Let's Not Pull Any Punches

A forum was held in Queensbury Thursday to offer businesses an opportunity to speak with leaders of the Assembly Republican Task Force on Small Business in New York State about concerns they have. Representatives from the Washington County Business Council, the Adirondack Business Council, the ARCC, the New York State branch of the National Federation of Independent Businesses and several other organizations took turns at the mic, alternately eliciting laughter and groans from those in attendance.

To their credit, Assemblyman William Reilich, the Task Force Chair and Assemblywoman Teresa Sayward, the Task Force Vice-Chairwoman, listened as they heard two hours of very honest and often critical commentary on the uphill battle businesses have in New York State with regard to health insurance, taxes and energy costs (to name just a few of the areas talked about).

Sayward spoke frankly, and critically of health care issues in response to information presented by Doug Merrigan, a financial advisor from Glens Falls National.



Donald Schneider Sr, President of Cambridge Valley Machining gave a persuasive talk on the exorbitant energy costs in New York State, as well as the inconsistencies in the quality of its delivery.



Unemployment and labor issues were presented by Jim Casaccio, Vice President of Keena Staffing.



When all was said and done Sayward made commitments to several of the morning's speakers with regard to following up with National Grid, WSWHE BOCES, and the greater legislature on specic issues discussed.