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Legislature confirms Land Bank reappointments after debate over Jamestown representation
Summary
The Chautauqua County Legislature approved 11 reappointments to the county Land Bank Board of Directors after debate about whether the board fairly represents the City of Jamestown, which has been the focus of most Land Bank activity.
Legislators approved Resolution 171-25 on June 20 to confirm reappointments to the Chautauqua County Land Bank Board of Directors after members debated geographic representation, particularly for the city of Jamestown.
Legislator Larson spoke at length, noting that Jamestown comprises more than 20% of the county’s population and argued that, of 11 Land Bank appointees in the resolution, none were clearly from the City of Jamestown. Larson said the Land Bank’s work is “relevant and important” to Jamestown because of the city’s housing issues and that by “law of averages” the Land Bank board should include at least two Jamestown residents.
Legislator Scudder and others replied with data about the Land Bank’s activity. Scudder said since inception the Land Bank has touched 273 properties in Jamestown — 54.5% of the Land Bank inventory — and has completed more than 200 demolitions in the city, representing 58% of county demolitions. He estimated the average demolition cost at $30,000 and calculated more than $6 million invested in Jamestown demolitions.
Scudder and other supporters said the Land Bank has been active in Jamestown’s inventory of problem properties and defended the qualifications of the appointees. County Executive Wendell said appointments are presented to his office and invited suggestions of Jamestown residents willing to serve.
After discussion the legislature put the resolution to voice vote; the motion carried and the reappointments were confirmed.
Legislators said the debate did not reflect criticism of the appointees’ qualifications but centered on geographic representation on a board that has focused much of its activity in Jamestown.
