Fifteen investment banks have responded to Erie County’s request for proposals to help the government borrow money for its large-scale projects. Last year, the county received eight responses for its 2006 capital borrowing.

“The responses to our RFP [request for proposals] show that the county has re-established itself in the marketplace, and that national institutions want to do business with Erie County,” Comptroller Mark C. Poloncarz said.

Poloncarz, his staff and a financial adviser will determine the underwriting firm, which can best help the government sell $51 million in bonds.

Then, Poloncarz will present the proposal to the Fiscal Stability Authority. However, its officials have said they can save the government money by handling the loan, since the control board has a better credit rating.

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