Mayor Scanlon Signs Executive Orders Establishing Offces of Emergency Management & Innovation

Buffalo, NY - Following the announcement made during last week's State of the City address, Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon has formally signed two Executive Orders during his Cabinet this afternoon: the establishment of the Office of Emergency Management & Resiliency (Executive Order #2025-01) and the Office of Innovation (Executive Order #2025-02).

"These executive orders mark a turning point for how we prepare for the future and improve how government operates for the taxpayers," said Mayor Scanlon. "The Office of Emergency Management & Resiliency ensures that Buffalo is better equipped to handle the growing threats from climate change, natural disasters, and public safety crises. At the same time, the Office of Innovation will drive real improvements inside city government embracing smarter technologies and improving government responsiveness to residents' needs."

The Office of Emergency Management & Resiliency will centralize long-term emergency preparedness and climate resiliency efforts under the leadership of the City's Emergency Manager and the newly designated Climate Action Manager. This office will coordinate multi-agency emergency responses and spearhead the City's climate action initiatives.

The Office of Innovation will be led by a Chief Innovation Officer and supported by an interdepartmental Innovation Committee. This team will lead efforts to identify challenges across city departments, collect and test solutions, and streamline operations to ensure more efficient and responsive service to residents.

Both executive orders take effect immediately.