Senator Farley & Assemblyman Butler Praise Fage Expansion

State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C, I - Schenectady) and Assemblyman Marc Butler (R, C, I - Newport) wanted to publicly thank Governor Andrew Cuomo and local officials for working out an agreement to allow Fage USA to grow in Fulton County, and also praised Fage officials for staying in Fulton County and expanding their business ventures.

Senator Farley said, "Last week, I spoke with local officials and strongly encouraged them to work together to help this company grow and expand here. I was also in contact with the Governor’s office about the importance of this major economic development project, and I am glad he personally reached out to help guide them in ensuring that this project would move forward. I also want to praise Fage for not only staying in Fulton County, but investing more in our community and bringing more jobs to the area."

Assemblyman Butler said, "The Governor’s personal involvement in this issue underscores New York State’s commitment to creating new job opportunities for our residents. Congratulations to everyone involved in this great victory."

Senator Farley said, "I remember working with State Economic Development back in 2005 to help bring Fage to the Johnstown Industrial Park for its first North American plant. At that time, they invested $27 million and were planning to create 60 jobs. In 2008, I brought the then new Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos to the plant for a tour. At that time, Fage had $85 million in private investments in the facility and had more than 100 people employed. Even then, they had discussed this expansion, and I am glad it is now a reality."

Assemblyman Butler said, "I would also note that the State is providing $750,000 toward the Fage Project as part of the Economic Development package awarded last week. This shows what we can accomplish when we all work together."

The planned expansion of Fage was dependent upon both municipalities agreeing to sell a jointly owned piece of property to the private business.

"I commend the two cities for resolving their differences and entering into an agreement that works for both Gloversville and Johnstown, and allows for more growth in this area. Anything that helps create jobs and move the economy forward is great news," Senator Farley said. "This strong, cooperative effort among officials will have a tremendous positive impact for Fulton County and I look forward to working with local officials as this project moves forward."