Hours before the July 1, 2011 Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra concert at Erie County’s Chestnut Ridge Park I joined members of the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy to set up for the show. As we were busy arranging tables and tents, attendees were already starting to arrive, more than two hours in advance. I attribute this to two main reasons: the exceptional talent of the BPO and outstanding venue provided at Chestnut Ridge Park. The two entities coming together made for a terrific summer event.

It was the perfect example of greatness that can come from a public-private partnership. Attendees were treated to an amazing free concert, highlighting some of Western New York’s best musicians. The concert was wonderfully organized by the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protection of the park, and the County Park’s Department, which uses taxpayer dollars to provide outstanding park services to residents. The BPO summer concert series is also sponsored by First Niagara, a private business that is very invested in our area.

I have always advocated for creating public-private partnerships where available, I believe they greatly benefit our region’s future. At the end of 2010 I worked with a private foundation to create a program that would assist cultural organizations without dedicating millions of taxpayer dollars. I was successful in creating a plan that would have used only a portion of taxpayer dollars to allow these organizations to levy millions of dollars in grants. Unfortunately, due to politics that plan wasn’t applied.

However, another plan was able to move forward a few months ago that provides assistance to cultural organizations investing in Western New York by undertaking capital improvement projects. I supported the County Executive’s proposal to spend $300,000 of the 2010 surplus for this purpose because I think it is a good investment. The $300,000 can’t be used for operational costs and won’t entirely fund any one project, but it does assist organizations trying to move a project forward that will help them become self-sufficient and thrive.

There are so many other examples of great public-private partnerships. In May I announced that the Legislature approved a small amount of funding for the WNY Southtowns Scenic Byway that would allow the organizations to receive a $66,000 federal grant to be used to purchase signs for the byway. The Legislature’s smart decision to approve the funding began a chain reaction that will have years of positive results. The historic and unique sites along the Byway will attract more visitors through these signs and further promote their mission. Tourism is a major industry that we must continue to tap into.

I will continue to push for additional public-private partnerships as I have in the past. It is the future of government. No longer can taxpayer dollars be spent to fully support all the services it once did, however, government can still play an important role in assisting organizations through various means.

If you have any comments or questions about this topic, or anything concerning the Legislature, I encourage you to contact me at 655-5650 or email jmills13@erie.gov.