Statement re: LIPA Resignation

ALBANY, NY (11/14/2012)(readMedia)-- "It should not have taken a disaster of the magnitude of Superstorm Sandy to wake Governor Cuomo, Senator Skelos, Speaker Silver, and their appointees up to the fact that dramatic changes are critical. But it is better late than never, so long as they are serious about creating a sustainable future.

The resignation of Mike Hervey should, in no way, be seen as the silver bullet that will fix the deep problems within the Long Island Power Authority's (LIPA) operations, and the gaping lack of leadership within its ranks.

Few locations in the country have the energy opportunities of Long Island. Yet year after year, political appointee after political appointee, the organization fails to step up to meet the challenges of a changing environment and residents' growing energy needs. Just last month, LIPA's board renewed long-term contracts with antiquated and polluting fossil-fueled power generators, without any meaningful action on modernizing the energy grid, or transitioning to renewable energy.

If Governor Cuomo and legislative leaders are serious about protecting LIPA, they must take responsibility for their own past actions, and develop a comprehensive, long-term plan that keeps New Yorkers safe."

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Environmental Advocates of New York's mission is to protect our air, land, water, and wildlife and the health of all New Yorkers. Based in Albany, we monitor state government, evaluate proposed laws, and champion policies and practices that will ensure the responsible stewardship of our shared environment. We work to support and strengthen the efforts of New York's environmental community and to make our state a national leader. The tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization is also the New York State affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. Visit www.eany.org for more information.