IDA merger talks called 'worthwhile'
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

The Erie County Industrial Developmental Agency passed a resolution Monday to form a committee to discuss merging the Amherst IDA into the county agency.

(See editorial on page four)

The motion came after the Amherst Town Board passed two resolutions over the past year pushing for the merger, said AIDA Executive Director Jim Allen.

"The Town Board's resolution wanted the AIDA and ECIDA to merge, which triggered the committee to be formed in the first place," he said. "Initially it was recommended we would continue to work together, the way we have been - which has been closely."

He added that the second resolution added pressure to the ECIDA to consider the merger.

The announcement on Monday from the ECIDA, also stated that a merger of the largest IDA, Amherst's, with the county could lead to one countywide economic development agency.

Allen, who did not attend the meeting, said he is expecting to be contacted by the ECIDA's board on the matter and begin discussions on the possible merger.

"At this point we would be sitting down and talking about a merger, but the ECIDA and Town Board can't force a merger," he said. "I think it is worthwhile to discuss it."

He added that twice the Amherst Town Board has voted that being part of the county's IDA would be better than remaining a separate entity.

"The Town Board has nothing to say at this point. It doesn't want to have an IDA in Amherst, and we are looking into accommodating their wishes," he said.

He said the AIDA Board will meet on Friday where it will discuss the recent announcement.

Amherst Supervisor Satish Mohan said he attended Monday's meeting, and he hopes something successful comes from the talks.

He also said the ECIDA announced the formation of five to 10 jobs. He added that should a merger take place, he is suggesting that staff from the AIDA be considered for those positions.

Calls to ECIDA Chairman Dennis Penman were not returned prior to press time.