Well, the results are in and it was clear that Niagara Falls voters like new faces as newcomers William Kennedy and Chris Voccio were elected to the City Council along with incumbent Andy Touma. From many Niagara Falls residents, including my wife's parents, I was told that they appreciated those candidates who visited their home throughout the summer and fall. Both Kennedy and Voccio ran a quite aggressive door-to-door campaign and it paid off.
While Voccio sold himself as a budget hawk with an emphasis on the need for cuts to the City budget, Mr. Kennedy presented himself as a young guy looking to get involved to make the city that he grew up in a better place to live. It seems clear that voters like the idea of a fresh face and particularly a young hometown candidate looking to make a difference.
The same scenario played out in 2015 when a young hometown candidate ran an aggressive door-to-door campaign. As Bill Kennedy was the top vote getter this past Tuesday, Ezra Scott was top vote getter in the 2015 election. While there were high hopes for Mr. Scott, it's safe to say that Scott's performance on the Council up to this point has not met the promise of 2015. The City Council's main function is to oversee the City's finances and Ezra seems to go along with whatever the Mayor comes up with which has just dug the hole deeper for the City.
There was plenty of discussion on social media as to the work background of Bill Kennedy. In what had been presented, one would have to question how Mr. Kennedy will be able to deal with the fiscal problems that are facing Niagara Falls. From what was in the local media, when asked about how to solve the City's financial problem Mr. Kennedy's response was that the tax base needed to be expanded by bringing in more businesses. You can't disagree with that position however that has been a theme for years and will not address the immediate problem: the City is facing a major shortfall now!! Bill has talked about looking to merge some functions with the County and I think that's great but more will need to be done.
Will the promise of the 2017 Election be realized two years from now or will Bill Kennedy be the next Ezra Scott?
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Saturday, October 21, 2017
Pascoal/Kennedy backed by Police Unions
While heading home from a nice dinner at Buzzy's, we came across a large billboard on Niagara Falls Boulevard endorsing Bob Pascoal and Bill Kennedy for Niagara Falls City Council. At first I thought: "Wow, bi-partisanship which is badly needed throughout government." But as I got closer I saw that the Niagara Falls Police Unions were responsible for the billboard. Hmmm....interesting.
There is a lot of criticism, and rightfully so, that Mayor Dyster has placated city unions in order to get their support. And it's clear that Andy Touma and Grandinetti have union support. But now we find that Kennedy and Pascoal fall into the same boat. Kennedy doesn't surprise me as it appears that he has the support of the fire unions. But, what's up with Pascoal??
What's hard to understand is how can people who will be tasked with making some tough financial decisions be willing to take endorsements from the very unions that they will be asking to make concessions and/or face layoffs? I'm not saying that police and fire aren't doing a good job. I wouldn't trade places with them. But the fact remains that the largest cost in the City budget is personnel and Public Safety is the largest personnel cost.
While Dyster and Company bemoan the loss of casino revenue, the fact remains that expenditures need to be looked at. Dyster's budget did nothing to reduce spending. In fact, it's my understanding that raises were given to non-union employees. Doesn't make sense to me.
City residents know the track record of Touma & Grandinetti when it comes to making any cost reductions. But where are Pascoal and Kennedy? Are they willing to make the tough decisions, even if it means going to their union benefactors and asking them for cost concessions? It would seem to me that billboards aren't cheap. Neither is the tax increase being proposed by Dyster, along with the dismal financial situation facing Niagara Falls. Everyone deserves to be paid for the work that they do and there's no question that police and fire have dangerous jobs. Unfortunately, the gross mismanagement on the part of Dyster and his loyalists has led to some difficult decisions that need to be made which will require public safety personnel to be willing to do their part to save Niagara Falls from financial disaster. However, it's up to elected officials to reach out to them and one has to wonder whether Pascoal and Kennedy will be able to do that.
There is a lot of criticism, and rightfully so, that Mayor Dyster has placated city unions in order to get their support. And it's clear that Andy Touma and Grandinetti have union support. But now we find that Kennedy and Pascoal fall into the same boat. Kennedy doesn't surprise me as it appears that he has the support of the fire unions. But, what's up with Pascoal??
What's hard to understand is how can people who will be tasked with making some tough financial decisions be willing to take endorsements from the very unions that they will be asking to make concessions and/or face layoffs? I'm not saying that police and fire aren't doing a good job. I wouldn't trade places with them. But the fact remains that the largest cost in the City budget is personnel and Public Safety is the largest personnel cost.
While Dyster and Company bemoan the loss of casino revenue, the fact remains that expenditures need to be looked at. Dyster's budget did nothing to reduce spending. In fact, it's my understanding that raises were given to non-union employees. Doesn't make sense to me.
City residents know the track record of Touma & Grandinetti when it comes to making any cost reductions. But where are Pascoal and Kennedy? Are they willing to make the tough decisions, even if it means going to their union benefactors and asking them for cost concessions? It would seem to me that billboards aren't cheap. Neither is the tax increase being proposed by Dyster, along with the dismal financial situation facing Niagara Falls. Everyone deserves to be paid for the work that they do and there's no question that police and fire have dangerous jobs. Unfortunately, the gross mismanagement on the part of Dyster and his loyalists has led to some difficult decisions that need to be made which will require public safety personnel to be willing to do their part to save Niagara Falls from financial disaster. However, it's up to elected officials to reach out to them and one has to wonder whether Pascoal and Kennedy will be able to do that.
Sunday, October 15, 2017
Dyster & Company At It Again
Well you can't fault Paul Dyster for continuing the sleight of hand way of running the City as he continues to get elected. Of course, if that ego-maniac Glenn Choolokian would have stayed out of the General Election, John Accardo would be our Mayor. But, that's crying over spilled milk. Now, Dyster is banking on getting his 2 rubber stamps, Touma & Grandinetti, re-elected along with the Fire Dept's chosen candidate, Bill Kennedy elected in November. The sad thing is that Dyster can come out on top again.
In spite of a scathing report from the State Comptroller, Tom DiNapoli, there doesn't seem to be much outrage at the financial state of Niagara Falls. Has the local newspaper said anything? Curious as to who the Niagara Gazette will endorse.
In any other place, the local newspaper would be ripping the current Administration and its allies on the City Council for the blatant financial malfeasance that has taken place throughout Dyster's time in office. Yet, word is that the Gazette is in Dyster's hip pocket and want the status quo to continue.
The other problem are the candidates on the Republican slate for City Council. Bob Pascoal ran a credible race 2 years ago for Mayor in the Republican primary and has a good chance in taking one of the 3 seats, hopefully knocking Grandinetti out. But Chris Voccio and Sam Archie may have a problem winning in November. Give Voccio credit for waging a heavy door-to-door campaign as some relatives of mine have told me that Mr. Voccio has been to their home twice. But there are those who have an issue with the fact that Voccio is a carpetbagger. Someone who just recently came to the City and has some very conservative views on issues that really have nothing to do with being a city councilman. To me it's a nonsense argument but I'm just saying what's out there and what is being spewed by the Dyster camp.
As far as Mr. Archie goes, while he has been very active on social media, not sure how active he has been going door-to-door. Moreover, it is my understanding that he has lost numerous times when running for office and is viewed as being unelectable. Again, that's what Dyster & Company are saying.
A low turnout helps the Dyster crew and will ensure more of the same at City Hall. I'm not sure if the State Comptroller could come in and mandate a control board. Absent that possibility, unless people get out and vote, Dyster & his minions will continue to spend away at the taxpayers expense.
In spite of a scathing report from the State Comptroller, Tom DiNapoli, there doesn't seem to be much outrage at the financial state of Niagara Falls. Has the local newspaper said anything? Curious as to who the Niagara Gazette will endorse.
In any other place, the local newspaper would be ripping the current Administration and its allies on the City Council for the blatant financial malfeasance that has taken place throughout Dyster's time in office. Yet, word is that the Gazette is in Dyster's hip pocket and want the status quo to continue.
The other problem are the candidates on the Republican slate for City Council. Bob Pascoal ran a credible race 2 years ago for Mayor in the Republican primary and has a good chance in taking one of the 3 seats, hopefully knocking Grandinetti out. But Chris Voccio and Sam Archie may have a problem winning in November. Give Voccio credit for waging a heavy door-to-door campaign as some relatives of mine have told me that Mr. Voccio has been to their home twice. But there are those who have an issue with the fact that Voccio is a carpetbagger. Someone who just recently came to the City and has some very conservative views on issues that really have nothing to do with being a city councilman. To me it's a nonsense argument but I'm just saying what's out there and what is being spewed by the Dyster camp.
As far as Mr. Archie goes, while he has been very active on social media, not sure how active he has been going door-to-door. Moreover, it is my understanding that he has lost numerous times when running for office and is viewed as being unelectable. Again, that's what Dyster & Company are saying.
A low turnout helps the Dyster crew and will ensure more of the same at City Hall. I'm not sure if the State Comptroller could come in and mandate a control board. Absent that possibility, unless people get out and vote, Dyster & his minions will continue to spend away at the taxpayers expense.
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Ezra Scott is NOT a victim
There has been a number of people on social media claiming that the arrest of Councilman Ezra Scott was a set-up. The conspiracy theory goes that Scott's rise to prominence in Niagara Falls politics was a threat and he needed to be brought down. What made it more important is Scott is black and this is another example of racism in Niagara Falls. Interesting theory but let's examine the facts.
While I don't live in Niagara Falls, my wife has family who live there and they voted for Ezra Scott for city council in 2015. They were not alone as Scott was either the top vote getter or had the second most votes in 35 out of the 37 election districts in Niagara Falls. People voted for this young man because he is bright and presented himself as someone who was concerned about the city and seemed like a breath of fresh air.
In fact, Niagara Falls elected Charles Walker numerous times and (from what I have been told by my barber) elected Andy Walker to the City Council. Walker was a top vote getter as was Scott. Just last year, Niagara Falls voters elected Earl Bass to the Board of Education. Charles Walker, Andy Walker, Earl Bass are all African-Americans as is Ezra Scott. The claim of racism being behind the councilman's arrest is bogus.
What makes it more ridiculous is that this isn't the first time that the councilman has been stopped for DUI. The difference this time was that there was property damage. The other times were swept under the rug because he is a councilman.
Councilman Scott has changed from Candidate Scott. While Candidate Scott was able to connect with all areas of the City as evidenced by his vote totals in 35 of the 37 election districts, Councilman Scott appears to have decided that instead of building bridges its more important to destroy them. How about the raised fist at the City Council meeting? It's an insult to Tommie Smith and John Carlos because Councilman Scott never has experienced what African-Americans experienced back in the 60's.
It's been reported that when the councilman got out of his car after being stopped, he had his hands raised saying, "Don't shoot". Really!!! What an insult to the police officers at the scene. As a councilman, if Scott believes that Niagara Falls Police treat non-white people differently then why doesn't he meet with the Mayor and the Police Chief and get to the bottom of this. The reason is that Scott's declaration upon being stopped is more about theatrics than reality. But it didn't end there as upon being brought to the police station, the Councilman declared, "Black Lives Matter." I see, now Councilman Scott is Michael Brown.
Unfortunately, the arrest of Councilman Ezra Scott had nothing to do with some vast conspiracy. Quite frankly, those spewing this crap have a highly inflated opinion of the councilman. The fact is that Councilman Scott is the only one responsible for what happened on that night. Those people who "stand with Ezra" maybe should be working to get this young man some help to overcome what appears to be a drinking problem and stop pointing fingers at others.
While I don't live in Niagara Falls, my wife has family who live there and they voted for Ezra Scott for city council in 2015. They were not alone as Scott was either the top vote getter or had the second most votes in 35 out of the 37 election districts in Niagara Falls. People voted for this young man because he is bright and presented himself as someone who was concerned about the city and seemed like a breath of fresh air.
In fact, Niagara Falls elected Charles Walker numerous times and (from what I have been told by my barber) elected Andy Walker to the City Council. Walker was a top vote getter as was Scott. Just last year, Niagara Falls voters elected Earl Bass to the Board of Education. Charles Walker, Andy Walker, Earl Bass are all African-Americans as is Ezra Scott. The claim of racism being behind the councilman's arrest is bogus.
What makes it more ridiculous is that this isn't the first time that the councilman has been stopped for DUI. The difference this time was that there was property damage. The other times were swept under the rug because he is a councilman.
Councilman Scott has changed from Candidate Scott. While Candidate Scott was able to connect with all areas of the City as evidenced by his vote totals in 35 of the 37 election districts, Councilman Scott appears to have decided that instead of building bridges its more important to destroy them. How about the raised fist at the City Council meeting? It's an insult to Tommie Smith and John Carlos because Councilman Scott never has experienced what African-Americans experienced back in the 60's.
It's been reported that when the councilman got out of his car after being stopped, he had his hands raised saying, "Don't shoot". Really!!! What an insult to the police officers at the scene. As a councilman, if Scott believes that Niagara Falls Police treat non-white people differently then why doesn't he meet with the Mayor and the Police Chief and get to the bottom of this. The reason is that Scott's declaration upon being stopped is more about theatrics than reality. But it didn't end there as upon being brought to the police station, the Councilman declared, "Black Lives Matter." I see, now Councilman Scott is Michael Brown.
Unfortunately, the arrest of Councilman Ezra Scott had nothing to do with some vast conspiracy. Quite frankly, those spewing this crap have a highly inflated opinion of the councilman. The fact is that Councilman Scott is the only one responsible for what happened on that night. Those people who "stand with Ezra" maybe should be working to get this young man some help to overcome what appears to be a drinking problem and stop pointing fingers at others.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Ceretto Votes To Raise County Taxes
For over 15 years, Niagara County has asked the State of New York to increase the sales tax from 7% to 8% in order to deal with the excessive financial burden of the Medicaid program. The extra 1% amounts to over $20 million dollars. Without the extra 1%, our property taxes would go up $20 million dollars. As a Niagara County Legislator, John Ceretto voted twice to ask the state to allow for the extension of the additional 1 %. He did that because he knew without it he and his colleagues would have had to raise taxes significantly or they would have to cut the Sheriff's Department, the Parks Department & Highway Departments.
As our state assemblyman, Ceretto now has twice voted against the county's request, despite knowing that it would raise our county property tax or reduce essential county services. During this last legislative session, Assemblywoman Jane Corwin sponsored a bill to grant Niagara County's request to extend the additional 1% sales tax. Senator George Maziarz, Assemblyman Robin Schimminger and Corwin all supported the bill which was passed by both houses and signed by the Governor. The lone representative who voted against the request was John Ceretto. The same John Ceretto who last year said in an article in the Niagara Falls Reporter that he wanted to lower property taxes in Niagara County. The same John Ceretto who on the Vince Anello Show didn't know that the State's Safety Net Welfare program was shifting the cost onto county taxpayers which he voted to do in 2011.
Have you read about this in any local newspaper? Have you heard about this on any radio show? The answer to these questions is no. Could you imagine if Robin Schimminger voted against the County's request? Boy, I'm sure that the County Legislature led by Rick Updegrove would have a resolution blasting Schimminger for not supporting their request. Of course, Schimminger is a Democrat and the Legislature is controlled by the Republicans. Do you think Updegrove will go after Ceretto? Don't hold your breath.
When will someone ask Ceretto why he wants to increase the tax burden on county taxpayers when Canadian shoppers and the 7 million people who visit Niagara Falls could help pay for the oppressive state mandates that Ceretto has continued to shift onto county taxpayers? When will people look beyond the glad handing, pancake eating politician and see one of the most incompetent elected officials to come around in years.
As our state assemblyman, Ceretto now has twice voted against the county's request, despite knowing that it would raise our county property tax or reduce essential county services. During this last legislative session, Assemblywoman Jane Corwin sponsored a bill to grant Niagara County's request to extend the additional 1% sales tax. Senator George Maziarz, Assemblyman Robin Schimminger and Corwin all supported the bill which was passed by both houses and signed by the Governor. The lone representative who voted against the request was John Ceretto. The same John Ceretto who last year said in an article in the Niagara Falls Reporter that he wanted to lower property taxes in Niagara County. The same John Ceretto who on the Vince Anello Show didn't know that the State's Safety Net Welfare program was shifting the cost onto county taxpayers which he voted to do in 2011.
Have you read about this in any local newspaper? Have you heard about this on any radio show? The answer to these questions is no. Could you imagine if Robin Schimminger voted against the County's request? Boy, I'm sure that the County Legislature led by Rick Updegrove would have a resolution blasting Schimminger for not supporting their request. Of course, Schimminger is a Democrat and the Legislature is controlled by the Republicans. Do you think Updegrove will go after Ceretto? Don't hold your breath.
When will someone ask Ceretto why he wants to increase the tax burden on county taxpayers when Canadian shoppers and the 7 million people who visit Niagara Falls could help pay for the oppressive state mandates that Ceretto has continued to shift onto county taxpayers? When will people look beyond the glad handing, pancake eating politician and see one of the most incompetent elected officials to come around in years.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Residents of Niagara Falls: You're Doomed
Haven't posted in awhile as the responsibilities of being a dad for a newborn has kept me quite busy but the recent controversy over the Hamister hotel proposal has inspired me because the whole episode is a crying shame. A developer wants to spend over $20 million dollars to develop a piece of property that people tell me has sat idle for nearly 20 years and now is being spurned by the Gang of Three. Of course, their opposition is to protect the city's taxpayers. What a bunch of crap!! It's all about the continuing battle that has gripped Niagara Falls: the Gang of Three vs Dyster.
The Gang of Three, Glenn Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson, last year criticized the Mayor for not being supportive of the Wallenda Walk. They said that Dyster was sending a terrible message to developers. Of course, there were many who said that Dyster wasn't happy with the Walk because Senator Maziarz was behind it. Now, we have Mark Hamister saying that if the City wants to hold him up for more money he will pull out. In an editorial this week, the Buffalo News blasted the Gang of Three saying that their actions send a terrible message to developers. Now, Maziarz says that the Gang is not opposed to the project just have questions. Really??
When will these politicians put their petty personal differences aside for the benefit of the people they represent?? I am so sick and tired of the negative nonsense that is spewed by our politicians and the likes of the Niagara Falls Reporter and the internet TV show by some guy by the name of Sal Paonessa. Niagara Falls will never pull itself up if people don't start being positive and willing to put their political crap and small-minded thinking aside. I don't live in Niagara Falls but I realize that it should be a jewel that fuels the entire County. This will never happen as long as we keep on electing the same people who are more concerned with their own agendas than those of the people they represent.
The Gang of Three, Glenn Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson, last year criticized the Mayor for not being supportive of the Wallenda Walk. They said that Dyster was sending a terrible message to developers. Of course, there were many who said that Dyster wasn't happy with the Walk because Senator Maziarz was behind it. Now, we have Mark Hamister saying that if the City wants to hold him up for more money he will pull out. In an editorial this week, the Buffalo News blasted the Gang of Three saying that their actions send a terrible message to developers. Now, Maziarz says that the Gang is not opposed to the project just have questions. Really??
When will these politicians put their petty personal differences aside for the benefit of the people they represent?? I am so sick and tired of the negative nonsense that is spewed by our politicians and the likes of the Niagara Falls Reporter and the internet TV show by some guy by the name of Sal Paonessa. Niagara Falls will never pull itself up if people don't start being positive and willing to put their political crap and small-minded thinking aside. I don't live in Niagara Falls but I realize that it should be a jewel that fuels the entire County. This will never happen as long as we keep on electing the same people who are more concerned with their own agendas than those of the people they represent.
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Ceretto & The Sales Tax: Take 4
Assemblyman John Ceretto has stated over and over again that he wants to reduce property taxes. He beams over how he helped pass the 2% property tax cap (even though at the same time he shifted costs away from the State onto local governments). As a County Legislator, Ceretto voted twice to extend the additional one percent sales tax. You see, the additional 1% generates about $20 million dollars. Without the extension, County property taxpayers would see their County Tax go up by $20 million dollars.
In 2011, Assemblyman Ceretto voted against Niagara County's request for the extension. Fortunately for us, the request was approved. I guess Ceretto would rather I pay more taxes as opposed to shoppers from Canada and the rest of the world. Well, at its last meeting, the Niagara County Legislature once again is asking for an extension of the 1 % sales tax. In looking at the state websites, Senator Maziarz is sponsoring the bill for the extension in the Senate and Assemblywoman Corwin is sponsoring it in the Assembly. Where is Ceretto???
People need to wake up and start connecting the dots. If history repeats itself, Ceretto will once again vote against the extension so he can say he never voted to increase taxes. Yet, he wants to reduce property taxes. As I have stated over and over again, this guy is a political opportunist who is nothing more than an affable fraud. So while some, like the Niagara Falls Reporter, praise this guy for being a big time Conservative his actions are no different than many politicians: a self-promoting, out for himself self-dealer. If it wasn't for being in the Assembly, John Ceretto would be collecting tickets at the State park. A job by the way he got by playing politics.
In 2011, Assemblyman Ceretto voted against Niagara County's request for the extension. Fortunately for us, the request was approved. I guess Ceretto would rather I pay more taxes as opposed to shoppers from Canada and the rest of the world. Well, at its last meeting, the Niagara County Legislature once again is asking for an extension of the 1 % sales tax. In looking at the state websites, Senator Maziarz is sponsoring the bill for the extension in the Senate and Assemblywoman Corwin is sponsoring it in the Assembly. Where is Ceretto???
People need to wake up and start connecting the dots. If history repeats itself, Ceretto will once again vote against the extension so he can say he never voted to increase taxes. Yet, he wants to reduce property taxes. As I have stated over and over again, this guy is a political opportunist who is nothing more than an affable fraud. So while some, like the Niagara Falls Reporter, praise this guy for being a big time Conservative his actions are no different than many politicians: a self-promoting, out for himself self-dealer. If it wasn't for being in the Assembly, John Ceretto would be collecting tickets at the State park. A job by the way he got by playing politics.
Friday, April 5, 2013
Inept County Leadership - Yahoo Incentive Package
http://www.niagaracounty.com/home/tabid/41/ctl/detail/mid/394/itemid/109/updegrove-questions-funding-of-buffalo-non-profit-as-part-of-yahoo-package.aspx
Niagara County Legislator Rick Updegrove is questioning the incentive package that was given to Yahoo in 2009 to locate a facility in the Town of Lockport. What has Updegrove concerned is a provision that requires Yahoo to donate $500,000 for the next 7 years to a Buffalo non-profit agency in exchange for Yahoo to receive Excelsior Tax Credits and an allocation of hydropower.
While Updegrove is correct in questioning the package my question is: who is questioning Updegrove?? You see in 2009 Updegrove was the chairman of the County's Economic Development Committee. You can bet your bottom dollar that he was front and center when the announcement was made that Yahoo was coming to Niagara County and specifically in his hometown. I would say it is fair to think that Rick had some campaign material go out touting his leadership in bringing the internet giant to Niagara County.
So let me see, he was the chairman of the Economic Development Committee for the County and he didn't know the incentive package?? Did the IDA know about the incentive package?? And how about Senator George Maziarz. You mean to tell me that a state agency was giving an incentive package and Maziarz didn't know what was in it? Seems hard to believe. If neither Updegrove or Maziarz knew about the $500,000 donation for the next seven years, then what about their respective staffs?? No one in the Senator's office was aware of the incentive package? The IDA? The County's Economic Development Department??
For Updegrove to be asking questions now is like crying over spilled milk. Somebody was asleep at the switch here and in the mean time a county with so many non-profits struggling to survive have to wonder why their elected officials weren't asking for a share of this donation. Niagara County gives them tax incentives and they donate $3.5 million over 7 years to an Erie County non-profit. People need to connect the dots here because if Updegrove wants to ask anyone questions he needs to look in the mirror and ask himself why he didn't prevent this. Why didn't our esteemed Senator prevent this??
People need to wake up!!!!
Niagara County Legislator Rick Updegrove is questioning the incentive package that was given to Yahoo in 2009 to locate a facility in the Town of Lockport. What has Updegrove concerned is a provision that requires Yahoo to donate $500,000 for the next 7 years to a Buffalo non-profit agency in exchange for Yahoo to receive Excelsior Tax Credits and an allocation of hydropower.
While Updegrove is correct in questioning the package my question is: who is questioning Updegrove?? You see in 2009 Updegrove was the chairman of the County's Economic Development Committee. You can bet your bottom dollar that he was front and center when the announcement was made that Yahoo was coming to Niagara County and specifically in his hometown. I would say it is fair to think that Rick had some campaign material go out touting his leadership in bringing the internet giant to Niagara County.
So let me see, he was the chairman of the Economic Development Committee for the County and he didn't know the incentive package?? Did the IDA know about the incentive package?? And how about Senator George Maziarz. You mean to tell me that a state agency was giving an incentive package and Maziarz didn't know what was in it? Seems hard to believe. If neither Updegrove or Maziarz knew about the $500,000 donation for the next seven years, then what about their respective staffs?? No one in the Senator's office was aware of the incentive package? The IDA? The County's Economic Development Department??
For Updegrove to be asking questions now is like crying over spilled milk. Somebody was asleep at the switch here and in the mean time a county with so many non-profits struggling to survive have to wonder why their elected officials weren't asking for a share of this donation. Niagara County gives them tax incentives and they donate $3.5 million over 7 years to an Erie County non-profit. People need to connect the dots here because if Updegrove wants to ask anyone questions he needs to look in the mirror and ask himself why he didn't prevent this. Why didn't our esteemed Senator prevent this??
People need to wake up!!!!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Niagara Falls: A City Lost
Today in both the Niagara Gazette and the Buffalo News, the City of Niagara Falls suffered another black-eye as the City Council Majority, otherwise known as the Gang of Three, made complete morons of themselves as they called into question a grant provided to the City to pay for Mayor Dyster's participation in the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Cities Initiative. According to City Council Chair Glenn Choolokian, the $4,000 grant from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo was an attempt to "buy favors from your administration." Choolokian went one step further calling into question whether it was necessary to call the FBI in to investigate the matter.
Let me ask a question: what do you think a developer from another part of the country or an overseas investor must think of Niagara Falls when they see the leader of the legislative branch call into question a $4,000 grant to participate in a bi-national initiative that could impact a major industry in this County: Sportfishing. If I had to bet they would probably be saying: if these people represent the City then the whole place must be inhabited by knuckle-dragging Neanderthals.
As I have stated over and over again, there are plenty of things to criticize Dyster about, particularly his fiscal mismanagement. But the fact that the Mayor has the wherewithal to enlist outside sources to fund quality of life programs (the NACC) and initiatives is a credit to him and should be applauded not questioned as being illegal or unethical. Say what you want about Dyster, I don't believe he is unethical or has done anything illegal. Has he mismanaged the City's finances?? Yes. Does he need to get a backbone?? Yes. But is he a crook?? No.
Choolokian and Company are a disgrace. If I was a resident of Niagara Falls I would be totally embarrassed. How can this City survive when you have leaders such as Choolokian and Fruscione and a Mayor like Dyster. Two thugs and an absent-minded professor. Good luck Niagara Falls, I think you will need it.
Let me ask a question: what do you think a developer from another part of the country or an overseas investor must think of Niagara Falls when they see the leader of the legislative branch call into question a $4,000 grant to participate in a bi-national initiative that could impact a major industry in this County: Sportfishing. If I had to bet they would probably be saying: if these people represent the City then the whole place must be inhabited by knuckle-dragging Neanderthals.
As I have stated over and over again, there are plenty of things to criticize Dyster about, particularly his fiscal mismanagement. But the fact that the Mayor has the wherewithal to enlist outside sources to fund quality of life programs (the NACC) and initiatives is a credit to him and should be applauded not questioned as being illegal or unethical. Say what you want about Dyster, I don't believe he is unethical or has done anything illegal. Has he mismanaged the City's finances?? Yes. Does he need to get a backbone?? Yes. But is he a crook?? No.
Choolokian and Company are a disgrace. If I was a resident of Niagara Falls I would be totally embarrassed. How can this City survive when you have leaders such as Choolokian and Fruscione and a Mayor like Dyster. Two thugs and an absent-minded professor. Good luck Niagara Falls, I think you will need it.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
The Democrats In Assembly Will Sponsor MMA Bill
http://blog.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/181468/ufc-praises-cuomos-pro-mma-comments/
The above article sheds more light on the Ceretto Charade machine that has characterized John Ceretto's time as our State Assemblyman. In the article, Assembly Majority Leader Assemblyman Joseph Morelle D-Irondequoit is sponsoring a bill similar to the one that just passed the State Senate. With the Majority Leader sponsoring the bill and the Governor behind it, the bill will probably fly, no thanks to John Ceretto. Please, please remember this because you know damn well that next year Ceretto will say he brought MMA to Western New York when in fact he did not.
The above article sheds more light on the Ceretto Charade machine that has characterized John Ceretto's time as our State Assemblyman. In the article, Assembly Majority Leader Assemblyman Joseph Morelle D-Irondequoit is sponsoring a bill similar to the one that just passed the State Senate. With the Majority Leader sponsoring the bill and the Governor behind it, the bill will probably fly, no thanks to John Ceretto. Please, please remember this because you know damn well that next year Ceretto will say he brought MMA to Western New York when in fact he did not.
It's All About Jobs!!!
While our elected officials continue to trade barbs and tout how great they are, their constituents continue to struggle and the county they reside in continues to fall deeper and deeper into a black hole of despair. Last weekend, there was an article in the Lockport Union Sun & Journal about the Social Services department directly paying landlords rent for people on welfare. Senator George Maziarz said he would advance the bill in the State Senate but that in checking with his colleagues this isn't an issue anywhere in the state. Moreover, Maziarz indicated that the mayors of Lockport and North Tonawanda have not heard any problems for landlords with welfare clients paying their rent.
Well, maybe Mr. Senator the reason why none of your colleagues have to deal with this issue is because your County and particularly Niagara Falls have never seen any boost in the economy. In Governor Cuomo's incessant commercials, the narrator brags that there have been 220,000 new jobs created in New York State. My guess is that not many of those have been created here in Niagara County.
With respect to the mayors of Lockport and North Tonawanda not having this problem, isn't it funny that both of them are Republicans and the mayor of Niagara Falls is a Democrat. The fact of the matter is that if there were job opportunities you wouldn't be talking about welfare clients paying rents. In fact, you would probably have less people on welfare. When was the last time we have had a business come in and create hundreds of good paying jobs. I'm not talking about cleaning hotels and working at a restaurant. I'm talking about jobs that people can raise a family, buy a home and be a productive member of the community.
On Saturday, people came to Main Street in Niagara Falls to talk about revitalizing this once busy business area. While I applaud the enthusiasm, the fact is that unless the neighborhoods around Main Street become rejuvenated any attempt to bring business to Main Street will fail. Neighborhoods will be re-born when people are working.
Until our politicians stop touting useless things like bringing MMA to New York State, sponsoring robo calls to bring down political opponents and refusing to work together to bring good paying jobs to Niagara County then we will continue to be stuck in the malaise that grips this community. If our elected officials spent as much time and effort in creating jobs here in Niagara County as they do in getting themselves re-elected maybe we could once again be a vibrant growing community. It hasn't happened in 40 years and with the current cast of characters I don't see it changing anytime soon.
Well, maybe Mr. Senator the reason why none of your colleagues have to deal with this issue is because your County and particularly Niagara Falls have never seen any boost in the economy. In Governor Cuomo's incessant commercials, the narrator brags that there have been 220,000 new jobs created in New York State. My guess is that not many of those have been created here in Niagara County.
With respect to the mayors of Lockport and North Tonawanda not having this problem, isn't it funny that both of them are Republicans and the mayor of Niagara Falls is a Democrat. The fact of the matter is that if there were job opportunities you wouldn't be talking about welfare clients paying rents. In fact, you would probably have less people on welfare. When was the last time we have had a business come in and create hundreds of good paying jobs. I'm not talking about cleaning hotels and working at a restaurant. I'm talking about jobs that people can raise a family, buy a home and be a productive member of the community.
On Saturday, people came to Main Street in Niagara Falls to talk about revitalizing this once busy business area. While I applaud the enthusiasm, the fact is that unless the neighborhoods around Main Street become rejuvenated any attempt to bring business to Main Street will fail. Neighborhoods will be re-born when people are working.
Until our politicians stop touting useless things like bringing MMA to New York State, sponsoring robo calls to bring down political opponents and refusing to work together to bring good paying jobs to Niagara County then we will continue to be stuck in the malaise that grips this community. If our elected officials spent as much time and effort in creating jobs here in Niagara County as they do in getting themselves re-elected maybe we could once again be a vibrant growing community. It hasn't happened in 40 years and with the current cast of characters I don't see it changing anytime soon.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Ceretto Charade Continues
John Ceretto is in his third year as NYS Assemblyman and his record has been one big charade. He boasts about voting for the 2% property tax cap yet that same year he voted to shift additional costs to the County. He bragged all summer long about how he brought Nik Wallenda to Niagara Falls, yet the truth be told is that George Maziarz had to get a Democratic Assemblyman from Buffalo to sponsor the bill that allowed Wallenda to perform in Niagara Falls. Last year Ceretto and his buddies, Sam Fruscione and Glenn Choolokian, touted on cable TV how they went to Albany and spoke to the Governor about getting Niagara Falls the casino money that the City is rightfully owed. Well, the City is still waiting and come to find out the Terrible Trio never met the Governor but dealt with one of his aides. And in October, Ceretto said that the State was going to give the City an advance on the casino money to avert a financial crisis. Instead, the State gave the cock and bull offer of advancing NYPA money that was owed to the City which the City Council wisely turned down.
The old saying that you can't teach an old dog new tricks applies to Ceretto's claim to be the sponsor of a bill to bring MMA to Western New York. Having done some research, Ceretto is not the sponsor of the bill but he is a co-sponsor. The sponsor of the bill is Assemblyman Clifford Crouch. Crouch is a Republican representing Chenango, Broome, Delaware, and Ulster County. The co-sponsors of the bill are Ceretto and Assemblyman Joseph Borelli from Staten Island. Borelli is a first year Republican from Staten Island. So let me see if I got this right, the sponsor of the bill is a Republican and both co-sponsors of the bill are Republicans and the Assembly is controlled by the Democrats. Hmmm. What do you think the chances are of this bill seeing the light of day??
It gets better. Ceretto, in his ridiculous YouTube video, announced that this bill would bring MMA to Western New York and be a $5 million boost to the local economy. What Ceretto doesn't know is that there have been five MMA events in Western New York going back to 2009. Four of them were held at the Seneca Niagara Casino and one was held at the Seneca Allegany Casino. The truth of the matter is that if this bill was passed in the Assembly (it already has passed the Senate) it would have no impact on Western New York but would provide the opportunity to have MMA in Madison Square Garden. MSG is the prize that MMA promoters are looking at not the Niagara Falls Conference Center or First Niagara Arena. From there perspective they are already in Western New York.
Shouldn't our Assemblyman know that?? But then again he doesn't know what the Safety Net program is and he thinks that only people on welfare can be on Medicaid. This from a guy who also was a county legislator for five years. With an elected representative like Ceretto, do you honestly think we have a chance to pull this County out of the doldrums?? Fahgettaboutit!!!!!
The old saying that you can't teach an old dog new tricks applies to Ceretto's claim to be the sponsor of a bill to bring MMA to Western New York. Having done some research, Ceretto is not the sponsor of the bill but he is a co-sponsor. The sponsor of the bill is Assemblyman Clifford Crouch. Crouch is a Republican representing Chenango, Broome, Delaware, and Ulster County. The co-sponsors of the bill are Ceretto and Assemblyman Joseph Borelli from Staten Island. Borelli is a first year Republican from Staten Island. So let me see if I got this right, the sponsor of the bill is a Republican and both co-sponsors of the bill are Republicans and the Assembly is controlled by the Democrats. Hmmm. What do you think the chances are of this bill seeing the light of day??
It gets better. Ceretto, in his ridiculous YouTube video, announced that this bill would bring MMA to Western New York and be a $5 million boost to the local economy. What Ceretto doesn't know is that there have been five MMA events in Western New York going back to 2009. Four of them were held at the Seneca Niagara Casino and one was held at the Seneca Allegany Casino. The truth of the matter is that if this bill was passed in the Assembly (it already has passed the Senate) it would have no impact on Western New York but would provide the opportunity to have MMA in Madison Square Garden. MSG is the prize that MMA promoters are looking at not the Niagara Falls Conference Center or First Niagara Arena. From there perspective they are already in Western New York.
Shouldn't our Assemblyman know that?? But then again he doesn't know what the Safety Net program is and he thinks that only people on welfare can be on Medicaid. This from a guy who also was a county legislator for five years. With an elected representative like Ceretto, do you honestly think we have a chance to pull this County out of the doldrums?? Fahgettaboutit!!!!!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
NYS Says No To Niagara Falls
http://niagara-gazette.com/local/x1503758131/State-to-forward-2-5M-to-Salamanca-until-Seneca-dispute-ends-no-similar-deal-for-Falls
An article in today's Niagara Gazette (see above) gives a pretty clear indication of what New York State thinks of Niagara Falls. While the State once again found it within its heart of hearts to front $2.5 million to Salamanca, Niagara Falls is left to sit and wait while volunteer agencies get cut and more reductions of services are on the horizon. As Governor Cuomo continues to let Niagara Falls hang by a thread, our elected officials standby hoping for a miracle.
On the one hand you have Mayor Dyster who is telling everyone who cares to listen that the Governor is doing all he can to help the city. He keeps on pointing to the ridiculous offer to accept an advance on the money due the city from the NYPA. This offer is typical NY State. You see by taking the advance the city actually loses money in the long run because as a penalty for receiving this advance what is actually due the city would be reduced. How the Mayor can continue to advance this is simply the act of a politician looking to save his own skin because he certainly does not want to propose service and staffing reductions.
Then of course we have our esteemed State Assemblyman John Ceretto. If you recall Ceretto, along with Councilmen Choolokian and Fruscione, went to Albany last April to discuss with the Governor the prospects for an advance from the State. Of course, despite Ceretto's claim that he speaks with the Governor regularly, when the Terrific Trio went to Albany they ended up meeting with an aide to the Governor. There was plenty of huffing and puffing from the Terrific Trio about how they really got the point across and how they were confident that the Governor would come through. Well, that didn't happen and then in June Johnny Boy wrote a letter to the Governor about an advance.
In today's article, Ceretto touts that he sponsored a bill to have payments be made directly to the city and not have to come through the State. However, what Johnny Boy forgets to tell everyone is that his bill never made it out of committee. Now, once again, he says that if the arbitration isn't settled soon that he will re-introduce legislation to have the city get direct payments from the Senecas. With the Democrats having an even larger majority in the Assembly, what makes you think that a new bill from Ceretto will ever see the light of day.
Finally, we have Council Chairman Glenn Choolokian saying that the State doesn't seem to care about the city's financial problems. My question to Glenn is: why aren't you asking your friend John Ceretto what he is doing about it?? It was you, Fruscione and Ceretto who were on local cable television talking about your efforts to bring these payments to the city. Of the three of you, Ceretto is the state official. He claims every time he sees the Governor he brings up the city's financial woes. Really??? If we are to believe that, then its obvious that Cuomo doesn't give a damn about what Ceretto has to say or about Niagara Falls. It would seem like these 2 political wizards, Choolokian and Fruscione, were taken in by old Johnny Boy.
In the end, all of these local officials posture like they are fighting the good fight for Niagara Falls but in reality they don't have the ability to do anything to break this stalemate. In truth, if this bunch were for sale, I'd like to sell them for what they think their worth and buy them for their real value
An article in today's Niagara Gazette (see above) gives a pretty clear indication of what New York State thinks of Niagara Falls. While the State once again found it within its heart of hearts to front $2.5 million to Salamanca, Niagara Falls is left to sit and wait while volunteer agencies get cut and more reductions of services are on the horizon. As Governor Cuomo continues to let Niagara Falls hang by a thread, our elected officials standby hoping for a miracle.
On the one hand you have Mayor Dyster who is telling everyone who cares to listen that the Governor is doing all he can to help the city. He keeps on pointing to the ridiculous offer to accept an advance on the money due the city from the NYPA. This offer is typical NY State. You see by taking the advance the city actually loses money in the long run because as a penalty for receiving this advance what is actually due the city would be reduced. How the Mayor can continue to advance this is simply the act of a politician looking to save his own skin because he certainly does not want to propose service and staffing reductions.
Then of course we have our esteemed State Assemblyman John Ceretto. If you recall Ceretto, along with Councilmen Choolokian and Fruscione, went to Albany last April to discuss with the Governor the prospects for an advance from the State. Of course, despite Ceretto's claim that he speaks with the Governor regularly, when the Terrific Trio went to Albany they ended up meeting with an aide to the Governor. There was plenty of huffing and puffing from the Terrific Trio about how they really got the point across and how they were confident that the Governor would come through. Well, that didn't happen and then in June Johnny Boy wrote a letter to the Governor about an advance.
In today's article, Ceretto touts that he sponsored a bill to have payments be made directly to the city and not have to come through the State. However, what Johnny Boy forgets to tell everyone is that his bill never made it out of committee. Now, once again, he says that if the arbitration isn't settled soon that he will re-introduce legislation to have the city get direct payments from the Senecas. With the Democrats having an even larger majority in the Assembly, what makes you think that a new bill from Ceretto will ever see the light of day.
Finally, we have Council Chairman Glenn Choolokian saying that the State doesn't seem to care about the city's financial problems. My question to Glenn is: why aren't you asking your friend John Ceretto what he is doing about it?? It was you, Fruscione and Ceretto who were on local cable television talking about your efforts to bring these payments to the city. Of the three of you, Ceretto is the state official. He claims every time he sees the Governor he brings up the city's financial woes. Really??? If we are to believe that, then its obvious that Cuomo doesn't give a damn about what Ceretto has to say or about Niagara Falls. It would seem like these 2 political wizards, Choolokian and Fruscione, were taken in by old Johnny Boy.
In the end, all of these local officials posture like they are fighting the good fight for Niagara Falls but in reality they don't have the ability to do anything to break this stalemate. In truth, if this bunch were for sale, I'd like to sell them for what they think their worth and buy them for their real value
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Niagara Falls Is Doomed With Current City Leaders
Yesterday at City Hall, everything that is wrong with city government in Niagara Falls was on full display. Let me be clear, this rests on both the Mayor and the City Council. Let's start with the Mayor. The City Council invited the Mayor to come to their work session at 4pm to discuss the city's fiscal situation. Specifically, the Council wanted to know what the Mayor will do if the City does not receive casino revenue this year. The answer given, as reported in the Niagara Gazette, illustrates why Paul Dyster is in over his head.
The Mayor told the Council that he has been given every indication that the arbitration between New York State and the Seneca Nation will be settled by summer. If this does not come to pass, Dyster indicated that his administration is looking at various scenarios including re-visiting the offer made by the New York Power Authority which was to accelerate payments to the City as a result of the re-licensing agreement. This is what you call leadership???
I have stated many times that Dyster has not come up with one proposal to reduce City expenditures. He continues down that path with his "hope and a prayer" that the arbitration is settled and if that fails he is prepared to take money from the Power Authority in a ponzi scheme that ends up short changing the City in the long run. The Mayor's idea of leadership is to continue to kick the can down the road and hope someone will save him from having to make tough decisions. With leadership like that the City of Niagara Falls will never create a business climate that will be attractive to developers. The Mayor and his Administration should be ashamed of themselves. Maybe when Dyster and his City Administrator go to these conferences they should attend meetings where they can learn about ways to consolidate city services.
The City Council is no better. In their defense, they really need to take lead from the Mayor in order to deal with the fiscal situation. But their ham-handed approach in how they have dealt with local volunteer agencies smacks of political retribution which typifies the political environment for the last 50 years in Niagara Falls. This toxic political environment is as big of a detriment to economic development in this City as the inability to make government more cost effective.
The Gang of 3's rejection of the Oshei Foundation's offer to co-fund the NACC further illustrates that this is all about taking a shot at Dyster. First, the money that is used to fund the NACC is bed tax money. This has no impact on city property taxpayers. Bed tax comes from people who stay at local hotels and motels. Let me say it again: there is NO impact on city property taxes. Second, Oshei's offer was to put up $15,000 with the City coming up with $15,000. This means only using $15,000 of bed tax revenue and keeping the City landmark open.
What is abundantly clear to me is that there are no adults running city government. On the one hand, you have a Mayor who is hoping that the Easter Bunny will come and leave him chocolate, Easter eggs and casino cash in his Easter Basket. And on the other hand, you have the Gang of 3 who are the schoolyard bullies that are going to extract whatever they can from their political enemies. If you wonder why Niagara Falls has not prospered, last night gives you the answer. Incompetence, lack of courage and political vindictiveness are the plagues destroying the City. It's time boys and girls in City Hall to put your big boy and girl pants on and do what's right for the people you serve. Unfortunately, I don't see it happening.
The Mayor told the Council that he has been given every indication that the arbitration between New York State and the Seneca Nation will be settled by summer. If this does not come to pass, Dyster indicated that his administration is looking at various scenarios including re-visiting the offer made by the New York Power Authority which was to accelerate payments to the City as a result of the re-licensing agreement. This is what you call leadership???
I have stated many times that Dyster has not come up with one proposal to reduce City expenditures. He continues down that path with his "hope and a prayer" that the arbitration is settled and if that fails he is prepared to take money from the Power Authority in a ponzi scheme that ends up short changing the City in the long run. The Mayor's idea of leadership is to continue to kick the can down the road and hope someone will save him from having to make tough decisions. With leadership like that the City of Niagara Falls will never create a business climate that will be attractive to developers. The Mayor and his Administration should be ashamed of themselves. Maybe when Dyster and his City Administrator go to these conferences they should attend meetings where they can learn about ways to consolidate city services.
The City Council is no better. In their defense, they really need to take lead from the Mayor in order to deal with the fiscal situation. But their ham-handed approach in how they have dealt with local volunteer agencies smacks of political retribution which typifies the political environment for the last 50 years in Niagara Falls. This toxic political environment is as big of a detriment to economic development in this City as the inability to make government more cost effective.
The Gang of 3's rejection of the Oshei Foundation's offer to co-fund the NACC further illustrates that this is all about taking a shot at Dyster. First, the money that is used to fund the NACC is bed tax money. This has no impact on city property taxpayers. Bed tax comes from people who stay at local hotels and motels. Let me say it again: there is NO impact on city property taxes. Second, Oshei's offer was to put up $15,000 with the City coming up with $15,000. This means only using $15,000 of bed tax revenue and keeping the City landmark open.
What is abundantly clear to me is that there are no adults running city government. On the one hand, you have a Mayor who is hoping that the Easter Bunny will come and leave him chocolate, Easter eggs and casino cash in his Easter Basket. And on the other hand, you have the Gang of 3 who are the schoolyard bullies that are going to extract whatever they can from their political enemies. If you wonder why Niagara Falls has not prospered, last night gives you the answer. Incompetence, lack of courage and political vindictiveness are the plagues destroying the City. It's time boys and girls in City Hall to put your big boy and girl pants on and do what's right for the people you serve. Unfortunately, I don't see it happening.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Dyster Goes At Them & Meals/Conferences
For weeks now I have been calling out Mayor Dyster for not addressing the blatant attempt on the part of the Glenn Choolokian-led Gang of 3 to supersede the current form of government in Niagara Falls. The Gang's lack of understanding of what their role is in city government is only matched by their ignorance in the importance of volunteers to a city that needs all the help it can get. Especially when its cheap help.
Well, today in a Gazette Guest View, the Mayor laid the whole thing out in black and white for all to see. The Gang of 3's feeble attempt to use the Police Department as its reasoning for eliminating funding to the block clubs, the Beautification Commission and the NACC was exposed big time. This was all about political axes to grind on the part of Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson.
It is apparent that Choolokian & Company wanted to use the new Police Chief Bryan DalPorto as the face of their ill-conceived plan to get back at the Mayor. Well, finally the Mayor is taking them to task and he shouldn't stop with a guest view. What the Mayor now should do is ask this question: where was the City Controller and Chief Lawyer when the Gang eliminated money that was already approved in the budget. A budget that Choolokian, Fruscione and Anderson voted in favor of. Both of those positions have a duty to speak out if either branch of government is doing something wrong. In this case, that doesn't appear to have happened.
*********************************************************************************
There was an article in the Gazette which also brought to light the expenditures of the Mayor and the Council as it relates to meals and conferences. Let me start out by saying that it is in the best interest of the city that city officials attend conferences to learn about new ideas and processes to make government more efficient and provide better services. In addition, it also provides an opportunity for networking which can bring dividends as it relates to getting help from the state or federal government. As long as the Mayor and the City Administrator are prudent with the costs and they actually attend the conferences, then calling it into question is penny wise and pound foolish.
With respect to the city picking up the tab for council members and city employees to eat before the City Council meeting, the only ones who benefit are the people who are eating. For Glenn Choolokian to say that its not a big deal because they are underpaid is a slap in the face to every hard working person who lives in the City. You knew what the salary was Glenn when you ran for office. Choolokian previously said that what's the big deal if the City pays for him to eat a sandwich. Well, it must be pretty expensive sandwiches when the bill comes to $179!!!
The icing on the cake is that Choolokian justifies this by saying that this has been going on for 50 to 60 years and he didn't make the rules. Really Glenn?? What rule is there that says the City must pay to feed council members before their meeting?? You are so concerned about rules and not breaking them, then why did you violate a local law called the Budget which established funding levels for the block clubs, beautification commission and the NACC. This practice needs to stop NOW!!!
Well, today in a Gazette Guest View, the Mayor laid the whole thing out in black and white for all to see. The Gang of 3's feeble attempt to use the Police Department as its reasoning for eliminating funding to the block clubs, the Beautification Commission and the NACC was exposed big time. This was all about political axes to grind on the part of Choolokian, Sam Fruscione and Bob Anderson.
It is apparent that Choolokian & Company wanted to use the new Police Chief Bryan DalPorto as the face of their ill-conceived plan to get back at the Mayor. Well, finally the Mayor is taking them to task and he shouldn't stop with a guest view. What the Mayor now should do is ask this question: where was the City Controller and Chief Lawyer when the Gang eliminated money that was already approved in the budget. A budget that Choolokian, Fruscione and Anderson voted in favor of. Both of those positions have a duty to speak out if either branch of government is doing something wrong. In this case, that doesn't appear to have happened.
*********************************************************************************
There was an article in the Gazette which also brought to light the expenditures of the Mayor and the Council as it relates to meals and conferences. Let me start out by saying that it is in the best interest of the city that city officials attend conferences to learn about new ideas and processes to make government more efficient and provide better services. In addition, it also provides an opportunity for networking which can bring dividends as it relates to getting help from the state or federal government. As long as the Mayor and the City Administrator are prudent with the costs and they actually attend the conferences, then calling it into question is penny wise and pound foolish.
With respect to the city picking up the tab for council members and city employees to eat before the City Council meeting, the only ones who benefit are the people who are eating. For Glenn Choolokian to say that its not a big deal because they are underpaid is a slap in the face to every hard working person who lives in the City. You knew what the salary was Glenn when you ran for office. Choolokian previously said that what's the big deal if the City pays for him to eat a sandwich. Well, it must be pretty expensive sandwiches when the bill comes to $179!!!
The icing on the cake is that Choolokian justifies this by saying that this has been going on for 50 to 60 years and he didn't make the rules. Really Glenn?? What rule is there that says the City must pay to feed council members before their meeting?? You are so concerned about rules and not breaking them, then why did you violate a local law called the Budget which established funding levels for the block clubs, beautification commission and the NACC. This practice needs to stop NOW!!!
Monday, February 18, 2013
More Flip-flops from John Ceretto
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eodf2zQyWmI&feature=youtu.be
As you can see Assemblyman John Ceretto is at it again. More platitudes and cliches but no substance. This time our esteemed Assemblyman is talking about the Robert Moses Parkway. As many of you know, whether to remove the parkway from Lewiston to Niagara Falls has been a constant debate for many years now. Two lanes of it have been closed to be used by bikers, dog walkers and joggers. There are two lanes that still are opened and this is where the focus has been.
Former Mayor Dick Soluri, a Ceretto ally, has led the charge to keep the parkway open. The Niagara Heritage group wants that stretched of the parkway from Niagara Falls to Lewiston to be completely closed to traffic. In typical Ceretto fashion, the Master Flip-Flopper has been on both sides of the issue. As a town councilman and county legislator, Ceretto wanted the parkway to remain open. Last year, involved in a highly contested re-election campaign, Ceretto changed his tune and said he wanted to have the parkway closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive.
Now with the Draft Scoping Review due out on Wednesday, Ceretto has taken to You Tube to say we have been waiting too long and that the parkway has hindered economic development in Niagara Falls. So let me ask you Mr. Ceretto: what is your plan??? What side of the fence are you on now??
People really need to focus on the changing positions of John Ceretto. He flips more that a pancake. In 2000, he wanted to develop a bike path along the parkway running the entire length of the north parkway. In 2008, he wanted a trolley that would move people from downtown Niagara Falls to Lewiston using the parkway. In 2012, he wants the parkway to be closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive. Funny how his position changes based upon the elected position he holds. You see in 2000 he was a Town of Lewiston Councilman and in 2008 he was a Niagara County Legislator representing Lewiston. In both instances, Lewiston business leaders and the Village of Lewiston Mayor Dick Soluri wanted the parkway to remain opened. But in 2012, involved in a race for Assembly that included the City of Niagara Falls, Ceretto changes his position and advocates a compromise in response to residents in the Deveaux area and the hope that traffic could be diverted to Main Street via Whirlpool Street.
This is just one example of how this guy operates. Check out his voting record on extending the county's 1% sales tax when he was a county legislator and as a NYS Assemblyman. Check out how he voted for the property tax cap but voted in favor of a budget that pushed costs on to local government. Be informed!!!
As you can see Assemblyman John Ceretto is at it again. More platitudes and cliches but no substance. This time our esteemed Assemblyman is talking about the Robert Moses Parkway. As many of you know, whether to remove the parkway from Lewiston to Niagara Falls has been a constant debate for many years now. Two lanes of it have been closed to be used by bikers, dog walkers and joggers. There are two lanes that still are opened and this is where the focus has been.
Former Mayor Dick Soluri, a Ceretto ally, has led the charge to keep the parkway open. The Niagara Heritage group wants that stretched of the parkway from Niagara Falls to Lewiston to be completely closed to traffic. In typical Ceretto fashion, the Master Flip-Flopper has been on both sides of the issue. As a town councilman and county legislator, Ceretto wanted the parkway to remain open. Last year, involved in a highly contested re-election campaign, Ceretto changed his tune and said he wanted to have the parkway closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive.
Now with the Draft Scoping Review due out on Wednesday, Ceretto has taken to You Tube to say we have been waiting too long and that the parkway has hindered economic development in Niagara Falls. So let me ask you Mr. Ceretto: what is your plan??? What side of the fence are you on now??
People really need to focus on the changing positions of John Ceretto. He flips more that a pancake. In 2000, he wanted to develop a bike path along the parkway running the entire length of the north parkway. In 2008, he wanted a trolley that would move people from downtown Niagara Falls to Lewiston using the parkway. In 2012, he wants the parkway to be closed from the Falls to Findlay Drive. Funny how his position changes based upon the elected position he holds. You see in 2000 he was a Town of Lewiston Councilman and in 2008 he was a Niagara County Legislator representing Lewiston. In both instances, Lewiston business leaders and the Village of Lewiston Mayor Dick Soluri wanted the parkway to remain opened. But in 2012, involved in a race for Assembly that included the City of Niagara Falls, Ceretto changes his position and advocates a compromise in response to residents in the Deveaux area and the hope that traffic could be diverted to Main Street via Whirlpool Street.
This is just one example of how this guy operates. Check out his voting record on extending the county's 1% sales tax when he was a county legislator and as a NYS Assemblyman. Check out how he voted for the property tax cap but voted in favor of a budget that pushed costs on to local government. Be informed!!!
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Fruscione's Arrogance On Display
Today's Niagara Gazette reports that two-term Councilman Sam Fruscione sent out a campaign announcement on city council stationary. This is in clear violation of State Election Law. Fruscione says he didn't realize that he put the announcement on the city council stationary template. Really?? And this guy is a school teacher??
I don't buy what Fruscione is selling. In my mind, the arrogance of Fruscione and his co-horts Glenn Choolokian and Bob Anderson is at an all time high and they believe that they can do whatever they want. Just look at what has been going on since January. They have usurped the Executive Branch's authority by reducing budget lines and re-allocating money to a program that they want to see expanded. I thought the Council's chance to influence initiatives was during the budget process.
What's funny is that the Gang of 3 talks about being the watchdogs for the taxpayer. But actions speak louder than words. Choolokian arrogantly said that he will continue to have City taxpayers pay for his dinner before the 7pm Council meeting. Fruscione uses city stationary to send out a campaign notice. They have made it clear that they are going to fund programs that they deemed necessary. They don't say anything about how they are going to control the cost of City Government.
The Buffalo News this morning says that Mayor Dyster will be at the Committee of the Whole meeting at 4pm on Tuesday to discuss the city's fiscal situation. Apparently, the Council is concerned about the $5 million that Dyster put in the 2013 budget as revenue from the Senecas. My question is: if they were concerned why didn't they remove it from the budget in November and come up with reductions in expenditures?? The answer is they nor the Mayor had the guts to make the necessary reductions. Eliminating funds for USA Niagara was easy because it did not effect city services. What should have happened was that this reduction should have been made with further reductions. But making reductions means eliminating jobs and reducing services and there is no appetite for that by the Council or the Mayor.
At the end of the day, residents of the city are left to watch an arrogant Gang of 3 on the City Council and a Mayor who doesn't want to restore his leadership. Tuesday will be an interesting day as the arms negotiating Mayor will meet with the roguish Gang of 3. This may be the biggest negotiating session that Dyster has ever been involved with as his legacy as Mayor may be determined by it.
I don't buy what Fruscione is selling. In my mind, the arrogance of Fruscione and his co-horts Glenn Choolokian and Bob Anderson is at an all time high and they believe that they can do whatever they want. Just look at what has been going on since January. They have usurped the Executive Branch's authority by reducing budget lines and re-allocating money to a program that they want to see expanded. I thought the Council's chance to influence initiatives was during the budget process.
What's funny is that the Gang of 3 talks about being the watchdogs for the taxpayer. But actions speak louder than words. Choolokian arrogantly said that he will continue to have City taxpayers pay for his dinner before the 7pm Council meeting. Fruscione uses city stationary to send out a campaign notice. They have made it clear that they are going to fund programs that they deemed necessary. They don't say anything about how they are going to control the cost of City Government.
The Buffalo News this morning says that Mayor Dyster will be at the Committee of the Whole meeting at 4pm on Tuesday to discuss the city's fiscal situation. Apparently, the Council is concerned about the $5 million that Dyster put in the 2013 budget as revenue from the Senecas. My question is: if they were concerned why didn't they remove it from the budget in November and come up with reductions in expenditures?? The answer is they nor the Mayor had the guts to make the necessary reductions. Eliminating funds for USA Niagara was easy because it did not effect city services. What should have happened was that this reduction should have been made with further reductions. But making reductions means eliminating jobs and reducing services and there is no appetite for that by the Council or the Mayor.
At the end of the day, residents of the city are left to watch an arrogant Gang of 3 on the City Council and a Mayor who doesn't want to restore his leadership. Tuesday will be an interesting day as the arms negotiating Mayor will meet with the roguish Gang of 3. This may be the biggest negotiating session that Dyster has ever been involved with as his legacy as Mayor may be determined by it.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Gang of Three Pushing Dyster To Irrelevance
The announcement by the Niagara Falls City Council's Gang of Three, Bob Anderson, Sam Fruscione and Glenn Choolokian, that they will be allocating $75,000 for a new community policing program is a sure sign that the balance of power at City Hall has shifted away from the mayor's office. The Gang of Three is moving $50,000 from the contingency fund and taking $25,000 from bed tax money to fund this initiative which is suppose to put more police officers on the street. This whole thing brings several questions to mind.
First, why didn't this happen during the budget process? According to the Niagara Gazette, money was placed in the contingency fund to provide additional funding for public safety and particularly the police department. Don't tell me that the Gang wasn't aware of this program in November. Second, if the City's financial situation is as bad as Chairman Choolokian says it is, how can you justify taking $50,000 from the contingency fund for a new program when you may need that money to make up for any revenue shortfalls??
Third, how can you use bed tax money for a police program?? I don't buy the interpretation that it can be used because the program will cover the tourist area. If that is the case, then how do the residents of the City benefit from any of this?? How does this help address the drug and gang activity that exist in the neighborhoods?? The fact is that the justification is B.S. and maybe the State Comptroller's Office needs to get involved as this appears to be a misappropriation of bed tax dollars.
Fourth, since when does the City Council develop and establish programs?? It was my understanding that the Council's main function is to develop a budget and oversee expenditures by the Executive Branch. It is not their function to develop programs. That must come from the Mayor and his Administration. Which leads to my fifth question: Where is Mayor Dyster??
It appears that the Mayor has basically abdicated his authority to the Gang of Three. The little dictator Choolokian seems to be the person calling the shots on how the City operates. How does Dyster allow the Gang to establish a program that he did not initiate? Why isn't he publicly questioning the use of bed tax money for this initiative? And why isn't he asking his new police chief what the hell is going on?? It would appear that the new chief may have cut a deal with the Gang.
Dyster has failed to call the Gang out and take any action. It is apparent that Choolokian and his Gang have taken over City Hall rendering Dyster totally irrelevant. It is only mid-February but if things continue the way they are going, residents of the City will begin to wonder who is the Mayor: Dyster or Choolokian. As it stands now, it looks like the little special crew leader at the Sewage Plant has outsmarted the genius beer maker.
First, why didn't this happen during the budget process? According to the Niagara Gazette, money was placed in the contingency fund to provide additional funding for public safety and particularly the police department. Don't tell me that the Gang wasn't aware of this program in November. Second, if the City's financial situation is as bad as Chairman Choolokian says it is, how can you justify taking $50,000 from the contingency fund for a new program when you may need that money to make up for any revenue shortfalls??
Third, how can you use bed tax money for a police program?? I don't buy the interpretation that it can be used because the program will cover the tourist area. If that is the case, then how do the residents of the City benefit from any of this?? How does this help address the drug and gang activity that exist in the neighborhoods?? The fact is that the justification is B.S. and maybe the State Comptroller's Office needs to get involved as this appears to be a misappropriation of bed tax dollars.
Fourth, since when does the City Council develop and establish programs?? It was my understanding that the Council's main function is to develop a budget and oversee expenditures by the Executive Branch. It is not their function to develop programs. That must come from the Mayor and his Administration. Which leads to my fifth question: Where is Mayor Dyster??
It appears that the Mayor has basically abdicated his authority to the Gang of Three. The little dictator Choolokian seems to be the person calling the shots on how the City operates. How does Dyster allow the Gang to establish a program that he did not initiate? Why isn't he publicly questioning the use of bed tax money for this initiative? And why isn't he asking his new police chief what the hell is going on?? It would appear that the new chief may have cut a deal with the Gang.
Dyster has failed to call the Gang out and take any action. It is apparent that Choolokian and his Gang have taken over City Hall rendering Dyster totally irrelevant. It is only mid-February but if things continue the way they are going, residents of the City will begin to wonder who is the Mayor: Dyster or Choolokian. As it stands now, it looks like the little special crew leader at the Sewage Plant has outsmarted the genius beer maker.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Ceretto: Gun Rights or MMA?
Assemblyman John Ceretto's proposal to legalize Mixed Martial Arts or Ultimate Fighting is filled with pitfalls. Not only would it not benefit Niagara County but it also is a business which treats the participants like pieces of meat. By the way, a similar bill last year never passed the Assembly and I 'm not sure why it will pass this year with Minority member Ceretto proposing it.
But the big concern for me is it's exactly the type of entertainment that creates this culture of violence which has endangered our rights to bear arms. MMA is no different than the violent lyrics in music, violent video games, movies and TV shows. The NRA, which Ceretto proudly states that he is a member, wants a closer look at these sources of violence. The gun organization advocates that there should be some limitations or controls placed on them.
So I ask the question: why Mr. Ceretto are you pushing to legalize a "sport" that is built on nothing more than street violence which is a cause for the gun violence that leads politicians like Cuomo to take away our gun rights?? Once again, this is another issue that Ceretto wants to take both sides but what would you expect from a self-serving career politician.
But the big concern for me is it's exactly the type of entertainment that creates this culture of violence which has endangered our rights to bear arms. MMA is no different than the violent lyrics in music, violent video games, movies and TV shows. The NRA, which Ceretto proudly states that he is a member, wants a closer look at these sources of violence. The gun organization advocates that there should be some limitations or controls placed on them.
So I ask the question: why Mr. Ceretto are you pushing to legalize a "sport" that is built on nothing more than street violence which is a cause for the gun violence that leads politicians like Cuomo to take away our gun rights?? Once again, this is another issue that Ceretto wants to take both sides but what would you expect from a self-serving career politician.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Ceretto's Fetish For MMA
Went on Assemblyman John Ceretto's Facebook page and found the following clip on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWaK1FquRhQ
Hmmm....So good old Ceretto believes that his standing as the ranking minority member on the Assembly's Tourism Committee gives him the ability to legalize Mixed Martial Arts or Ultimate Fighting here in New York State. Really?? Do you think Shelley Silver cares what Ceretto thinks??
Ceretto claims that it will bring $5 million dollars to Western New York. What Johnny Boy fails to realize is that Niagara County wouldn't see any of that money. Why?? Because there isn't a venue in Niagara County big enough that would be a draw to bring Ultimate Fighting fans from all over the country. If it were legalized, the venue would be in Buffalo.
What a dope!! This guy doesn't have a clue. With unemployment still high in his district, no casino money coming to Niagara Falls, the Governor talking about a state-run casino and fracking, this guy is talking about MMA. Glad Ceretto has his priorities straight. Once again, we here in Niagara County are screwed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWaK1FquRhQ
Hmmm....So good old Ceretto believes that his standing as the ranking minority member on the Assembly's Tourism Committee gives him the ability to legalize Mixed Martial Arts or Ultimate Fighting here in New York State. Really?? Do you think Shelley Silver cares what Ceretto thinks??
Ceretto claims that it will bring $5 million dollars to Western New York. What Johnny Boy fails to realize is that Niagara County wouldn't see any of that money. Why?? Because there isn't a venue in Niagara County big enough that would be a draw to bring Ultimate Fighting fans from all over the country. If it were legalized, the venue would be in Buffalo.
What a dope!! This guy doesn't have a clue. With unemployment still high in his district, no casino money coming to Niagara Falls, the Governor talking about a state-run casino and fracking, this guy is talking about MMA. Glad Ceretto has his priorities straight. Once again, we here in Niagara County are screwed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)