BUFFALO, NY – Some republican members of the state assembly say the only way to get real reform in Albany is through a constitutional convention.

That was the topic of conversation Thursday night at an open house in Hamburg.

If the legislature and voters approve a convention, delegates could change the way state government is run, but only if they decide to put that on their agenda.

2 On Your Side’s Josh Boose asked lawmakers if this plan is going to work and what else they’re doing to bring real reform to state politics.

Boose: “A lot of people across Western New York are saying we want to see term limits, they want to see pay cuts, they want to see staff cuts, they want to see dramatic changes. Those are the emails were getting at least. What do you say to that? Are you looking at those things?”

Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples, (D) “What I say to that. If there were pay cuts, if there were term limits, if there less people representing you at the state level of government, federal level, city or county, that does not how we collect personal income taxes none of it would make a difference.”

Boose: “Wouldn’t that be a new symbolic step to something new, something different, a new approach?”  

Peoples: “I think that would be a step to make people feel better. But is it going to make them do better?”

Assemblyman Jack Quinn (Rep.): “I would hope not. This is a situation where we don’t care if this is our bill or someone else’s bill.”

Boose: “Even a democrat?”  

Quinn: “It should be, I hope it is.”

Assemblyman Sam Hoyt (D): “It would be nice if there was a more bipartisan approach.”

Boose: “Have you thought about creating an upstate coalition if you will, bringing everyone together, republicans and democrats to do something and fight for upstate?”

Hoyt: “Well, right now were beginning to do that with democrats. Unfortunately, there’s a lack of trust.”

Boose: “If you can’t trust your colleagues in the assembly and senate, what’s the option, new members to fill those seats?”

Hoyt: “I think there’s going to be turnover this year. There’s an across the board lack of trust, in my opinion there’s been a break down in civility but not a willingness to walk across party lines.”

Boose: “For the people that say we here this all the time, we’ve been to open houses and town hall meetings, it’s all talk and results what do you say?”

Assemblywoman Jane Corwin (Rep.): “Well, we’re trying. I’m trying. This is what has to happen. We have to get people involved. Constituents have to take an active role.”