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Common Council - Regular Meeting - Video
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Council Supports 'Good Food NY' Bill to Enhance Food Procurement
Councilmember Nowakowski introduced the Good Food NY bill, a procurement law passed by both New York State chambers. This bill aims to expand food purchasing options for local municipalities and governments by allowing them to prioritize value-based suppliers over solely the lowest bidder. The intention is to improve the quality of food purchased for schools, community centers, and other municipal services, ensuring it is nourishing and healthy. This law could lead to fresher foods, utilize local vendors and farmers, improve health and quality of life, and support community economies. While not eliminating the lowest cost option, it provides an avenue for financially sustainable choices that prioritize quality [cite: 223-233]. Councilmember Halton Pope and Councilmember Rivera also expressed support and became sponsors, highlighting the importance of value-based sourcing and its positive economic impact on local farmers, including refugees and immigrants [cite: 236-269]. Councilmember Wyatt also joined as a co-sponsor, linking it to the Healthy Corner Store Initiative and emphasizing the need to support local farmers and inner-city growers, especially as funding for some initiatives is being cut [cite: 271-286].
Infill Housing Meeting to Inform University District Residents
Councilmember Wyatt invited residents of the University District to an infill housing meeting at Westminster Charter School. The meeting aims to provide information about new homes being built throughout the city and how residents can qualify for them. The goal is to ensure interested individuals have the necessary information to pursue homeownership and improve their quality of life. Three newly built homes in the area are highlighted as examples of opportunities available [cite: 351-358].
Resolution Calls for Modernization of Drinking Fountains in Buffalo Schools
Councilmember Rivera introduced a resolution calling for the modernization of drinking fountains in Buffalo public schools to ensure access to clean, healthy water for students and to protect the environment. This initiative was inspired by a young Girl Scout who suggested filters for school drinking fountains. Students involved in the badge work will have an opportunity to speak about this at the next education meeting. Councilmembers were urged to prepare for potential lobbying from these students regarding this legislation. The resolution aims to modernize drinking fountains to provide clean, healthy water and protect the environment [cite: 204-216].
Council Addresses Blighted Vacant Property on South Park
The council discussed the vacant house at 596 South Park, which has become a blight on the neighborhood. Due to the owner's passing and no heirs, the property is tied up in surrogate's court, preventing the city from taking action. Councilmember Nelakowski highlighted the impact of such situations, emphasizing the need for mechanisms like MRIM auctions to address blighted properties and return them to productive use. The goal is to prevent properties from languishing in legal limbo and to remove blight, ultimately benefiting the neighborhood and potentially recouping owed taxes and fees [cite: 144-156].
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