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Niagara Falls, NY — Niagara County Legislator Chris McKimmie formally announced that he is running for re-election, citing a strong record of results, trusted leadership, and a continued focus on public safety, affordability, and economic growth. The announcement was made at his monthly “Coffee with Chris” community forum on Saturday.
McKimmie, a lifelong Niagara Falls resident and father of two, currently serves as Chairman of the Legislature’s Community Safety & Security Committee and Deputy Majority Leader. He also serves his community as a Niagara Falls Police Lieutenant, an Air Force First Sergeant, and holds a degree in Public Administration.
As a member of the County’s Economic Development Committee, McKimmie has played a key role in advancing economic growth across Niagara County. He has supported projects ranging from large-scale investment, including the Amazon fulfillment center set to open this year, to direct support for local businesses that focuses on both job creation and job retention.
McKimmie helped champion the county’s Façade Improvement Program. Countywide, these programs delivered millions of dollars in assistance to small and local businesses, along with nearly $1 million in Production Program grants to strengthen manufacturing and production based employers. Eleven businesses in McKimmie’s district benefited from these programs.
In addition to his legislative role, McKimmie serves on the Board of Directors of the Niagara Orleans Regional Land Improvement Corporation (Land Bank), where he works to address vacant and abandoned properties and strengthen neighborhoods. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Niagara Community Action Program, supporting programs that reduce poverty by promoting self-sufficiency for families across the county.
Public safety has remained a central focus of McKimmie’s work. Drawing on his background, he was a driving force behind expanding Niagara County’s ambulance service to provide 24-hour, countywide coverage, helping ensure faster response times when residents need help most.
“When public safety is one of the biggest concerns for families, it matters who is making these decisions,” McKimmie said. “It makes sense to keep experienced public safety leadership in the Legislature.”
McKimmie has also been a vocal advocate for affordability, speaking out against state-approved utility rate hikes, the rising costs associated with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, and unfunded state mandates that shift costs onto counties and taxpayers.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, but I’m not finished,” McKimmie said. “I hope I’ve earned the opportunity to continue serving Niagara County.”
