{"id":52867,"date":"2014-01-08T22:44:25","date_gmt":"2014-01-09T03:44:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/?p=52867"},"modified":"2014-01-08T23:06:51","modified_gmt":"2014-01-09T04:06:51","slug":"agencies-and-others-weigh-in-on-governors-state-of-the-state-address","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/?p=52867","title":{"rendered":"Agencies and Others Weigh-in on Governor\u2019s State of the State Address"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Cuomo\"<\/a><\/p>\n

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Gov. Andrew Cuomo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"valesky\"<\/a>Statement from Senator David J. Valesky<\/b><\/p>\n

Governor Cuomo\u2019s broad and comprehensive State of the State address gives\u00a0us a road map to continue the forward progress we have made together in the\u00a0past three years. I was especially pleased with his focus on breaking the\u00a0cycle of economic decline in Upstate New York, decreasing the property tax\u00a0burden, and investing in our public education system. I look forward to\u00a0seeing details of his proposals in the Executive Budget in the coming\u00a0weeks, and working with my colleagues in the Legislature to enact a\u00a0responsible, forward-looking agenda that improves our state, our region and\u00a0our economy.<\/p>\n

\u00a0State of the State – Statement from Preservation League of NYS on Energy Transmission Policy Initiative<\/strong><\/p>\n

#NYSOS14 proposal may protect historic, scenic resources from new Energy Superhighway<\/p>\n

(Albany, NY \u2013 Jan. 8, 2014)(readMedia) “There’s an old saying \u2013 ‘Do you want it done fast or do you want it done right?'” said Jay DiLorenzo, President of the Preservation League of New York State. “It looks like Governor Cuomo wants to give the developers planning New York’s new Energy Superhighway the chance to do both.”<\/p>\n

He continued, “Governor Cuomo is proposing a fast-track permitting process for electrical transmission projects that commit to no expansion in width or height of the existing delivery corridor. The Public Service Commission has heard a clear message during review of the next generation of transmission siting proposals: citizens want thoughtfully-designed and -engineered projects that will limit intrusion on community character, historic resources and scenic lands. We are pleased that the Governor is proposing to expedite applications for projects that require no widening of utility easements and no additional tower height. We hope this will foster a more innovative and cooperative approach from developers addressing transmission issues in New York State than seen in the proposals submitted to the PSC last fall.”<\/p>\n

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Governor Andrew Cuomo Recognizes Oneida Nation in State of the State Address<\/b><\/p>\n

(Verona, NY \u2013 Jan. 8, 2014) \u00a0In today’s State of the State address in Albany, Governor Andrew Cuomo recognized the Oneida Indian Nation and Nation Representative Ray Halbritter, who was in attendance as an invited guest of the Governor.\u00a0 Cuomo commented on the agreements reached in 2013 between the State and the Oneida Nation, and the State\u2019s recent agreements with other Indian Nations in New York.<\/p>\n

\u201cAfter decades of conflicts, we renewed our spirit of partnership with the Indian Nations across this state,\u201d said Cuomo.\u00a0 \u201cLet\u2019s take a moment to recognize the Nation Representative Ray Halbritter from the Oneida Nation of New York, Ron LaFrance of the St. Regis Mohawk, Beverly Cook of the St. Regis Mohawk and Michael Kimelberg of the Seneca Nation.\u00a0 Thank you, and thank you for being with us today.\u00a0 Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Oneida Nation reached a historic agreement with the State of New York in 2013 to resolve all outstanding disputes regarding the status of the Nation\u2019s lands, property taxes, sales taxes and gaming at Turning Stone Resort Casino.<\/p>\n

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From State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli <\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cGovernor Cuomo today set forth a strong agenda for New York State in 2014.
\nHis leadership and vision have pushed New York in a positive direction.<\/p>\n

Over the past few years, the state\u2019s financial position has grown stronger
\nwith spending more closely aligned with revenue. However, more work remains
\nto achieve structure balance. In this current fiscal year, my office
\nidentified almost $5 billion in temporary resources to support state
\nspending. It is also time to tackle comprehensive reforms to the state\u2019s
\nbudget process, debt and capital planning.<\/p>\n

Despite a stronger national and state economy, many municipalities across
\nNew York face real fiscal issues that need to be addressed. The issues
\nfacing our local governments require serious discussion and solutions. My
\noffice will continue to examine local finances closely through our Fiscal
\nMonitoring System and audits and flag those in fiscal stress.<\/p>\n

Recent political scandals demonstrate it\u2019s time for New York State to build
\na new foundation of public trust by enacting campaign finance reform,
\nincluding the public financing of statewide elections. Now, more than ever,
\nwe need to tip the scales of influence away from the few and put it back
\ninto the hands of everyday New Yorkers.<\/p>\n

I look forward to working with the Executive and the Legislature and
\nreviewing the details in the Governor\u2019s plans when he releases his proposed
\n2014-15 budget.\u201d<\/p>\n

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From Senator Joseph A. Griffo.<\/b><\/p>\n

\"Griffo<\/a>Gov. Cuomo\u2019s themes of taxes, technology and tourism in today\u2019s State of the State Address are key facets of growing our economy in Central and Northern New York.<\/p>\n

The governor\u2019s proposal to reduce the corporate income tax rate for upstate manufacturers to zero is perhaps the most welcomed news of his address. This, combined with the elimination of a utility surcharge, should make our region a more attractive place to start or grow a business. I look forward to working with my colleagues to make both a reality.<\/p>\n

Property taxes have eclipsed income taxes as our state\u2019s greatest disincentive to living here. The governor recognizes this, and I was pleased that he has proposed steps to credit property owners in fiscally responsible towns as well as improve a patently unfair estate tax system.<\/p>\n

I believe the Legislature should go farther than the governor proposed to provide meaningful tax relief, such as completely eliminating the \u201cmove to die tax\u201d and creating a permanent state spending cap.<\/p>\n

I look forward to seeing the details of the governor\u2019s plan when his budget is released\u00a0Jan. 21. We cannot rely on one-shot revenues and accounting gimmicks to make this tax cut a reality, or we\u2019ll simply return to the fiscal challenge we faced just a few years ago. That type of \u201croller-coaster\u201d budgeting is bad for the state, bad for business and bad for the people who live here.<\/p>\n

I also want to ensure that the governor\u2019s plan isn\u2019t to \u201cpay\u201d for tax relief by shortchanging our school systems \u2013 or rob from vital programs, such as funding for disabled care.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m pleased that Gov. Cuomo remains focused on preparing New Yorkers \u2013 particularly upstate \u2013 to work in the 21st\u00a0century economy. Nano and cybersecurity in the Mohawk Valley and biotech and telecommunications in the north country are helping to diversify our economy. We need to cultivate a skilled labor force to provide to these industries as they grow, which is why I\u2019m going to be advocating for job training for the unemployed and underemployed and continuing education programs during budget negotiations. I\u2019m also pleased by his call for more technology in the classroom.<\/p>\n

While the technology sector represents the promise of the future, the tourism industry is the reality of the present. Gov. Cuomo understands that the Tug Hill and Thousand Islands regions are some of New York\u2019s most alluring destinations \u2013 and I\u2019m pleased that he\u2019s committed scarce advertising dollars for promotion of our winter activities. His new proposal to combine sportsmen\u2019s licenses with driver licenses is also welcomed, as long as it isn\u2019t an attempt to collect more fees from outdoor enthusiasts.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m also encouraged to hear the governor wants to invest in upstate roads and bridges and study the feasibility of Interstate 98.<\/p>\n

Finally, I appreciate the governor\u2019s call to clean up Albany, especially in light of two recent, disappointing revelations about Assembly members. However, I believe focusing on public campaign financing is not the solution. We need dramatic reform in how Albany runs, and that includes stronger ethics laws and term limits for members and leadership positions, just to name two. I\u2019ve relentlessly fought for a government that works more for the people than the special interests, and I\u2019d welcome the governor into my corner on this issue.<\/p>\n

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From Business Council of New York State<\/b><\/p>\n

Statement on Governor Cuomo’s State of the State address from Heather C. Briccetti, Esq. President and CEO<\/p>\n

The Business Council of New York State applauds the Governor’s continued commitment to improve the state’s business climate<\/p>\n

(Albany, NY \u2013 Jan. 8, 2014)(readMedia) There is much for business in New York to be encouraged about in Governor Cuomo’s State of the State address.<\/p>\n

His continued emphasis on holding growth in overall state spending to under 2 percent is for another year is welcomed news.<\/p>\n

The Business Council applauds the Governor’s tax relief proposals that will provide more than $2 billion in savings to New York employers and residents. This is big news for the state’s economy, especially upstate, as these tax cuts will provide broad-based business tax relief, and support key business sectors across New York.<\/p>\n

The Business Council represents a wide range of enterprises across the state, all of whom are burdened by regulations and we look forward to working with the Governor and the Legislature in establishing in a joint commission to identify ways to eliminate regulatory barriers that make it difficult to do business in New York State and hinder economic growth.<\/p>\n

We await further details in the Governor’s budget proposal and stand ready to assist the Governor in making these important real through the Legislative process.<\/p>\n

Statement from Parks & Trails New York on Governor Cuomo\u2019s 2014 State of the State Address<\/b><\/p>\n

(Jan. 8, 2014)\u00a0In today’s State of the State address, Governor Cuomo reinforced his commitment to the revitalization of New York\u2019s world-class state park system.\u00a0 We applaud the Governor\u2019s continued investment in these treasured landscapes and cultural landmarks for New Yorkers today and for future generations.<\/p>\n

Over the past two years, with the State\u2019s commitment of over $200 million for park restoration, Governor Cuomo has made parks an integral part of his efforts to rebuild the state\u2019s infrastructure and economy. \u00a0His leadership reflects his recognition of the important role parks play in local economic growth, in protecting important natural areas, and in providing affordable and healthy recreational opportunities for New Yorkers and visitors, alike.<\/p>\n

Sustained investment in the restoration of New York\u2019s park system will enable the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) to continue its progress in addressing the estimated $1 billion backlog of infrastructure needs and critical safety repairs, breathing new life into the park system.<\/p>\n

We also commend the Governor\u2019s plan to bring parks into the twenty-first century through his e-Business strategy, employing new technologies for common park procedures such as camping reservations and vehicle entrances. \u00a0Similarly, mobile apps and enhanced guides and maps will encourage new generations of New Yorkers to visit and experience our 179 parks and 35 historic sites and spur continued growth in visitation.\u00a0 A lifetime State Parks\u2019 Empire Passport will allow New Yorkers easier access to the natural and historic treasures in their backyards.<\/p>\n

Parks & Trails New York was founded in 1985 to support the New York State Park System, and in the almost 30 years since, we have been the state\u2019s leading organization working to preserve and enhance a network of parks, trails and greenways for all New Yorkers for generations to come.<\/p>\n

SSFC Responds to Gov. Cuomo\u2019s\u00a0<\/b>2014 State of the State Address<\/b><\/p>\n

The system for distributing state aid to schools is broken and needs to be fixed, says Dr. Rick Timbs: \u201cWe need relief and reform. First and foremost: Do away with the GEA!\u2019<\/i><\/p>\n

Statements from: Dr. Rick Timbs, Executive Director, SSFC<\/p>\n

\u00a0Focus on Public Education:<\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cWe thank Governor Cuomo for shining the spotlight on public education in his State of the State address. We are encouraged that he noted the great disparities in public education in New York State, but we are disappointed that Gov. Cuomo offered no concrete plan for substantive, sufficient and sustainable state aid equity and relief.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n

Gap Elimination Adjustment Should End:<\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve said it before, but we\u2019ll say it again: We call on the Governor to eliminate the Gap Elimination Adjustment. The GEA cuts are killing school districts \u2013 over the last four years, the GEA has been used to reduce state aid to schools by more than $8.4 billion. If the state\u2019s budget gap has been eliminated, it is high time for the state to pay the current $1.638 billion it clearly owes our schools.\u00a0\u00a0There is no need to continue these destructive cuts.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n

Pre-K Funding:<\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are concerned about the Governor\u2019s proposal for universal, full-day pre-Kindergarten. Pre-Kindergarten is a wonderful idea, but there are many school districts across the state in which kindergarten programs are on the chopping block. After the initial infusion of funding, how are districts going to pay for pre-Kindergarten? Without sustainable funding, pre-K then becomes another desired program but financially an unfunded mandate \u2013 and another costly, unfunded mandate is the LAST thing struggling school districts need as the state talks reform but does little to fund K-12 programs of merit.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n

Disagree the New NY Education Reform Commission Has Been Successful:<\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cThe\u00a0New NY Education Reform Commission\u00a0has failed to provide a final report of any kind and it is over four months overdue. The Governor formed the Commission to explore ways to improve education funding, distribution and costs, among other things, and come up with solutions for high need districts\/low wealth school communities.\u00a0\u00a0Enough is enough!\u00a0\u00a0The New NY Education Reform Commission has failed.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n

How to Achieve Fairness, Equity and a New State Aid Formula:<\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cSufficient state aid must be provided through a new Foundation Aid Formula, one that provides fair and equitable funding to ALL students.\u00a0\u00a0Effective IMMEDIATELY the Governor needs to impanel a new commission to address the Foundation Aid formula. The commission should be similar to the depoliticized and highly focused expertise laden \u201cBerger Commission.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0The single charge must be a new Foundation Aid formula by 2015-16.\u00a0\u00a0The legislature and the Governor appear to be unwilling or unable to address school funding that is equitable, adequate and sustainable.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\n

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          Gov. Andrew Cuomo<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-52867","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-top-story"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52867","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=52867"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52867\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=52867"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=52867"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/madisoncountycourier.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=52867"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}