North Country Leader

New York State legislators have called on Governor Kathy Hochul to provide more support to communities impacted by a recent winter storm. The appeal comes from Sen. Joseph Griffo, Assemblyman Brian Miller, Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, Assemblyman Robert Smullen, and Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon. They represent areas in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley that were severely affected by the storm.

In their letter to the governor, they stated that the storm has "created serious health and public safety issues, overwhelmed and overstressed municipalities and has had a harmful effect on the wellbeing of New Yorkers." The legislators urged for financial aid and other resources to assist with cleanup efforts.

The letter acknowledged previous assistance provided by the state through agencies like the Department of Transportation but emphasized that more is needed due to ongoing challenges faced by residents. "While residents and local governments continue to dig out, we urge you to provide financial and other resources to assist with the ongoing cleanup process," they wrote.

The officials highlighted damages such as collapsed buildings, barns, roofs, and even a fire department. Livestock losses were also reported, indicating continued risks for public safety.

They expressed hope that Governor Hochul would take necessary actions to help those affected rebuild and recover from this significant weather event. "New Yorkers need to know that when disaster hits, New York will deliver the needed resources that will help them rebuild, recover and overcome," they concluded in their letter.