Monthly Column_Erie County Clerk Michael Kearns reminds YOU to RENEW LOCAL

Modified: April 20, 2020 9:31am

April 17, 2020

Keep Your Money Local – Renew Your Vehicle Registrations in Erie County

 

Did you know that every time you conduct any transaction on-line using the New York State DMV website or use the “pink” envelope sent to you by the State 0% of that transaction fee stays in Erie County?

As we are all aware the COVID-19 outbreak is having a dramatic consequence on our everyday way of life. In an instant, businesses and the public were shut off from conducting normal everyday activities, going to work, going to a doctor’s appointment, visiting our loved ones and even going to your local Auto Bureau.

In saying that, our economy across this country and here locally has been greatly impacted. Erie County has lost millions of dollars in revenues that cannot be made up.  This is why I am reminding residents to make use of our “Renew Local” efforts when it is time to renew your registration for your automobile, motorcycle, trailer, snowmobile or boat. When motorists choose to “Renew Local” they help keep 12.7% of that transaction in Erie County which totals over $1.5 million annually.

This revenue is critical to the County’s general fund to support vital programs and services important to the community. You will also receive your registration sooner, usually within 7-10 business days, and save the postage.  That’s a win-win for Erie County residents! 

“Renew Local” is smart and simple.  Just put your registration renewal form and your check, made payable to the Erie County Clerk, in the postage-paid green envelope and simply drop it in any mailbox. The easiest way to obtain one of our signature green envelopes is by going to www.renewlocal.erie.gov and completing the on-line request form.  My office will then mail you a “Renew Local” envelope. 

I urge all motorists to utilize the “Renew Local” program as an easy, time-saving way to help keep your hard-earned money here in Erie County the next time you have to renew your vehicle, motorcycle, trailer or boat registration! Stay home, stay well and stay safe.

For additional information and operational updates on the Erie County Auto Bureau visit www.erie.gov/clerk/autobureau.