Lawmakers: The Parks Won't Close, So Give Us Money for Now

Albany Times Union

Published: Thursday, April 15, 2010

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Two legislators who have been the principal critics of Gov. David Paterson’s proposal to close parks and historic sites are now calling on the governor to include funding for parks in emergency spending bills. Paterson’s executive budget proposed the closure of 41 parks and historic sites around the state; legislators appropriated funding to keep parks open in both of their budget resolutions, but legislators have not reconciled their position with the governor — on this or any other budget issue.

Sen. Jose Serrano, D-East Harlem and Assemblyman Steve Englebright, D-Long Island, wrote that Paterson should include the necessary money in what the governor has described as "bare bones" budget extenders he is submitting each week to the legislature.

"While we remain confident that a budget agreement will　soon be reached in a manner which will prevent closures to State Parks and Historic Sites, in the interim we must adequately fund OPRHP," the men wrote.