CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. - Erie County Comptroller candidate Mark Poloncarz believes Robert Whelan is purposefully misrepresenting his ties to sitting County Executive Joel Giambra by implying he has had only sparse contact with him since the mid-90's.

"It is unfortunate that Robert Whelan's only recollection of Giambra is politically self-serving," said Poloncarz. "He doesn't seem to recall 2002 when, at the County Executive's request, he was sold a plot of county land without public auction. As recently as last year, Giambra nominated him for the Erie County Charter Review Commission. In a time of fiscal crisis, Erie County needs leaders who are honest and independent, not ones that are part of the Giambra friends and family plan."

Poloncarz has no ties to the Giambra Administration, which will make him a truly independent advocate for the people of Erie County. As stated in his 10-point Action Agenda, he will use the powers and tools delegated to him to restore integrity and accountability to County Hall and fiscal discipline to Erie County.

Mark Poloncarz is a business and finance attorney in the private sector with a vision of new leadership for Erie County. He is endorsed by the Democratic, Independence, Working Families and Save Jobs Parties. For a current list of endorsements or more information about his campaign, please visit www.markpoloncarz.com.