Stop Governor Paterson From Closing Point Au Roche & Macomb State Park

New York State Governor David PatersonOne of my favorite things to do in the summer is enjoy the beautiful scenery in Upstate New York. Whether you are enjoying an outdoor BBQ among the lush trees, going for a short walk on the trails, spending some time on the beach, or simply enjoying a game of horseshoes - there is something for everyone at our state parks.

One of my favorite parks to visit is Macomb State Park - a park that just so happens to be on Governor Paterson's list of ones that are proposed to be shut down (which includes the closure of 41 parks and 14 historic sites, and service reductions at 23 parks and 1 historic site) courtesy of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), Governor David Paterson, and Commissioner Carol Ash.

According to Governor David Paterson:

"New York faces an historic fiscal crisis of unprecedented magnitude. It has demanded many difficult but necessary decisions to help ensure the fiscal integrity of our State. The unfortunate reality of closing an $8.2 billion deficit is that there is less money available for many worthy services and programs. In an environment when we have to cut funding to schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and social services, no area of State spending, including parks and historic sites, could be exempt from reductions. We cannot mortgage our State's financial future through further gimmicks or avoidance behavior. Spending cuts, however difficult, are needed in order to put New York on the road to fiscal recovery. Going forward through the budget process, I look forward to a productive dialogue with the Legislature on parks and historic sites, as well as other issues."
Source: Statements from Governor David A. Paterson and Commissioner Carol Ash

Is this map proof of Governor Paterson's ineptitude?To highlight Governor Paterson's ineptitude, one has to look carefully to find the two suggested closures in Clinton county.  Apparently, Clinton county (marked as point "B" on the map) is in the Finger Lakes region (marked as point "A" on the map) according to our fine governor.  And yes, I suppose technically that is true - albeit a solid five and a half to six hours away. Perhaps Governor Paterson may consider investing some of his paycheck into knowing a little bit more about the geography of his own state?  Hmm?  Just a thought. 

Regardless, one thing is clear.  It is imperative that these idiots receive a message loud and clear - we will not tolerate closing state parks because they consistently are unable to balance and manage New York State's finances in an appropriate manner.

Contact Governor David A. Paterson directly by calling the Governor's office at 518-474-8390 or online at http://www.state.ny.us/governor/contact/index.html 

Contact the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation at 518-474-0456 or online at http://nysparks.state.ny.us/about/contact-us.aspx

Update on Friday, February 19, 2010 at 7:54 PM by Rob Brennan

I would strongly encourage each and every New York State resident to spread the word and share your thoughts directly with the government.  My submission to Governor Paterson's office - as well as the New York State Department of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation - read as follows:

I am writing in to show my strong disapproval of the proposed closure of the Point Au Roche and Macomb state parks in Upstate New York. It is an absolute disgrace that these two parks have been proposed for closure. They are a vital part of showcasing and sharing some of Upstate New York's beauty. Rest assured this has inspired me to work my damnedest to ensure you are not reelected in 2010.

I have posted a blog entry exploring this issue as well - http://www.therobbrennan.com/journal/2010/2/19/stop-governor-paterson-from-closing-point-au-roche-macomb-st.html

All the best, Rob

Comments

[Johnny Z]

It doesnt make sense. I understand we have to make tough decisions but still. Closing parks is a little too much. Why dont we look at other options, I bet Gov. Paterson missed something else as a option. Check it again and then decide on what to do! Parks are too important to close, so lets work together to come to a common ground!