DUNKIRK, N.Y. — Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul brought the state's budget message to Dunkirk Thursday.
"Finding and rediscovering Western New York. So, I'm not backwards and I know none of you are. And that's what this is all about. It's a forward thinking presentation," Hochul (D) said.
Hochul virtually brought the state's message of reimagine, rebuild, and renew New York to Dunkirk Thursday.
She addressed county, as well as city leaders and others, highlighting Governor Andrew Cuomo's recent budget message, that goes beyond just combating the pandemic.
"And testing and getting supplies out. And now vaccinations. But also simultaneously focused on continuing our economic recovery," said Hochul.
To do that, Hochul reiterated the state's seven-point action plan, discussed ways to generate more revenue, renewed the call for $15 billion in federal assistance and a state commitment to invest and revitalize local downtowns.
"We have to rebuild on our assets. And truly being a waterfront community. Even when it's a tough time for us financially as a state, that you cannot stop investing in communities because you cannot make up for the lost time. You cannot lose a year of investing and so we're going to continue doing that," said Hochul.
"It was very pleasing to hear that they're not cutting that. That's a $10 million grant to invest and developing our downtown area. And we are in need of these funds. So, we want to compete for these funds and we look forward to that competition," said Willie Rosas, (D) Dunkirk mayor.
Meeting host, Dunkirk Mayor Willie Rosas, says in addition to that funding, he would have liked to hear more about money for paving area roads.
He did say he's encouraged by the state investment in more COVID-19 vaccinations, vaccine sites, and rapid testing pop-ups.
"I think that correlates with economic development. We have many businesses that are struggling because of the pandemic. And even as we begin to open up, many people are reluctant to go out into these businesses. So, having rapid testing sites here in the community and the downtown area would help businesses to be able to ensure that they are safe," said Rosas.
Hochul also discussed the importance of telehealth, childcare, and free online citizen public health training opportunities across Chautauqua County.