Madigan points to smart oversight, strong schools, responsible spending in bid for school board

By Mike Madigan

I am running for the Grand Island Central School District Board of Education to bring disciplined oversight, transparent decision-making, responsible financial management, and a renewed focus on strengthening both vocational and traditional education.

I have been a Grand Island resident since 1987 and am now retired following a long and successful career. Most recently, I served as senior program manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific (GIBCO) from 2007-25. Prior to that, I held leadership roles as manager of manufacturing and manager of process engineering, where I led teams, managed large budgets, and earned multiple leadership awards. As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), I take a data-driven approach to decision-making, with a strong emphasis on results and accountability.

My wife, Leslie, a lifelong Islander, and I raised our two sons, William and Matthew, in the Grand Island school system. As both a parent and taxpayer, I understand the importance of maintaining academic excellence while also addressing the burden of high property taxes.

I served eight years as a town councilman, building a record of fiscal responsibility, transparency, and strong advocacy for residents. I am also an experienced public speaker, skilled at communicating complex issues clearly and effectively.

Since 2015, I have served as a Grand Island volunteer fireman, responding to an average of more than 200 calls per year - demonstrating my deep commitment to this community.

Together with Jim Mulcahy, I am running on a five-point plan focused on accountability and excellence:

•Budget accountability: Conduct a line-by-line review of spending to eliminate waste.

•Organizational review: Ensure efficient and fair administration.

•Smarter use of facilities: Expand shared use with the town.

•Responsible capital planning: Reduce long-term taxpayer burden.

•Strong, traditional curriculum: Emphasize proven fundamentals and prepare students for college or vocational careers.

I am committed to transparent governance, fiscal discipline, and putting students and taxpayers first.

Vote for Mike Madigan on May 19.