As I begin my nineteenth year in the Erie County Legislature, as a result of redistricting, some of the communities I represent have changed. This means I now represent a portion of Hamburg. As a lifelong resident of Orchard Park, I am very familiar with the town and village of Hamburg and am proud to represent the community. I will continue working to ensure county government addresses their needs and expectations.
One issue that came to the forefront early in 2024 was the change in golf course policy at Erie County owned courses. Leagues have played on these courses for fifty years or more when suddenly, without any outreach, policies were changed so that leagues could only play 9 holes, rather than the traditional 18. The majority of these leagues play early in the morning, on weekdays, when there is less traffic on the course. Despite pleas from the leagues and a resolution introduced by my Caucus opposing the change, the majority in the Erie County Legislature sided with the Administration in adjusting policy. I am extremely disappointed. No input was sought from those most impacted, and no data was produced to necessitate the change. In fact, my office received numerous phone calls and emails critical of this revision and asked that their voices be heard. The Parks Department, and by extension the Administration, should reconsider this move and the negative impact it will have on those who, for decades have been regulars on the county golf courses.
Our Erie County Parks remain a four-season destination. They are a great place to get some fresh air in winter; whether it be sledding, walking, hiking, or skiing, there are opportunities for everyone. Just go to www.Erie.Gov and click on “Our Services” at the top. Scroll down to “Parks, Camping, Shelters, & Golf,” click on that and you will find some of the events taking place.
I am glad to see that a New York State County is taking on the state over changes in the election year calendar. Onondaga County is suing the state, claiming that changes to the election year schedule violate local rules. It is obvious that the change to the calendar was purely a political move, as no local community asked for it, the New York State Association of Counties came out against it, and state lawmakers supporting this measure didn’t first consult with the communities they represent. The change will make it nearly impossible for local issues to be properly debated, as the divisive national and state issues of our day will dominate the discussion. I hope they are successful in their lawsuit so that candidates in local races will have the opportunity to run campaigns focused on matters where they actually have influence.
We had another successful year with our Valentines for Veterans program, where area school children make valentines for those who sacrificed so much. I was able to personally deliver some of those valentines to area VFW and American Legion posts, while some were also distributed to the Niagara Air Reserve Station.
If you have any county related issues, you can contact my office at 716-858-8850, or by email, John.Mills@erie.gov
