LITTLE VALLEY — In a decisive move on June 25, the Cattaraugus County Legislature reaffirmed its confidence in two seasoned department leaders, extending their tenures for several more years. Crystal J. Abers was reappointed as Director of Economic Development, Planning, and Tourism for a four-year term starting January 6, 2026, and concluding January 5, 2030. Meanwhile, Daniel T. Martonis will continue as Director of Real Property Tax Services for a six-year term beginning October 1.
Abers, who first took on her role in 2010, has been a pivotal figure in the county’s economic landscape. “This is a long-time department head, a great person and a great leader of that department,” remarked legislature vice chair Michael Brisky. “On behalf of the legislature, I’d like to congratulate you on your reappointment.”
Leadership and Legacy
Before her current role, Abers made history as the first woman elected as County Legislature chairman in 2006. Her political career began in 1999, and she served a decade in the legislature. Recently, Abers led the Republican primary in Dayton, securing her candidacy for the town supervisor race this November.
Chairman M. Andrew Burr expressed gratitude for Abers’s contributions, noting, “Her services to the county and the department are noticed and appreciated.”
Similarly, Martonis, who has been with the county for 22 years and led the Real Property Tax Services for 14, received commendation for his professional management. “You run a professional office,” Brisky stated. “We get a lot of compliments from the towns and villages and the taxpayers that you serve.”
Strategic Appointments and Financial Settlements
In other personnel changes, Kelly Reed was named to the Criminal Justice Advisory Committee and the Fleet Management Committee following John “Jack” Searles’s retirement. Her term on the former runs until December 31, 2027.
Meanwhile, the county is poised to receive $467,578.61 from a $462 million multi-state settlement with JUUL Labs, Inc. This settlement addresses the company’s role in the youth vaping epidemic. The funds will support public health initiatives, focusing on education and nicotine addiction prevention.
Cattaraugus County’s share is part of $8.8 million allocated to Western New York, with the first two payments totaling $116,894.
Infrastructure and Community Services
The county will also benefit from over $129,000 from the New York State Department of Health for the drinking water enhancement program, a fully state-funded initiative running through 2030.
Additionally, the legislature authorized new contracts for snow and ice control services with local municipalities, covering the 2025–28 winters. Agreements have been reached with Allegany, Mansfield, Salamanca, and the village of Cattaraugus.
The county will pay $4,733.06 per mile for these services. For instance, Allegany will receive $9,466.12 for 2 miles of road maintenance.
Looking Ahead
These developments underscore Cattaraugus County’s commitment to strategic leadership and community welfare. As Abers and Martonis continue their roles, the county is set to leverage their expertise in navigating future challenges and opportunities.
With significant financial inflows from settlements and state programs, the county is well-positioned to enhance its public services and infrastructure, ensuring a robust response to both current needs and future growth.
