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Program Oversight
An Empire Zone Administrative Board (EZAB) was created by the Town of Tonawanda to monitor, evaluate and conduct the Empire Zone program on behalf of the Town, as described further in the application for designation.
The EZAB represents a cross-section of interests within the zone community. The Supervisor of the Town of Tonawanda will serve as Chairman of the EZAB. A representative of the Town Board will also be a member of the EZAB, as will the Director of the Town of Tonawanda Department of Community Development by virtue of that department's important role in providing funds and services to both the business and residents of the zone.
Other interests represented include zone residents, the banking community, organized labor, community organizations, local educational institutions, social service delivery and job training. All these groups have been active in support of community and economic development programs.
The EZAB will encourage the participation of other 'stake-holders' in the Zone Plan, including utilities. These stakeholders will be invited to participate on the board and its committees in a non-voting capacity.
The EZAB will adopt by-laws to govern the conduct of its activities. Meetings will be held in the Parkside Village Community Center to encourage public accessibility and attendance.
Program Operations
The EZAB has entered into a contract with the Town of Tonawanda Development Corporation (TTDC) to carry out ‘day-to-day’ operations of the Empire Zone, including the hiring of staff. The TTDC presently operates under a contract with the Town of Tonawanda to provide many of the business development activities encompassed by the zone program.
The Executive Director of the TTDC serves as Zone Director of the program and the Zone Coordinator provides additional support, including implementation of human resource goals. As Zone Director, the Executive Director of the TTDC is responsible for overall program administration including budget and contract issues, as well as reporting to the EZAB. |
