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Residents urge Cheektowaga not to cut youth and recreation programs as board weighs budget
Summary
At a Nov. 6 budget hearing, residents, rec staff and nonprofit representatives warned that proposed cuts to pools, lifeguards, youth programs and donations to social-service providers would harm seniors and children; the board left the hearing open and tabled budget resolutions for further review.
Dozens of residents and program staff told the Town of Cheektowaga on Nov. 6 that cuts proposed in the town's preliminary 2026 budget would jeopardize youth and recreation services, pool access, lifeguard staffing and certain community donations.
Dave Maguta, speaking for the Cheektowaga Community Symphony Orchestra, said the town had reduced the orchestra's annual support over decades and that the proposed elimination of a $12,150 line would force the 65-year-old group to "shut it down" without municipal help. "We have 70 people that play in the orchestra," Maguta said, warning the group stores roughly $90,000 in instruments and materials at town facilities.
Multiple speakers focused on the youth and recreation department. Doreen Friedrich, a lifelong resident, said rec programs provide…
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