By Doug La Rocque
Newly sworn in 19th District Congressman Antonio Delgado told The Eastwick Press on Thursday, January 3, he has received a commitment from the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, to make finding an alternative source of drinking water for Hoosick Falls a priority.
He also says he is receiving help and guidance from Michigan Representative Dan Kildee, who Representative Delgado said was instrumental in helping the city of Flint receive 100 million dollars from the Environmental Protection Agency to replace its drinking water system, which was found to be contaminated with lead.
Hoosick Falls Mayor Rob Allen said he has not spoken to Representative Delgado since the congressman was sworn in on Thursday, but was encouraged to learn of Speaker Pelosi’s commitment to help find an answer. The Mayor said the report on the New York State study of possible alternatives is due in April of this year, the results of which will then be subject to a public comment period. He also said he welcomes the congressman’s efforts and hopes they will help “push the State to make the right decision.”
The congressman told The Eastwick Press he believes “it will have to be a joint federal, state and local effort” to find an appropriate new source for the Village’s drinking water.
The Rhinebeck Democrat (Dutchess County) was sworn into office on Thursday, January 3, along with several other newly elected representatives, by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.