A longtime Cassadaga resident who was appointed to the village's Board of Trustees to fill a vacancy early this year is now seeking election in November. Dave Rowley has announced his candidacy for a one-year term on the board and is running as a Republican. Rowley is a former member of the village Planning Board. Rowley, who has deep experience in local news coverage and community service, says he understands the importance of reliable services, efficient government operations and a strong local economy.
Rowley spent 42 years in the broadcasting industry before retiring in 2023. He served as News Director at WDOE and WBKX Radio for 31 years, previously worked at WKSN-WHUG in Jamestown, and began his career at the former WBUZ in Fredonia. Over more than four decades on the radio, he covered numerous events across Chautauqua County, including local and county government. Rowley attended SUNY Fredonia and is a graduate of Fredonia High School.
In addition to his broadcasting career, Rowley has remained active in local organizations. He currently serves on the boards of the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation, the Cassadaga Lakes Association, and the Kiwanis Club of Falconer. He is also a member of the Sons of the American Legion, Post 1280 in Cassadaga; past President of the Falconer Kiwanis Club; and past President of the former Cassadaga Valley Kiwanis Club.
Through his years of covering local governments in Chautauqua County, Rowley gained a close view of the importance of maintaining essential services while operating government efficiently. He supports shared services when appropriate and backs Mayor Rudy Abersold's efforts to strengthen cooperation with county government.
Rowley is currently a member of the village's NY Forward core team and is assisting with the village's application for a $4.5 million grant. He also supports the role small businesses play in building a vibrant local economy. And he is a member of NCCF's Local Economic Development Committee.
Rowley lives on Burnham Place with his wife, Cheryl, to whom he has been married for 34 years. He has lived at that address for the past 33 years and currently volunteers as a cooperative weather observer for the National Weather Service.
