Submit your ideas for shaping the future Village of Wellsville
By Andrew Harris
If you haven’t heard the news already: Village of Wellsville officials and local community activists were in Dunkirk NY this morning with NYS Governor Kathy Hochul. The meeting was called last week after some very intense efforts to bring some economic development money to Wellsville. When Hochul took to the podium to announce multiple economic development awards, the Wellsville crew were stunned: $4.5 million dollars. That was more than twice what was hoped for, also twice the annual village budget.
Mayor Shayler, Dr. Clark from the Allegany County IDA, and citizen volunteer Allison Green called this morning after the award ceremony ended. These three very accomplished and expirienced people sounded like a bus full of kids who had just won the state championship game. It was a WOW moment for everyone involved, a game changing event for Wellsville and Allegany County.
Unlike winning the state finals, this game has only just begun. Now, with the committment from the state in hand, Wellsville has to begin the process of spending the money. The criteria and requirements for using the money are still unclear but the general theme of the grant is for downtown revitalization.
Like all great projects, the first step is brainstorming or call it day dreaming. How can Wellsville spend this money with maximum impact and minimum legacy costs? What projects are essential ? What projects are optional? Would twenty smaller projects have more impact than two big projects?
We’ve included a few ideas based on some common ideas over the years of Wellsville day dreaming. We’ve also included an option for you to submit your ideas. This poll is anonymous, you may include your name if you’d like.
Thanks to the work of people like Allison Green, MK Kellogg, Mike Raptis, and Melissa Mullen: It is time to make a plan and make this huge award a major turning point in the history of Wellsville NY! Let’s hear your ideas!!
Thanks to our weekly poll sponsors at Hart’s Jewelry!! Valentine’s Day is only three weeks away!! Visit them online at HartsJewelry.com for great ideas to impress this February 14
