Krull Fields may be Renamed After Jim Ward

When county officials first learned of Jim Ward’s illness earlier this summer, they tried to move fast to name the athletic facilities at Krull Park in honor of the longtime political figure.

Sadly, Ward’s illness moved faster. The former Niagara County legislator died Sept. 7.

But county officials remain committed to honoring Ward’s legacy. The Niagara County Legislature’s Infrastructure & Facilities committee unanimously supported a resolution Monday naming the athletic facilities at Krull Park in Ward’s honor, and the legislature as a whole is expected to follow suit at its next meeting Sept. 19.

Those who knew Ward say it is fitting tribute for the former legislator who fought for funding to have those very facilities built.

“That wouldn’t be there today if it wasn’t for Jim Ward,” said state Sen. Robert Ortt, R-North Tonawanda. “He did a lot of good things for a lot of people.”

Ward was a staff member of the 62nd state Senate District office for 22 years. He served as an executive adviser to Ortt and Ortt’s predecessor, George Maziarz.

Ward also served as Newfane town justice, as a Niagara County legislator representing Newfane and Somerset and, between 2004 and 2007, was the U.S. Commissioner to the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission on the appointment of former Gov. George Pataki.

After Ward was diagnosed with cancer in early August, town and county officials organized a dedication ceremony for Ward and his family on Aug. 17.

“We were told he wasn’t going to have a lot of time, and it was something we wanted him to see,” said Newfane Supervisor Tim Horanburg.

“I’ve been friends for Jim for 35 years and had the pleasure of working with the guy,” Horanburg added. “He’s going to be sadly missed.”

Ortt pointed out most park-goers tend not to notice the individuals after which facilities are named.

“It’s different when you knew the person, and their name is on there,” he said. “For anyone who knew Jim, going over there will never be the same.”

Once the legislature approves the renaming, it will take effect immediately.