power to our residents through the Power Authority settlement, participating in the Greenway agreement, the new Hickory Stick Golf Club, expanding sewer coverage in Sanborn to include all residents, and working closely with the Lower Niagara River Region Chamber of Commerce to improve the quality of life for all area residents and businesses. I will take an active role in the improvement of our infrastructure, especially as it relates to drainage issues. I pledge to work with other town board members to streamline the process for permits and other town business.”

A graduate of Niagara County Community College and the FBI National Academy, Palmer has been employed with the Niagara Falls Police Department since 1982. Formerly the chief of police in both Niagara Falls and Youngstown, Palmer currently holds the rank of detective captain and is presently assigned as chief of detectives. He also is the sole proprietor of an accounting service and owns an industrial security consulting business.

Palmer was selected in 1998 as a NCCC Distinguished Alumni and is a graduate of the Leadership Niagara program.

Married to the former Michele Demiglio, Palmer has five daughters and two grandchildren.

“I believe my background in business and public service gives me the necessary experience to continue as an effective board member,” Palmer concluded.