Could The Village of East Aurora Dissolve?

In this era of local town board downsizing votes, Mayor Clark Crook of the Village of East Aurora is suggesting that his own village be dissolved into the surrounding town of Aurora.

Crook says a new state law makes it easier for voters in villages to eliminate that level of local government. He says, instead of a direct petition by taxpayers to force a referendum on the village, he wants the village board to start the process. Crook says that will allow for complete planning, studies, and public hearings before there is any dissolution vote.

Crook says existing village services including essentials like the police department and public works would be retained for village residents in a taxing district within the town. But he claims there could be greater efficiency as the DPW and other agencies are consolidated with the town.  

Crook estimates there could a savings of $ 380,000 for taxpayers as costs for the village board, village administrator, DPW administration and other expenses are eliminated. He expects the process could run about two years if village voters approve it. 

Village Trustee Allan Kasprzak has raised concerns about the process. He questions the cost of dissolution studies and cites a potential loss of services and separate identity for the village. He also worries about proper representation for its residents in a larger town government.

The issue could be up for discussion at the next village board work session set for December 7th.