The DEC Rocks the Hudson Valley

 Dear Nieces and Nephews, here is another in a series of "interesting" events. In a decision released yesterday, the Commissioner of the DEC declared that the Village of Kiryas Joel would be the lead agency for the annexation petition of 510 acres, which they're trying to obtain from their neighboring community of Monroe.

A bit like putting the fox in charge of the hen house, don't you think?

From the article by Chris McKenna in the THRecord:

"Compact, high-density development is more likely to result in a community that is more walkable, bikeable and more conducive to mass transit while reducing vehicle miles traveled and generation of greenhouse gas emissions from combustion," he wrote. "As a general rule, high-density development, appropriately sited, is considered more environmentally sustainable and conserves open space."

What this describes, is a city. So, Commissioner, in order to preserve open space you need more cities?

Sounds like gobbledygook.

  Commissioner Martens, looks like a man ready to retire. 

Having a Village board with a litany of environmental infractions (polluting water, over capacity and non-functioning sewer treatment systems etc) leading an environmental review is just plain stupid or maybe, it is something else.

Nipoti! Get your pens, keyboards and/or voice recorders ready and contact the Commissioner:
to send an email, use this "contact us" http://www.dec.ny.gov/about/407.html
Snail mail: Commissioner 625 Broadway Albany, NY 12233-1011
Or call: 518-402-8545

After all, it's your county too!