Choolokian & Company: Let Them Eat Cake!!

Over 100 people filled the Niagara Falls City Council Chambers to speak out against the Glenn Choolokian-led Gang of Three's cut of funding to the NF Beautification Commission, the NF Block Club Council and the  elimination of funding for the NACC.  Even though these funds were approved in the 2013 budget, the Gang of Three dismissed those residents that came out to City Hall and moved forward with the reductions.  Co-Gang leader, Sam Fruscione, said that the cuts had to be made because of the City's financial situation.  My question is: how is the city's situation different now than it was back in November/December??

The arrogance of the Gang of Three is unbelievable.  Just a few weeks ago, the Gang pushed along a reduction in the property tax assessment of the Turtle which is owned by Choolokian's  and Fruscione's benefactor, NFR.  Not only was the assessment lowered by $600,000 but the City also had to pay back NFR $37,000.  Could that money have gone back to restore funding for the NACC and bring back the funding to what it was in the budget for the Block Clubs and the Beautification Commission??

Someone must have read this blog because the Napoleonic Choolokian was indignant that he and his co-horts did dine out before the meeting and that they had every intention to submit their bills to the City for reimbursement.  Really???  Let them eat cake!!!  Cut money from volunteer organizations but have the taxpayers pay for your meals for a job that you chose to run for and for which you get paid.  Block club members don't get paid.  People on the Beautification Commission don't get paid.  People at the NACC don't get paid.

What may be behind this was telegraphed in a comment made by little Napoleon when he said that the Gang of Three intended to introduce new programs that will better serve the needs of all city residents.  Hmmm...I wonder if these programs are going to cost the city money.  If they do, you can bet your bottom dollar that Choolokian/Fruscione cronies will be there with their hands out.