BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) – Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz on Thursday delivered his annual State of the County address where he recapped much of the county's efforts in the combating the COVID-19 pandemic and teased some of his plans for the county in the future.
While specifics of future plans were limited, the county executive said there will be a continued focus on restoring and improving Erie County Parks, decreasing health disparities in the community, and he teased a "major announcement" regarding a key issue affected by racism countywide.
He also said Erie County will build ErieNet, his long-sought proposal to create an internet infrastructure project in the county to improve internet access in rural areas.
"This will allow internet service providers to build out the final mile to those who currently do not have such high-speed service," Poloncarz said. "It will greatly expand telehealth opportunities, support evolving educational models, and other vital services, as well as let all stream the latest shows at the fastest speeds."
Unlike prior years, the address this year was released in the form of a pre-recorded message. In years past, the speeches were held publicly with elected officials and community leaders present.
