From left Lakewood Trustee Ben Troche, Mayor Randy Holcomb, Trustee Rich Fischer, and Trustee Ellen Barnes discuss business a meeting in June. P-J photo by Michael Zabrodsky

LAKEWOOD — Richard Fischer is stepping down from the Board of Trustees.

In a letter to the mayor and board, dated Aug. 2, Fischer wrote he is resigning his position as a trustee with the village. “I would like to use this opportunity to thank you, the board, the office staff, the (Lakewood-Busti) Police Department, the Department of Public Works, the (code enforcement office) and attorneys. To all of the village residents, thank you for your support,” he stated.

Mayor Randy Holcomb has begun the process for replacing Fischer.

“Replacing Rich on the board of trustees will not be an easy task. I have started the preliminary steps by contacting the New York State Conference of Mayors, and they will supply guidance as needed,” Holcomb said.

Trustee Ben Troche said Fischer’s years on the board are admirable with his no-nonsense approach and focus on solutions.

“His insight was incredibly valuable, especially when I first joined the (Board of Trustees). I’m personally going to miss our long and frequent conversations about issues,” Troche said.

When Fischer ran for trustee in 2019, he said it was the right time for him to become involved with Lakewood government and is interested in representing the citizens of Lakewood on its board.

Fischer first took office in 2020 and was re-elected in 2023.

Fischer said the reason he ran for the position of trustee was that it was vital for the community to remain progressive, yet continue on an economical path that benefits all village residents. He said leadership is expressed in many ways and his extensive research and fact finding is just one example of that and it will be put to good use on the Lakewood Village Board. Research is what good decision making represents.

“I am a good listener, observe the situation, complete my research and then make an informed decision,” Fischer said during his campaign.

Fischer said the Village Board must support, fund and maintain the Lakewood highway department, fire department, police department, as well as the clerk and treasurer staff.

“These departments are the heart and soul of the village and must be preserved for the safety and future of the village,” Fischer said.

Fischer was raised in Lakewood on Marvin Avenue and graduated from Southwestern Central School. He furthered his education at Bryant & Stratton in sales, advertising and management. Fischer later returned to Lakewood after retiring from a 40-year career in accounting and sales with Jamestown Telephone Company/Alltel. He also served in the United States Air Force Reserves. Fischer also enjoys lawn care and his many special interests throughout the Lakewood area. He also enjoys his time at the Chautauqua County Visitors Center. He also worked at the Jamestown Chamber of Commerce and the Robert H. Jackson Center.

“I totally respect Rich’s reasons for his decision. Speaking for myself, I am going to miss him,” said Trustee Ellen Barnes.

Fischer’s last day is today.