Legislator Todaro
(Buffalo, NY) Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro sent a letter to Erie County Parks Commissioner Troy Schinzel, requesting an explanation as to why a newly renovated shelter at Como Lake Park in Lancaster cost $510,000.
“I am all for investing in our parks system and am proud of my past and future commitment to our county parks. However, a newly renovated shelter at Como Lake Park (Shelter 14), came with a price tag of $510,000. I recently visited the shelter and fail to see where or how that much money was spent. Most homes in the area cost less than that. I have written a letter to the Parks Commissioner requesting an explanation and look forward to his response,” said Erie County Legislator Frank Todaro.
The renovations include a concrete pad and walkway, the restoration of WPA stone construction, exterior siding and soffits on each end, metal roofing and components, a parking lot guardrail, some minor electrical work and picnic tables.
“To be clear, this renovated shelter doesn’t come with bathrooms, enclosures, or any truly significant work that would bring the cost of this renovation to over half a million dollars. I have done some research on materials needed for the various projects at the shelter, and that pricing is included in the attached letter. Even if the government has different purchasing rules than the private sector, the cost is still nearly seven times the advertised material cost for most components,” said Legislator Todaro.
The lawmaker is requesting a full accounting of expenditures related to the renovation of Shelter 14, as well as copies of any architectural drawings or building plans associated with this shelter project.
“I question whether Erie County was taken advantage of, and why the county was willing to pay so much. Taxpayers deserve answers,” said Legislator Todaro.
