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Horrigan’s State Of The County The Last Of First Term

Vince Horrigan

Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan is set to deliver his fourth State of the County Address today — the final one of his first term in office.

Last year’s speech emphasized regionalism and shared services among local governments to reduce property taxes. Out came plans for the establishment of a Regional Solutions Commission to help facilitate dissolutions, consolidations and other projects local municipalities were thinking about or planning.

This time, the crux of the county executive’s speech will delve into the progress of the Chautauqua 20/20 Comprehensive Plan. Drafted in 2011, the plan was developed among governing boards, groups and individuals from different sectors to find ways to improve life in Chautauqua County.

With the plan’s creation came goals to create jobs, lower the cost of existing services and preserve the county’s rural charm.

Horrigan said he’ll be reporting on the progress of the plan that’s at the halfway point of a 10-year vision.

“I’m going to report on our progress on 15 focus areas along with our economic development, our property taxes and regional solutions,” Horrigan said. “My general message is that we’ve made significant progress. More work remains to be done. I look forward to talking about the great work that’s underway in the county and where we’re headed.”

In addition to the address, Horrigan said booklets will be dispersed to update people on the progress.

As he prepares to deliver his fourth address, Horrigan said he’s learned that discussing the State of the County requires outreach and penetration to stakeholders, employees, partners and municipal governments.

“As the county executive, you’re the chief elected official. Therefore, you have a responsibility to lead through vision to make things better and to get things done,” Horrigan said. “Sometimes that’s difficult due to the diverse interest of the community and taxpayers. But there are things that we all have in common and you need to find those common interests and rally energy behind those to make progress. That’s the biggest thing I’ve learned and try to incorporate in the State of the County address.”

Horrigan said he’s looking forward to delivering the address and invites the public to attend.

See ADDRESS, Page A3

From Page A1

As he delivers the final address of his first term today, it’s unknown at this point whether he’ll announce his decision to run for office again.

Residents can view the address online by visiting the Chautauqua County Government Facebook page. A full copy of the 2017 State of the County address will be available online at the end of the month by visiting www.co.chautauqua.ny.us.

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