Amherst, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Republican candidate for this November's general election for Amherst Town Supervisor, Dan Gagliardo says he is preparing to file a lawsuit in New York State Supreme Court against the Amherst Town Board and Erie County over the proposed sale of the former Westwood Country Club for $1.
The Town Board has scheduled a special meeting Thursday at 4 p.m. to vote on the transfer of the 171-acre property. Gagliardo said that if the sale is approved, his attorney will immediately file an Article 78 lawsuit challenging the decision.
The legal action stems from Town Board meetings held Aug. 18 and Sept. 2, 2025, when the town and county agreed to transfer the property, which has been unused for more than a decade, for $1.
“This lawsuit was necessary because the pattern of backroom deals, secrecy, and disregard for taxpayers has gone too far,” Gagliardo said. “The Board is prepared to give away a $7.8 million taxpayer-owned property for just one dollar. That’s not leadership. That’s betrayal.”
Construction has already begun on the new Willowdale Park, which will feature a restored golf course, trails, and areas for passive recreation.
The Erie County Legislature has approved nearly $6.9 million for capital improvements and park operations, including construction of the golf course. In addition, New York State awarded $6.9 million for capital improvements and park operations, including construction of the golf course. In addition, the state awarded a $1 million grant for a new playground, which is currently being designed by the town. Under the transfer agreement, responsibility for maintaining the park would shift from the Town of Amherst to Erie County.
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