Public input at Fishkill meeting seemed to have no purpose

Published in the August, 14 2013 issue of the Southern Dutchess News.

A public meeting was held on Aug. 7 by the town of Fishkill on the proposed 135 percent increase in sewer rates.

A number of residents spoke as to their concerns on how such a large increase would impact their lives especially those on a fixed income. Others asked if the town had considered other means of financing such as going to the state or a lender to extend the length of the repayment of the $1.1 million owed to the City of Beacon. There was no satisfactory answer.

Town Supervisor Bob LaColla stated that the best deal was with the City of Beacon that offered a 2 percent rate, but for a rather short repayment period necessitating the extremely high increase.

Another resident asked to see a map of the Dutchess Park Sewer district. The answer was: there was none! The question is why not?

After hearing the many concerns of so many residents, two councilman requested time to review the matter and it appeared that the matter had been tabled.

After most residents had left and towards the end of the meeting a vote was taken on the 135 percent rate increase. The two councilman who requested additional time to review other avenues for financing and consider concerns appeared to be pressured. One councilman caved in and voted for the rate hike. Councilman Tuttle abstained. It passed.

The vote should have been taken in full view of the concerned residents. It was clear their input was totally disregarded and the rate hike was a forgone conclusion.

Linda R.

Fishkill