The Sewer Authority has spent $200,000 on travel since 2023.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Buffalo Mayor Pro Tem Christopher P. Scanlon spent his first full day as the city’s top official Wednesday, as his extensive travel schedule was revealed in a 2 On Your Side investigation last year. He mentioned the controversy surrounding O. J. McFoy, the executive director of the Bureau of Sewerage. month.
“Let’s sit down and talk,” Mr. Scanlon said. “Obviously, we’re in a transition period right now. I’ve had meetings with all departments, a lot of agencies. But we will continue to have such meetings and discuss it. intend to.”
As mayor, Mr. Scanlon manages appointments to the Buffalo Water Commission and the Buffalo Sewer Authority. Mr. McFoy, appointed by former Mayor Byron W. Brown, served as chairman of the water commission during the nine years the city failed to fluoridate its water supply.
During that time, McFoy spent 297 weekdays traveling to 23 states and two foreign countries for various water conferences, according to public records analyzed by 2 On Your Side Investigates. This infuriated some city residents and some of Scanlon’s former colleagues on the Common Council.
Last week, McFoy and 10 other sewer officials attended a New Orleans water environment conference at an estimated cost to taxpayers and ratepayers of $27,000.
The Sewer Board has approved more than $200,000 in travel expenses in the past two years, according to a database constructed by 2 On Your Side Investigates using board minutes.
Asked if he was concerned about such trips given the city’s $40 million budget deficit, Scanlon said: As you know, their finances are separate from the city’s finances. Although the office is different, we will continue to consider it. I’m going to talk to the general manager about it and see what’s going on. ”
Mr. McFoy and Sewerage Board Chairman Herbert Bellamy Jr. have no regrets about the trip. They claim the meeting helped secure more than $250 million in grants for the agency.
