We would rather there not be a town of 14,000 residents and another town of 1,100 residents, but duplication of services is something we continue to do far too well in Chautauqua County. That being said, we are pleased to see that two entities — Dunkirk and Pomfret – are keeping an open ...

If Fredonia is serious about sharing services, Scott Marsh’s retirement is a perfect opportunity to look at sharing a Department of Public Works supervisor. Marsh announced his decision during last week’s meeting. “It has truly been rewarding to contribute to the growth and success of ...

Wednesday was a trip back in time for Fredonia water customers. What was usually a once-a-year occurrence happened for the first time in about a decade: a conservation order was issued for users. “This is a serious situation,” said Josh Myers, Emergency Manager for the village of ...

One of the most debated pieces of the 2026 city of Dunkirk budget proposal, announced this week by Mayor Kate Wdowiasz, revolves around the salary of its top elected official. Currently the position pays $54,500. For next year, the mayor plugged in a major increase of $20,500 to $75,000 — ...

It’s been 20 years since the Commission on Health Care Facilities in the 21st century, or the Berger Commission, said Westfield Memorial Hospital should be turned into a diagnostic treatment center. The community rallied on the hospital’s behalf, with the state choosing to reverse the ...

It is often easy to criticize struggles when it comes to city school districts across New York state. New Dunkirk Superintendent Brian Swatland, however, is finding the silver linings when it comes to recent test results. Swatland, took the position in July, spoke with the OBSERVER last week ...