The Erie County Legislature is back in session after our August recess. Over the next few months, we will work out 2024 budget details, as well as address some urgent needs in the county.
I was pleased at the tremendous turnout we had at a recent rally against wind turbines in Lake Erie. The group Citizens Against Wind Turbines have been passionate in their fight, and the arguments against the turbines are valid. It’s an over-subsidized industry. The turbines are costly to build. There is no deconstruction and decommissioning plan if the company operating the turbines goes broke. It would be extremely expensive to install and maintain them. It could impact spawning grounds for popular game fish. I’m proud to stand with my partners in government to continue this thirteen-plus year fight.
The migrant issue continues to impact many of our communities in Erie County. We are a welcoming nation and county, but we don’t have limitless resources. The federal government absolutely must step up to end the record number of unvetted migrants flowing into our country. Additionally, we cannot see any more crises, rapes, and violent outbursts at the hotels housing these migrants in Erie County. It takes resources away from our communities and will inevitably cost taxpayers. We anticipated there would be issues, which is why my colleagues and I in the Republican Caucus pushed to have a State of Emergency declared. The reported incidents are extremely troubling.
I recently held job recruitment events in Orchard Park and North Collins, as Erie County looks to hire folks in various positions. If interested, I would encourage you to go to www.erie.gov and click on Employment.
With the marking of the 9-11 anniversary last week, we are reminded of the terror that filled the skies and our hearts that awful day. Continued prayers for all those impacted and for all those we lost.
September is a time for our houses to get a bit quieter, as kids head back to school. Best wishes to all for a wonderful school year. Drivers, please be on the lookout for our little ones and be mindful of busses stopping frequently. Roadwork, including patching and ditching continues this month, so please also watch out for road crews.
September is also a great month for hiking and taking in the beautiful early Autumn colors. The upgrades to the eternal flame trail have been completed, so this month may be the perfect time for a visit.
If you have a county related issue, please feel free to reach out to my office at John.Mills@erie.gov, or by phone at 716-858-8850.
