I’ve lived in Greene County my whole life, and I’ve spent the past 13 years working for Central Hudson. My family and I are proud to call this area home, and we depend on Central Hudson for more than just power, we depend on it for jobs, community investment and reliability.
The Hudson Valley Power Authority Act would put that at risk. Replacing a locally based company with a state-run authority could mean higher rates, fewer upgrades, and slower service for communities like Tannersville, Greenville and Catskill.
As someone that works in the utility business, some of the promises that I see coming from the HVPA Act don’t seem realistic. Promising lower costs without real solutions. Utilities in New York State are already overseen by a larger entity, the State’s Public Service Commission, whose mission is “to ensure affordable, safe, secure, and reliable access to electric [and] gas...at just and reasonable rates.” The HVPA Act feels more like a devious attempt to take over when frustration levels are at an all-time high.
Central Hudson has been part of this region for generations. We contribute millions in local taxes that support schools, police, and fire departments. We help fund community programs and provide stable, good-paying jobs that keep families rooted here.
I’m proud of what Central Hudson means to this County. Albany shouldn’t be allowed to take that away.
—Kyle Garland