Legislators propose downsizing

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - There are actually two competing proposals. One would reduce the number of county legislators to thirteen. The other aims to cut the number down to eleven.

Ten democrats on the Erie County Legislature are sponsoring a proposal to reduce the number of legislators from 15 to 13.

The local law would also increase the length of each legislators' term from two to four years.

"Ten legislators create a veto-proof super majority. The action comes after hearing from the bi-partisan 21st Century Commission, which studied the legislature," said Lynn Marinelli, D, Chair of the Erie County Legislature.

"The bottom line is if we decrease the cost of government, it's a saving to the taxpayers and it's what they rightfully want," said Legislator Tim Kennedy.

Democratic Legislator Tim Kennedy submitted his own local law proposing 11 members, even though it will directly compete with the democrats' super majority.

Kennedy thinks cutting four members from the legislature would save taxpayers about $400,000 a year.

"The bottom line is, if we decrease the cost of government, it's a saving to the taxpayers and it's what they rightfully want," Kennedy said.

The two local laws were submitted two days after voters in Evans and West Seneca overwhelmingly voted to reduce the size of their town boards.

Downsizing advocate Kevin Gaughan says while he thinks the legislature should be reduced to nine members, he's encouraged by any effort to reduce the size of local government.

Gaughan said, "While I am a little disappointed that my original proposal to reduce the county legislature down to nine which would place us much more in alignment with county legislatures around the country, I think any change is terrific."

A public hearing will be held, and the legislature has to wait eight days before it can vote on the two downsizing proposals.

The downsizing question would be placed on a voter referendum in November.

Changes to the make-up of the legislature would take effect with the 2011 general election.