It has been a cold start to 2026, with town and county highway crews keeping quite busy. I’m appreciative of their efforts in working to stay on top of the heavy snow we have had these past few weeks. The crews have worked long hours in frigid temperatures. I know the salt supplies have diminished greatly, and I’m hoping the worst of it is behind us.
As work continues on construction of the new stadium, reality is setting in that the place we have watched our beloved Buffalo Bills for the past 52 years will soon be no more. It is a place that carries special memories for so many. While I am sad to see it go, I am very grateful to our skilled trades men and women who have done a remarkable job with the new facility. I hope it will be home to new wonderful memories that include many victories, championships, and seasons that lead to Super Bowl victories.
I recently honored Orchard Park teenager Zachary Restorff as Citizen of the Month. Zachary is an Eagle Scout whose quick thinking helped save the life of a student who had severed an artery resulting in rapid blood loss. Zachary applied a tourniquet and stayed with him until emergency responders arrived. Restorff encouraged people to take basic first aid as well as ‘Stop the Bleed’ courses or training. The student made a full recovery.
Erie County Legislators are reviewing various reports and audits regarding Erie County Fleet Services and some not-for-profits that receive county funding.
This year will be my last in the Erie County Legislature. I have been involved with public service for more than 50 years and I can say it has been an incredible honor and privilege. From my time on the Orchard Park Town Board, to my now, 21st year in the Legislature, I have met people from all walks of life and their stories, their concerns, have impacted me greatly. I have enjoyed public service immensely. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to advocate for you these many years. Now it is time to turn my attention to the food distribution company I founded along with my wife, Barbara, back in 1976, and to focus on family. I run that company with my children and relatives, as well as a wonderful workforce.
It is now time for me to hand over the reins as 11th District Legislator to someone else. That being said, I will continue to serve the residents of the 11th District for the remainder of 2026 and plan to remain as hands-on as ever. There is important work that still needs to be done.
If you have any county related issues, please contact my office at (716)858-8850 or by email at John.Mills@erie.gov Thank you for the honor of serving you.
