Erie County Legislator and Minority Leader John Mills criticized changes to rules at county owned golf courses made by the Erie County Parks Commissioner. The new policy allows leagues to play just nine holes, rather than the 18-holes as they have for decades.
“These leagues play early on weekdays, when the courses aren’t crowded. They’ve been doing this for years. There is no logical reason to suddenly change the rules,” said Legislator Mills. “The Parks Department didn’t seek any input from the impacted leagues and produced no data that would back up the need for this.”
The Erie County Legislature’s Republican caucus introduced a resolution that would have walked back the changes. But that resolution was not supported by the majority of Democrat lawmakers.
“We received several emails and phone calls from people who would be negatively impacted by these changes. These leagues have been playing 18 holes for decades now and it has never been a problem. Nothing supports the need for these changes. The courses are owned by the public, yet those who use these courses most were disregarded,” said Legislator Mills.
Initial modifications had also required leagues to rent golf carts, although after much discussion with the Administration, that requirement was rescinded.
“The constituents are our bosses. Sometimes people who hold public office forget that. We need to listen to them and invite them to be part of the conversation. We need to take their concerns into consideration when making policy changes. The Administration didn’t do that, and that’s unfortunate. I will continue to advocate for the people I represent,” concluded Legislator Mills.
