Planning & Economic Development Committee Meeting 07/15/26

The Chautauqua County Planning & Economic Development Committee met on July 15, 2026, to discuss several key economic development initiatives and related resolutions. A significant portion of the meeting focused on amending Resolution 184-26 to broaden the county's economic development goals beyond job creation to include sustainable disposable income growth, infrastructure improvements, housing, and community development. The committee emphasized the importance of creating conditions favorable to business investment and workforce retention rather than focusing solely on job numbers. Additionally, the committee approved a supplemental $25,000 grant request for the North Chautauqua County Reorganization Plan aimed at improving local government efficiency and economic conditions. They also discussed submitting a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for economic development projects expected to create six jobs, including four for low to moderate income individuals. Lastly, the committee reviewed a capital project involving dredging Beis Creek to improve lake conditions, with plans to procure local contractors through competitive bidding. Several policy and budget considerations were debated, including the allocation of funds and the roles of county government versus the Industrial Development Agency (IDA) in economic development efforts.