Mark Poloncarz delivered his 2026 spending plan to Erie County legislators this week. The proposed 2026 General Fund is $2.081 billion, with a projected sales tax growth of 1.5%. We will review the plan over the next several weeks and hold a public hearing where you can voice your opinion about the proposed budget. The County Executive has grown the size of county government over the years, and that cost is being passed down to you. It is wrong. We are not a community that is growing in population. This just puts additional burdens on Erie County taxpayers. I’m hopeful we can put forth amendments the full legislature can support where we still provide the important services that Erie County residents expect, but we don’t stick them with outsized government expenses.
I was happy to sponsor a resolution last week in support of federal legislation keeping AM radio in vehicles. This comes as some automakers have removed broadcast AM radio from their electric vehicles. I’m pleased that the measure passed unanimously. As we know, living in Western New York, storms often take out various forms of communication, including cell towers, power lines and broadband. AM radio stays on air, and provides us with important updates, along with directives on what to do. The federal legislation has bipartisan support because lawmakers of all political persuasions understand the necessity and reliability of AM radio. This communication helps save lives on many occasions, and the broad support for this measure on a national level, I hope is an indication it will pass.
I am also in support of the Energy Choice Act in Congress. Many more lives may have been lost in the Blizzard of 2022 but for the access of natural gas for stoves and to heat homes. We cannot be so reliant on electricity. Far too often the power has gone out during storms, leaving people in precarious situations. The New York State Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act mandating emissions reductions and sweeping energy restrictions is far too aggressive. In this region we need energy choices that are reliable. We are putting lives at risk by eliminating options for our citizens. It is reckless and dangerous. Congress needs to pass the Energy Choice Act, and our state lawmakers in Albany need to dial back their efforts.
October is Italian American Heritage Month, first recognized by President George H.S. Bush in 1989. I am very proud of my Italian heritage. Italian Americans have made many important contributions to the history, culture and development of the U.S., including Buffalo’s first known Italian settler, Luigi Chiesa in 1848, who later changed his name to Louis Church. I am proud of the tremendous work ethic, not to mention the great food that our ancestors brought to America.
I thank you for the honor of representing you. If you have a county related issue, contact my office at 716-681-2071 or by email at Frank.Todaro@erie.gov. You can also follow on Facebook to stay up to date on county issues at Legislator Frank Todaro.
