Best practices in gov't shown

The SUNY Fredonia Center for Rural Regional Development and Governance held two “Best Practices in Municipal Shared Services” forums scheduled in Dunkirk and Jamestown this month. Featuring local officials from the region, the forums  showcased services shared or consolidated between municipalities that have worked successfully.

“The successful initiatives are saving communities significant tax dollars and have brought efficiency and improved service to local residents,” Project Manager Mark W. Thomas said. “We’ve been gathering a knowledge base in shared services that other communities can draw from as they begin to plan and implement their own projects to improve efficiency.”  See related story.

With a goal of making shared services better known to governmental, business, and academic leaders, the Center for Rural Regional Development and Governance entered into a contract with the Office of the State Comptroller to identify the best examples of shared services in five Western New York counties. Project Director Thomas is former Chautauqua County Executive and former Pomfret Town Supervisor.

The forums were held: 

• Jamestown Community College Conference Center in Dunkirk, N.Y.: Monday, Sept. 11, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Jamestown Community College; Jamestown, N.Y.: Tuesday, Sept. 19, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Sarita Weeks Room of the Arts and Sciences Building.