By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – Erie County residents are once again being asked to weigh in on a slew of proposed changes to the county's charter. The County Legislature holds its public hearing Monday night on the Charter Review Commission's recommendations.
There were already three public hearings held by the commission. But none were very well attended. Legislature Chairwoman Lynn Marinelli admits it is a dry subject that does not spark a lot of interest.
Still, Marinelli said lawmakers are hoping residents will talk about the recommendations. And, more importantly, pitch in their opinions. There are about four dozen recommendations. They range from simple language changes to dramatic changes in fiscal procedure and county management.
Marinelli said the proposals will live or die based on what lawmakers decide to do.
Marinelli said some of the proposals will have a tough time getting enough support to be put up for a referendum. The most divisive is a proposal for a hybrid form of county government. That would involve hiring a county manager to work with the county executive.
Marinelli said that is an idea that she does not personally support because of the possible 200 thousand dollar price tag.
However, Marinelli said lawmakers will take the public's thoughts into consideration before deliberating and voting this summer.
Any proposals involving elected offices - that survive the process - would be put before voters in November.
The public hearing is Monday night at the Richmond Summer Recreation Center beginning at 5:30.
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