Legislator Mills introduces resolution requesting Erie County Legislature resume in-person meetings while practicing social distancing

Modified: May 15, 2020 3:52pm

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Friday, May 15, 2020

Erie County Legislator John Mills has introduced a resolution highlighting the challenges with teleconference format for legislative meetings and requesting the full Legislature resume proceedings in legislative chambers.

Since the COVID-19 outbreak began, all legislative sessions and committee meetings have been held via Zoom teleconference. The format has made it challenging to have in-depth discussion between members. Legislator Mills is proposing the Legislature resume meeting in legislative chambers or another location, while abiding by all social distancing guidelines.

Legislator Mills said, “As we approach the initial phases of re-opening, I am requesting that the Legislature resume in-person meetings while respecting the social distancing guidelines. Communicating through web conference doesn’t always allow for a smooth flow of questions and answers between all individuals present. As legislators, we have a responsibility to ask the appropriate questions and work for the people we represent. With a potential deficit coming our way, we will need to be ready and willing to discuss the county’s financial situation at length. I am hoping my colleagues will agree to the importance of meeting in person, and we can begin working on a plan that allows us to do so safely.”

If necessary, the county owns several facilities that are larger in capacity and could safely accommodate a legislative session while maintaining everyone’s safety. A copy of Legislator Mills’ resolution can be viewed here.