The Mohawk Valley Nine, a bipartisan coalition of state legislators representing Herkimer, Madison and Oneida counties, held its initial caucus meeting today. Styled in the fashion of other regional caucuses, the Mohawk Valley Nine pledged to work together to address issues within their overlapping districts.

Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref – Oneonta), who was named the delegation co-chair representing the senate, said, “The Mohawk Valley is the heartland of New York State with unique economic development and social concerns. This bi-partisan coalition of legislators is well versed in the needs of those who live and work in this special part of the state and by working together we can boost the region’s profile and better advocate on behalf of our families, business owners, and local governments.”

Assemblyman Brian Miller (R/I – New Hartford) said, “As a Legislator who has served the Mohawk Valley at the local level prior to coming to the state Assembly, I have seen firsthand the needs of those who live throughout our region. I believe this bipartisan coalition truly understands those needs and will work tirelessly to address issues unique to Herkimer, Oneida and Madison counties for the benefit of our residents. This bipartisan effort will help the Mohawk Valley prosper.”

Assemblyman Bill Magee (D – Nelson), who was named the delegation co-chair representing the assembly, said, “This bipartisan collaboration of Mohawk Valley representatives gives us the opportunity to work together as a group that is familiar with addressing the needs and concerns of our upstate constituencies; and the meetings at the table of both Senate and Assembly members will offer a joint perspective on solutions to our shared issues.”

Senator Joseph A. Griffo (R – Rome) said, “Today we kicked off a bipartisan relationship with my colleagues in the State Senate and Assembly that I believe will allow us to better advocate for the interests of Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties. By regularly meeting with the legislators that represent this region, I am hopeful our new Mohawk Valley Caucus will help identify our common concerns and unite us in our efforts to address those issues that affect all of our constituents.”

Senator David J. Valesky (D – Oneida) said, “I look forward to working with my Mohawk Valley colleagues to address issues of concern to our constituents. Working together on common interests and goals, such as economic development, will benefit the region as a whole.”

Senator Jim Tedisco (R/C/I/Ref – Glenville) said, “I’m honored to represent part of Herkimer County and the Mohawk Valley and look forward to working in a bi-partisan, non-partisan fashion with members of the Mohawk Valley Nine to join together as a unified force to be an even stronger voice for our constituents.”

Assemblyman Marc Butler (R/C/I – Newport) said, “I truly believe that by showing a united bi-partisan partnership here in the Mohawk Valley, our voices – and our message – will be heard more clearly in Albany. Whatever differences we may have, we have one ultimate goal and that is to make better lives and a better future for the residents of our region.”

Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R/C/I – Black River) said, “My meeting with the delegation of Mohawk Valley representatives today was constructive and something that has been a long time in the making. By coming together and unifying as one, this group of legislators will create a louder voice for the residents of the Mohawk Valley, and allow our advocacy efforts to have a larger impact in both houses of the Legislature. I look forward to our future conferences and continuing to work on behalf of our Mohawk Valley constituents.”

Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi (D – Utica) said, “When it comes to advocating for the Mohawk Valley region, nine heads are clearly better than one. I have a good relationship with all the members of the Mohawk Valley delegation, but in meeting regularly, we can come together and find ways to move the region forward. Fundamentally, the issues of greatest concern are pretty similar from district to district, and there is no question that in unity, there is more strength. This approach certainly will help advance our area, and bring more attention to the needs of our constituents.”

The Mohawk Valley Nine will meet on a regular basis in Albany during the legislative session, and plan regional meetings within the Mohawk Valley during other parts of the year to meet with local organizations.