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Council confirms Philip English to Redevelopment Authority after concerns about lobbying and partisanship
Summary
Philip English was approved for a seat on the Erie County Redevelopment Authority on Jan. 28 by a 6–1 vote after Councilman Horton raised concerns about lobbying and partisan appearances; Councilman Drexel voted no.
The Erie County Council voted 6–1 on Jan. 28, 2025, to appoint the honorable Philip English to the Erie County Redevelopment Authority for a term expiring Dec. 31, 2029. The appointment drew extended discussion from Councilman Horton, who said he had arrived prepared to vote against the nomination but ultimately supported it.
Why it matters: The Redevelopment Authority assists with local economic development and investment decisions; council appointments shape the authority's membership and direction.
Discussion and debate: Councilman Horton said he had intended to vote no and read a lengthy explanation of his concerns about lobbying and the role of partisan activity on quasi-governmental boards. In the meeting he said: "I came here tonight prepared to vote no on this appointment... that was the first time I've ever ... received such a spirited letter, almost like the form of lobbying. It kinda sent bells and whistles off." Horton added that authority boards "should just be for the working of the citizen" and expressed unease about appointing lobbyists to such boards.
Horton also tied his concerns to a broader context of county coordination: "...this county walked away from Infinite Erie... when you talk about everybody rolling in the same direction and being an economic development engine, we've appointed those ... agencies ... to do our bidding. It seems like, that's all being trampled over." He said divisive politics had complicated county efforts and that the timing of the appointment caused him "great pause."
Councilman Drexel recorded the lone no vote. The transcript shows the roll call recorded yes votes from Mister Winarski, Mister Bale, Mister Copeland, Mister Horton, Missus Showerman and Chairman Scatella and a no vote from Mister Drexel. The motion therefore passed 6–1.
Outcome and next steps: With the council's approval, Philip English's term was set to expire Dec. 31, 2029. No additional conditions or amendments were recorded in the meeting minutes.
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