By Justin Sobol
Buffalo, NY – A local lawmaker is turning to Albany to help solve Erie County's financial troubles. County Legislator Mark Schroeder is calling for a New York State review of county finances by State Comptroller Alan Hevesi.
County Executive Joel Giambra estimates an apparent deficit of $130 million for 2005. Schroeder says the misuse of county funds is partly responsible for the gap. He says that includes the purchase of a new computer system that cost the county $26 million dollars. Schroeder says Erie County paid too much for the system.
"I challenge you to go to manufacturers and companies in Western New York -- all who had re-tool and install new computer systems. I will tell you that their costs were under $15 million."
Schroeder said the Aurora highway scandal, the office furniture scandal, and the issuing of over 500 cell phones to county employees are a few of the other controversies that are prompting his call for an audit.