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City legislators back county office move

OBSERVER Photo by M.J. Stafford Chautauqua County’s office building on Central Avenue in Dunkirk is pictured Thursday.

Dunkirk-area Chautauqua County Legislators Kevin Muldowney and Robert Bankoski say they both are comfortable with the relocation of the Adult, Children and Family Services Division out of the heart of downtown on Central Avenue to Franklin Street.

In a phone interview on Thursday, Bankoski of county District 2 said the arrangement will save the county money on the rent while keeping a staff of 130 in the north county at the new site. “The services are all staying in Dunkirk and there are only nine people being relocated to Jamestown,” he said. “There are seven supervisors and two clerical people, one who is Natalie Luczkowiak.”

Luczkowiak, a member of Common Council representing the First Ward, was one of those who spoke against the relocation plans during a session on Tuesday night. “It is not in the county’s best interest to relocate its staff to the Jamestown area,” she said.

Later that evening, council voted to send a letter of protest to the county. The rest of the city administration, including Mayor Wilfred Rosas, Police Chief David Ortolano and Fire Chief Michael Edwards, will also sign the letter.

Muldowney, who represents District 1, says he and Bankoski have been working with County Executive PJ Wendel, County Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler and local government officials regarding the move. “Our purpose has always been to do what is right for our constituents within our legislative districts and at the same time take advantage of the cost cutting this move will create,” Muldowney said. “All services provided will not be impacted and retained in Dunkirk.”

Bankoski said the county would have been willing to stay at the current site with lower rates and better services. “We wouldn’t have left … if there wasn’t numerous issues,” the legislator said.

Other than the site, Bankoski said, the change will be minimal to those who require services. “Everyone thinks this is doom and gloom, it’s not the case,” he said. “We’re moving across town.”

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