Preserve balances nature, economy
I disagree with Albert Paolucci’s letter, “Pine Bush Preserve remains a folly,” Sept. 2.
Paolucci suggests solving Albany’s landfill problems by expanding into the Pine Bush Preserve. He believes the Pine Bush Preserve is a drain on taxpayers and looks to more home and commercial building. The most troublesome quote from Paolucci was “Enough is enough with this reserving land that has no purpose.” The author implies that green space has no purpose, but I would disagree.
Green spaces preserve the natural hydrology and water balance of the area, promote filtration of rainwater and the Pine Bush preserves Albany’s natural character and habitat. It also provides numerous recreational opportunities that keep the area desirable and maintain home prices. Currently, we have a landfill welcome mat on Exit 24. Personally, I believe we don’t need a Garbage Shrine in the center of our city.
Mayor Kathy Sheehan proposes a transfer station at Rapp Road to facilitate the movement of garbage to a new landfill or incinerator. The lack of a plan can potentially bankrupt the city and solutions come at a cost, a cost to move garbage and the lost tipping fees as revenue. Albany residents need to be responsible for what they put out on the curb and remember that waste generated equals dollars spent.
The city has options; one option is incineration. Hudson Falls and Peekskill have operating municipal waste incinerators with energy recovery. We must continue to reduce trash and reduce the amount of plastics that would go to an incinerator. Expanding into the Pine Bush is not a realistic solution for those planning on spending a lifetime in the Capital Region. Steven De Santis Guilderland