As summer begins in Erie County, I want to thank everyone who attended my recent community office hours in Elma and the Town of Concord. These conversations are an important way for me to hear directly from residents, and they help shape the work I do in the Legislature. I will continue to hold office hours throughout the district and look forward to meeting more of you in the coming months.
One of the recent discussions in the Legislature focused on a proposed local law to ban sky lanterns, also known as Chinese paper lanterns. While they may seem like a fun way to celebrate, they can pose real dangers, especially in rural areas. Bryant Zilke, a farmer from Elma, explained how the metal frames from these lanterns often land in hayfields, where they can damage machinery and equipment. Even more concerning, if livestock ingest these remains, it can lead to serious harm or even death.
There are environmental and fire safety concerns associated with these lanterns, especially during dry weather. At the same time, local farmers have expressed serious concerns about the dangers to their equipment and livestock. Protecting the livelihood of our farmers and the animals they care for is a priority I take very seriously. This issue highlights the need for practical, safety-focused legislation that reflects the realities faced by our rural communities.
In the weeks ahead, we will begin mid-year budget hearings. This is a critical time to review county spending and determine how our resources can best serve the public. I will continue to advocate for accountability, transparency, and fair distribution of services to all corners of the county, including the suburban and rural areas that are often overlooked.
Infrastructure work remains a top concern across the district this summer. In Elma, Bullis Road from Three Rod Road to Marilla Elementary is being resurfaced. In West Falls, crews are completing work on Behm Road. In West Seneca, improvements are underway on Indian Church Road from Mineral Springs to Union. In Concord, projects include Genesee Road from Mortons Corners-Wyandale to Route 219, Emerling Road from Wagner to Brown Hill, and the Sharp Road bridge. Holland is seeing work on Holland Glenwood Road and the Sanders Hill bridge. Wales has projects in progress on Warner Hill Road and Fish Hill Road. Aurora is completing engineering work on Pine Street, and the Trevett Road slide in Concord is also being addressed. Several rural roads across the district are receiving oil and chip surface treatments to improve safety and durability.
Independence Day celebrations are approaching, and I hope to see many of you at local events. The East Aurora parade and fireworks on July 3 are always a highlight, with additional festivities planned in Concord, Elma, and Colden.
If you have a county issue, please feel free to contact my office at 716-858-8922 or by email at Lindsay.Lorigo@erie.gov. You can also stay up-to-date on county government news and community events by following my Facebook page at “Legislator Lindsay Lorigo.” I wish you and your family a safe and meaningful summer.
