COMPTROLLER MYCHAJLIW: SUPPLIER PAY PROGRAM SETS REVENUE RECORD

The Erie County Comptroller’s Office has earned thousands of dollars for Erie County taxpayers thanks to a reform initiative implemented by Comptroller Stefan I Mychajliw, Jr.  The $271,951.16 deposit made by M&T Bank to county coffers Thursday, April 9, 2020 is a rebate check as part of the county’s online vendor payment program.

“These earnings couldn’t come at a more crucial time,” said Comptroller Mychajliw.  “With the Coronavirus pandemic crippling our country and Erie County finances, this helps the county’s bottom line.”

Reform initiatives implemented by Comptroller Mychajliw in working with M&T Bank have modernized the way Erie County does business, streamlining the process and earning money for Erie County.

“I can’t say enough about the members of my staff, especially Supplier Pay Coordinator Barb Lipka,” added Mychajliw.  “They’ve done excellent work in helping to make the office more efficient.  The ‘cash back’ earnings we receive, and put into the general fund to benefit county taxpayers, is a result of their dedication and commitment to ensuring we bring the best possible results to Erie County.”

When Comptroller Mychajliw took office, he made it a priority to modernize the office.   Prior to M&T Bank overseeing the process of the county’s online vendor payment system, the county’s electronic payment system was underutilized, underperforming, and outdated.  Erie County was collecting, on average, $40,131 a year.

“This payment system works similarly to how you may run your household.  But instead of using points with your credit card, the reward goes to taxpayers.  The revenue received Thursday is deposited into Erie County’s general fund, which helps offset property taxes,” added Mychajliw.  Nearly $272,000 was put into that account this week.

Vendors who voluntarily enroll in the Supplier Pay Program see expedited payments and improved cash flow.

“At no other time have we come to realize how much we do and can do online than since this pandemic hit,” said Comptroller Mychajliw.  “Paying our bills, ordering groceries and other goods, and conducting business.  It was about time government got on board and embraced technology in the same way.  I’m proud of the results we have realized from the Supplier Pay Program, and I’m proud of our staff for their work in getting so many vendors on board.”