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WHEREAS, the proposed creation of a county-wide planning board would establish an additional layer of government and could unnecessarily complicate the land-use approval process, create duplication of governmental functions, and diminish the authority and responsibility currently vested in local municipalities; and WHEREAS, local elected officials, municipal planning boards, zoning boards of appeals, municipal staff, and residents possess a unique understanding of the character, history, needs, priorities, infrastructure, and long-term goals of their individual towns and villages; and and property owners who must ultimately live with the results of those decisions; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Village of Orchard Park Board of Trustees hereby formally opposes the creation of a county-wide planning board that would add another layer of governmental oversight or diminish the existing planning and land-use authority of towns and villages; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village of Orchard Park Board of Trustees affirms its support for local control and local decision-making in matters of land use, zoning, planning, and community development; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Village of Orchard Park encourages continued cooperation and communication among municipalities and Erie County on matters of regional significance while preserving the authority of local governments to make decisions based upon the unique needs, character, and long-term goals of their respective communities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be forwarded to the appropriate Erie County officials, elected representatives, municipal governments, and other interested parties to formally communicate the Village of Orchard Park's opposition to the proposed county-wide planning board. On the question: 4 voting “Aye” 0 voting “Nay” Carried Trustee Hartung Trustee Pyne Trustee Even Trustee Popek Moved by Trustee Popek, seconded by Trustee Even the following: WHEREAS, the Orchard Park Village Court is seeking funding through the Justice Court Assistance Program for the 2026–2027 grant cycle; and WHEREAS, the Orchard Park Village Court is in need of renovations and improvements to the courtroom to enhance its appearance, functionality, and safety; and WHEREAS, the proposed renovations and improvements include the installation of new paneling in the courtroom area, replacement of the flooring, and upgrades to the courtroom audio/visual system; and