FREDONIA: Retirement offers chance for change
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 Fredonia,” Marsh said in his letter after thanking the village and his government for being allowed to serve. “Thank you again for the opportunity to serve this great community. Fredonia will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Village Mayor Michael Ferguson in recent months continues to update village residents during meetings on efforts to consolidate. Big-ticket items are the police and fire departments, but the village of Brocton and town of Portland already share a public works supervisor in Ken Becker. He does an excellent job.
How about the village working with Pomfret or maybe even the city of Dunkirk?
No one needs to be reminded about the plethora of turmoil taking place in north county municipalities when it comes to expenses and high taxes. But there has been very little in terms of solutions and reductions.
Fredonia, after last year’s 54% tax increase, cannot afford to hire more supervisors. It needs to be serious about going a different direction that includes some internal rightsizing.