Writing “I am in it to win it for the people of Olean!”, Olean Mayor William J. Aiello officially announced his candidacy for re-election in a Facebook post over the weekend. Aiello is seeking one final term in office on the Lincoln Party Line. The general election will be held on November 4, with early voting scheduled from Oct. 25 through Nov. 2.
Aiello, who has served as mayor for the past 12 years, said he is running again to finish what he started.
“It has been a privilege and honor to represent Olean as Mayor for 12 years and I am looking forward to one final term to complete the job I started,” Aiello wrote. “I love a challenge and promise to prove I am the best candidate for the job.”
The mayor pointed to his experience as a distinguishing factor, noting a career that spans 50 years in public service. He served as an officer with the Olean Police Department, spent time on the Cattaraugus County Legislature, and held the role of Executive Director for the New York Police Juvenile Officers Association.
“What sets me apart is my experience,” he wrote. “I have led the city’s 200 plus employees and successfully negotiated numerous contracts for the four city unions.”
Aiello emphasized his vision for the city’s future, particularly the importance of creating a community where “our children and grandchildren want to live, work and play.” He highlighted progress during his tenure, including grants that revitalized Olean’s parks and downtown district, as well as infrastructure improvements.
He also acknowledged the city’s challenges but pointed to resilience and opportunities for growth.
“Like the rest of the rust belt, Olean has suffered decline but that has not undermined us from rising from the ashes and looking to the future,” Aiello wrote. “In the past 12 years we have seen development in the Brownfields that laid barren for decades and we have seen the First National become a bright light as opposed to an eyesore.”
Aiello noted his ongoing collaboration with local agencies, Cattaraugus County, and faith-based groups to address pressing issues like homelessness, drug addiction, and mental illness.
“I am working with our police and fire departments, numerous agencies throughout the county, and the religious community to find a way to help those who are struggling with these issues to get shelter and the help that they need,” he shared.
The mayor also thanked residents for their support throughout his time in office. “I want to thank Olean residents for their support over the past 12 years, and I look forward to their continued support for four more years,” Aiello concluded.
Aiello is seeking one final term in office on the Lincoln Party Line. He is running against Amy Sherburne, who was endorsed by both the Republicans and Democrats.
The general election will be held on Nov. 4, with early voting scheduled from Oct. 25 through Nov. 2.
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