I hope you enjoyed the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations as we welcome spring to western New York. It’s a terrific time to enjoy so many traditions, and I was proud to issue a proclamation recognizing Orchard Park’s own John Murphy. The longtime Buffalo sportscaster was named Irishman of the Year by the Amherst Gaelic League.
Spring also means road construction season will soon get underway. There is significant work that needs to get done. It’s important to maintain the 2,400 county lane miles for the safety of our residents, but we need to do it in a way that respects taxpayers. The County Executive is requesting to borrow $56 million in 2024 for various capital projects. The consolidated bond resolution request adds a financial burden to the already overtaxed residents of Erie County. Previously my Republican colleagues and I have asked to first see what the amount is in fund balance. By paying more in cash for these projects, you won’t get stuck paying interest on borrowed money. As it currently stands you are paying interest on money borrowed years ago for projects that still haven’t gotten off the ground. This is irresponsible budgeting to keep putting more on the county credit card when much of the planned work languishes for years. The Administration has stated the surplus this year is expected to be at least $31 million. My position is, let’s find out how much extra cash Erie County has, and pay for some of the projects in cash. The county is borrowing $125 million this year for a new stadium, so taxpayers are already footing a hefty interest bill. We should try and control those costs as much as possible.
I am pleased that the town of Hamburg is the latest community to officially voice their opposition to wind turbines in Lake Erie. The town board voted unanimously in favor of a resolution objecting to the turbines in the lake. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) concluded one and a half years ago that the offshore wind production isn’t a cost-effective means of meeting the states climate goals. It’s ironic that the lawmaker pushing the wind turbines in Lakes Erie and Ontario resides in the Westchester and Hudson Valley region.
The much-anticipated Solar Eclipse will soon be here, and it is expected to boost tourism here in western New York. We are one of a select number of communities across the country that is expected to experience a full eclipse. Many schools and businesses are closing for the day so that folks can enjoy this spectacle. Other businesses are welcoming this opportunity by finding creative ways to welcome visitors to their place. Erie County Parks will be open for the Solar Eclipse. Although shelters and building rentals will not be available, there will be designated viewing with parking areas marked for visitors. Staff will be on hand to provide safety and educational information. If you are interested in learning more about the eclipse, go to https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/where-when/
If you have a county related issue, you can reach my office at (716) 858-8850, or by email, John.Mills@erie.gov
