The year 2023 began as one in which we needed to address the fallout from a devastating December blizzard that took at least 47 lives. As the year progressed it also became one where our caucus took important steps towards recognizing the efforts of first responders, saved taxpayers millions of dollars in addressing the capital projects and Bills stadium project, and concluded with the first cut to the property tax levy in more than twenty years.
The Republican Caucus requested back in January that the snowmobile clubs be part of the discussion on how to improve emergency response. One loss of life is one too many, and it was clear the Administration was not prepared for just how catastrophic that December 2023 storm would be. The snowmobilers were key in responding to emergencies one year ago. While it took far too long, I’m glad the Administration finally provided us an agreement they reached with the clubs that will indemnify the organizations as they work with us during snow emergencies.
We also saw how important volunteer first responders are during times of crisis and worked to provide them a property tax break going forward.
My colleagues and I in the Republican Caucus recognized the need for inclusive playgrounds in county parks. After making these priorities clear to the Administration, these playgrounds opened throughout the past year at Ellicott Creek, Chestnut Ridge, Akron Falls, Emery and Como Lake Parks.
We saved Erie County taxpayers millions in borrowing costs by requiring the Administration pay cash for a number of projects, pay off the $9.5 million in existing bonds to the old Bills stadium using cash, and use that budget surplus to fund a significant portion of Erie County’s $250 million obligation to the new stadium.
The migrant issue impacted the communities I represent. I requested that if a hotel is to be receiving federal dollars to house these migrants, they must be up to date on their taxes. I also called for more accountability from the Administration after crimes were alleged to have been committed by some of these migrants, many of whom were housed in a hotel in the middle of a neighborhood.
For the first time in more than two decades you will receive a cut to your property tax levy in 2024. It’s expected that will translate into more than $80 million in savings over the next decade due to the property tax cap staying in place. We also negotiated an agreement that will eliminate the Erie County sales tax on home energy products for December through February, typically the coldest months of the year.
It is also very important to invest in our local communities. As such I secured in the 2024 budget funding for a variety of organizations including Meals on Wheels, Food Pantries, Senior Centers, Scouting, Boys & Girls Clubs, Ice Rink and Community Center Improvements, Hull House, Reinstein Woods, Pet Connection and more.
Lastly, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve you. I wish you a joyous holiday season filled with promise for the new year.
