This latest news is just one of several area successes of New York State and Federal grant procurements aiding in infrastructure, downtown revitalization and economic development. we have seen how joint and collaborative efforts have transformed Rome, Downtown Utica, and now areas of Herkimer County. Regionalization, collaboration and shared services appears to be the key:
What does regionalization mean?
Definition of Regionalization. Regionalization means the creation of expanded service areas which take in a large geographic area of multiple systems; the creation of multijurisdictional utility commissions, special districts, authorities, or corporations; the utilization of interlocal cooperation agreements; the consolidated operation...
Knowing the definition of regionalization is one thing, understanding and benefiting from the implementation and proper management thereof by a region (groups of municipal governments) is another. Why regionalize and what are some of the Pro's in doing so?
Regionalization is no longer an option but a necessity to many communities; Without the joint efforts of Schuyler, Herkimer County, MVWA, Towns of Frankfort, Herkimer, and Villages of Frankfort, Ilion, and Herkimer, the brining of clean abundant water to these municipalities would not have been possible.$40 million as stated by the Mayor of Ilion would bankrupt the Village; no doubt other communities as well. Together the project can be funded with an anticipated savings of at least $25 million dollars in tax and rate payer money.
Not only are cost savings a benefit in Regionalization/ collaboration, but the fact that without this cooperation certain projects could not move forward at all. The Creation of the Mohawk Valley Water Authority in the 1990's was a result of 18 municipalities in Oneida and Herkimer County realizing that they no longer could afford to have and manage their own municipal water systems and joined together to create the MVWA and enjoy and realize the benefits of clean and abundant water.
Other regional success includes solid waste Authority, BOCES, and Regional Economic development Councils.
It is nice to have small villages and local autonomy, but certain things that are vital like clean water, Roads and bridges, solid waste, quality education, public safety to name a few, require bigger efforts and public funds; and make clear that those communities with " champagne taste and beer drinkers wallets", such as what the Village of Ilion has been experiencing when it comes to public wants and desires, will not and cannot achieve successes alone.
David Murray
13 Grove Street
Ilion NY
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