Doucet announces election bid

Niagara Wheatfield Tribune, September 13, 2007

Councilman Gilbert Doucet will seek re-election to the Wheatfield Town Board.

Doucet, who has been endorsed by the Republican, Independent and Conservative parties, said he has worked to reduce the tax burden on Wheatfield residents, while still focusing on key issues that affect quality of life. In working to control development, he has voted to require full Environmental Impact Statements for new subdivisions, increasing minimum lot sizes and requiring a minimum of 5 inches of topsoil at new homes.

During his tenure as liaison to the Recreation Department, Doucet has supported construction of new recreation facilities and worked to bring senior and youth programs to the town. He also has supported improved summer concerts, youth center programs and holiday activities.

As chairman of the Safety Committee, he was instrumental in instituting safety classes and training for town employees, which helped decrease accidents and resulted in reduced insurance rates.

Doucet also has supported the use of a sheriff’s deputy and town constables in nightly community patrols and during special events, without the expense of a full-time police force.

Doucet has lived on Ward Road for more than 30 years with his wife, Deborah, and four sons, Gilbert, Paul, Kevin and Jonathan. He is a graduate of Starpoint High School, Alfred State College and Leadership Niagara. He has been employed in the DuPont Chemicals maintenance department for 29 years.

Doucet is a member of St. Joseph’s R.C. Church, St. Johnsburg Fire Co. (31 years), the Volunteer Fireman’s Benevolent Association and the American Legion Wheatfield Post 1451, Sons of the Legion. He has volunteered leading Cub Scouts, coaching youth baseball and youth hockey, and managing and coaching the Niagara-Wheatfield High School hockey team.

“As a Wheatfield resident and your councilman, I know the importance of continuing our programs to reduce taxes, improve drainage, promote economic development, and most importantly, maintain a government that is open, available and responsive to the needs of the residents and business owners of the town,” Doucet said. “I will continue working with the programs I have promoted for the past eight years, and I will support the tax objectives and economic opportunities in the town to ensure a better future for all Wheatfield residents.”