Cahill Calls On State and Local Officials to Work Together On Flood Prevention

November 9, 2011

Kingston – Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster, Dutchess) issued a statement calling on state and local officials to collaborate on long term flood recovery efforts:

“The immediate response to the devastation suffered in the Town of Shandaken during the aftermath of Irene and Lee was nothing short of remarkable. The tireless efforts of local officials, led by Supervisor Robert Stanley and Highway Superintendent Eric Hofmeister, utility workers, residents and volunteers helped get the community back on its feet and open for business in record time. Close collaboration with Department of Environmental Conservation Director Willie Janeway and his hard working staff played an integral role in expediting the cleanup.

“As we have come to know all too well, extreme weather events have become an increasingly common occurrence in our region. These recent storms are the latest, and perhaps the most catastrophic example. What was once considered a 50 or 100 year storm has now become a nearly annual event. Given the frequency and magnitude of the flooding that has impacted Shandaken in recent years, it is critical that the Town and the DEC build upon their relationship and work together to overhaul flood mitigation, response and recovery plans.

“We cannot afford to ignore the long term implications of the severe weather patterns that we have been experiencing. As rebuilding efforts go forward, it is important that the Town and the DEC take the rational and appropriate steps necessary to protect flood-prone areas and limit damages from future incidents.”

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