February, 2008

WORKING TOGETHER FOR CHANGE

When our new County Executive, Chris Collins, took office on January 1, 2008 he brought to the office a mandate for change – a change in the way Erie County government thinks and delivers services to the taxpayers of Erie County. After the first 30 days, Erie County is well on its way to forging a different path and putting forth new and pragmatic ideas based on accountability and efficiency.

The biggest challenge for the new County Executive and his administration is to work cooperatively with others, for the taxpayer, to reform our government, reduce taxes and rebuild our local economy. The County Executive is taking positive steps toward building a cohesive government by inviting Erie County's 44 supervisors and mayors to meet with him the first week in March to start a dialogue and trusting relationship about common concerns such as parks, the 911 system and the effects of the state budget on local governments. He knows the importance of regular and open and honest communication and meetings with department heads and the Legislature. When elected officials at all levels of government collaborate and think together, the taxpayers and their hard-earned dollars are the victors.

We must work together and treat county tax dollars as if it was our own money. A perfect example – an auction scheduled for January 19th of surplus furniture and electronic equipment was cancelled. Hundreds of computers, printers, fax machines, desks, chairs, tables and file cabinets were slated for auction. Much of the surplus equipment was salvageable, and it could save the county $100,000 to $200,000 per year to have county workers reuse the county's vast inventory before buying new items. Another example is reducing county take home cars and cell phones, an initiative I have advocated for years which is now being implemented. These types of frugal initiatives are important in watching out for the taxpayer's dollars.

It is an exciting time for Erie County as we start the New Year with a group of dedicated and qualified Commissioners and Department Heads who are committed to bringing a business-minded, taxpayer first approach to restructuring government and cutting costs. I look forward to working with the County Executive on the implementation of "Six Sigma" and working on the space utilization initiative to streamline Erie County government.

The residents of Erie County deserve their government to work efficiently and give them the opportunity of a new, bright future.

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