By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – Erie County legislators are pledging to work together under new leadership after a month of discontent.
It was back to work for lawmaker Charles Swanick Thursday. The long-time Democrat is serving, for a second time, as Legislature chairman. But this time, he plans to vote as a Republican. Swanick was appointed by the County Executive after declaring that he would enroll with the Republican party.
Democrats were unsuccessful in electing George Holt as chair a couple of weeks ago in a heated session. But Thursday, there were kind words and hand-shaking across both sides of the aisle.
Democrat Lynn Marinelli says the Democrats have an agenda and are ready to go to work.
"We will be talking about economic development. We will be talking about accountability," Marinelli said. "We want to reform Medicaid. We'll oppose the nine percent sales tax."
Other Democrats say they are willing to offer cooperation to their Republican colleagues and work with the County Executive. Democrat Ray Dusza says they need to "break the gridlock." Republican lawmaker Steve McCarville says it is time to put politics aside.
"I don't think most people in the community care what party you're from as long as we're moving forward and getting things done," McCarville said. "This body can accomplish great things as long as we work together."
Lawmakers were finally able to agree on new leadership for 2003. They elected Republican Michael Ranzenhofer as majority leader and Democrat George Holt as minority leader. Lawmakers also re-appointed Laurie Manzella as Legislature clerk.