'Come help us': Residents speak at public hearing for Bills' community investment

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Western New Yorkers made their voices heard at a meeting on Tuesday regarding the community benefits agreement for the Buffalo Bills' new stadium.

During the public hearing, community members were able to recommend how they want the Bills to invest in Western New York over the next 30 years.

"We're making sure that we're listening and we're hearing," said Penny Semaia, vice president of stadium relations. "We're putting actions in motion and giving opportunities to help people."

The Community Benefits Oversight Committee (CBOC) began Tuesday's presentation by sharing the 2023 fiscal community investment report. The report covers the fiscal year 2023 beginning April 1, 2023, and ending March 31, 2024.

According to the community benefits agreement, during that time period, the Bills organization had to invest at least $3 million. The organization surpassed that requirement by over $600,000.

"The roles and responsibilities of the CBOC also focuses on the compliant side," Semaia said. "Are the Buffalo Bills doing exactly what the community benefits agreement asks of them?"

While representatives of the Bills praised the organization for its investment into community programs, economic development, youth and education, many residents felt there is more work to be done.

"We are still waiting for you to turn around and come back to our neighborhood," said Buffalo resident Denise Barr. "Come help us where you left us."

Several community members felt that once the Bills moved to Orchard Park, the east side of Buffalo was forgotten about.

"There was a loss when they left the community, a strong economic impact," said Ben Upshaw, management partner at CB Emmanuel Realty. "I think the residents of this area not only need these funds but needs funds and investment on a continual basis."

Others voiced their opinions about why they feel the investment needs to go into the minorities in Western New York, specifically the children.

"We have people experiencing homelessness," said Julia Palmer, executive director of PATH of WNY. "We have emergency housing needs on a regular basis. We need to have more support for men and boys."

The CBOC said it will be holding meetings on the second Tuesday of every month.

The Bills and developer retain autonomy over processes related to the community investment. They have allocated several means by which community members may submit inquiries and requests:

• Visit buffalobills.com for donation and sponsorship requests
• Direct inquiries can be sent to the community benefits director: penny.semaia@bills.net
• Attend the CBOC meetings

Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.