Election 2026: Parks announces candidacy for Niagara County legislator

Submitted on Behalf of Johnny C. Parks

Recently, Johnny C. Parks, current Town of Niagara councilman, announced his plans to run for the Niagara County’s 5^th District legislator seat, held by longtime legislator Christopher Robins. 

“I am looking forward to bringing new ideas and initiatives to my hometown of Niagara County,” Parks said. “I want to continue to keep up the hard work that Chris Robins has done and keep the district moving forward.”

A Town of Niagara citizen of 14 years, Parks has been a member of the Town of Niagara council for the past two years. Additionally, he has served on the Town of Niagara Advisory Committee and the Town of Niagara Police Reform Committee.

Keeping his community safe and in good hands is just one of many initiatives close to Parks. The Goodyear Tire employee of over 25 years has served on the John Street community watch group and was awarded the Town of Niagara’s Helping Hands Award in 2018 for his services to the community. Parks has made it a focal point to provide for youth in the area, always issuing snacks, drinks and sporting equipment to the attending children of his neighboring John Street Park.

On top of Parks’ volunteer efforts, he has spent numerous years coaching youth sports and is now a high school basketball and football referee.

“With the leadership abilities I have shown, it is my goal to be the person that the 5^th District residents can count on and trust,” Parks said. “Our area has such unique potential to grow, and it is my goal that, together, we can achieve greatness.”

In just two years on the Town of Niagara council, Parks has made efforts to help clean up neighborhoods by removing town eyesores; work on getting town roads paved; and also keeping jobs within the town. 

As legislator, Parks said his goal is to continue working with the entire legislative team to bring more development to the Town of Niagara and City of Niagara Falls. Additionally, Parks noted that the need to improve the overall downtown experience around one of the wonders of the world is incredibly important as he moves forward with his endeavors. 

Parks’ experiences professionally and voluntarily, along with his leadership, work ethic and devotion within the town, label him as a bright candidate for Niagara County legislator.

“As a lifelong citizen of this area, I have been able to see the ups and downs that our region has gone through over the years,” Parks said. “As your legislator, your best interests will be my top priority. A vote for Parks will be the spark the citizens of this district so greatly need and deserve.” 

The 2026 primary election is slated for Tuesday, June 23.