Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Buffalo City Hall and Erie County offices closed Thursday to honor former President Jimmy Carter, as the country observed a national day of mourning.
Federal offices, the Post Offices and the stock market also closed. But this marked the first time that local workers were given a paid day off following the death of a former president.
"The county executive has effectively shut down Erie County offices. He posted a notice on Tuesday," said Erie County Republican legislator Lindsay Lorigo on WBEN.
"In 2018, when President George H.W. Bush passed away, the county didn't shut down. This is a brand new precedent that Mark Poloncarz is setting and I think it's a dangerous one."
Lorigo added that people won't be able to go to the Department of Motor Vehicles. If they had appointments with the Departments of Health or Social Services, they will have to reschedule. The Erie County Legislature had to cancel committee meetings set for Thursday. They have not been rescheduled.
"I don't think a great way to honor President Carter is by canceling public service. I think it should be to serve the public. Have a moment of silence and
lower the flag in front of county hall, but don't shut down public service," Lorigo explained. "It completely sends the wrong message."
On Wednesday, Acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon ordered Buffalo City Hall and City of Buffalo public-facing facilities to be closed on Thursday in honor of President Carter.
"We encourage residents to join in this day of reflection and remembrance for a leader whose compassion and dedication touched countless lives,” Scanlon said in a statement on social media.
Erie County is expected to pay $1.1 million in holiday pay to employees on Thursday, according to The Buffalo News.