Cahill Introduces Legislation Calling for Port Authority Representation

Bill would require governor to name Hudson Valley representative to Port Authority Board

November 5, 2008

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster, Dutchess) reasoned that the Port Authority’s takeover of Stewart International Airport necessitated a regional appointment to the governing body of the interstate entity. In August, Mr. Cahill introduced a bill that would require the Governor to appoint a representative from the Hudson Valley or Catskill region to the Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

“With the promise to turn Stewart Airport into a major air transportation hub, the Port Authority made a commitment that will shape the region’s future growth, economy, environment and quality of life,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “It is imperative that the surrounding communities be given a seat at the table for what we are sure will be many transformative decisions regarding the future of Stewart Airport and the greater Hudson Valley.”

Assemblymember Cahill’s bill would require at least one of New York’s six appointments to the Board of Commissioners be a resident voter of either Ulster, Dutchess, Orange or Sullivan Counties. Chapter 154 of the Laws of 1921 requires that that no less than four Commissioners reside in New York City. In order to amend the Port Authority statute, the legislation requires passage by both the New York and New Jersey Legislatures and further ratification by the United States Congress.

“The revitalization of Stewart Airport will reintroduce the world to the Hudson Valley and usher in new opportunities for economic prosperity,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “Passage of this legislation will guarantee that an individual from our communities, someone who understands the unique attributes of the region, will help guide this process as a Commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.”

Senator Charles Schumer has also been strongly advocating for Hudson Valley representation on the Board. Since introducing the legislation in August, Assemblymember Cahill has been in communication with Senator Schumer’s office about coordinating their efforts towards a common goal.

When the Port Authority assumed control of Stewart in early 2007, Assemblymember Cahill worked with the agency to create the Citizens Advisory Panel for Stewart International Airport. Seeking to ensure that the panel’s deliberations were not dominated by business and government interests, Mr. Cahill recommended the appointment of representatives from several local community and environmental organizations.

Mr. Cahill applauded the agency’s efforts thus far, saying, “The Port Authority has taken great pains to seek out the opinions and guidance of leaders throughout the area as they move forward with their plans for Stewart.” He went on to add, “However, given the magnitude of this undertaking and its long-term ramifications for the region, it is imperative that we have statutorily required representation on the Board.”

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