NIAGARA COUNTY — "I have a record and people can judge me on my record," State Senator George Maziarz said.

It’s one that spans 18 years and nine terms in the 62nd State Senate District. This time around, North Tonawanda native Maziarz is focused on job creation and growing the economy.

"I have a lot of projects that are unfinished," he said.

Projects that include the expansion of the Niagara Falls International Airport, a permanent Nik Wallenda installation in the City of Niagara Falls, and the continuation of his Recharge New York legislation.

It's those same projects, however, that prompted Democratic challenger Amy Hope Witryol to throw her hat into the ring a second time.

"He's had 18 years to lift the three counties in his district out of last place and I think there's a big contrast for voters this year," Witryol said.

The Lewiston resident, who specialized in financial crises during her banking career, said the state's play-to-pay culture has left the district's three counties with the highest property taxes in the country and its financial struggles are about to get worse; the winner of the November 6 election is set to inherit the City of Niagara Falls – already in the midst of its own financial struggle.

"We have to move forward and part of moving forward is getting the Governor involved in some major policy decisions involving the City of Niagara Falls,” Maziarz said.

Both agree the state should pick up the tab if arbitration with the Seneca Nation fails to secure the city $60 million in casino revenue.

"The most important accomplishment for Niagara Falls would be to get relief from the state in the form of a temporary advance for funding," Witryol said.

Maziarz and Witryol are set to take part in a candidate’s forum at the Niagara Falls Public Library at 6 p.m. on October 30.