Strictly Business

From Business Today:

How does a region handle $1 billion in goodies from the state to boost economic development? It's a tall order, and Western New York is bringing in some help. Bruce Katz of the Brookings Institution think-tank is doing a study of the region and how best it can maximize the help pledged by Gov. Cuomo. Katz spoke about the process and the possibilities.






The N.Y. Energy Research and Development Authority is offering rebates for people who buy extremely efficient appliances. The savings in electricity and water is a longterm benefit to the state and globe, and that is worth promoting.





The Occupy Buffalo movement came to Clarence to speak to that town's Industrial Development Agency. The Occupy people don't like the way towns dole out tax breaks that are paid for by the entire region and state. During a cordial discussion, IDA members said they are careful to grant tax breaks only to projects that they think will boost the economy.

CPA's from the region are volunteering to answer tax questions at The Buffalo News on Wednesday, March 21, from 5-9 p.m. Questions can be submitted during that time online, at www.buffalonews.com, or by calling (716) 849-6090.





Who is getting hired, promoted or honored?