submitted by Rich Crist
The Rensselaer County Legislature continued its fight against a high-pressure gas pipeline and compressor station proposed to be located in three county towns at the October 13 legislative meeting.
[private]Legislators passed two resolutions stating opposition to the project and requesting intervention by federal lawmakers in opposing the Kinder Morgan project. The Legislature has adopted over one dozen resolutions stating opposition to the project.
The Legislature also voted to continue the work of formulating a county law to protect water resources and wells from blasting projects. The decision to formulate a new law came after several laws were introduced with different elements and standards.
“This approach will allow us to formulate a cohesive and comprehensive local law that will hopefully help protect water resources and private wells from large-scale blasting. At the same time, the law will allow for business and reasonable growth to continue in a regulated and productive manner,” said Chair of the Legislature Stan Brownell.
Brownell said he plans on working with legislative Environmental Committee members Vice Chair Alex Shannon and Legislator Judith Breselor to begin formulating a new law with other lawmakers, residents and business people. Brownell said he expects that process will begin in the coming days.
He also cautioned residents that action by the legislative body is not likely to have any direct effect on the proposed pipeline project. He urged residents concerned about the project to contact their federal representatives directly.
“Please note that despite our best efforts, it is sadly very likely that no legislation adopted by this legislative body will have the effect of stopping this project. Only federal action will stop the project. We will stay in the fight against NED, but residents are urged to contact their federal representatives to voice opposition and request that action be taken,” said Brownell.[/private]