Throughout the budget-negotiation process, I’ve discussed a number of priorities, like the need to help middle-class families, supporting our children’s education, and helping family farmers. I think we’ve had some meaningful conversations on these matters. We must also see what we can do to invigorate upstate New York. I am very passionate about finding […]
Throughout the budget-negotiation process, I’ve discussed a number of priorities, like the need to help middle-class families, supporting our children’s education, and helping family farmers. I think we’ve had some meaningful conversations on these matters. We must also see what we can do to invigorate upstate New York.
I am very passionate about finding ways to support our part of the state. I see two looming needs in our area: economic growth and support to repair and rebuild our bridges and roads. These two needs complement each other, as efficient and sound infrastructure is very important to supporting and attracting small businesses and job creation.
It is interesting how differently the governor and each conference of the state legislature approach economic development. Personally, I have always believed that our first responsibility in this area should be to make the state a better place to start and operate a small business. The fact is that New York has created an environment where taxes and over-regulation have made it very difficult to keep mom-and-pop shops open.
Over the last few years, the governor has held many economic-development competitions. That isn’t a bad thing, but I am growing frustrated because we are creating winners and losers when all communities Upstate need help. Cuomo’s plan to create yet another competition, his “Upstate New York Revitalization Competition,” where only three regions out of seven will win $500 million in awards, is creating disparity among the regions of upstate New York. To put it simply, all regions need assistance, especially in the Mohawk Valley and the North Country. We should not risk alienating any New Yorkers from economic opportunities just because they do not reside in one of the chosen regions. I have been advocating for more funds that will be fairly distributed throughout Upstate for economic revitalization.
And as I have said, economic development and infrastructure go hand in hand. Our local roads and bridges are crumbling because of the state’s failure to assist our upstate municipalities. I have been fighting for the funds from the more than $11 billion windfall in bank settlements to be invested in fixing Upstate’s long-neglected roads and bridges.
We have an obligation to support upstate New York and offer solutions that will help invigorate it to create new jobs and economic growth. I will be considering all these priorities when I make my final vote on the budget.
Marc W. Butler (R,C,I–Newport) is a New York State Assemblyman for the 118th District, which encompasses parts of Oneida, Herkimer, and St. Lawrence counties, as well as all of Hamilton and Fulton counties. Contact him at butlerm@assembly.state.ny.us