To The Reader’s Forum:

When I worked for the State Department, I served in Iraq as a Senior City Management Advisor. That experience taught me many things that may be applicable to our local governments’ relationship with the Seneca Nation.

In Iraq, working alongside the Iraqi citizens and taking the time to understand their culture was a major factor in fostering positive relationships between Baghdad city and provincial governmental officials and community leaders. Rooted in trust, these relationships were key to establishing a cooperative and productive atmosphere to accomplish the work of good governance for the citizens. The same basic principles can be utilized to continue good relations between our local communities and the Senecas, who have been deeply rooted in Western New York for centuries. The Western New York community is strengthened through a committed, collaborative effort by all parties to help our whole region succeed.

The Seneca Nation are our neighbors. Ever since the tribe set up the first casino network in the state in 2002, they have shared more than $1.4 billion in revenue with our local communities. They have created thousands of good-paying jobs and draw patrons from Southern Ontario and Western Pennsylvania who also spend their money at local businesses.

Seneca President Todd Gates has expressed his commitment to continue being a good neighbor to our local communities. Our local leaders should work to maintain this good relationship, especially given the role the Seneca Nation plays in the Western New York economy.

Jay DiPasquale

Amherst