© 2024
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
An update has been released for the Android version of the WAMC App that addresses performance issues. Please check the Google Play Store to download and update to the latest version.

Conservation Groups Criticize APA Bill

The Adirondack Council and other conservation groups are criticizing New York State Senate passage of a bill that would change permitting and other policies at the Adirondack Park Agency.

The New York State Senate this week passed a measureto restructure some of the administrative policies of the Adirondack Park Agency. The bill would modify procedures for permit applications submitted to the agency and deals with the transfer of development rights within the Adirondacks. The bill passed 55 to 5 in the Senate, but it is being roundly criticized by environmental groups.  Protect the Adirondacks Board Member and former APA Executive Director and Counsel Bob Glennon says the bill that the Senate passed is poorly written and confusing.

Adirondack Council Spokesman John Sheehan says while the development rights transfer idea is good, there are too many other poison pills that overwhelm any positive aspects of the legislation.

Senator Betty Little sponsored the bill saying it  would provide greater flexibility to transfer development rights and would encourage smart growth within the Adirondack Park.  Senator Little is confounded by the criticism.

There is no companion legislation yet in the New York Assembly.