MAYVILLE, NY – Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. shared an update on recent developments concerning the North Chautauqua County Water District. This update highlights the progress made on corrective actions following the New York State Comptroller’s audit and discusses new legislative measures aimed at supporting the district's continued operation and future improvements.
“The North Chautauqua County Water District plays a crucial role in our community by providing essential water services to residents and businesses, including the new hospital in Fredonia which is set to become a significant customer and contributor to the district’s financial stability,” said Wendel. “Our ultimate goal is to ensure that the water district can provide for the increased needs in the North County, while remaining financially sustainable.”
The New York State Comptroller’s audit, covering February 2016 to May 2023, resulted with several key findings. The County has since responded in a corrective action plan, as adopted by the Legislature on Feb 28, 2024.
In that context, the emergency resolution to increase the amount the County can advance to the district, as adopted Wednesday night, did not rise to the level of urgency presented; finds Wendel. As stated in the adopted resolution itself, the overage was caused solely by the unexpected delays in the receipt of grant funding. Issuance of a Bond Anticipation Notes for the repayment of the amount advanced plus interest is scheduled for early December.
“We have already been actively working on corrective actions to address the findings of the Comptroller’s audit,” Wendel continued. “The advance of funds has been crucial for the expansion of the North Chautauqua County Water District. This investment supports necessary capital improvements and ensures that the district can continue to operate effectively.”
The resolution increases the district’s funding cap to $5.4 million, which will support vital capital improvement projects and ensure the continued functionality of the district.
“With the expansion and strategic improvements, we expect to see reduced costs and enhanced service delivery, ensuring that the water district remains a reliable resource for our community,” Wendel added.
The county’s proactive approach to addressing the Comptroller’s findings demonstrates a commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective governance.
“In order to maintain transparency with our continued unity of effort, it would have been constructive for this resolution to brought up in committee, and include the North Chautauqua County Water District Board in those conversations,” said Wendel. “Addressing such matters at the local level would ensure that all relevant stakeholders are involved early in the process. Nevertheless, I am pleased with the approval and am excited to see the expansion and continued success of this vital water district.”
Chautauqua County is dedicated to providing high-quality water services that meet the needs of its residents and businesses, now and in the future.
