from JAN MULROY

Need For Jobs Shouldn’t

Rule Out Scrutiny

To the Editor:

Recently, it was reported that the generic environmental impact statement (GEIS) for the Oneonta Railyard Project has “generated opposition from Otsego 2000.”

I know for sure that Otsego 2000 is not the only group that has provided comments to the Oneonta Common Council regarding the GEIS.  These comments by so many, should not be construed as opposition to creating jobs in the City of Oneonta.  These comments were an outpouring of concern for the railyard property, the wetlands, the stream, continued access to Roundhouse Road and the un-remediated areas of brownfields.

As well, there is concern for the future health and wellbeing of the surrounding community that would be affected by industrial growth, including fracked gas infrastructure buildout.

A “desperate need for jobs” is not an excuse to forgo careful scrutiny of a project nor to disdain those that fulfill their civic right to comment.  A desperate need for jobs is not an excuse to disregard planning that would support a sustainable future. Rather, the need is for an engaged community.

JAN MULROY

Franklin