Independence Party changes endorsement procedure
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

This year more of the Independence Party members will have their voices heard when making endorsements for the Amherst 2008 town elections.

The party changed its endorsement procedure to involve more of the members by planning a forum.

"The process had been dominated by one person; we are trying to get every member of the Independence Party to have a voice in the endorsement," Don Oakley, committee member, said.

Currently the Amherst Independence Party has 3,000 members.

Oakley said a party forum will be scheduled sometime between mid-May and mid-June, and each candidate seeking the Independence Party endorsement will attend.

Questions will be drafted prior to the forum for the candidates to answer. Members will also be able to ask the candidates questions during the forum.

"This is not just to make a change but to get everybody involved," Oakley said about the new endorsement process. "The candidates aren't just going to be a name on a list that people are told to vote for."

He added that the purpose of the forum is to hear the candidates' opinions and give party members an opportunity to ask candidates questions about their views.

After the party has voted on its choices, the recommendations will be sent to the Erie County Executive Committee for the formal endorsement.

"What we want to do is actively campaign for those we endorsed," he said.

Currently the Amherst Democratic and Republican parties have similar membership numbers, and Oakley said historically the Independence Party nomination has affected election outcomes.

The Independence Party will be deciding on three Town Board seats. Currently seven residents have announced their candidacy. Also, the town clerk, highway superintendent and one town justice position are up for election.

Independence Party members who wish to participate in the process can call Jonathan Lavell, committee member, at 632-222 or e-mail bonagradjl@hotmail. com or Oakley at 633-5220 or e-mail dvoakl@yahoo.com.