September 14, 2011
New York

Legislators to consider resolution opposing state’s Power of NY Act

by Carol Thompson, The Valley News, www.valleynewsonline.com 14 September 2011

When the Oswego County Legislature meets tomorrow evening, legislators will consider a resolution opposing the Power of New York Act, which removes home rule legislation for the permitting process of power plant projects of 25 megawatts or more.

Oswego County is following Jefferson County’s lead in introducing legislation that will be passed to Governor Andrew Cuomo and state lawmakers.

The law creates a one-year permitting process controlled by the state for power plant projects of 25 megawatts or more. Cuomo, in a news release, said that communities will have a say in the process and that the measure will help improve the state’s economy.

Those opposing the new law claim that home rule right has been threatened as local governments will no longer be allowed to have a say in the decision in the siting of wind towers and the high-voltage power lines needed for the turbines.

The Village of Pulaski is under the threat of possibly hosting the high-voltage lines for the Galloo Island wind turbine project located in Jefferson County.

Opponents fear that the lines will not only destroy the aesthetics of the community, but could hamper tourism. The county is dependent on northern Oswego County for tourism dollars as the Salmon fishing draws visitors from around the country.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/09/14/legislators-to-consider-resolution-opposing-states-power-of-ny-act/