Dickey resigning from City Council effective October 24...
The newest member of the Jamestown City Council has announced that she is resigning her seat as of next Monday. Third-Ward Councilwoman Tamara Dickey confirmed for WJTN News this afternoon that she is stepping down, effective Oct. 24. In an e-mail to city lawmakers, Dickey says she "sincerely regrets" that she is resigning... but, adds she has a career opportunity she can't turn down. She further stated in the e-mail that she and her husband will "continue to support and pray for you and all of the Jamestown Council Leaders." Dickery also said she looks forward to working with her successor in Ward-Three. As the rules are understood, the city's Republican Committee would have to chose someone for Mayor Sam Teresi to nominate to fill that seat until a special election could be held.
Dolce says city lawmakers looking for ways to help city departments that aren't getting any more money in 2015 budget plan...
City lawmakers have begun their review of Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi's proposed, $34.7-million budget for next year. Spending plans for Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and Youth Services were dissected during the City Council's work session last night. DPW Director Jeff Lehman discussed the need to replace about $2.7-million dollars worth of DPW equipment. However... that's not in the budget proposal. Council Finance Committee Chairman Tony Dolce says any replacement would likely be done either borrowing, or using excess contingency funds. Dolce adds they're also looking at how Youth Services gets it's funding. Currently... the money for the department still comes from the state... but now is "passed through" the county. He says the entire spending plan is a good start... but, adds there's always room for improvement because there is a 2.35-percent tax increase. However... he says it is under the 2-percent property tax cap. If the budget remains that way... city taxpayers would receive a rebate check from the state for the added taxes.
Miller says late Ellicott Councilman, Rob Heintzelman, will "be missed...."
Ellicott town officials are mourning the loss of a long-term board member who passed away last week following a battle with Cancer. Town Councilman Rob Heintzelman died last Thursday at the age of 52 in his West Ellicott home. Town Supervisor Cecil Miller says Heintzelman was a "very dedicated" public servant who always kept an eye on the town's fiscal affairs. Miller says Heintzelman was well-schooled in finance and bookkeeping... and, was always "great" to have around at budget time. The town board met last night... but, Miller says the panel won't be deciding on a replacement for a while yet. With the November elections coming up in less than two weeks... a special election won't be held until next year.
