Endorsement: Dinwiddie for Batavia City Council, Ward 1

Scott Salvati, appointed last fall to the Batavia City Council in Ward 1 following the resignation of Carl Fischer, has his hands full in his race against perennial contender Carl Dinwiddie.

Two years ago, we endorsed Dinwiddie in his race against Fischer. When Fischer stepped down last fall, Dinwiddie was one of three people considered to replace him, but the council recommended Salvati, and it was he who Mayor Jeff Schielke appointed.

The April election marks the fourth time Dinwiddie will try for a seat. The former National Transportation Safety Board investigator knows everyone in town, has religiously attended council and committee meetings and has a firm grasp on the issues. He has smarts to match his dedication. Although the votes haven't yet gone his way, he never backs down.

Dinwiddie believes the One North Washington plan is a "runaway freight train that nobody seems to be able to harness."

Salvati, president of a marketing services business, believes One North Washington is a favorable investment in the community and not the developer. By creating a TIF district, Batavia will increase tax revenue increase 1,000 percent, he estimates, in an area which now produces minimal tax benefit.

We don't know if the fourth time will be the charm for Dinwiddie, but he's due.

Six of the seven Batavia council seats are running unopposed. Dinwiddie says when that happens, it doesn't give a true voice to the people. We agree, and it's not because we have concerns about Salvati. It's because we believe

Dinwiddie has put in the research time and the effort, and he offers the best opportunity to keep high energy and fresh ideas at work on the board. He doesn't need his resume enhanced, and he's certainly no go-along-to-get-along resident. A fresh voice who works hard, knows the ins and outs and speaks his mind would be a breath of fresh air. Dinwiddie is endorsed.