Bethel sewer funds down the drain

Hinchey blames Congressional Republicans

By FRITZ MAYER

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Maurice Hinchey blasted Republicans in Washington for inaction that will cost his district some $12.44 million in funding, including $1 million to help pay for construction of the sewer extension in Bethel, NY.

On January 8, Hinchey issued a press release that said the funds disappeared because Congress, which until January was controlled by Republicans, failed to pass 9 of the 11 spending bills that are required each year to keep the government operating.

Lawmakers did pass a spending bill to fund military operations and one for domestic security. But for the other nine departments, which include the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of Human Services, lawmakers did not pass appropriations bills. Now that Democrats are in the majority in Washington, they have decided to pass legislation that will fund 2007 spending at 2006 levels.

That legislation, however, will include no “earmarks,” such as the one secured by Hinchey for the Bethel sewer extension. Hinchey said, “The failure of Republicans to do their job and pass these budget bills on time is hurting the people of New York in a very real way. Our area is losing $12.44 million that otherwise would have paid for new roads, sewer systems, medical equipment and a wide array of other initiatives that improve our quality of life, help grow our economy and contribute to the overall well-being of residents.

The Bethel sewer extension is planned to serve the new Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, and will be available to other residents and businesses along Route 17B. Town officials had planned to bond a little less than $3 million to pay for the construction of the project, but that plan depended on securing the money from congress.

Bethel supervisor Harold Russell said it was too early to tell if the construction of the sewer system would be delayed or otherwise affected. He said he would consult with the owners of Bethel Woods and other lawmakers to determine the best way to proceed. He said it is “conceivable” that the project could still move forward.

A spokesman for Hinchey’s office said they would be in touch with officials from Bethel and Bethel Woods. If the need is still there, Hinchey will apply for the funds again this year, and they may be available in 2008.