Listen. Lead. Legislate.

By Bridgette Myles

Bridgette Myles

That’s the mantra of Niagara Falls Council Member-elect Bridgette Myles, the first woman and first Black female to serve in that capacity. Myles is not only a trail blazer but also eminently qualified to serve as an At-Large member. With more than 15 years serving individuals, families, and the community, she brings lived experience, leadership, and love for the city she was born and raised in.

Myles lived in the Center Court and the Hope VI projects for several years. After graduating from Niagara Falls High School, she studied accounting at SUNY Niagara, juggling both school responsibilities with a busy work and family schedule.

Now as a City Council member, Myles can draw upon that professional experience, having gained valuable experience working on the Niagara Falls Water Board, Law Department, Council, and ultimately as the first-ever administrative assistant to former Mayor Paul Dyster. She currently operates a Foundation for Diverse Communities in the Falls.

A mother of four children and two grandchildren, Myles felt a call to pursue her purpose to represent her community in local govern ment. A woman of deep faith, Myles prayed about the decision and felt she was called to run for the Council seat. She was concerned that her mother would deter her, saying that politics can be a tough and demanding job, but Myles’ mom sup ported her “assignment from the Lord” and was an integral part of her campaign.

In fact, it was Myles’ mother who planted the seeds of public service in her daughter. Both women were inspired by the work of Doris Jones, who, for more than 40 years, advocated for quality of life for public housing residents in Niagara Falls.

Myles heard similar concerns as she knocked on countless doors, introducing herself to the residents she cares deeply about. During the early days of Sep tember, in the midst of her campaign, Myles’ mother succumbed to cancer. Heartbroken and grieving, Myles carried on and when she won the primary election, she visited her mother at the gravesite.

After she is sworn in on January 1st, Myles plans to shadow every city department and learn their best practices while continuing to engage with her constituents on listening tours, podcasts, and neighborhood meetings. Myles’ top three priorities include a focus on homelessness and mental health, opportunities for young people so they remain in Niagara Falls, and helping small businesses thrive.

Fo the next four years and beyond, I am confi dent that Bridgette Myles will make a difference in her beloved home town. Her tenacity, leadership ability, and groundbreaking candidacy brings fresh and innovative ideas to a city that she is deeply rooted in and where she chooses to raise her family.

I look forward to working with Bridgette Myles and watching her grow and thrive as a key leader in the Cataract City.

April N.M. Baskin SD-63