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The election to replace Tony Dolce on the City Council is the only council race in the city this November, but the candidates say the race will be a quiet one.
On Sunday, both Jason Sample, endorsed by the Democratic Party, and Bryan Bigelow, endorsed by the Republican Party, issued statements on Facebook. Both candidates expressed their respect for Dolce and plan to run fairly quiet, respectful campaigns for the Ward 2 seat.
"We are all still mourning the sudden loss of Tony, and for that reason I plan to run a very limited campaign. In September, I’ll share information and details about my campaign and will do my best to give residents in Ward 2 an opportunity to learn more about me. But until then, let’s continue to remember our friend Tony and his long and unmatched legacy in our community," Sample said.
"With the utmost respect for Councilman Tony Dolce, and after being approached by the Republican Party and consulting with my family, I have accepted the nomination to serve as the Republican candidate for Jamestown City Council's Ward 2," Bigelow said. "The loss of Tony will be felt by many throughout our community. He was known for his intellect, his passion, and his unwavering commitment to public service. As a north side resident for the past 25 years, I often saw Tony throughout the neighborhood, and our paths frequently crossed through the youth sports programs we were both fortunate to be involved in. My children also spoke highly of him during their years at Jamestown High School."
The candidates also noted their personal relationship, having worked together many years ago.
"I also want to acknowledge fellow candidate Bryan Bigelow. Bryan and I were coworkers 30-plus years ago and we still bump into each other once in a while. Bryan is a good man and cares about our community too. I wish him the best of luck and look forward to seeing him in the fall," Sample said.
"I also want to acknowledge my opponent, Jason Sample. I have known Jason through our time working together, and I wish him nothing but the best throughout this campaign. I look forward to a respectful election focused on the issues that matter most to the people of Ward 2," Bigelow said.
Sample is known to many as a longtime local radio show host and now as the county IDA's marketing and communications consultant. He is also the president of the Chautauqua County Historical Society.
"Needless to say, it was very difficult for me to make this decision. But in the end, I felt that if the voters of Ward 2 (myself included) had to replace the irreplaceable, they should at least be given a choice. I also believe that if someone asks you to do something and you are capable of doing it, then you should step up. So after talking with my wife and close friends (and also discussing with my employer), I accepted their request and signed a petition to be a candidate early last week," Sample said.
Bigelow said he is a 25-year resident of Ward 2 and is known by many for his involvement in youth sports programs in the city.
"One of my greatest priorities will be continuing Tony Dolce's legacy of accessibility and connection with the people of Ward 2. I believe that effective public service begins with listening, and I will always strive to be available, approachable, and responsive to the residents I hope to represent," Bigelow said. "I will be sharing more about my campaign and priorities in the weeks ahead. I look forward to this opportunity to serve the community that has given so much to my family."