Chautauqua Co. Executive P.J. Wendel joins News Director Terry Frank to discuss a number of topics... including moving ahead with an amended and boosted Government Reduction Initiative program. Wendel held a virtual conference meeting with local government leaders about the program, and about how they may be able to reduce their local government, taxing district, school district or other entities. He says that would also include merging fire departments -- like what has been done with the new, North Chautauqua Lake Fire District. The money to help with upfront costs is being set at 500,000 and grants of up to 100,000 will be available. Wendel adds a number of localities are already looking at merger/consolidation projects. With the early onset of Winter weather... we also discuss how the county is set for the snowplowing and treating of roads through late Winter in March and April. We also discuss action allowing a multi-use (inc. housing) project at the former Welch's building in Westfield. He says it's part of the county's efforts to support adding 400 more housing units soon.
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