Every ten years, the Erie County Charter Review Commission meets to consider changes to our county’s foundational document. The Charter isn’t just a formality—it’s the blueprint for how our county government operates. Any attempt to weaken its checks and balances should be met with serious concern.
That’s why I spoke out forcefully before the Commission and followed up in writing to oppose a dangerous proposal pushed by County Executive Mark Poloncarz. Despite voters overwhelmingly rejecting a ballot proposition last November—by 62 percent—that would have allowed a simple majority vote to extend the county’s sales tax, Mr. Poloncarz is now trying to sneak that same policy through the back door using the Charter Review process.
Let’s be clear: this is blatant disrespect for the electorate. Residents across Erie County made their voices heard just a few months ago. Changing how the sales tax is extended isn’t just a bureaucratic tweak—it risks eliminating the voice of communities outside of the city and first-ring suburbs, concentrating power in the hands of a few.
The Democrats may hold the majority in the Legislature, but that doesn’t justify overriding the public or eliminating minority representation. No matter which party is in control, the process must remain fair, and every taxpayer deserves a say.
Another concerning proposal under review would increase the amount of money that can be transferred between departments without Legislature approval. That limit is currently $10,000. I strongly oppose raising it. The Legislature is meant to be a check and balance on the executive—not a rubber stamp. Taxpayers deserve to know how their money is moved and spent—not left in the dark while funds shift behind closed doors.
That’s exactly why I spent the past year drafting, refining, and building bipartisan support for the Meetings Transparency Act, which I’m proud to say passed unanimously. This new local law is a win for good government. It ensures that boards, commissions, and committees tied to county government meet higher transparency standards. They must give advance notice of meetings, post detailed agendas, list invited speakers, and disclose whether votes will take place. They’re also required to livestream meetings when feasible or post video recordings afterward—so citizens can see firsthand what decisions are being made and how.
In today’s political climate, where many people feel distrustful of government at every level, transparency isn’t a buzzword—it’s essential. Erie County should lead by example and prove that open, accountable government is possible. We should be pulling back the curtain, not operating in the shadows.
And that’s more important than ever. Erie County is now on the hook for a staggering $28 million settlement tied to a wrongful conviction—yet the Legislature was never informed. This is the second time in recent months that silence from the County Executive and County Attorney has cost taxpayers dearly. We are the fiscal watchdogs of this county. Being kept in the dark is not just unacceptable—it’s dangerous.
If you need help with anything county-related, contact my office at (716) 858-8922 or Lindsay.Lorigo@erie.gov.
Erie County Legislator Lindsay Lorigo April 2025 Bee column
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