Rockland Reporter

Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler joined Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino, State Senator Rob Rolison, Assemblyman AJ Beephan, East Fishkill Town Supervisor Nick D'Alessandro, and Pawling Town Supervisor James Schmitt to announce a $5 million investment in clean water infrastructure for Dutchess County included in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget.

"When I was elected to represent this district, I promised I would work with my partners at every level of government and in both parties to prioritize the needs of our residents," said Congressman Lawler. "Projects like these are great examples of what we can accomplish when we put aside politics and focus on meeting the needs of our communities and constituents."

"That’s exactly what I’ve done in working with each of the officials with me here today to ensure funding for this and other important projects across our district," he continued. "This $5 million in funding for Dutchess County is just another affirmation of my commitment to the 17th Congressional District and to the people of Dutchess County."

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino expressed her gratitude: "You are living proof that you work across the aisle to get this done for our community and I cannot thank you enough. We need these critical infrastructure investments, and you've provided for our county."

East Fishkill Town Supervisor Nick D'Alessandro echoed similar sentiments: "These infrastructure dollars and the dollars you're bringing in for our clean water program are tremendous for our residents. I can't thank you enough."

Pawling Town Supervisor James Schmitt remarked on past efforts: "We've been fighting to get this money for this district with our previous Congress members and you're the one who delivered for Pawling. I'm really looking forward to working with you again."

State Senator Rob Rolison highlighted Lawler's bipartisan efforts: "It's so good to see what you do in D.C. now comes back to the District. You're working hard across the aisle and getting infrastructure dollars for this district which is super important."

Assemblyman AJ Beephan added his thanks: "Thank you so much for your investment in our district. This investment alone directly makes the lives of our residents more affordable, and for that we are forever grateful."

Three separate requests were made for community project funding on behalf of Dutchess County's portion within New York's 17th District. The funding includes:

- $2 million to East Fishkill for ionization equipment aiding PFAS mitigation.

- $1 million to Pawling for a municipal sanitary sewer district improving water quality along Route 22.

- $2 million to East Fishkill for developing a new water district facilitating economic development.

Congressman Lawler is noted as one of the most bipartisan members of the 118th Congress, representing New York's 17th Congressional District which encompasses parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.