North Tonawanda, N.Y. (WBEN) - A former North Tonawanda police chief is seeking to become the next mayor of the city.
Tom Krantz has officially declared his candidacy for North Tonawanda Mayor on Wednesday on the Republican ballot, and wants to bring common sense and collaboration to the mayor's office.
"I’ve worked in North Tonawanda for over three decades, and I have never seen our city so divided," said Krantz in a statement on Wednesday. "Regardless of how you voted in the last election, it’s clear that people want a return to calm, rational leadership. I believe it's time for us to stop the bickering and finger-pointing and start working together for the good of our community."
Krantz will challenge incumbent Austin Tylec, a Democrat, who is still in his first term as Mayor of North Tonawanda.
One of the commitments Krantz is pledging as mayor would be to bring community service to the city.
"My focus is on safe neighborhoods, clean streets, and creating development opportunities that attract new families and jobs, all while keeping taxes low. I believe in open-minded, fair leadership and in listening to the concerns of our community members and the advice of our department heads," Krantz said.
According to Krantz, his vision for North Tonawanda includes fostering a spirit of cooperation and finding middle ground between all sides.
"No one side is always right, and no one side is always wrong. We cannot continue with this 'us vs. them' mentality. I will prioritize collaboration and work to unite our city for the greater good," he said.
Krantz was on the North Tonawanda Police force for 31 years.
