Can't the Chautauqua County Legislature get anything right?
They cannot decide on reducing the number of legislators from the already too high 25. They finally decided on ending health-care benefits last year.
They are constantly arguing over bed tax funds. And now, they cannot decide on what party is in the majority, due to the District 7 race between Robert Stewart and Leon Beightol that technically ended too close to call before moving on to the judicial system.
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Though the courts may still hear arguments in the case, which currently has Stewart in the lead, this whole process is what makes the Legislature so maddening. Read - and listen - to quotes by the legislators.
Votes are almost on the party line every time. So whoever takes the lead - if Stewart holds on it goes to the Republicans - they normally get their agenda through.
Think of the money this is costing - it has already been about three months to figure out who is the winner.
And when the case is settled, both parties can get back to their top priorities, which usually does not include doing what is best for the county and their constituents.
Unfortunately, for some who serve, it is doing what is best for their own interests.
