Town of Pomfret, New York

typically worked in the City of Buffalo before COVID and now he still works 100 percent remote. They told him if he doesn’t need to come in, he doesn’t have to, and we’ve seen a lot of that. That’s a trend not only here in Pomfret, but nationally, and maybe even worldwide; where those limits of having remote workers were tested hard during COVID-19, and I think people learned how to flourish with it. I think it could bring some really good employment opportunities to local people who might not want to drive to Buffalo or further.” Pacos believes those people working virtually will also add to the local economy in many ways. He acknowledges, “They are not spending as much to commute, to travel, or on gasoline and it puts more spendable earnings in their pocket that they can spend locally.” The largest employers in the area are the Village of Fredonia and the school system, but there are also several manufacturers in the area, including a grape processing plant started by two residents after losing their positions at a former peanut butter manufacturer. Agriculture provides a lot of opportunities, with the major commodity being grapes. As evidenced by the many wineries surrounding the town and they are hoping to bring in more. The school system in Pomfret ranks above the national average and there are many post- secondary options from the State University of New York at Fredonia and a local community college. The nationally funded Workforce Investment Board works hand in hand with the local labor union to give people access to training through the Jamestown Community College to help bridge the gap in skilled trades and employment. The Investment Board is also working with Brooks Memorial Hospital to encourage healthcare professionals to come to the area. According to Pacos, “The high schools also Courtesy of the Barker Library in Fredonia, NY Courtesy of the Barker Library in Fredonia, NY Courtesy of the Barker Library in Fredonia, NY