Erica Munson

Erica Munson is seeking election as Dunkirk city assessor.

“It is my duty to appraise all property fairly and equitably, to maintain accurate and accessible property records and provide prompt and courteous service,” she said. “My personal goals for the office include reducing office costs and increasing efficiency, working with other departments to close gaps and improve response time and build awareness of programs available to our residents.

“Our office is comprised of a clerk and the assessor, positions previously held by Molly Ganey and Tom Mleczko, who had a combined 64 years’ experience in the office. I have been honored and feel very fortunate to have their support. Their knowledge created an ideal environment for fast-track learning and a seamless transition of duties. In my 10 months as assessor, I have had hands-on experience in all aspects of day-to-day functions in the office, am currently one class away from completing the first two full years of New York state required coursework and established a fair and equitable 2021 taxable roll, which was added to the city website for the first time this year.

“Since my appointment in January, I have built strong working relationships with city employees, residents and elected officials. With over 25 years’ experience in customer-service, people truly are my passion. I believe in the open-door policy and welcome residents and business owners to bring questions and concerns in at any time, no appointment needed.

“My focus on building positive relationships does not stop at the city line as I am continually meeting and fostering new relationships formed from participation in the Chautauqua County Assessors Association and contact with the New York State Assessors Association. I am currently working with CCAA members to find ways to decrease expenses by utilizing advancements in technology. In an effort to be as fiscally responsible as possible I have made arrangements to hold the membership fee of the association until after the results of the election have been announced.

“My management experience gives me expertise in teamwork and leadership. These skills have been beneficial in working with several departments during my time as assessor. In conjunction with the Public Works & the Law department, I played a vital role in implementing a strategy to handle the backlog of parcel/paper street requests. As of this time we have closed several parcels/paper street sales and have a clear plan of how to handle all remaining and new requests going forward in order to move these properties onto the tax roll in a timely manner. My years in the private sector have led to opportunities promoting efficiency and foresight in the city. I was most recently a part of the skate park project. Partnering with Department of Development and working closely with the Eagle Scout whom volunteered, I was able to utilize my previous experience to reduce both cost of materials and amount of man hours needed. Project information will be presented to the Parks Department this week to ensure the Skate Park looks great for years to come.

“The ultimate goal of my office is to be a positive resource for every resident in our city. With your help, I’ll continue working for you for years to come. I appreciate all of your support thus far. I humbly ask for your vote.”