The Niagara Gazette: Niagara Falls deserves leadership that puts people over politics

This election is pivotal for the future of Niagara Falls. We stand at a crossroads: either we continue to accept the status quo of an administration that has hijacked a political party, where the mayor uses candidates to advance agendas that have already harmed, and will continue to harm, our residents, or we fight for a city that finally prioritizes its people over politics.

I have great respect for the hospitality industry and what it brings to our economy, but not when it comes at the expense of our residents. No city can truly thrive when its own people are treated as an afterthought. The questions we should all be asking are simple: Why isn’t this administration focused on attracting real, sustainable jobs? Why is the 4th District consistently overlooked? and why did it take my candidacy for people to finally start paying attention to the 4th District, after four years of silence from the incumbent?

My opponent had the opportunity to support the Beech Avenue Park Project, a community-driven initiative backed by over a thousand signatures, that would have uplifted our youth and created opportunities in technology, health and wellness, and entrepreneurship. Instead, he made a backdoor deal with the mayor, writing a letter in support of redirecting those funds to another district. Since then, there has been no progress, no development, and no genuine advocacy for the residents of the 4th District.

I understand why: the 4th District has been treated as a political stepping stone, used to advance personal ambition while harnessing Black and Brown votes for the mayor’s agenda. After losing the mayoral race, my opponent settled for the 4th District seat, only to pursue another office as assemblyman, neglecting the very residents who entrusted him to serve.

Long before I entered this race, I was already investing in this community, renovating properties with my own two hands, adding value to neighborhoods in the 4th District. As a candidate, my team and I personally donated $7,500 to the Doris Jones Center’s Summer Camp Program to help keep kids off the streets and engaged in something positive.

As a father of five and a homeowner in this community, I am deeply invested in seeing Niagara Falls thrive. The people of this city are tired of being ignored. They’re ready for leadership grounded in purpose, vision, and accountability. My mission is clear: to cultivate an environment where families can prosper, opportunities can grow, and our community can finally reclaim the respect and resources it deserves.

Sean Mapp is a candidate for the 4th District seat on the Niagara County Legislature.