A year ago, I spent a day in Chestnut Ridge Park touring improvement projects that were currently under way. I joined Erie County Parks Commissioner Jim Hornung to discuss plans to greatly improve the Casino, the large stone shelter located near the entrance of the park. Used most often during the winter by visitors enjoying the sledding hill, the Casino is a great asset to the park, providing a place to relax while taking part in park activities.

Last year, Erie County replaced the Casino roof and 70-year-old windows, as well as completing exterior facade work. These repairs and upgrades tremendously improved energy efficiency and reduced utility bills. By making an investment to repair these outdated features, the county greatly reduced its maintenance costs at that building.

I am pleased to once again announce that the County Legislature has approved funding to continue maintaining this beautiful building. During our last session, the Legislature voted to replace the outdated heating system. More than 40 years old, this system simply wasn’t cost-effective or energy-efficient. Requiring excessive maintenance, the old system was no longer viable. The new heating system will work in collaboration with the new roof and windows, making the casino extremely energy efficient. Families will especially appreciate this when escaping the cold after a few runs down the sledding hills or after cross country skiing on the trails.

By investing these dollars now, we are eliminating the excessive costs associated with maintaining an outdated building, and we are preserving a landmark. While visiting the park last year, I also toured the Commissioner’s Cabin, a hidden jewel in the county. Not many people know about this amazing cabin, located alongside a picturesque lake. It features a kitchenette area, indoor bathrooms, fireplaces and picnic table seating both indoor and outdoor. An outdoor grill makes it ideal for gatherings. The Commissioner’s Cabin has been repaired and upgraded and is available for rent. For information about renting this wonderful site or others found throughout the county parks, visit the parks department’s website at www.erie.gov/parks.

Our parks are a tremendous asset, and the county has invested wisely to keep them open to the public and operating efficiently. While state and federal officials have warned of the threat of park shutdowns due to budget constraints, the county continues to provide all services, including park access, while maintaining a balanced budget.

Providing excellent services with responsible taxes is the balance that government officials must achieve. Each year that task becomes increasingly difficult, but if we stay on the course currently set before the county, which includes implementing cost-efficient practices, we can continue to respond to the needs of our residents, including the number one need: low taxes. I will continue to support making smart investments today to avoid paying for errors tomorrow.

Please contact my office if you have any questions or concerns about a county park. I can be reached at 655-5650 or email jmills13@erie.gov.

(Printed Thursday, May 5, 2011 in the East Aurora Bee and Orchard Park Bee Newspapers)