Publisher’s notebook
Frey sets record straight on economyJohn D’Agostino
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Dunkirk Mayor Richard Frey had heard enough.
During my last appearance Nov. 9 on WDOE's "Viewpoint," news director Dave Rowley asked whether a change in the council would matter to city voters after the election. My response, noting the Democrats now had the 3-2 majority, was our newspaper had issues with both parties. Neither truly backed spending cuts, tax reductions or consolidation efforts.
Democrats talked about transparency, but they never really made it an issue until four months before the vote.
But the point Frey took issue with was when I questioned the city and its development efforts.
The Boardwalk is a taxpayer-funded structure, the SUNY Fredonia incubator has a lot of hope, but it is not adding to the city's tax base and the Chadwick Bay Lofts, which looks great on the inside and outside, was done with more than $1 million in state funding.
During a meeting with the mayor at City Hall last week, he did want to set the record straight on a couple of issues, especially on development and job creation.
Since taking office, Frey noted, the Universal Steel plant has reopened and employment numbers have increased at a number of area industries, including ECR International, the former Dunkirk Radiator, Nestle Purina, Special Metals, Cliffstar and Carriage House. A number of these industries adding jobs have also done major expansion projects - from $160 million in improvements currently at NRG to $70 million worth of work at Nestle plant.
Rem-Tronics, Frey noted, is still on track to bring nearly 100 jobs to the city once the move from Silver Creek is completed as well. Shovel-ready sites are also abundant, including those at the former Marsh Valve and Roblin Steel locations.
A $1 million water park also remains in the works for the Clarion while Medicor has purchased the former funeral home at Central Avenue and Fifth Street.
"Things are coming alive," the mayor said.
In addition, and most importantly, Frey notes there is an increase in pride - inside and outside the city. It is evident in the fund-raising years ago for new Christmas decorations, the annual Fourth of July Festival and the weekly summer music at the pier, which sometimes brings in thousands from outside the area.
Looking outside the City Hall conference room, he began talking about the upcoming city holiday events, which include a tree-lighting ceremony and musical display.
"People are always so giving around here, especially when there is a good cause (to rally around)," he said. "Where else would you possibly rather be?"
Special thanks to the Charles Tinley Memorial Chapter 142 Disabled American Veterans for inviting me to their veterans luncheon, which is held annually at the Chautauqua County Home. Twenty-nine veterans from World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars were in attendance. Their efforts - and fight for our freedom - deserve thanks every day.
Get ready to make a list - and check it twice - when you pick up our Thanksgiving edition. Besides having a number of great gift ideas from area merchants, there will be a number of inserts from local retailers included in our Christmas Wishes section.
Happy Thanksgiving.
John D'Agostino is the publisher of the OBSERVER. Send comments to jdagostino@observertoday.com or call 366-3000, ext. 401.
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Billkinner
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11-20-09 9:43 PM
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Dunkirk is a wonderful place to raise a family. The jobs problem is getting solved.The tax base will rise as new industry arrives.Working people buy homes and settle. The future economy for Dunkirk appears secure.Congratulations to Mayor Frey and the City Council Members for their many accomplishments.
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