Election 2026: Gooch announces reelection campaign for Niagara County Legislature

Submitted by Niagara County Legislator Jesse Gooch

Niagara County Legislator Jesse Gooch has announced his candidacy for reelection this November to represent the 7th District, which spans most of Wheatfield and the Gratwick section of North Tonawanda.

First elected in 2019, Gooch is seeking another term to continue delivering results focused on senior services, infrastructure improvements, tax relief and affordability.

"Quality of life and affordability have always been my top priorities," Gooch said. "Families in Niagara County deserve safe neighborhoods and leadership that puts their concerns first."

Gooch currently serves as chairman of the county's community services committee and is also a member of the infrastructure committee, where he has played an active role in advancing key initiatives that benefit residents across the district.

A strong advocate for seniors, Gooch has worked closely with the county's Office for the Aging to support initiatives aimed at making meals more affordable and expanding transportation services – helping older residents maintain independence and quality of life.

Gooch has been instrumental in securing several key infrastructure improvements throughout the district, including the reconfiguration of the entrance at Oppenheim Park and the expansion of lanes at the intersection of Niagara Falls Boulevard and Ward Road. In 2022, he worked with local and state officials to ensure CSX repaired the damaged railroad crossing at Shawnee Road and Niagara Falls Boulevard.

Throughout his tenure, Gooch has supported numerous nonprofit organizations and community initiatives by helping secure over $30,000 annually in grant funding. These efforts have benefited organizations such as Project Future WNY, Hearts in Bloom Buffalo, Adams Fire Co., St. Johnsburg Fire Co., Miracle in North Tonawanda, and others.

He has also supported small businesses through the county's façade improvement program, which has invested approximately $9 million into revitalizing storefronts across the district in the wake of COVID-19.

"It has been an honor to serve the residents of the 7th District," Gooch said. "I'm asking for your vote this November so we can continue strengthening public safety, supporting our children, seniors and veterans, and building a stronger future for Niagara County."

In addition to his public service, Gooch is the owner of Painters Plus in North Tonawanda. Through his Project Hope initiative, his company has donated more than $145,000 in free paint services to homeowners facing hardship in North Tonawanda and Wheatfield since 2010.

Gooch also serves as a representative to the Niagara Military Affairs Council (NIMAC), supporting initiatives that strengthen the region's military community and contribute to economic growth.

In 2017, Gooch founded the "Thursdays on the Water" concert series at Gratwick Park, helping to showcase the waterfront while strengthening community engagement and supporting local nonprofits.

Gooch resides in Wheatfield with his son, Tyler, and daughter, London. He is the endorsed Republican and Conservative candidate for the general election this November.