Lockport incumbents appear to sweep City Council races

Lockport — It was a good night for incumbent candidates in the Lockport City Council election Tuesday. All three of the aldermen competing in contested races appear to have retained their seats based on unofficial vote totals.

Susan King, who was appointed as an alderwoman for the 1st Ward in 2024 after the resignation of Patrick Sheehan, appears to have succeeded in her bid to win a full term. The 2nd Ward’s Patrick McDonald and 3rd Ward’s Christina Bergbower are both expected to win reelection.

King appears to have defeated opponent Mark Lobes, who previously unsuccessfully tried to challenge her eligibility for the ballot. Two hours after the polls closed, King was leading in all of the 1st Ward’s precincts with 65% of the vote.

McDonald faced the closest race of the three incumbents against opponent Joseph Fracaro. McDonald received 56% of the vote against Fracaro’s 43%. McDonald has served on the City Council since 2022.

Bergbower, who has been a member of the City Council since 2016, also was expected to win her race against newcomer Timothy Russ by garnering 58% of the vote.

None of the winning incumbents were available for comment Tuesday night.

On Wednesday, Bergbower expressed gratitude to those who voted.

“Thank you to all of Lockport’s residents who participated in voting in the consolidated election,” she said in a statement. “It matters – your voice, your choice. I am looking forward to continuing environmental projects, tackling affordable senior housing and working as a team to get things done.”

In the 4th Ward, Steven Cardamone will become the only new member of the City Council. Cardamone ran unopposed after Alderwoman Renee Saban chose not to seek reelection.

“I look to bring my gifts and perspective to the council with the goal of working together and benefiting the city into the future,” Cardamone said. “My personal goal, in every situation that I’m in is to leave it better than I find it, and this is no different. I am grateful to be in the position to represent the people of my district.”

Cardamone went on to praise Mayor Steve Streit and the city’s recent successes.

“Our mayor, Steve Streit, has accomplished some remarkable achievements during his tenure,” Cardamone said. “From revitalizing the downtown to attracting businesses, it really has been a job well done, and I hope to continue the tradition of improving that place that we call home.”

In addition to the incumbent aldermen, Streit also was reelected to a fourth term, defeating a challenge from 3rd Ward Alderman Darren Deskin.

The races for Lockport treasurer and city clerk were uncontested. Kathy Gentile will serve another term as clerk, while David Palya will continue in his role as treasurer.