North Tonawanda Forges New Shared Services Pact to Boost Student and City Safety, Efficiency

NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. — The City of North Tonawanda and the North Tonawanda School District have announced a new shared services agreement designed to enhance student well-being, bolster city safety, and optimize resource allocation. The pact signifies a deepened collaboration aimed at benefiting both students and the wider community.

The agreement outlines a comprehensive framework for increased cooperation, with a particular focus on the efficient use of city resources to support school infrastructure and operations.

Under the terms of the agreement, the City’s Water Distribution Department and Department of Public Works will provide essential assistance for repairs to the School District's underground water, sewer, and sanitary systems. This aid will also extend to vital support services such as backfilling, paving, and patching on school grounds. These services will be available on an as-needed basis, subject to the City's operational availability. The School District will reimburse the City for all associated costs, including labor, materials, and equipment.

North Tonawanda Mayor Austin J. Tylec hailed the agreement as a significant advancement in inter-agency cooperation. “This new agreement marks a meaningful step forward in how our City and School District work together,” Mayor Tylec stated in a release. “It reflects a mutual commitment to safety, efficiency, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars— all in service to our community’s future.”

Dr. Jeffrey Jachlewski, Superintendent of North Tonawanda Schools, emphasized the student-centric nature of the collaboration. “This agreement—building on previous collaborations—demonstrates our commitment to putting students first and strengthening our community

” Dr. Jachlewski said. “By aligning resources and working in close partnership with the city, we’re not only improving safety and infrastructure but also cultivating a culture of collaboration that encourages deeper community engagement and shared pride in our schools and city.”

The renewed partnership builds upon existing safety initiatives already in place. The city currently deploys School Resource Officers (SROs) within school buildings and provides dedicated crossing guards to ensure the safe passage of students to and from school.