Planning & Economic Development Committee Meeting 08/19/26

The Chautauqua County Planning & Economic Development Committee met on August 19, 2026, to discuss several procurement and grant-related matters. Key agenda items included authorizing a public hearing for the 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Microenterprise Assistance Grant Program, with plans to apply for $250,000 to support small business expansions. The committee also approved acceptance of a $250,000 grant from the Housing Trust Fund Corporation to advance countywide housing market assessment and development strategies, including zoning analysis and developer forums. Environmental reviews for 2027 occupancy tax grant projects were approved, streamlining contract execution by the county executive. Additionally, the committee authorized the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau to apply for New York State Tourism Matching Funds, estimated at $49,350, to support tourism marketing efforts such as printing travel guides and attending travel shows. A significant portion of the meeting focused on updates from the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth, highlighting the leveraging of $1.85 million in philanthropic and ARPA funds to support over 100 economic development projects, including downtown revitalization, housing developments, and infrastructure improvements. The partnership emphasized its role in grant writing, project coordination, and securing over $82 million in additional funding. The committee acknowledged the importance of these efforts in supporting local business growth, workforce development, and housing to attract and retain employers and residents.