Council Members Unhappy Over Talks on Addressing Dunkirk's Financial Issues

Members of the Dunkirk Common Council are not happy with an apparent lack of communication between the council and Mayor Kate Wdowiasz surrounding recently-signed legislation authorizing a $13.7 million state-backed loan to the city. Two members of the council sounded off on that issue on WDOE's "Viewpoint" program on Tuesday. Fourth Ward Councilwoman Nancy Nichols says part of the problem is that council members weren't given a chance to gather together and voice their concerns...

Nancy Nichols: we should have helped spearhead something together

Nichols also took issue with Governor Kathy Hochul's "stubbornness," saying that her approving a $100 million loan to another New York community with no strings attached is a "slap in the face" to Dunkirk's residents. First Ward Councilwoman Natalie Luczkowiak agreed on the lack of communication. She also mentioned that she has been in contact with the State Comptroller's Office on multiple occasions...

Natalie Luczkowiak: had to call the Comptroller's Office

The city will use the loan to pay back a $12.7 million Revenue Anticipation Note, plus $1 million interest, which is due on July 24th. The loan also comes with a 7.5% interest rate over 15 years. Wdowiasz has stated that the City of Dunkirk Revenue Anticipation Note Refinancing Act would be used as a bridge towards deficit financing, while opponents of the measure say it does not provide a long-term solution for the city.

Click here to listen to the entire "Viewpoint" program featuring Common Council members Natalie Luczkowiak and Nancy Nichols.

Photo by Greg Larson