We had a busy and productive start to 2023 in the Erie County Legislature. I co-sponsored a resolution opposing Governor Hochul’s proposal to ultimately ban natural gas appliances in New York State. I’m pleased that the resolution passed unanimously, and I believe that helps to send a strong message to Albany politicians. Gas stoves and fireplaces saved lives during the recent blizzard, and residents should be able to utilize natural gas as another source of heat to survive. In addition, prolonged power outages can cause property damage. Property owners should be able to protect their homes from issues like freezing pipes that may arise as a result of lost power. It is dangerous and tone deaf to suggest we should have to be so reliant on the grid. I have launched a petition opposing the ban. You can find a link to that petition on my Legislator Frank Todaro Facebook page; Legislator Frank Todaro | Buffalo NY | Facebook
Volunteer firefighters also helped to save lives during the blizzard. In fact, they contribute in countless ways to the betterment of our communities. My colleagues and I in the minority caucus understand the sacrifices they make and have introduced a local law that would provide some tax relief to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The law would provide tax exemptions up to ten percent of the assessed value of the primary residence for members who have served a minimum of two years. In order to be eligible, the volunteer must live in the community served by the district, and the eligible residential property is in the district where they serve.
The recent news that fluoride has not been added to Buffalo city water for nearly 8 years was very troubling. I sent a letter to the Erie County Water Authority seeking assurances that the water you drink is constantly monitored and tested. I want to stress that Buffalo Water and Erie County Water are run by two different entities and there has been no indication of similar troubles. However, getting answers to these questions and being able to independently review water quality reports provides needed peace of mind.
New York State’s environmental quality review has been completed for the new stadium site, and assurances given that allows this project to take another step forward. We want to ensure the Community Benefits Agreement will be favorable for a region that has supported the Buffalo Bills for seven decades.
I hope to see work begin by early Summer on some of those awarded funding through the storefront revitalization project. I was pleased to be able to include 22 businesses in my district, including 11 in Lancaster. The funds allocated for each project is $40,000. Helping small businesses and improving the aesthetics of the communities I represent is very important, and the improvements may help spur additional development.
I know this has been a very difficult winter here in western New York. Fortunately, Spring is just around the corner. In the meantime, be sure to take advantage of county parks, including Como Lake Park, Reinstein Woods and the many year-round destinations.
If you have any questions on county related matters, please reach out to my office (716)681-2071 or email me at Frank.Todaro@erie.gov
