Politics & Government

Christie's Bi-State River Commission Bill Vetoed by NY Gov. Cuomo

Legislation that would have created a bi-state commission between Rockland and Bergen counties to address flooding along shared waterways was vetoed.

Gov. Chris Christie signed legislation in January creating a 12-member Bergen-Rockland Bi-State River Commission made up of officials and residents of both states. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo vetoed legislation that would have put this commission into action Wednesdy night.

The commission would have coordinated the management and flood prevention of waterways that flowed between Bergen and Rockland counties.

In his veto message, Cuomo said his decision was based on the lack of funding in place for the operation of the commission, citing a Division of Budget estimate of $600,000 in costs per year shared between New York and New Jersey.

Find out what's happening in New Milfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to the office of New York Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski, there would be no such costs. The commission was to be made up of 12 voting members, six from New York and six from New Jersey, and six non-voting members who would work together to coordinate flood mitigation efforts between the municipalities in Rockland and Bergen Counties. None of the members of the commission would have been paid. 

"Last night, Governor Cuomo vetoed legislation that would have created the Rockland-Bergen Bi-State Watershed Commission," Zebrowski said. "I disagree with the Governor’s position on this bill.”

Find out what's happening in New Milfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Senator David Carlucci of New York’s 38th district, which includes Rockland County, also responded by saying he would try to find a way to make the legislation work.

"Residents who suffer from chronic flooding to their homes deserve results," Carlucci said.

Do you feel that a Bi-State Commission of people residents and officials from Rockland and Bergen could have an impact on flooding in New Milford? Let us know what you think in the comments section below. 


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here