Kindzia announces candidacy for Niagara County Legislature

Stephanie Kindzia, a longtime Lewiston resident, announced she is seeking a seat on the Niagara County Legislature in the 2nd District. Kindzia, a registered member of the Independence Party, will be making her first run for public office.

“I am new to the political arena, that’s for sure, but we are in dire need of new voices in government, specifically in Niagara County. We are one of the highest-taxed counties in the nation and it’s time to do something about that,” Kindzia said.

The 2nd District includes the Village of Lewiston, parts of the Town of Lewiston, Sanborn, and parts of the Town of Wheatfield. Although she is a member of the Independence Party, she will seek the endorsements of the Democratic and Working Families parties, as well.

Kindzia is one of six children. Her father is a retired electrician from IBEW Local 237, and she is married to James Baptiste. Kindzia is a 1990 graduate of Lewiston-Porter High School, earned a B.A. degree in communications from Canisius College and a M.S. in college administration from Buffalo State College.

She has worked at Buffalo State for 20 years and serves as a senior financial aid officer.

“I see firsthand the importance of education. Whether it is a certification/trade program, or earning an associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree, people are looking for jobs and different career opportunities,” Kindzia said. “We need to do a better job in Niagara County to provide those opportunities, not only through education, but doing much better at economic development, so we can have jobs available for our local workers.”

Kindzia said she wants to serve all the people of the 2nd District, regardless of political affiliation.

“I’m not much about politics. I want to be able to represent everyone in local government. This current legislative body is all politics, with no independent thinking,” Kindzia said.

The candidate further questions the direction of Niagara County government.

“Transparency seems to be a big problem in the county. We need to include the public, and clearly be more open. There is no reason good government groups should be rating our legislature one of the least transparent in NYS.”

Kindzia said she wants that to change: “It’s time we shift the direction of Niagara County government. We must see how we can improve services, grow our tourism economy in Lewiston, and fight for a safe and clean environment in our community. The status quo has not worked.”