As one looks at dissolution, it should be noted that, were it to take place, the Village of Port Henry would give away its freedom of self-control and all of its assets — but its residents would still be responsible for all its indebtedness.
In examining the dissolution study, we see that New York state money known as Aid Incentive to Municipalities, an annual appropriation of the legislature, would flow this way. But given recent events, prudence dictates that AIM is highly unreliable, not only because it might be cut immediately, but also because relying on future subsides is not a good idea.
Also, tax savings are way overemphasized in the dissolution document. The savings as outlined would be 72 cents per day for the average Port Henry taxpayer, or, in real terms, the cost of a half cup of coffee per day at Stewart's.
Clearly, these savings are not worth the loss of village control and independence, not to mention the transfer of the assets presently owned by the village.
The principle that is overridden in the dissolution scenario is this: The village is not now being treated fairly. Taxes paid to the Town of Moriah are not in proportion to our population or use of services. Were the village to be taxed fairly, the reduction in taxes paid to the town would be equal to the reduction shown in the dissolution proposal.
The village is situated so as to be able to flourish, and, when this happens, the taxable assets that would occur would push earnings for the village to such a point that savings shown in the dissolution report would become inconsequential.
Port Henry is a historic and beautiful village situated on a bluff with gorgeous views of the lake and the Champlain Valley. There is a beach, marina and a major position on Routes 9N/22 coupled with a closeness to the mountains and Vermont. These factors give Port Henry great potential in the coming decade.
The government is capable and efficient, and a sense of pride and identity are in place. Dissolution would dilute the focus on Port Henry development by making Port Henry area voters a minority and severely jeopardizing any efforts to develop the village.
Clearly, the key to Port Henry advancement is our independence, our initiative and our long-term faith in ourselves. We stand at the edge of a precipice and if we leap we cannot return. But if we stand firm, keep our heads, and work diligently, our people can prosper and keep our wealth.
It is not in the interest of Port Henry voters to vote for dissolution.
Gary Cooke is a former mayor of the Village of Port Henry. The vote on dissolution of the village is March 16.
Opinion
March 13, 2010
Port Henry dissolution: Little to gain, much to lose
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