Archive: Opinions

Dear Assemblywoman,

In a recent posting online, you have shared the news of a letter you sent to Governor Cuomo in which you called for the shuttering of "non-economic coal plants and in establishing a robust, real-world transition plan to assist communities that may be disproportionately impacted by the loss of a coal-fired plant."

Will the transition plan be in place before the shuttering? I could imagine a situation where the economic impact comes first and the government takes its time in riding to the aid of the folks who have had their futures decided for them by an outside party. How will a community like Lansing replace the jobs that will be lost? You mention job training, but I do not see where these are non-skilled workers. Further, I am unsure that there are enough jobs in the area, and in towns north of Lansing, where any sort of training (as well as previously acquired skills) could be utilized. What other part of the state will offer their tax income to offset the loss to Tompkins County and Lansing in particular?

I understand that the closure is actually a foregone conclusion, and we are going through some motions here, but the political climate makes this coal plant to be the big meanie, and therefore it is doomed with no alternative to be considered.

Additionally, as for unsightliness, I live 1500 feet from the plant in a community that has lived here since the 1960s - all of whom take pride in the industry with which they share the lake. Unsightly? In some opinions - though not all. Not the opinion of the constituents who look at it every morning and evening as they go about their day. Maybe some NIMBYs think that the aesthetics are an issue that can buttress such an opinion. If it is a subjective matter, I could compile a list of things I find unsightly.

But my point is more that that is irrelevant. The national conversation often turns toward the fact that America is becoming a consumer driven society that has outsourced much of its once and future greatness. Industry on these shining shores is how this country was built: men and women rolling up their sleeves, building amazingly powerful things for the benefit of its communities; providing for their families and building up the things of this world that provide strength and stability to the community - as well as pride in human achievement.

If one of your 'accomplished successes' is the gutting of Lansing, I fear that the repercussions to this community will be drastic.  It will be remade by outside interests and diminish the pride that has been gaining momentum for 199 years.

Sincerely,

Rev Fr James Worthington
Lansing, NY

v11i25