By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – The county fiscal crisis so far hasn't stunted growth at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Society Wednesday marked its one year anniversary after separating from the county.
Brilliant sunlight filters down through the glorious Palm Dome. It illuminates the master plan renderings at the far end that are framed by luscious palms and gardenias.
The Society's Executive Director Carol Kociela points out some of the coming highlights. But Kociela says the Society already has a lot to celebrate. One year after becoming a not-for profit and taking over management, Kociela says the Gardens are thriving. Staff, volunteerism and membership have all grown. The county pays $450,000 a year for management costs. And it pledged $9 million toward restorations. Kociela believes the county will honor its pledge -- despite the ongoing fiscal crisis.
"Both the Society and the County have realized that each year is going to be a challenge," said Kociela. "And some years one party will be more able to put in some of their share than the other. But, over a period of time, I don't think we have concerns that it won't happen."
But in his comments Wednesday, County Executive Joel Giambra made no commitment to future restorations. His carefully worded statement promised to continue polishing up what he called a valuable tourism gem. But his pledge -- at least for now -- was limited only to the management contract.
"You can be assured in spite some of the financial challenges that the county is dealing with today that we are going to make sure this financial commitment is met -- the $450,000 each and every year," said Giambra.
Giambra's four-year plan, including capital spending, is due October 1st. Society Director Kociela says, no matter what storms may come, the Gardens will be protected.
"The Society will make sure that this House is operational. We said this a year ago when the county budget crisis came about," said Kociela. "No matter what we do, we will keep this place open to the public and we will care for this collection."
Kociela, who soon leaves her post, says the Society has strong volunteer and private support.