By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Erie County Sheriff Patrick Gallivan has settled the court case he filed earlier this year to restore funding to his department. He had joined the county clerk and comptroller in challenging the cuts made to their respective budgets by the County Legislature.
Gallivan said he agreed to the settlement after being assured sufficient funding will be provided for him to meet his mandated services, specifically at the county jail and holding center.
"At the point of time when we essentially run out of money in our jail management division budget, the county has agreed to cover what is necessary for us to continue to meet our mandates as it relates to staffing levels."
Gallivan said any funding he realizes from the settlement will go toward overtime costs in the jail division and not to rehire laid off personnel. He said he reserves the right to return to the courts should further cuts be made to his budget.