By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – Buffalo civic leader Kevin Gaughan says he's ready to shake things up. Gaughan announced his candidacy for Buffalo mayor during an early morning news conference Wednesday along Niagara Street in the city.
Kevin Gaughan stood in front of an undeveloped section of Niagara Street near the Niagara River as his back drop. Gaughan told reporters he's ready to run. A small group of supporters stood behind him holding campaign signs that say "They've had their chance -- now it's Gaughan"
"Wake up, Buffalo, because our long, dark twilight is over," Gaughan said. "Wake up, because I'm going to shake up this system and all those who selfishly cling to it. Wake up, because I intend to break the mold to leave the old behind and begin anew."
Gaughan says the centerpiece of his campaign will be his plan to create a smaller, less costly government, fewer politicians and a stronger citizen voice. But WBFO News asked Gaughan how he would go about reducing the number of politicians.
"Here in Erie County, we have 341 politicians," Gaughan said. "In a comparable city, Greater Baltimore, which has even more population, they have 48. Charlotte, North Carolina, the place that has taken many of our young people, has 12. The best practices in local government around America feature less government, less politicians, less patronage, less perks and less costs.
Gaughan says he promises that in the coming days he will present specific plans on education, economic development and cultural preservation.
He calls the fiscal crisis in Erie County, and the on-going financial struggles of Buffalo a "citizen's crisis." Gaughan says throughout his campaign, he will be looking for the support of average Buffalo citizens who want change.
Meanwhile, there is still no word from Mayor Masiello on his future plans or a re-election bid. But two other candidates have already announced, Buffalo businesswoman Judy Einach and State Senator Byron Brown.