Erie County Executive Brenton Davis has taken a decisive stance by vetoing Erie County Council Ordinance 19-2024, which sought to repeal Resolution 36-2023 and rescind the lease agreement between the County and Gannon University for the Great Lakes Water
Research Center at Blasco Library.
In his veto statement, County Executive Davis emphasized his strong support for Gannon’s Project NePTWNE and the critical role that the Great Lakes Water Research Center at Blasco will play in addressing key issues such as water quality, climate change, economic development, and overall quality of life in Erie County. He also highlighted the educational opportunities that the research center will provide for patrons of Blasco, underscoring its significance for both the county’s development and the cherished public building.
“I recognize the critical role that the Great Lakes Water Research Center at Blasco will play in addressing key environmental challenges, promoting economic development, and enhancing the quality of life in Erie County. This initiative embodies our commitment to innovation and
sustainability, and I am confident that it will bring significant benefits to our community for years to come,” said County Executive Brenton Davis.
Davis’s veto was not only driven by his support for the research center but also by legal considerations. He pointed out that Council’s attempt to repeal the lease was not only ill advised but also illegal, as Council lacks the authority under the Home Rule Charter to engage in contracting matters on behalf of the County. Davis stressed that even if the ordinance had passed, it would have had no effect on the legally binding lease agreement between the County and Gannon University.
“Council’s reliance on irrelevant provisions of the Home Rule Charter to justify its action is a clear violation of the law,” said Davis.
Davis underscored the importance of ensuring that future legislation stays within the bounds of legality and serves the best interests of Erie County’s citizens.
In exercising his executive veto authority under the Home Rule Charter, County Executive Davis urged Council to reconsider its actions and adhere to the principles of legality and responsible governance.
