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Weekend in review

Feb 04, 2013 12:02 am
Some stories that made the news, Feb. 1 to Feb. 4:

John Mason reported in The Daily Mail about the developing possibility of a casino opening in Greene or Columbia counties. New York state Business Council President and CEO Heather Briccetti was quoted as being in support of casinos at the racetracks. Beyond that, she mentioned the Catskill-Hudson area as a good site, because of its “several aging resorts,” such as the Friar Tuck Inn. Gary Greenberg, Valatie resident and part-owner of the Vernon Downs racino and racetrack just bought 62 acres of property in New Baltimore. He is quick to note that Greene County has its own racing and gaming history. “Greene County is on an upsurge,” he said. Read the full story in The Daily Mail.

Ariel Zangla reported in the Daily Freeman Greene County Administrator Shaun Groden is not impressed with Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's 2013-14 budget. He said it is full of gimmicks and provides no real benefit or relief for Greene County. The spending plan, he said, will "just kick the can down the road." Groden said the governor limits municipalities’ property tax levy increases in an effort to force tough decisions at the local level, but does not provide any spending relief. Groden also said the pension plan proposal made by the governor could just push expenses down the road over the next 25 years. Read the full story in the Daily Freeman.

Karrie Allen reported in the Chatham Courier the Chatham Town Board unanimously approved plans for CSX to replace the bridge on Albany Turnpike Road in East Chatham. CSX owns the span. In August, the bridge failed an inspection by the New York state Department of Transportation. Heavy vehicles, such as fire trucks, highway department trucks and school buses have been banned from the bridge since October. CSX could begin work in the middle of March and be finished by late August. The 14-foot replacement bridge will include a five-foot pedestrian walkway. Read the full story in the Chatham Courier.