Fredonia Mayor Stephen Keefe may have said it best regarding the mothball notice from NRG for its Dunkirk facility: "It's terrible. It would be devastating to the county."
Absolutely. Not only is the plant the largest county taxpayer, but as noted in last Sunday's edition, its footprint in our region includes non-profits, community organizations and events.
State Assemblyman Andrew Goodell reported good news late last week - state budget committee leaders were willing to do whatever was necessary to help Western New York and Chautauqua County keep the plant in operation. But ultimately, the decision may come down to Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and state Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
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You can help impact that decision. County Executive Greg Edwards said Albany is hearing from the county regarding the plant. That's a good thing.
"We need to redouble our calls and e-mails to state officials on this matter," Edwards said.
So even if you have sent correspondence or called, do it again. Here is the contact information:
Gov. Andrew Cuomo by e-mail at www.governor.ny.gov/contact/GovernorContactForm.php or call (518) 474-8390.
Sheldon Silver, Assembly Speaker at speaker@assembly.state.ny.us or call (518) 455-3791.
The state budget has not yet been passed. There is still time to send a message. Do not delay.
