Erie County Legislator Joseph Lorigo announces that his proposed local law, “Establishing a Residency Requirement for Employees in Erie County,” was approved by a majority of the Legislature at the May 23, 2013 session.

“As I stated when I first submitted this proposal, taxpayers who fund employee salaries deserve a workforce that has a personal interest in the success of this county. I believe the residency requirement will benefit our county and the taxpayers,” said Legislator Lorigo. “This requirement is long overdue and I am pleased the Legislature has set this policy. Many of our neighboring counties have implemented similar laws and this will be a positive practice for Erie County.”

The local law requires the approval of the County Executive before it is final.

Once approved, the local law will require any future county employee to reside in Erie County when they are hired. Current employees who reside outside of Erie County’s borders would be grandfathered in and allowed to maintain their position and residence without penalty.

Legislator Lorigo added that the law takes into consideration that several positions within the county require a highly skilled individual and recruitment outside of Erie County’s borders may be necessary. If a qualified applicant from Erie County is not found, an exception can be made with Legislature approval.

“It was important that the local law include a clause that takes into consideration that the county does have highly skilled positions that are critical to the services we provide. In the event that a county resident meeting the requirements does not apply or isn’t chosen, then the search should extend beyond the county,” Legislator Lorigo added.

To review the local law, please CLICK HERE.

For additional information about the local law, please contact Legislator Lorigo at (716) 858-8922 or email joseph.lorigo@erie.gov.