Meet the Candidates: Sheila Niezgodski, South Bend Common Council District 6

I’m Sheila Niezgodski and I’m running for the 6th District Common Council seat. I am married to my husband David and have lived in the district for 20 years. South Bend is my home. Except for a short span of time, I’ve lived here nearly my entire life. I have two wonderful stepchildren; Rachael and Grant. David and I are new grandparents. Elijah now is 2 years old.

I earned an Associate of Science Degree at IUSB. I used my G.I. Bill benefits to help with the cost of my education. While earning my degree I worked at DuComb Center full time, H & R Block part time and worked nights doing research for a professor on his thesis about recidivism rates. His thesis drew the comparison between prison and community corrections. We found community corrections to be the best path to rehabilitation and a successful future for people that may have made a wrong choice.

I am a Veteran of Foreign Wars. I served during Desert Shield/Desert Storm while in the United States Army. I am currently the Office Manager of Niezgodski Plumbing Inc, a union shop that was established in our community in 1922. While my husband serves in the Indiana General Assembly, I run our family owned business. I have an understanding of budgets, a diverse set of management skills and the ability to complete projects on time, as designed.

I’m running for the South Bend 6th District seat because I want to serve the residents of this district. If elected, my voice on the council will be one of reason and common sense. I will strive to help local businesses grow. I will look for every opportunity to bring new, good paying jobs to the District.

Through the years, I have been very active in our community. I’ve worked to register voters in schools and at public events. I’ve supported organizations like La Casa De Amistad, Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together, Flag Education Program, the American Legion, Water for People and numerous other organizations within our community.

I believe I have the skills as a businesswoman and background to help our neighborhoods thrive.

I am committed to our community. I want to see our neighborhoods, rich in diversity, continue to grow and flourish. Every family that resides within the 6th District, should have the opportunity to share in the progress I believe is within our grasp. 

My primary focus will be on development and affordable housing for residents within the district. I understand the process of gathering permits, determining easements, and start to finish construction projects. In order to achieve this goal, I believe we need a Community Development Corporation within the 6th District.

Ultimately, our greatest regard must go to families; we must seek unity and inclusion for all. I’ll work with you and together, we will share in the progress that we all know is possible. 

I am asking for your support and vote on Tuesday, May 7th.

Meet the Candidates is a series introducing candidates in their own words. South Bend Voice has offered to publish statements from all South Bend office seekers who are on the May 7th primary ballot. Statements are posted verbatim. Find out more about the candidates on the ballot at Vote411.org.

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