State of Chautauqua County Address
Pictured L-R Vince Horrigan and President-Elect Joelle Washer
Gary Padak had the honor of introducing today's speaker; Chautauqua County Executive Vince Horrigan (who also happens to be an active member of the Jamestown Rotary Club). Mr. Horrigan presented his 2017 State of Chautauqua County Address. Booklets highlighting the many successes that he would be touching on were also made available at each table. A copy of the "On the Move and Striving" Report can also be found and downloaded from the County Executive's website.
The County Executive highlighted 15 different areas of success the County has celebrated over the past year.
The first focus area was Tourism/Cultural Resources. In New York State, the second fastest growing sector is tourism. In Chautauqua County it is also a leading sector as it accounts for $260 million in economic impact. In addition to significant tourism dollars, second home property owners pay a significant portion of our tax levy. Occupancy tax dollars are growing every year and the revenues are critical to maintaining our lakes, waterways, and attractions bringing even more to Chautauqua County.
Mr. Horrigan mentioned The National Comedy Center will open later this year and draw visitors from across the nation. Last year, the LECOM Health Challenge marked the return of the PGA to Peek’n Peak. The tournament was awarded the “Rookie of the Year” award by the PGA for being the best new event for the 2016 season. The tournament returns again this year from July 3 through July 9. In addition, the new amphitheater at Chautauqua Institution is scheduled to open with the 2017 Chautauqua Season. This will be a significant upgrade to its facilities and draw even more visitors to this incredible destination that promotes life enrichment through religion, the arts, education, and recreation.
Winter and summer festivals are also drawing visitors from all over the country. The Lucy Fest, Dunkirk Air Show, Bemus Bay Pops, holiday celebrations and so many others make Chautauqua County unique and they are expanding the draw of visitors every year. The Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau has expanded its promotional strategy by using the web and social media to target tourists, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts to experience all Chautauqua County has to offer.
Agriculture and Foods, Business/Economic Development, Infrastructure/Public Investment, Education and Libraries, Workforce Development, Environment/Waste Management/Water Resources, Historic Preservation/Community Revitalization, Active Living/Recreation, Energy, Youth, Housing, Healthcare, Local Government and Community Action/Human Services/Civic Organizations were all areas Mr. Horrigan discussed during his presentation. Successes in each category were brought to everyone's attention.
In Summary, Vince proudly proclaimed that under his leadership property taxes have been lowered, Chautauqua County is making strong progress in all areas of Chautauqua 20/20, Regional solutions are moving from talk to active, existing businesses are growing, and new businesses are coming!
As stated in his official State of the County Address, Vince said, "I am confident that as we journey through 2017 we will continue to celebrate even more successes while we tackle our challenges head on. I am pleased to report that the state of Chautauqua County has broken through the bow wave, is clearly on the move and thriving in so many areas!"