Parks Takeover Approaches; Plan Remains Unclear BUFFALO (wned) - Officials are starting today to compile a list of groups using city parks in preparation of January 1st when Erie County hands control of the parks system back to the city of Buffalo.

Meanwhile, Common Council members say they have heard almost nothing regarding the approaching change.

"We're waiting to respond to what he (Mayor Byron Brown) files with us," said Council President David Franczyk in reference to the parks transfer. "He's the one who wanted it back, apparently. (Erie County Executive Chris) Collins didn't want it.

The only action sent to lawmakers is a request to create the post of deputy commissioner for parks, within the Department of Public Works, Parks and Streets.

"We're going to have to hire personnel. We're going to have to buy equipment," Franczyk said.

Besides the mayor and the Council, any decisions have to go to the City Control Board.

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