Cheektowaga Town Board made a significant move during its August 15 meeting by awarding a crucial drainage improvement contract to CMH Company, totaling $1,005,040. This decision, sponsored by Supervisor Nowak and seconded by Council Member Polarsky, is set to enhance drainage systems in the town from August 18, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

The funding for this project is bolstered by a $1 million water quality improvement grant from New York State, which does not require a matching contribution from the town. This financial support is expected to expedite necessary sewer improvements, addressing long-standing drainage issues in the area.

During the meeting, council members raised questions about the timing of the bid process, noting that it was unusual to initiate such contracts in August. Concerns were expressed regarding previous resistance to hiring a public works contractor earlier in the year, which may have delayed the project. The engineering department was responsible for putting the bid out, and it was clarified that the town typically consolidates public works contracts, but recent directives led to separate bids for individual projects.

The board's decision to move forward with this contract is seen as a critical step in improving the town's infrastructure, with expectations that work will commence promptly, leveraging the available grant funding. The outcome of this meeting signals a proactive approach to addressing the town's drainage challenges, with the community looking forward to the benefits of these improvements.