During its reorganizational meeting, the Erie County Legislature appointed members to the seven issue-specific committees that handle Legislature business and review proposals before they are voted on during sessions. The following Minority Caucus appointments were made during the Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012 session:
Community Enrichment - Legislator Kevin Hardwick and Legislator Joseph Lorigo. The committee assists in forming policies and legislation that will enhance education, culture and art in Erie County while promoting economic stimulus in this manner.
Economic Development - Legislator Edward Rath and Legislator Joseph Lorigo. The committee oversees construction issues of major facilities across Erie County; as well as issues concerning the Erie County Industrial Development Agency and Industrial Land Development Corporation; acts upon the repair and maintenance of county roads and bridges, general county infrastructure repair on buildings and other physical plant facilities; and discusses ideas concerning economic development, job creation and workforce development.
Energy and Environment - Minority Leader John Mills and Legislator Joseph Lorigo. The committee handles requests and proposals involving Public Works, Parks, Environmental Protection, and The Erie County Water Authority to ensure delivery of safe drinking water, electrical power, and safe and efficient removal of sewage from Erie County homes and hazardous waste.
Finance and Management - Minority Leader John Mills and Legislator Kevin Hardwick. The committee holds responsibility for oversight of the county's $1 billion annual fiscal budget and is charged with ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent in a responsible and appropriate manner.
Government Affairs - Legislator Kevin Hardwick and Legislator Edward Rath. The committee’s duties pertain to matters of governing and general management on a legislative level. Communications include Notices of Claim, resolutions submitted by the County Clerk's Office, Off Track Betting annual reports, and miscellaneous issues that are of interest to constituents.
Health and Human Services - Minority Leader John Mills and Legislator Lynne Dixon. The committee handles issues related to the health and wellbeing of county residents, related to issues Medicaid, health clinics, social service programs and other related entities.
Public Safety - Legislator Lynne Dixon and Legislator Edward Rath. The committee meets to consider and debate new and innovative measures intended to enhance and improve the general safety and welfare of the citizens of Erie County.
The Legislators look forward to serving in these important roles and working to resolve the issues put before them.
For additional information about Legislature Committees, schedules, or to speak with a Legislator about an issue, please call the Minority Caucus at 858-8808 or visit www.erie.gov/legislature.