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Erie County Lawmaker Backs Downsizing Recommendation

Tim Kennedy represents Erie County's Second District
Courtesy of erie.gov
Tim Kennedy represents Erie County's Second District

By Joyce Kryszak

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-839869.mp3

Buffalo, NY – The recommendation to downsize the Erie County legislature drew support Wednesday from a Buffalo Democrat. Legislator Tim Kennedy said he strongly supports the reform recommendations handed down this week by the 21st Century Commission. Their report concluded that only 11 legislators are needed to represent the county's shrinking population. There are currently 15 lawmakers. Kennedy said downsizing would save taxpayers roughly four million dollars over ten years by cutting four lawmakers. And he said it is o.k. if he is one of them.

Kennedy said it is also important for the legislature to lead by example and encourage other municipalities to downsize.

Click the audio player above to hear Joyce Kryszak's story now or use your podcasting software to download it to your computer or iPod.