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The OBSERVER’s View

MEDICARE: Careless spending needs explanation

At the time when Congress launched the Medicare Advantage program concept several decades ago, the theory in place was insurers would make Medicare more efficient, have an incentive to keep patients healthier and probably save money for the government in the process. Those at the forefront of promoting the concept at that time probably never in their wildest dreams anticipated that one day a major, well-respected national newspaper would have on its front page the headline “Medicare paid $50 billion to insurers for untreated ills.” Yet that was the headline in the July 9 edition ...

THEFTS: Considering added prevention measures

Stolen equipment is becoming a trend in the region — and it is something that has contacted the attention of one former Hanover official. Last month, Tim Crino called on the Hanover Town Board to be proactive in regard to the recent string of thefts that included equipment in Sheridan. Crino contacted the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office to inform them of his belief that the issue is “much broader than that.” Nearly two years ago, there was a resolution by the town to consider the purchase of security cameras. Crino received quotes from two providers and submitted the ...

FREDONIA Rec program proves popularity

There is definitely a value in the Fredonia summer recreation programs. As noted in a recent meeting, 326 children have signed up for the events so far. Overall, the effort offers summer outdoor activities, traditionally supervised by older teens and college students, for children at village playgrounds and other sites. Mayor Michael Ferguson said he received a letter from a parent congratulating Kayla Sullivan, department director, and the village on a great summer program. “I think our numbers are up significantly,” he said. During the budget process earlier this year, the ...

PAROLEE: Kindt’s escape puts focus on bill

Imagine the shock of Cattaraugus County residents earlier this week when convicted murderer Edward Kindt fled his halfway house in Dutchess County and made his way back to Cattaraugus County. State Sen. George Borrello, R-Sunset Bay, said it is the second time Kindt has violated his parole since being released by the Parole Board last year, while Kindt also violated an order of the Seneca Nation of Indians banning him from their nation for at least one year. Perhaps the worst part is that the state Parole Division didn’t notify the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office of Kindt’s ...

FREDONIA Survey seeks more than just input

Fredonia Central Schools last week announced a survey it has on its website that seeks public comment on its proposed $50 million capital project. It begins by asking for an email address — and if you are a voter in the district. But this item really is not looking for input. It’s canvassing potential voters on whether they will vote yes or no to the three potential items up for vote in December. “The district is working hard to finalize the scope and cost of the project. We’re seeking input from eligible voters through public comment and our Capital Project Survey,” states ...

DUNKIRK: No-show council short on time

Is it any wonder the city of Dunkirk is facing financial troubles? Since finding out in late March that the municipality would have trouble paying the bills and making ends meet, what have the elected officials done about it? One thing. They borrowed $16 million through a Revenue Anticipation Note from the state. This month? They met once before the Independence Day holiday — and nothing substantial happened. As we move toward the final five months of the year will the city take any steps to change how it does business? We already understand that the $26 million operation is too ...