Jaffee Applauds PSC’s Decision to Reschedule Public Hearing Dates on United Water’s Proposed Desalination Project in Rockland

August 21, 2013

(Pearl River, NY) Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee (D-Suffern) learned late yesterday in a phone call from the Public Service Commission (PSC) that the scheduled public hearing dates of September 9th and 10th on United Water’s proposed desalination project had been changed as she requested. The hearings will now be held on October 1st and 2nd.

“I thank the PSC for ordering the public statement hearings on the proposed desalination project and for responding so swiftly to my request to reschedule these important hearings. The new dates will ensure transparency, maximum public participation, and that the voices of Rockland ratepayers and experts are heard,” Jaffee said.

Immediately following the PSC’s announcement on Friday August 16th regarding the hearings, Jaffee spoke with Kathleen Burgess, Secretary to the Commission, expressing her concerns about the scheduled September 9th and 10th hearing dates.

On Monday August 19th Jaffee, along with Senator David Carlucci, sent a letter to PSC Chairman, Garry Brown, urging the PSC to change the scheduled hearing dates because they conflicted with the opening day of school on September 9th and Primary Election Day on September 10th. She noted that since many voters work and can’t get to the polls until evening the scheduling conflict forced a choice between two civic responsibilities. Additionally, Jaffee stated that the short notice did not give ratepayers adequate time to read materials submitted by United Water New York (UWNY).

Jaffee requested that the PSC also consider alternate venues that are more accessible to all Rockland residents, affording easy access from major arteries and ample parking. The elementary school in Haverstraw provides neither.

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