1
00:00:03,470 --> 00:00:05,540
Good morning everyone. Thank you for your patience. Welcome to our work session for session number six of the erie county legislature.

2
00:00:09,530 --> 00:00:09,530
going through today's agenda, today's invocation will be led by majority leader meyers.

3
00:00:14,240 --> 00:00:14,240
the pledge of allegiance will be led by legislator lorigo.

4
00:00:18,290 --> 00:00:21,830
we will put the meeting minutes from the previous meeting up for approval. There are no public hearings at this time.

5
00:00:24,800 --> 00:00:27,860
we have two presentations today. One for our district attorney who will be departing county government and retiring, and
The other will be from the majority leader honoring a middle school in

6
00:00:37,670 --> 00:00:40,550
his district. Miscellaneous resolutions on page one and on page two are, as indicated, local laws.

7
00:00:45,350 --> 00:00:45,350
there are none. Committee reports, report number five from the public safety committee.

8
00:00:50,810 --> 00:00:52,130
well said, madam chair. Thank you. And report number five from the economic development committee.

9
00:00:55,760 --> 00:00:55,760
we're all set. Madam chair, report number three from the energy and environment
Committee, majority leader

10
00:01:02,600 --> 00:01:05,490
services committee. Committee chair gilmour. We're all set. And report number two from the small business committee.

11
00:01:08,300 --> 00:01:09,890
committee chair vinal. Okay. Legislator resolutions from the minority caucus.

12
00:01:13,940 --> 00:01:13,940
intro 6-1 opposing wind, wind, wind turbines in lake erie waters will be set to invite
Energy and environment committee under my authority as

13
00:01:23,720 --> 00:01:27,650
chair. Communications discharge from committee. Communication 5e-41 from the public safety committee will be up for amendment and a vote
Today.

14
00:01:37,340 --> 00:01:37,340
communication there's an amendment to communication 5e-41.

15
00:01:42,950 --> 00:01:44,510
continuing on with our agenda. Communication 5e-9 from the finance and management committee from the comptroller.

16
00:01:52,400 --> 00:01:55,000
this is regarding the home rule request mr. Comptroller, did you want to update the members?

17
00:02:02,310 --> 00:02:02,310
yeah. This is an annual thing.

18
00:02:06,870 --> 00:02:10,590
it's necessary to get [inaudible] and the legislature. The state legislature.

19
00:02:12,180 --> 00:02:15,420
normally, they're done for the year at the end of june. So the sooner we can get this to them, the better.

20
00:02:19,380 --> 00:02:22,380
thank you. Any questions for the comptroller? If I can just add, madam chair, that the the member of the state delegation who carries
This in the senate requested that we move this quickly so that it's not remaining

21
00:02:32,220 --> 00:02:32,220
in the in the event that

22
00:02:38,430 --> 00:02:39,960
thank you, thank you. Continuing on with our agenda, suspension of the rules.

23
00:02:42,480 --> 00:02:42,480
communication 6d-8 from the director of budget and management.

24
00:02:46,890 --> 00:02:46,890
capital projects update will be directed to the economic development committee under my
Authority as chair.

25
00:02:52,110 --> 00:02:55,110
continuing on with our agenda, communications from elected officials. Communication 6e-1 through and including communication 6e-3, as indicated.

26
00:03:00,450 --> 00:03:03,000
communication 6e-4 from the comptroller. The 2024 consolidated bond resolution will be up for a vote today.

27
00:03:07,490 --> 00:03:07,490
communication 6e-5 through and including communication 6e-9 as indicated.

28
00:03:12,870 --> 00:03:12,870
communication 6e-10 and communications 6e-11 as indicated.

29
00:03:17,880 --> 00:03:17,880
communication 6e-12 from the county executive regarding authorization to amend term
Contracts for hazardous materials and design.

30
00:03:25,440 --> 00:03:28,080
we have tracy here to speak on this item this morning. Good morning tracy, how are you?

31
00:03:30,270 --> 00:03:33,060
good. How are you? I'm well. You as well. Thank you.

32
00:03:38,070 --> 00:03:39,360
good morning legislators. I'm here before this honorable body requesting authorization to amend the term contract
For the hazardous materials design and or sample testing and air monitoring with watts

33
00:03:48,690 --> 00:03:50,220
architecture and engineering. I'm requesting an additional $46,763, for a total contract value of $196,763.

34
00:03:59,940 --> 00:03:59,940
the additional funds will be used for the design of the encapsulation of the lincoln
Building, and the remaining money will be used for any unforeseen condition from

35
00:04:09,870 --> 00:04:09,870
existing projects. On the question, legislator greene.

36
00:04:14,250 --> 00:04:14,250
sorry, tracy, I couldn't hear you, but the asbestos, that's the lincoln building.

37
00:04:19,050 --> 00:04:22,320
that's actually for lead. Oh. Lead encapsulation. Yes. Okay. Thank you.

38
00:04:24,750 --> 00:04:27,840
on the question. Okay. Thank you, mr. [inaudible]. This item will be up for immediate consideration today.

39
00:04:31,620 --> 00:04:31,620
have a good day, sir. Communication 6e-13 and communication 6e-14 as indicated.

40
00:04:38,220 --> 00:04:38,220
communication 6e-5 from the county executive regarding the pilot agreement for the perry
Homes.

41
00:04:43,350 --> 00:04:43,350
one in the city of buffalo, we have commissioner castle and deputy commissioner baines
Here to speak on this item.

42
00:04:48,750 --> 00:04:48,750
good morning gentlemen.

43
00:04:57,470 --> 00:04:57,470
good morning and we are seeking the approval of this honorable body for this pilot
Agreement for a multifamily affordable housing project

44
00:05:07,070 --> 00:05:09,350
located in the city of buffalo. The specific project consists of the demolition of existing deteriorated buildings and
The construction of 27 new buildings, totaling 405 units of

45
00:05:18,860 --> 00:05:18,860
local of low income housing located at 339 perry street and 448 south park avenue.

46
00:05:26,540 --> 00:05:26,540
all 405 units will be low income and will include 284 units with rental vouchers, 48 units
At 50% area

47
00:05:36,260 --> 00:05:36,260
median income and 73 units at 60% area median income.

48
00:05:41,840 --> 00:05:41,840
this project will be developed by perry homes one, llc and perry homes one housing
Development fund company.

49
00:05:50,330 --> 00:05:50,330
today we have with us nadine marrero, who is the president of bridges development, and
Also larry rubin from kavinoky cook

50
00:06:00,230 --> 00:06:03,320
to answer any more specific questions. Thank you, deputy commissioner.

51
00:06:05,090 --> 00:06:05,090
very excited to see construction on the revitalization of perry homes underway.

52
00:06:10,910 --> 00:06:10,910
thank you, mr. Rubin. Thank you, nadine, for your hard work and helping get the city of
Buffalo and the county of erie in position to make this happen for residents who are in

53
00:06:20,060 --> 00:06:22,520
need of quality and affordable housing. Appreciate your leadership so much.

54
00:06:24,860 --> 00:06:28,430
legislator johnson. Yes. Thank you, mr. Rubin. And thank you, mr. Moreira. On this is a project that's been long overdue.

55
00:06:32,480 --> 00:06:35,540
the perry has been so desolate for so many years. It's [inaudible].

56
00:06:37,890 --> 00:06:41,000
so I am so happy to see this going. Everything was done in the right capacity.

57
00:06:43,000 --> 00:06:46,430
you engage the community, your gates and stakeholders that was involved. And I just can't thank you guys enough for what you've done to get this project going.

58
00:06:50,390 --> 00:06:53,000
so thank you. Thank you legislator. Any questions on the project?

59
00:06:55,790 --> 00:06:55,790
okay. This item will be up for immediate consideration today.

60
00:07:02,630 --> 00:07:04,370
thank you gentlemen. Continuing on with our agenda communication 6e-16 and communication 6e-17 as directed
Economic development committee.

61
00:07:14,300 --> 00:07:14,300
communications 6e-18 from the county executive regarding personnel modification for the
Division of budget and management.

62
00:07:21,080 --> 00:07:24,530
we have commissioner brian bray here from personnel to speak on this item. Good morning commissioner.

63
00:07:25,670 --> 00:07:25,670
good morning. This resolution creates a part time position within the office of

64
00:07:35,340 --> 00:07:37,710
the budget management. The purpose of creating this position is to retain the retiring budget director in a part
Time role.

65
00:07:45,570 --> 00:07:45,570
the budget director has served in this role as budget director for 12 years, and has
Worked in erie county for 39 years, and has a vast amount

66
00:07:55,080 --> 00:07:55,080
of institutional knowledge that the county wishes to to retain.

67
00:08:00,900 --> 00:08:00,900
initially, the budget department had planned on bringing back mr.

68
00:08:05,790 --> 00:08:05,790
keating in a fee for service arrangement as an independent contractor.

69
00:08:09,870 --> 00:08:09,870
however, we felt it was more appropriate for for us to have him as an employee, rather as
An independent contractor.

70
00:08:17,100 --> 00:08:17,100
the funds for professional services were allocated in the 2024 budget.

71
00:08:22,920 --> 00:08:22,920
this resolution would transfer that to the employee salary line.

72
00:08:27,810 --> 00:08:27,810
and so therefore this resolution is budget neutral.

73
00:08:32,910 --> 00:08:35,940
on the question. Thank you commissioner, this item will be up for immediate consideration.

74
00:08:39,360 --> 00:08:39,360
happy to see that director keating will be remaining with the county in some capacity for
His years and years of stellar work in our budget division, continuing on with our agenda

75
00:08:49,170 --> 00:08:49,170
communication 6e-19 from legislator baskin is, as indicated, health and human services.

76
00:08:54,870 --> 00:08:54,870
on with our agenda communications from the department's communications 6d-1 through
Including communications 6d-4 as indicated.

77
00:09:02,280 --> 00:09:02,280
communication 6d-5 through including communications 6d-7 as indicated.

78
00:09:07,110 --> 00:09:09,180
communications from the people in other agencies. Communication 6m-1 from the town of from the town of hamburg.

79
00:09:14,460 --> 00:09:17,520
from the town of hamburg as indicated. Energy and environment.

80
00:09:18,910 --> 00:09:21,870
any announcements? Yes. Legislative [inaudible]. This isn't an announcement, but I was wondering on this the
Communication 5e-41 about the the sheriff's

81
00:09:31,800 --> 00:09:33,570
swat team response unit. I had voted in favor of this when it came up originally because they said that it saved a
Life of a sheriff when it was shot at by bucky phillips back in that

82
00:09:43,500 --> 00:09:45,090
those days at that time. But the thing is, is that this is authorizing it to be allowed is without a waiver of a
Bond because of section

83
00:09:54,300 --> 00:09:54,300
3.07-2 or sub two, which is not about the originally I thought that this was because it
Was from the state contracting list, which it's not

84
00:10:04,350 --> 00:10:06,090
because it's obviously a new build. This section is only for when you waive bidding is only for three instances one when
There's a public emergency, and the third

85
00:10:16,020 --> 00:10:19,560
one is when the county legislature is in session. And the second one is when it's resolution adopted by a supermajority of two thirds of
The member when we've determined it's impracticable to advertise such bids.

86
00:10:29,250 --> 00:10:29,250
and I don't think that there's anything saying that it's impractical to advertise such
Bids.

87
00:10:34,140 --> 00:10:34,140
so I think this should go out to bid since the original purchase order was approved, but
It wasn't signed.

88
00:10:40,770 --> 00:10:40,770
and now this one is, I think, this one that I just want if our fellow legislators would
Read that section 7.02, subsection two, which is saying that we

89
00:10:50,700 --> 00:10:50,700
don't have a bid I'm not saying this canadian company wouldn't ultimately get the bid,
But I'm saying it's not necessarily in my mind.

90
00:10:59,160 --> 00:10:59,160
it's not a obviously it's not something that needs to get done right away because they
Have a piece of equipment.

91
00:11:03,960 --> 00:11:03,960
last actually used this kind of tactical equipment was used with the bucky phillips that
It was used where there was actually a necessity.

92
00:11:12,300 --> 00:11:14,130
and so it's not a rush job. And to give it to a canadian company, not that I don't want this canadian company to
Succeed, but I think it'd be good to put it out, to bid and not let it go.

93
00:11:23,850 --> 00:11:23,850
I thought it was represented that it was based on a state bid, but this is not the
Section for the state bid, and it's something this company never bid on before.

94
00:11:31,740 --> 00:11:34,800
so it obviously isn't necessarily one of the agenda. It's an approved vendor from the state for other products, but not necessarily for this
Product.

95
00:11:38,940 --> 00:11:41,190
so I don't think that it should be. I think there should be more about why are they saying that we need a supermajority in
This case, that it's so impractical to advertise bids in this context when it's not a rush

96
00:11:49,860 --> 00:11:53,010
purchase? Thank you. Legislator. Legislator johnson. Yeah, I know in our in committees last week, we decided that the only issue we had was
The funding being in usd as

97
00:12:02,910 --> 00:12:06,060
opposed to canadian. That's the only issue that we've seen with this resolution. So, you know, we held this up based on that to the legislative body, you have your
Points, but we've already decided that as a committee last week, the issue that

98
00:12:15,960 --> 00:12:18,480
we had was that and I think you were here for that. So you know, and those questions were pointed questions.

99
00:12:21,990 --> 00:12:25,410
but we could have brought those questions up last week as well, when we had those folks
Here for. The thing, I agree with what he's saying, and I appreciate that.

100
00:12:28,500 --> 00:12:31,170
and usually I would you know, stick with that. The only thing is, is that I don't think it was represented to any of us.

101
00:12:34,980 --> 00:12:34,980
and in fact, I would say, I know it's not representative to anyone that they were asking
For a waiver of the normal bid process on the doctrine of either emergency or that we're

102
00:12:44,280 --> 00:12:47,490
not in session, or that this is so impracticable. That makes a whole different thing.

103
00:12:48,990 --> 00:12:48,990
and if the group doesn't bring that up, then we're having a discussion based on facts
That weren't really known by us.

104
00:12:54,450 --> 00:12:56,910
and at least I think that should be known. And because of that, I'm voting against it because of the fact to separate it out
[inaudible].

105
00:13:00,930 --> 00:13:00,930
and I think that we should at least table it to say, why is this impracticable, to vote to
Not have to go to bid process.

106
00:13:08,010 --> 00:13:08,010
and when we want to have minority bidders, we want to have women bidders, we want to have
Local companies versus out of country, [inaudible] bidders to just give

107
00:13:17,880 --> 00:13:17,880
a sweetheart deal to a canadian company for on that section of law that says that it has
To be found by supermajority.

108
00:13:26,700 --> 00:13:26,700
it's one of the few times that we need a supermajority is on this section that putting
That in there changes it to me, to what was discussed at the committee and should have

109
00:13:35,270 --> 00:13:35,270
been brought up when it was brought up, and it was brought up by the sheriff, who
Wouldn't necessarily know those details of it, but that's the only way it gets through

110
00:13:42,560 --> 00:13:42,560
without bidding is by using this thing that's supposed to be for very limited
Circumstances, and not just every single time.

111
00:13:49,180 --> 00:13:51,060
well, thank you, legislator. Mr. [inaudible], you could be heard on the question.

112
00:13:53,390 --> 00:13:53,390
are you and legislator vinal during the break can definitely have conversation with the
Office of the sheriff to clear up any of her concerns.

113
00:14:01,910 --> 00:14:03,320
okay. All right. If there are no other topics to discuss legislator todaro.

114
00:14:07,640 --> 00:14:09,860
thank you, madam chair. I just want to. I want to elaborate on the conversation we had in committee briefly.

115
00:14:13,940 --> 00:14:13,940
I do recall the sheriff's office clearly stating that there's only one manufacturer for
That product.

116
00:14:20,660 --> 00:14:20,660
and being that I guess the if I remember the fema they were already being they were
Already allocated to the federal government so they could not take

117
00:14:30,650 --> 00:14:31,670
any more work on. So we went to the canadian company because they're the only ones available.

118
00:14:36,180 --> 00:14:36,180
our pys, they kind of did their work already, from what I gathered in committee, and we
Agreed that

119
00:14:44,870 --> 00:14:48,830
thank you for the point of clarity. Legislator, legislator bargnesi. During that committee meeting, I brought it up.

120
00:14:51,830 --> 00:14:53,450
I said why? They weren't going to the next stage of it because they couldn't fulfill the first the
Low bidder and the state couldn't fulfill them.

121
00:15:00,680 --> 00:15:00,680
and I think they're doing this to get around going back [inaudible].

122
00:15:05,570 --> 00:15:07,790
so I think that answers your question. They're saying that this company is not the state did.

123
00:15:11,270 --> 00:15:14,030
and that's why they have to do. But my question was why aren't we going to the next lowest bidder on the state.

124
00:15:16,910 --> 00:15:20,360
so we never they never put it to bid. The first thing is they never put it to bid. They used the state bid which is fine.

125
00:15:22,160 --> 00:15:22,160
but now they're going instead of putting it to bid the first time they went to the state
Bid, and then the purchase order didn't get signed or whatever at a timely.

126
00:15:30,110 --> 00:15:30,110
and that's why the company said that they were going to upcharge, whatever, [inaudible]
Or something.

127
00:15:34,760 --> 00:15:36,590
and that's why they tried to do this. So it was now they're doing this to get around it for, you know, trying out the new
Company.

128
00:15:41,480 --> 00:15:41,480
but I don't think it's we're supposed to be like open, inclusive government and not
Cherry picking which groups get to have a bid without going through the normal process.

129
00:15:50,840 --> 00:15:50,840
I don't think they cherry pick from what

130
00:16:02,390 --> 00:16:02,390
I'm just saying that I just think that to go around the bidding process, I don't see
There's any justification for it in this context.

131
00:16:09,860 --> 00:16:13,700
okay. All good points. Well taken, legislator greene. Thank you, madam chair. I don't know if anybody has the answer, but I of last week's
Discussion I kind of got the idea that this was on gsa

132
00:16:21,560 --> 00:16:21,560
contract. [inaudible] that is correct.

133
00:16:28,730 --> 00:16:30,740
it is in the gsa catalog. In addition, captain hawthorne tells me that is a sole source provider of this.

134
00:16:36,710 --> 00:16:39,560
it's called the senator. The vehicle is called the senator. So in addition to being sole source, it is in the gsa catalog which is why we're
Requesting a waiver of the bidding.

135
00:16:47,300 --> 00:16:47,300
I believe, if I remember correctly, right around 2019, maybe 2018, I believe it was
Governor cuomo who had altered some of the new york state

136
00:16:57,200 --> 00:16:57,200
laws regarding competitive purchasing that allows new york state municipal employees to
Utilize non-new york state

137
00:17:06,890 --> 00:17:09,260
contracts if they're competitively bid. So there was a kind of caveat that I believe.

138
00:17:11,810 --> 00:17:11,810
so my point is, we're allowed to use gsa bids in place with state contract, where we
Wouldn't have been in that 20 years ago, I

139
00:17:21,230 --> 00:17:21,230
believe I believe that's correct.

140
00:17:25,670 --> 00:17:25,670
okay. Chris, I would certainly touch base with legislator vinal in the interim.

141
00:17:31,940 --> 00:17:31,940
but it seems that members that were present during the committee have made points that
Can come up in the committee to justify.

142
00:17:39,020 --> 00:17:42,680
yeah. If I, if I may pick up the [inaudible] to take a look at this. And the incorrect section of the charter was cited for what was being waived.

143
00:17:46,340 --> 00:17:50,210
and an amendment is needed to cite section 3.07(2). So I apologize that deputy director cornell can't be here to explain that today.

144
00:17:54,770 --> 00:17:54,770
that was his plan. So I think he had the correct language she wanted to have amended.

145
00:17:59,480 --> 00:18:01,020
thank you if that's all.

146
00:18:05,210 --> 00:18:08,720
then we will reconvene at 12 noon for our formal session. Thanks, everyone.

147
00:18:19,610 --> 00:18:22,370
all right. We're going to get started. Good afternoon everyone.

148
00:18:24,110 --> 00:18:27,470
I call this meeting of the erie county legislature to order. This is meeting number six of the erie county legislature.

149
00:18:30,350 --> 00:18:33,950
march 21st, 2024. Madam clerk, would you please take the role?

150
00:18:51,020 --> 00:18:52,070
thank you. Today's invocation will be led by majority leader meyers.

151
00:18:55,700 --> 00:18:55,700
and please remain standing if you are able, for the pledge of allegiance, which will be
Led by legislator lorigo majority leader.

152
00:19:03,260 --> 00:19:03,260
thank you, madam chair. A moment of silence, please.

153
00:19:15,690 --> 00:19:15,690
amen. Legislator lorigo.

154
00:19:29,460 --> 00:19:32,760
you may take your seat if you are able. I'd like to recognize. Joining us today in our formal session is town of cheektowaga supervisor, the honorable
Brian nowak.

155
00:19:38,670 --> 00:19:38,670
thank you for joining us today supervisor [applause].

156
00:19:45,000 --> 00:19:47,400
continuing on with our agenda, tabled items. There are none. Items for reconsideration from the previous meeting.

157
00:19:50,790 --> 00:19:54,570
there are none. Minutes from the previous meeting. Majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. I move for immediate consideration and approval.

158
00:19:57,240 --> 00:19:57,240
a proper motion for a meeting consideration of approval made by the majority leader has
Been seconded by legislator johnson on the question.

159
00:20:02,970 --> 00:20:05,550
all in favor? Any opposed? 11 to 0. Carried unanimously.

160
00:20:07,380 --> 00:20:11,070
the meeting minutes are approved. Public hearings. There are none at this time. Miscellaneous resolutions on page one and continued on to page two.

161
00:20:14,910 --> 00:20:17,970
majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. Move to consider. Second, it's been a proper motion to consider the miscellaneous resolutions made by the
Majority leader and seconded by legislator gilmour on the question.

162
00:20:24,810 --> 00:20:27,480
all in favor any opposed? 11 to 0. Carried unanimously.

163
00:20:29,250 --> 00:20:32,970
the miscellaneous resolutions are now before the body. Majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. I move to amend to include at all.

164
00:20:35,430 --> 00:20:37,290
there's been a proper motion made by the majority leader. It's been seconded by legislator johnson on the question.

165
00:20:39,930 --> 00:20:42,530
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. Carried unanimously.

166
00:20:43,950 --> 00:20:47,520
the miscellaneous resolutions are amended. Majority leader. Thank you, madam chair. Move to approve, as amended, second, proper motion to approve the miscellaneous
Resolutions, as amended, made by the majority leader.

167
00:20:53,460 --> 00:20:56,670
it's been seconded by legislator gilmour on the question. All in favor?

168
00:20:58,080 --> 00:20:59,730
any opposed? 11 to 0. Carried unanimously. The miscellaneous resolutions are now approved, as amended.

169
00:21:04,380 --> 00:21:04,380
we will now transition to two formal presentations.

170
00:21:08,550 --> 00:21:08,550
the first one will be led by the leadership of the legislature.

171
00:21:13,380 --> 00:21:13,380
so I'm going to ask the majority leader and the minority leader to join me here at the
Dais as we honor a presentation to district attorney flynn followed

172
00:21:23,130 --> 00:21:24,270
by that majority leader. You will remain at the podium for your presentation for cleveland hill high school.

173
00:21:31,650 --> 00:21:31,650
as our esteemed district attorney joins us at the podium, why don't we give him a round of
Applause for amazing service?

174
00:21:40,170 --> 00:21:40,170
[applause]

175
00:22:06,380 --> 00:22:09,500
so, district attorney flynn, please join us here at the dais. We wish to honor you for your stellar service as our county district attorney since

176
00:22:19,330 --> 00:22:21,710
2017. Thank you so much for your service. Thank you very much. We have a proclamation to read for you, and we'd love for you to
Greet us with your remarks as you head into retirement.

177
00:22:28,670 --> 00:22:30,650
minority leader from here. Okay, nice.

178
00:22:32,730 --> 00:22:35,390
okay. Whereas john j. Flynn, a devoted husband, father and five current resident of the town of tonawanda, is a
Graduate of east aurora high school, earning a bachelor's degree in clinical

179
00:22:45,020 --> 00:22:47,930
science from bowling green university. And whereas, d.a. Flynn joined the united states navy, attended naval officer candidate
School in newport, rhode island, and whereas, after fulfilling his

180
00:22:57,860 --> 00:22:59,270
naval commitment. District attorney flynn returned to western new york to attend and graduate from the
University of buffalo school of law in 1995, and.

181
00:23:09,460 --> 00:23:09,460
that's great. Thanks, john. Whereas prior to taking office district attorney on january
1st, 2017, john sat as a board member on the town of tonawanda town board,

182
00:23:19,240 --> 00:23:19,240
serves as town justice and appointed as an acting buffalo city court judge and town of
Town attorney for the town of tonawanda.

183
00:23:26,980 --> 00:23:26,980
and whereas john's noteworthy accomplishments at the 41st district attorney in erie
County included helping create the first opioid intervention court in the

184
00:23:36,460 --> 00:23:36,460
nation, in the response to the increase of overdose related deaths in erie county and
Assigned prosecutors, prosecutors, and liaisons to the police departments and school

185
00:23:45,460 --> 00:23:45,460
districts in erie county to increase investigative response to critical instances.

186
00:23:50,260 --> 00:23:50,260
and whereas another significant accomplishment involved the prosecution of the gunman, who
Killed ten people and injured three

187
00:24:00,100 --> 00:24:03,730
victims at the tops on jefferson avenue. The first person to be charged and convicted in new york state in new york state of
Domestic act of terrorism motivated by hate in the first

188
00:24:13,720 --> 00:24:13,720
degree. And whereas, in june 2023, district attorney flynn was officially named as
President of the district

189
00:24:23,500 --> 00:24:26,500
attorneys association of the state of new york. And whereas, this honorable body recognizes individuals such as john flynn, a man who has
Provided his leadership services and phenomenal skill set in

190
00:24:36,280 --> 00:24:36,280
different capacities, most recently as district attorney of erie county.

191
00:24:40,780 --> 00:24:40,780
now, therefore, be it resolved that the erie county legislature pauses in its
Deliberations to honor john flynn on his dedicated and distinguished

192
00:24:50,410 --> 00:24:54,190
service to the people of western new york and the state of new york. And be it further resolved that this honorable body thanks, john, for his above and
Beyond work ethic and dedication to our community, and wishes him

193
00:25:03,970 --> 00:25:06,820
the absolute best in his future endeavors. Ladies and gentlemen, john flynn.

194
00:25:08,780 --> 00:25:08,780
[applause] thank you very much.

195
00:25:24,220 --> 00:25:24,220
mic]

196
00:25:35,430 --> 00:25:35,430
well, first and foremost I see my dear friend bob bennett here.

197
00:25:39,930 --> 00:25:39,930
I'll tell you what. You know I want to thank you for all that you've done for for your,
Your your career.

198
00:25:48,000 --> 00:25:50,910
I said right. Yeah. Yeah. Thank you for. Are you done for for those of you who are the students here, if you ever get a traffic
Ticket in the southern tier, he's got more power than I do.

199
00:25:58,560 --> 00:25:58,560
okay? He he's a town prosecutor every town in southern tier.

200
00:26:02,910 --> 00:26:04,890
so thank you very much. I you know, I I came here.

201
00:26:10,830 --> 00:26:10,830
well, I, you know, obviously I've been in this body on numerous occasions when I, when I
Took over in 2017, but when I really

202
00:26:20,790 --> 00:26:24,150
needed you needed this body. Needed the county was in 2020.

203
00:26:29,040 --> 00:26:29,040
we were in the process, as we all know, of dramatic changes to our criminal justice
System.

204
00:26:37,410 --> 00:26:37,410
and, you know, I know that a lot that's talked about in the criminal justice system, as
Far as, you know, the new bail laws and other laws that took effect.

205
00:26:46,770 --> 00:26:46,770
but, you know, as I told you before, the biggest law that affected me in my office was
The discovery law

206
00:26:56,790 --> 00:26:56,790
and the changes to discovery were just, you know, a earth shattering event to da's
Offices all over, all over the

207
00:27:06,450 --> 00:27:06,450
state because of what we had to do now to comply with the new rules.

208
00:27:12,690 --> 00:27:12,690
and I came to you, and even before it got passed in 2019 and took effect on january 1st,
2020,

209
00:27:23,370 --> 00:27:23,370
and I came to you and said, I'm going to need help.

210
00:27:27,690 --> 00:27:27,690
I'm going to need resources because I know how albany works, and I know that they're
Going to pass a law and they're not going to provide any

211
00:27:37,560 --> 00:27:41,040
resources. They're going to give us an unfunded mandate. And what happened on january 1st, 2020, that's exactly what happened.

212
00:27:46,620 --> 00:27:46,620
the law went into effect, and there were no resources attached to that law.

213
00:27:53,940 --> 00:27:55,380
so I needed help. I needed you, the county, to give me the resources that my office needed, not just my
Office, but the resources that the community

214
00:28:05,280 --> 00:28:05,280
needed to stay safe so that cases would not get dismissed and criminals would not go
Free, and that we

215
00:28:15,180 --> 00:28:15,180
we were ensured that the rules were in place, the material was sent out and discovery was
Taken care of here in erie county.

216
00:28:24,810 --> 00:28:27,270
and you stepped up. I know some of you weren't here, but this body that you represent right now.

217
00:28:36,100 --> 00:28:36,100
stepped up to the plate, the county executive stepped up.

218
00:28:41,920 --> 00:28:44,530
the budget office in erie county. Mr. Keating and his staff stepped up, and you guys were the final piece of the puzzle
Because you had to approve it at the end of the

219
00:28:54,250 --> 00:28:54,250
day. And every one of you, even though lindsay you weren't here, doesn't matter.

220
00:29:01,330 --> 00:29:02,440
I'm giving you credit for it. Okay? Every one of you can take credit for providing the

221
00:29:11,770 --> 00:29:11,770
safety and security for the residents of erie county.

222
00:29:16,510 --> 00:29:16,510
and again, if we think about it, you know, whatever you debate in here, whether it's
Bonds, a new stadium for the bills,

223
00:29:26,440 --> 00:29:29,290
which is important. Okay. What could be wrong. All right. You know, education, housing, whatever it may be, all issues that are vital to our
Community and very important,

224
00:29:40,210 --> 00:29:40,210
but none of them are as important as public safety.

225
00:29:45,670 --> 00:29:45,670
it doesn't matter whether you're whether we have taxes raised, taxes lowered.

226
00:29:51,460 --> 00:29:51,460
it doesn't matter whether there's ten cleveland hills funded properly for schools if if
The if the if the students at cleveland hill aren't safe, if the

227
00:30:01,150 --> 00:30:01,150
residents of cheektowaga aren't safe, none of it matters, none of it matters at all.

228
00:30:08,200 --> 00:30:08,200
public safety is the number one issue across this country.

229
00:30:15,100 --> 00:30:15,100
and if we're not safe, if our residents don't feel secure in their communities, nothing
Else matters.

230
00:30:25,750 --> 00:30:25,750
and when we were faced with covid and we were faced with dramatic changes

231
00:30:35,710 --> 00:30:35,710
to criminal justice laws that were done in albany and action needed to be taken in erie
County, the erie county legislator

232
00:30:45,700 --> 00:30:48,490
came through. And I'll never forget that.

233
00:30:50,930 --> 00:30:53,630
and I thank every one of you for what you did. I thank this past body for what you did.

234
00:30:56,240 --> 00:30:56,240
I thank you for your leadership back then, and I thank you for for what you do each and
Every day.

235
00:31:02,170 --> 00:31:05,750
I'll just make sure the bills don't leave buffalo, okay? And that stadium gets funded.

236
00:31:07,130 --> 00:31:07,130
all right. God bless you all [applause].

237
00:31:13,310 --> 00:31:13,310
awesome.

238
00:31:34,410 --> 00:31:35,640
typical luck for me. I always have to follow a legend, so I'll try not to let you down here.

239
00:31:38,790 --> 00:31:38,790
you know, it's always a tough act to follow, but today gives me great pleasure.

240
00:31:43,260 --> 00:31:47,040
we're joined by some students and teachers from cleveland hill middle school. So if everybody could please come on up here.

241
00:31:49,530 --> 00:31:49,530
we appreciate that [applause].

242
00:32:07,300 --> 00:32:10,210
everybody's smiling because I got a day out of school, right? We know mondays. I just want to point out some of the people that are here.

243
00:32:16,180 --> 00:32:16,180
we have danielle eleuterio, the principal.

244
00:32:20,410 --> 00:32:20,410
danielle [applause]. Okay. Hi, sir.

245
00:32:25,300 --> 00:32:29,290
elizabeth haynes, teacher is here with us. And james menzie.

246
00:32:30,620 --> 00:32:34,510
I'm hoping I'm getting these names right. Teacher and john powell. John, thank you for being here.

247
00:32:36,280 --> 00:32:36,280
and we also are going to hear from jack scheidel in a little bit, but I just want to read
This.

248
00:32:40,450 --> 00:32:42,310
this is their government club. Correct. So I just want to read the proclamation first, and then we'll get to our
Speakers.

249
00:32:46,450 --> 00:32:49,840
okay. Thank you. Acknowledging and recognizing cleveland hill fire, memorial day, buffalo, new york, march
21st, 2024.

250
00:32:55,780 --> 00:32:55,780
whereas on march 31st, 1954, a devastating fire occurred at the cleveland hill school as
The school's furnace exploded,

251
00:33:05,320 --> 00:33:08,740
causing a massive fire in the wooden annex to the building. And whereas the wooden annex only had two exits which were both engulfed in flames and
Windows were inaccessible due to heavy, heavy multiple coats of

252
00:33:18,700 --> 00:33:22,150
paint on them, and the windows were impossible to open. And whereas the fire resulted in the loss of 15 school children that day, which had a
Major emotional toll on the school district and all of erie county.

253
00:33:31,390 --> 00:33:31,390
and whereas, in the months and years after the fire, state lawmakers, lawmakers worked
Significantly to enhance and improve the school building codes and fire safety

254
00:33:40,990 --> 00:33:40,990
measures with the hopes of preventing another fire like the 1954 cleveland hill incident.

255
00:33:47,290 --> 00:33:47,290
and whereas legislation was introduced to ban schools from wood to make sure that every
Classroom had space and adequate escape routes, to

256
00:33:56,920 --> 00:33:56,920
require fire extinguishers to be placed in all schools and mandate fire drills for all
Students.

257
00:34:03,760 --> 00:34:03,760
and whereas to this day, there has been not been another public school fire in this
Country due to the improved fire safety

258
00:34:13,060 --> 00:34:13,060
regulations that were implemented following the devastating cleveland hill school fire.

259
00:34:17,590 --> 00:34:17,590
now, therefore, be it resolved that this honorable body recognizes march 31st as the
Cleveland hills school fire memorial day in honor of the

260
00:34:27,430 --> 00:34:27,430
lives that were lost that day and acknowledgment of the impact of the tragic event on and
On the improvement of fire safety and public schools

261
00:34:37,180 --> 00:34:38,470
across this country. And be it further resolved, the dishonorable body commends the cleveland hills middle
School student government club for creating this memorial and winning the most

262
00:34:48,010 --> 00:34:48,010
outstanding bill for their bill to honor and remember the cleveland hill fire of 1954 and
At the 2002 for new york state ymca youth

263
00:34:57,940 --> 00:34:59,830
government conference. Thank you [applause].

264
00:35:06,080 --> 00:35:06,080
next, representing the students is going to be jackson right.

265
00:35:11,680 --> 00:35:11,680
are you a school president or a class president?

266
00:35:23,530 --> 00:35:23,530
your name might be right up here, and we'll be listening to you, but come on up and you
Can address the body.

267
00:35:27,790 --> 00:35:27,790
welcome, jackson. Good afternoon.

268
00:35:32,050 --> 00:35:35,260
we thank you all for inviting us here today. My name is jack speedo. I am an eighth grade student at cleveland hill middle school in cheektowaga.

269
00:35:39,070 --> 00:35:39,070
we are members of our school's youth and government club, this year we tackled the issues
Of microplastics in our water and honoring the anniversary of our school's fire.

270
00:35:48,910 --> 00:35:48,910
on march 31st, 1954, a devastating fire ripped through a wooden addition, both to hold
Extra classes for our school, cleveland hill.

271
00:35:58,270 --> 00:35:58,270
there were 31 children in that room with two teachers, but there was no escape, 15
Students would die.

272
00:36:05,920 --> 00:36:05,920
the homes in our cheektowaga community were constructed for the factory workers that
Built the planes to win the war during world war two.

273
00:36:13,090 --> 00:36:13,090
there was a price to be paid for the rapid growth of our community to meet the needs of
Our families of addition was built quickly, using available materials left over from the

274
00:36:22,480 --> 00:36:22,480
great depression, making room for extra classes including art and music.

275
00:36:28,750 --> 00:36:31,300
the addition was ten years old in 1954. The wood around the windows had been painted so many times it was impossible to open
Them.

276
00:36:35,900 --> 00:36:38,110
there are only, what, two ways in and out. Both were blocked by the flames caused by an explosion in the furnace.

277
00:36:42,100 --> 00:36:45,790
the fire left our community shocked and devastated. While families mourn the dead and tended to their wounded children, leaders across our
Region took action.

278
00:36:51,400 --> 00:36:51,400
legislation was proposed to ban building schools from wood, but to make sure that every
Classroom had adequate escape routes, to make sure that every classroom or

279
00:37:01,000 --> 00:37:04,480
sorry fire extinguishers were placed in all schools. Fire drills became routine for all students, not just in erie county, but across the
Nation, as others states took notice of what had happened at our school.

280
00:37:13,680 --> 00:37:13,680
since the cleveland hill fire and all the safety regulations that were put in place.

281
00:37:17,820 --> 00:37:17,820
no other child has died in a public school fire or in the new york state or in the us.

282
00:37:24,180 --> 00:37:24,180
as we approached the 70th anniversary of the fire that changed all of our school
Procedures and has made us all safer, we ask that march 31st be designated as

283
00:37:34,140 --> 00:37:34,140
a day of remembrance for the children that died and our community that was left to
Rebuild.

284
00:37:39,570 --> 00:37:39,570
we ask, as students not much older than they were at their legacy, be remembered and
Honored

285
00:37:47,070 --> 00:37:47,070
[applause]. Yeah, if everybody can scooch in a little bit so everybody can get in the
Picture.

286
00:37:55,900 --> 00:37:55,900
that's good. Yeah.

287
00:38:11,570 --> 00:38:11,570
thank you. Thank you all for being here today [applause].

288
00:38:57,960 --> 00:39:01,290
thank you, students of cleveland hill middle school. And thank you, majority leader.

289
00:39:02,910 --> 00:39:06,750
beautiful touching presentation. We're going to get back to our agenda.

290
00:39:09,420 --> 00:39:13,210
local laws. Think so?

291
00:39:16,320 --> 00:39:19,350
yes. Local laws. Local laws. There are none.

292
00:39:20,520 --> 00:39:20,520
committee reports, report number five from the public safety committee.

293
00:39:24,630 --> 00:39:27,060
committee chair johnson. Thank you, madam chair. I move for immediate consideration and approval.

294
00:39:29,350 --> 00:39:29,350
there's been a proper motion for immediate consideration and approval made by committee
Chair johnson has been seconded by legislator bargnesi on the question.

295
00:39:37,320 --> 00:39:39,890
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. The report is approved.

296
00:39:41,760 --> 00:39:44,280
report number five from the economic development committee. Committee chair johnson.

297
00:39:45,810 --> 00:39:48,720
again. Thank you. I move for immediate consideration and approval. It's been a proposition made by legislator johnson.

298
00:39:51,360 --> 00:39:54,840
it's been seconded by legislator gilmour on the question. All in favor? Aye. Any opposed?

299
00:39:57,060 --> 00:40:00,510
okay. The report is approved. Report number three from the energy and environment committee. Committee chair meyers.

300
00:40:01,740 --> 00:40:03,990
thank you, madam chair. Move for immediate consideration and approval. There's been a proper motion made by committee chair meyers second, seconded by
Legislator johnson on the question.

301
00:40:10,590 --> 00:40:14,520
all in favor? Any opposed? 11 to 0. The report is approved. Report number three from the health and human services committee.

302
00:40:16,950 --> 00:40:19,950
committee chair gilmour. Thank you. Move for consideration approval. Second motion made by legislator gilmour has been seconded by legislator johnson on the
Question.

303
00:40:24,570 --> 00:40:28,170
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. Okay. The report is approved. And report number two from the small business committee.

304
00:40:32,040 --> 00:40:35,430
legislator vinal there's been a second motion made by legislator vinal has been seconded by legislator
Gilmour on the question.

305
00:40:40,080 --> 00:40:42,450
all in favor? Any opposed? 11 to 0. The report is approved.

306
00:40:44,520 --> 00:40:45,750
legislator resolutions. Intro 6-1 will be sent to the energy and environment committee under my authority as
Chair.

307
00:40:50,220 --> 00:40:53,880
communications discharge from committee. Majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. I have two discharges moved to discharge communication 5e-41 from
The public safety committee.

308
00:41:00,000 --> 00:41:03,570
second, there's been a proper motion made by the majority leader. Meyers has been seconded by legislator gilmour.

309
00:41:05,490 --> 00:41:06,750
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? The motion carries, and the item is now before the legislature.

310
00:41:10,860 --> 00:41:14,270
majority leader. Thank you, madam chair. Move to amend the item. There's been a proper motion to amend the item made by the majority leader.

311
00:41:17,580 --> 00:41:20,970
it's been seconded. Seconded by legislator gilmour. All in. All in favor?

312
00:41:22,650 --> 00:41:24,060
aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. The motion carries and the item is amended.

313
00:41:27,390 --> 00:41:30,630
majority leader. Thank you, madam chair. Move to approve the item as amended. Second motion to approve the item as amended, made by the majority leader.

314
00:41:35,700 --> 00:41:39,090
it's been seconded by legislator johnson. All in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Oh, there there is a question.

315
00:41:41,910 --> 00:41:43,620
there's a question allowed on these motions. Right. There isn't one written here, I thought so there's on the question.

316
00:41:47,580 --> 00:41:48,870
go ahead. Legislator. Thank you. When this was approved by the at the committee level, originally, the one
Change that was requested by legislator todaro was the to

317
00:41:58,680 --> 00:42:00,480
identify that it was us dollars. And the other change that was made before it came to us today was that section 307-2 of
The erie county code was added as the enabling legislation, which

318
00:42:10,320 --> 00:42:12,630
wasn't there the last time that we had it here. The reason why I would ask that either be denied now or just delayed and tabled until next
Time, is that there are questions in the sense that that section

319
00:42:22,440 --> 00:42:22,440
is supposed to be sparingly used, and it's only supposed to be used in times when there's
A declared emergency, when contracts can be approved without going through bidding.

320
00:42:30,930 --> 00:42:30,930
number two, the third, third section of it is when we're not in session, and the third is
When it's impracticable to have a normal bidding.

321
00:42:39,030 --> 00:42:40,740
bidding is an important part of government. It's a chance, the only chance that people have to be a part of government to to actually
Bid and participate economically in government and to take that away

322
00:42:50,130 --> 00:42:50,130
from the from people in the private sector, participating should only be done sparingly.

323
00:42:55,680 --> 00:42:55,680
and that's why that statute, in order for it to go on, the practicality thing, has to
Have a supermajority and not just an ordinary majority.

324
00:43:03,150 --> 00:43:06,120
so it's not something to be taken so lightly as we're taking it today. So I would ask that that to be decided.

325
00:43:08,070 --> 00:43:08,070
the reason for it is they're claiming that it's a sole use provider, which it's only sole
Use if it's the sole use of that product called the senator,

326
00:43:17,970 --> 00:43:17,970
which obviously any company names its products and every company will always be the sole
Use of that particular product like that, as you know, brought up by someone else.

327
00:43:27,120 --> 00:43:27,120
they use the example that if we say we want a bic round stick pen, that only can be
Provided by bic as opposed to just a pen.

328
00:43:34,830 --> 00:43:34,830
if we say we want a mustang convertible, that can only be provided by ford, as opposed to
Saying we need a sedan or two door, four door sedan.

329
00:43:43,140 --> 00:43:44,630
so to take this away. I think is not necessarily a proper thing to do on it, and it's not using the section to
Say, we're not using this as a section to say that we're putting it on

330
00:43:54,170 --> 00:43:56,630
gsa or putting it on the others. We're putting it on that section 3.03.07.

331
00:43:59,900 --> 00:43:59,900
and I don't think this warrants it, I do I did vote for the product that the purchase of
This product before, even though it's a military style vehicle used in civilian format.

332
00:44:08,930 --> 00:44:08,930
and I did it because I was told by the person that I believed him that this is something
That will protect people, and it protected officers from potential fatal and life altering

333
00:44:17,840 --> 00:44:17,840
illness things in back in when bucky phillips was you know on the loose and that was so I
Do believe that it's important

334
00:44:27,800 --> 00:44:27,800
for safety, but that doesn't give the right to just deny the right of the public to try
To participate in government.

335
00:44:33,680 --> 00:44:33,680
so for that reason, I would ask to either have it if we move it to next time so we can
Get those answers to see if this particular vehicle is sold, use, or if, just as they're

336
00:44:42,440 --> 00:44:44,360
saying, [inaudible]. And for that reason and we're not you know, we're definitely not purchasing it at the
Price and the catalog.

337
00:44:49,250 --> 00:44:50,750
so I doubt it's the same product. And the ones that they said are in the catalog are the ones that are being sent over to
The ukraine for military purpose, which is very different than the purpose.

338
00:44:57,140 --> 00:44:58,820
we're using it in the type of vehicle. So for that reason, I think that and not saying it's not a good vehicle, but I'm saying
We should table it.

339
00:45:03,140 --> 00:45:03,140
there's no urgency whatsoever that it should be tabled so that we can have those
Answered to see if we if this is something that we knowingly want to take out of the

340
00:45:10,220 --> 00:45:10,220
public sector, to have people bidding it and being participating in government, there's
Been a proper motion to table the item.

341
00:45:16,400 --> 00:45:18,950
do I have a second? No second. The motion fails. Back to the original motion.

342
00:45:23,240 --> 00:45:25,970
on the question. All in favor? Aye. Any opposed?

343
00:45:27,770 --> 00:45:31,700
opposed. Okay 10 to 1. The motion carries in. The item is carried.

344
00:45:36,140 --> 00:45:36,140
approved. I lost track of where I am now.

345
00:45:44,430 --> 00:45:44,430
second discharge.

346
00:45:56,390 --> 00:46:00,140
right? Yeah, yeah. The second discharge. Yes. There's two discharges, that's why.

347
00:46:01,460 --> 00:46:04,280
okay. Sorry about that, guys. Thank you for bearing with me. The second discharge from the finance and management committee.

348
00:46:07,130 --> 00:46:08,600
majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. I move to discharge communication 5e-9 from the finance and
Management committee.

349
00:46:13,430 --> 00:46:13,430
there's been a second proper motion to discharge item 5e-9 made by the majority leader.

350
00:46:19,850 --> 00:46:23,300
the second was legislator gilmour on the question. All in favor?

351
00:46:24,320 --> 00:46:25,760
aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. The motion carries, and the item is now before the legislature.

352
00:46:29,270 --> 00:46:33,020
majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. I move to approve the item. It's been a proper motion to approve the item made by the majority leader.

353
00:46:35,980 --> 00:46:39,200
it's been seconded by legislator johnson on the question. All in favor?

354
00:46:40,370 --> 00:46:41,720
aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. Yes.

355
00:46:46,070 --> 00:46:48,200
which one are we on here from? The comptroller state authorization for the private sale of bonds or notes by negotiated
Agreement.

356
00:46:57,890 --> 00:47:00,410
the home rule from the comptroller [inaudible]. Yeah, the home rule.

357
00:47:02,840 --> 00:47:05,780
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. Okay.

358
00:47:06,860 --> 00:47:09,110
the motion carries. Moving on with our agenda. Suspension of the rules.

359
00:47:12,200 --> 00:47:14,600
majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. I have three suspensions.

360
00:47:16,790 --> 00:47:20,060
first, from the budget director and management of capital projects. Update for march 2024.

361
00:47:22,730 --> 00:47:24,140
thank you, madam clerk. Communications 6e-8.

362
00:47:27,140 --> 00:47:27,140
thank you. This letter is sent to the finance and management committee under my authority
As chair, majority leader.

363
00:47:33,320 --> 00:47:33,320
thank you, madam chair. The next suspension is from the department of environmental and
Planning.

364
00:47:38,840 --> 00:47:38,840
madam clerk. Communications 6d-9.

365
00:47:43,700 --> 00:47:46,840
thank you. Mr. Meyers.

366
00:47:49,520 --> 00:47:51,950
thank you, madam chair. Move for immediate consideration and approval. Second, there's.

367
00:47:55,600 --> 00:47:55,600
second, there's been a proper motion for immediate consideration, and approval made by
The majority leader, is don't talk when I'm talking please, just let me get through this

368
00:48:05,380 --> 00:48:07,480
and I'll recognize you according to the rules. There's been a proper motion made for immediate consideration and approval.

369
00:48:10,990 --> 00:48:12,970
and there's been a second on the question. Legislator lorigo, madam chair, yes.

370
00:48:23,020 --> 00:48:23,020
I'm sorry. On the question.

371
00:48:27,350 --> 00:48:31,010
all in favor? Aye, aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. Okay. The item is approved.

372
00:48:33,200 --> 00:48:36,110
continuing on with suspensions. Majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. The next suspension is from the department of budget and
Management.

373
00:48:40,660 --> 00:48:42,950
2024 capital projects funding. Conversion to pay as you go.

374
00:48:44,840 --> 00:48:44,840
madam clerk. Communications 6d-10.

375
00:48:49,700 --> 00:48:51,530
okay. Mr. Meyers. Thank you, madam chair. Move for immediate consideration and approval.

376
00:48:54,140 --> 00:48:54,140
there's been a motion for immediate consideration and approval made by the majority
Leader and seconded by legislator gilmour on the question.

377
00:48:59,660 --> 00:48:59,660
legislator lorigo.

378
00:49:06,320 --> 00:49:06,320
before us, we have an updated consolidated bond resolution.

379
00:49:11,330 --> 00:49:11,330
two weeks ago, the administration pushed through a resolution expecting a rubber stamp on
A spending plan that was irresponsible to taxpayers.

380
00:49:20,360 --> 00:49:20,360
thanks to my colleagues and the minority caucus, we were able to reduce bond spending
Saving roughly $15.2 million in bond spending.

381
00:49:29,690 --> 00:49:29,690
that would have amounted to be about $7 million in interest payments long term for the
Taxpayers.

382
00:49:36,530 --> 00:49:36,530
we were able to do this without sacrificing a single project in this plan, which reduced
Was a reduction in borrowing of roughly

383
00:49:45,860 --> 00:49:45,860
27%. We're very proud to have this for this honorable body today and hope that we'll have
Everybody's approval.

384
00:49:52,700 --> 00:49:54,800
thank you. Thank you legislator. Legislator greene, on the question.

385
00:49:56,720 --> 00:49:58,400
thank you, madam chair. Last two weeks have certainly been a little bit tense.

386
00:50:01,520 --> 00:50:01,520
in the past, what was negotiations that would often occur across a conference room table
We're trying to play out in social media.

387
00:50:10,610 --> 00:50:10,610
in 2021 and 2022, we would often look at the consolidated bond resolution as well as the
Balanced budget amendment, as a as a total package

388
00:50:20,330 --> 00:50:20,330
that would often get passed on the same day as an entire spending bill.

389
00:50:25,130 --> 00:50:27,800
that all changed last year. Things got off the rails. We got a decent deal done, but I feel like it could have been better.

390
00:50:31,550 --> 00:50:31,550
but over the last three years, we've been able to save the taxpayers of erie county over
$88 million in

391
00:50:41,300 --> 00:50:41,300
interest payments over the over the over the life of these bonds.

392
00:50:48,090 --> 00:50:48,090
this year we're going to add $7 billion in interest payments.

393
00:50:54,410 --> 00:50:54,410
this is the deal that is great for taxpayers in both the short term and the long term.

394
00:50:59,420 --> 00:50:59,420
I want to thank my, my, my, my, my, my colleagues, both in this caucus as well as the
Ones on the other side of the aisle for things we've done in the past.

395
00:51:08,570 --> 00:51:08,570
we have gotten some great concessions where we have some transparency in government that a
Lot of us ran on last year, which is the first time in a generation we were

396
00:51:18,410 --> 00:51:21,680
able to negotiate a reduction in the tax levy last year. We were able to get ourselves a project list going back to 2016 of bonding projects, to
Know where their completion status was

397
00:51:31,640 --> 00:51:31,640
and to make sure that the eyes of the of the taxpayers could go and see what's being done
In ways we can improve the future.

398
00:51:39,260 --> 00:51:42,620
and several of those bonds have been reactivated and reallocated. And I'm happy to say that that was work we have done.

399
00:51:45,740 --> 00:51:45,740
in addition, we have a five year roadmap on what projects road projects are going to be
Done.

400
00:51:52,670 --> 00:51:52,670
we've continued to do the work on behalf of the taxpayers, and I think we have a fair
Deal that's moving forward, going to be able to save taxpayers money without sacrificing a

401
00:52:02,390 --> 00:52:04,670
single project. And I look forward to passing this. Thank you, madam chair. Thank you.

402
00:52:06,680 --> 00:52:06,680
on the question, minority leader mills.

403
00:52:10,910 --> 00:52:13,760
thank you, madam chair. I agree with what the legislator, [inaudible] and greene have mentioned, put a little
Different light on things.

404
00:52:21,150 --> 00:52:21,150
I've tried to negotiate with my democratic colleagues.

405
00:52:26,960 --> 00:52:28,150
working together. And I think we've done a good job of doing that over the years here.

406
00:52:31,880 --> 00:52:31,880
and I'm really proud of how things concluded on this issue.

407
00:52:38,390 --> 00:52:38,390
what concerns me is that we had to work out an arrangement with the county executive to
Meet face to

408
00:52:48,000 --> 00:52:48,000
face with ironing out some of our issues that were very, very significant to the
Taxpayers erie county.

409
00:52:55,200 --> 00:52:55,200
we managed to do that, but what concerns me was that we made several attempts to meet
Face to face with county executive, and he finally agreed to do that at

410
00:53:04,860 --> 00:53:07,800
8:30 this morning. And then a young man anymore.

411
00:53:09,240 --> 00:53:09,240
but, you know, it's a little stressful on the heart trying to lead these negotiations to
8:30 the morning of the

412
00:53:19,200 --> 00:53:19,200
the vote. So I'm happy that we finally managed to get together and make significant
Changes in the bond that were going to be,

413
00:53:29,020 --> 00:53:30,480
sadly over. So, I mean, I'm happy it was concluded.

414
00:53:33,660 --> 00:53:33,660
I wish we could have worked a little closer together before this came to conclusion, but
Happy it finally concluded.

415
00:53:42,000 --> 00:53:45,960
and it's a win win for all of us. So thank you. Thank you, minority leader.

416
00:53:47,280 --> 00:53:50,940
on the question, legislator todaro. Thank you, madam chair. I'm finally now confident and set to vote on today's bond resolution, a vote that should
Save all county taxpayers about

417
00:54:00,870 --> 00:54:00,870
a 27% reduction in borrowing, translating to $7 million in interest payments.

418
00:54:06,780 --> 00:54:08,040
I want to be very clear. This caucus was always very transparent on that.

419
00:54:12,000 --> 00:54:12,000
we wanted to have the negotiations and the conversations to move this forward.

420
00:54:16,800 --> 00:54:19,050
you can't do that with a door closed on the other side. But today we finally broke through and I appreciate that.

421
00:54:26,380 --> 00:54:28,270
this is how government should work. We should all come together and have the same, the same answer that we got to come to our
Taxpayers

422
00:54:37,900 --> 00:54:40,030
and tell them that we're saving them money. I'm glad that we can keep these road projects moving forward and save them money.

423
00:54:46,150 --> 00:54:48,310
that's our goal. So thank you, madam chair. Thank you. Legislator todaro legislator bargnesi on the question, I'm going to be very
Brief.

424
00:54:54,850 --> 00:54:56,950
I think we're all speaking on the wrong one. We're supposed to be speaking on 6e-4, but we might as well continue here.

425
00:55:01,420 --> 00:55:01,420
I find it entertaining that minority caucus says we're finally being transparent.

426
00:55:07,240 --> 00:55:09,280
last minute negotiations. When the capital projects committee met in july and august, which legislator mills is
Part of, todaro attended, and they knew what the projects were at that

427
00:55:18,730 --> 00:55:22,720
time. The bond resolution was submitted to us february 13th. We've had more than enough time to discuss it further, so there was nothing last minute
About it.

428
00:55:28,810 --> 00:55:28,810
transparency was always on the table, and it only came time when push came to shove that
We're willing to talk about it.

429
00:55:37,810 --> 00:55:37,810
but all in favor of good, transparent government.

430
00:55:42,040 --> 00:55:43,450
thank you. Legislator on the question.

431
00:55:46,900 --> 00:55:50,520
okay. All in favor? Aye. Any opposed?

432
00:55:52,450 --> 00:55:54,910
11 to 0. Okay. The motion carries and the item is approved.

433
00:55:58,120 --> 00:55:58,120
legislator meyers.

434
00:56:04,670 --> 00:56:08,570
continuing on with our agenda. Thank you. Communications from elected officials. Communication 6e-1 through and including communication 6e-3 as indicated.

435
00:56:14,960 --> 00:56:18,320
communication 6e-4 from the controller. Majority leader, you have the floor.

436
00:56:19,730 --> 00:56:21,980
thank you, madam chair. I move for a meeting, consideration and approval. Second, there's been a proper motion for immediate consideration and approval made by the
Majority leader.

437
00:56:25,970 --> 00:56:29,840
it's been seconded by legislator johnson on the question. All in favor? Aye.

438
00:56:31,190 --> 00:56:32,960
any opposed? The roll call vote.

439
00:57:01,580 --> 00:57:04,560
okay. With the. One second. Legislator greene, we have to go back to make sure that we approve the item.

440
00:57:08,480 --> 00:57:10,370
I mean, amend the item that's before us. So, legislator meyers, if we could go back and introduce the item as as the amendment to
The item before we go around to approve it.

441
00:57:37,000 --> 00:57:38,980
okay, madam chair, I'll make a motion to amend. Motion to amend communication 6e-4 made by the majority leader.

442
00:57:47,320 --> 00:57:47,320
it's been seconded by legislator todaro on the motion to amend.

443
00:57:53,200 --> 00:57:56,170
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? The item is amended now.

444
00:57:58,420 --> 00:58:00,040
majority leader. Thank you, madam chair. Move to approve, as amended.

445
00:58:02,560 --> 00:58:02,560
motion to approve item 6e-4, as amended.

446
00:58:06,670 --> 00:58:06,670
made by the majority leader, seconded by legislator todaro on the question.

447
00:58:11,440 --> 00:58:14,590
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. Okay.

448
00:58:15,760 --> 00:58:18,850
the motion carries and the item is approved, as amended. Continuing on with our agenda.

449
00:58:20,740 --> 00:58:20,740
communication 6e-5 through and including communication 6e-11 as indicated.

450
00:58:26,830 --> 00:58:26,830
communication 6e-12 from the county executive majority leader meyers.

451
00:58:31,630 --> 00:58:35,050
thank you, madam chair. I move for immediate consideration and approval. There's been a proper motion for immediate consideration and approval made by the
Majority leader.

452
00:58:41,350 --> 00:58:41,350
it's been seconded by minority leader mills.

453
00:58:45,900 --> 00:58:49,770
on the question. All in favor? Aye, aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0.

454
00:58:50,820 --> 00:58:53,370
the motion carries and the item is approved. Continuing on with our agenda.

455
00:58:54,960 --> 00:58:54,960
communication 6e-13 through and including communication 6e-14 as indicated.

456
00:59:01,200 --> 00:59:01,200
communication 6e-15 from the county executive.

457
00:59:05,940 --> 00:59:07,590
majority leader, you have the floor. Thank you, madam chair. Move for immediate consideration and approval.

458
00:59:10,440 --> 00:59:10,440
there's been a proper motion for immediate consideration and approval made by the
Majority leader is seconded by legislator johnson on the question.

459
00:59:18,840 --> 00:59:21,300
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. The motion carries and the item is approved.

460
00:59:27,720 --> 00:59:29,360
continuing on with our agenda. Communication 6e-16 through and including communication 6e-17 as indicated.

461
00:59:35,400 --> 00:59:39,210
communication 6e-18 from the county executive. Majority leader you have the floor.

462
00:59:41,430 --> 00:59:43,710
thank you, madam chair. I move for immediate consideration and approval. There's been a proper motion made by the majority leader.

463
00:59:45,780 --> 00:59:45,780
do I have a second? Second seconded by minority leader on the question.

464
00:59:52,140 --> 00:59:54,660
all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? 11 to 0. The motion carries and the item is approved.

465
00:59:57,810 --> 00:59:57,810
continuing on communication 6e-19 as indicated.

466
01:00:02,550 --> 01:00:04,980
continuing on communications from the departments. Communications 16d-1 through and including communication 16d-7 as indicated.

467
01:00:11,790 --> 01:00:15,150
continuing on with our agenda communications from the people in other agencies. Communication 6m-1 as indicated.

468
01:00:18,660 --> 01:00:18,660
announcements. We will conduct committee meetings next week on thursday, march 28th and
The schedule will be distributed.

469
01:00:25,710 --> 01:00:25,710
we have break during the week, spring break during the first week of april.

470
01:00:32,670 --> 01:00:32,670
and our next scheduled session of the legislature is april 11th.

471
01:00:37,440 --> 01:00:40,530
are there any other announcements from the floor? Please rise if you are able, for memorial resolutions.

472
01:00:45,650 --> 01:00:48,750
legislator todaro. Thank you, madam chair. I move to adjourn in the memory of gaspara sarah.

473
01:00:53,760 --> 01:00:57,740
we're sorry for your loss. Legislator. Any others? Legislator mills.

474
01:00:59,600 --> 01:00:59,600
yes, madam chair, I am adjourned in memory of mary nelson.

475
01:01:05,210 --> 01:01:05,210
she's a resident of the town of concord, which I presented certificate proclamation to
Her last year when she turned

476
01:01:15,560 --> 01:01:17,930
107 years old. And she just passed away in that very wonderful lady who involved in many, many things,
Including making aircrafts

477
01:01:28,040 --> 01:01:28,040
for our air force and during world war two.

478
01:01:32,690 --> 01:01:35,390
she truly was a great, great woman. Down to earth lady drank a little vinegar with some other concoction.

479
01:01:41,270 --> 01:01:41,270
and I guess that treated her to longevity, but she passed away at 107.

480
01:01:46,400 --> 01:01:50,150
thank you. Our condolences to the town of concord. Your constituency.

481
01:01:51,530 --> 01:01:53,840
any others? A moment of silence for those that have gone on to be with the lord.

482
01:02:03,400 --> 01:02:05,350
amen. Now I'll entertain a motion to adjourn. Motion to adjourn by legislator johnson, seconded by the majority leader.

483
01:02:08,590 --> 01:02:10,730
all in favor? Any opposed? 11 to 0. We stand adjourned.