Cattaraugus County provides a wide range of services for the benefit of its citizens and attempts to do so at the lowest possible cost to the taxpayer. At times, the provisions of these services exposes the County to certain financial risks, which may be quite costly.  The Risk Management Department, in cooperation with the County Attorney’s Office, reviews these risks, investigates claims, reviews possible liability to the County and makes recommendations with regard to claims management.

Organizations entering into a contractual relationship with Cattaraugus County, to provide services to or on behalf of the County, are required to provide proof of appropriate insurance coverage.  The Risk Management Department reviews each contract, determines the level of insurance required to protect the interests of the County and monitors compliance.

Risk Management also has programs and policies to protect the employees of the County while conserving the fiscal resources of local taxpayers. These risk-reducing measures include safety training and inspections, fire and emergency evacuation plans, general rules for workplace safety and equipment operation, driving regulations, personal protective equipment and hazard communication programs, drug-free initiatives, personal threat, smoking, hearing conservation and sexual-harassment policies.

In addition to the above duties, Risk Management manages many of the County’s human resources programs, such as workers’ compensation, health, dental, disability insurance and the flexible benefits plan.  Of those plans, the County self-insures its workers’ compensation and health insurance plans as well as commercial general and automobile liability coverage in an effort to reduce the financial burden to the taxpayer.

Staff

Workers' Compensation

716-938-2283

Employee Benefits

716-938-2285