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From WGXC volunteer Sam Sebren: "Approximately 45 people attended a Public Service Commission hearing at the E.J. Arthur Elementary School in Athens regarding a 2 phase proposal by Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation (now owned by Fortis Inc, the largest investor-owned gas and electric distribution utility in Canada) to bring natural gas lines to the Town and Village of Athens. The first phase of the proposed 2.36 mile pipeline would connect from an existing gas main near the CSX rail line in the Town of Athens to Peckham Industries' liquid asphalt plant in the Village of Athens. CH also proposes a second phase which would bring gas service further into the village. Eleven people spoke, including Athens Village Mayor Chris Pfister, Athens Village Trustee Herman Reinhold, Athens Town Councilwoman April Paluch, and Peckham Executive Vice President, Joe Wilderman. There was no informational presentation and some of the speakers said that they heard about the project and the hearing only days beforehand. They would appreciate having another hearing with information presented by Central Hudson and Peckham. Other speakers were more familiar with the proposal and expressed support for it. Mayor Chris Pfister received applause after reading his pre-written statement in which he indicated that there has been insufficient commitment given to the Village from Central Hudson that they plan to actually go through with Phase 2 to bring gas lines into the rest of the Village. In a small group discussion after the hearing, a central Hudson spokesman said that there would need to be 100% support from Village residents in order for CH to go through with Phase 2. For more information on the "Central Hudson - Town and Village of Athens Gas Franchise" proposal contact James Denn of the PSC at 518-474-7080. Or go online to www.dps.ny.gov and type in Case# 13-G-0336. Electronic comments may be sent to secretary@dps.ny.gov or written comments may be delivered to Hon. Kathryn H. Burgess, Secretary / Public Service Commission / 3 Empire State Plaza / Albany, NY 12223-1350. Your comments should refer to Case# 13-G-0336, "Central Hudson - Town and Village of Athens Gas Franchise."