County legislature debates reappointment of land bank board amid Jamestown representation concerns

The Planning & Economic Development Committee of Chautauqua County convened on June 18, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including the reappointment of members to the county land bank board and the evaluation of the 2% occupancy tax rate. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding representation and housing issues in the county, particularly in Jamestown.

One of the primary discussions centered around the reappointment of board members to the Chautauqua County Land Bank. A committee member raised concerns about the lack of representation from Jamestown, the county's largest city, which faces severe housing challenges. The member pointed out that none of the board members reside in Jamestown, despite the city having a population of 28,000 and significant distressed housing issues. This absence of local representation sparked a debate about the effectiveness of the land bank in addressing the needs of the community.

In response, another committee member defended the board's performance, stating that the land bank has successfully completed over 170 demolitions and numerous rehabilitations, many of which were in Jamestown. This member emphasized that the board operates with a county-wide focus, prioritizing areas based on need rather than geographic representation. However, the initial concern about representation remained a focal point of the discussion, with some committee members suggesting that having at least one representative from Jamestown would be beneficial for the board's credibility and effectiveness.

The committee also discussed the occupancy tax rate, although details on this topic were less pronounced in the transcript. The evaluation of this tax is crucial as it directly impacts funding for local projects and initiatives, which can influence economic development in the region.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored ongoing tensions regarding representation in local governance and the need for effective strategies to address housing issues in Chautauqua County. As the committee moves forward, the discussions will likely influence future appointments and policies aimed at improving community engagement and addressing the pressing housing crisis in Jamestown. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the land bank's effectiveness and potential adjustments to ensure that all areas of the county are adequately represented in decision-making processes.