FREDONIA, N.Y. (WKBW) — Leaders and residents in Chautauqua County are sharing their thoughts on potential mergers and consolidations within the northern communities.
County Executive PJ Wendell said the county is in a strong financial position overall, but acknowledged ongoing struggles within certain municipalities.
Dunkirk carries $17 million in debt and has nearly doubled its tax rate over two years, a 95% increase, according to Wendell. Fredonia has a tax rate of $61.25 per $1,000 of assessed value, which Wendell said is among the highest, if not the highest, in New York State. The Town of Pomfret, which surrounds Fredonia, has not undergone a property reassessment since 1975 but remains in solid financial shape, according to Wendell…