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Legislator Elisabeth Rankin, R-Jamestown, is running for re-election in District 12, which represents the north side of Jamestown.
Rankin said she has worked extensively with residents across the county and is aware of key issues facing the legislature. Her priorities include strengthening the economic environment, reducing the tax burden on all residents, especially for seniors, small business owners, and those on a fixed income.
"We need to make Jamestown and Chautauqua County more affordable for all of our residents and businesses," Rankin said.
As a member of the County's Human Services committee, Rankin helps support the Welfare-to-Work programs. Drugs are another priority concern for Jamestown residents. Rankin has participated in many of the drug forums offered in the area and received a certificate from CASAC on preventing drug use by youth. Rankin joined the Drug Prevention task force sponsored by CASAC, focusing on education for the community's youth about healthy life choices. She has also actively supported programs and events for seniors and veterans.
Rankin is the district director for state Assemblyman Andy Goodell, R-Jamestown, where she focuses on constituent services.
"As a County Legislator, I am able to provide a full range of services for local residents, whether their issues involve the county government or the state government," Rankin said. "I am also very pleased to be part of an effective team of county legislators, and also with the staff of Senator Cathy Young, Congressman Tom Reed, County Executive Vince Horrigan, as well as Assemblyman Goodell. All of us work extremely well together as a team to help local residents."
Rankin, who has a masters degree in business administration, also intends to focus on the local business environment, working to attract and keep jobs in Chautauqua County so that young people can afford to stay in Chautauqua County and raise a family.
"With our beautiful environment, friendly people, and great work ethic, we should be able to grow and prosper. We need to have a better business environment to make that job growth a reality," Rankin said.
Other issues important to Rankin are protecting natural resources, addressing the chemical dependency in our county, quality education and safe neighborhoods, which are critical for the welfare of children. She also said honoring and supporting veterans is both a privilege and responsibility.
Rankin has a bachelor's degree in political science and a masters degree in business administration. Rankin is a member of the Cornell Cooperative Extension and Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau boards, helps area needy children as a member of Creche for Kids, is a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church and sings with the Chautauqua Chamber Singers. She lives on Arlington Avenue with her husband, Tom and son Wallace.