By Dave Lucas
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-846322.mp3
Saratoga Springs, NY – Mayors from around New York State agree with Governor David Paterson: they're calling on the state Senate to mend the political fences and get back to work, for the good of all. Capital District Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
The New York State Conference of Mayors is holding its 100th annual meeting this week in Saratoga Springs: not surprisingly, attendees were buzzing about the legislative gridlock in Albany. Phil Zegarelli is the Village Manager of Briarcliff... the former Mayor of Sleepy Hollow and past president of NYCOM says it's important for local leaders to get together.
So, What kind of impact is the Senatorial Stalemate having on New Yorkers at the LOCAL level? Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings says the smaller towns and cities are as vocal as the larger municipalities. They want the Senate to act responsibly for the good of all.
NYCOM is disappointed with Governor David Paterson's recent decision to sign the local government consolidation bill. Paterson stopped by the conference to address the Mayors, telling them the fiscal and economic crisis impacting New York is compunded by the governance crisis.
Several important bills expire Tuesday night. A press availability after Paterson's speech was cut off after about a minute and a half.
Phil Zegarelli believes that the Senate gridlock shines the spotlight on just how "tired" government has gotten. NYCOM's Annual Meeting is designed to assist local officials with the many challenges of local government and provide strategies to create a thriving community in tight fiscal times.