State of County address communicates vision of future
CHRIS COLLINS Erie County Executive
Last week, I delivered my first State of the County address. It was a chance for me to reassert my commitment to county taxpayers, acknowledge the work we have accomplished in the last three months and communicate my vision for the future of Erie County.

The hardworking taxpayers of Erie County are thirsty for change and positive action. Last November, they voted for change. A change in how we approach government and the vital services we provide. A change in how we treat taxpayers and their hard-earned dollars. And a change from the failed leadership of career politicians to an era of effective and efficient government managed by people who know what it takes to deliver.

In my address, I was able to clearly detail the cost-saving initiatives we have unveiled. At the top of that list is Six Sigma. Hundreds of county employees are beginning to learn the Lean Six Sigma process and how it will positively impact their daily work and Erie County's bottom line. We expect this effort to mushroom as newly trained employees impact other employees. We are empowering our workforce through Lean Six Sigma as we bring efficiency and a customer focus to the Rath Building. With the pilot funding we have today, we can expect approximately $1.1 million in Six Sigma savings in 2008 alone. The more we invest, the greater the return. I know our approach will not only reduce the cost of government but also boost employee morale. I encourage county employees to embrace this opportunity and for the Legislature and Control Board to continue to support this initiative. If we work together, I am confident Erie County can become the first Six Sigma community in America - setting an example for struggling municipalities nationwide.

Our community needs to look to the future. That is why I used my address to remind people of the necessity of negotiating new union contracts that make sense in 2008 and can be sustained for the next 50 years. Every Erie County union contract has expired. My door is open, and I look forward to fair negotiations. The key word is "fair." Fair to the hardworking employees who deserve a raise and fair to the hardworking taxpayers who pay their wages and benefits.

Our focus on the future also includes making the much-needed investments in our roads, bridges, parks, beaches and community college campuses. These vital assets have been neglected - victimized by broken budgeting and inferior planning. It would take a total federal, state and county investment of hundreds of millions of dollars to make the necessary repairs. Over the coming months, I will make bold proposals to meet these investment challenges head-on.

To read the full text of my State of the County address, please visit www.erie.gov.