Senator David J. Valesky's Bill Requiring Greater Transparency by Canal Corporation Signed Into Law

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Legislation sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida) that provides more public accountability when the New York State Canal Corporation prepares to sell abandoned property has been signed into law by Governor David A. Paterson (Chapter 44). 

The legislation was sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblywoman RoAnn M. Destito.

“This new law is beneficial to the public because it makes access to information easier, and gives citizens a voice in the process through a public hearing.” Senator Valesky, Vice President Pro-Tempore of the State Senate, said. “By increasing access and transparency, we improve the way government operates."

The new law, which takes effect in one month, requires the Canal Corporation to publish notice of its intent to sell property for three successive weeks in a newspaper that is published closest to the property. The Corporation is required to describe the property well enough for citizens to identify, and then must invite written public comment.

In addition, the legislation requires that, for parcels that equal or exceed $50,000 in assessed value, the Corporation must hold a public hearing.

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