STATEMENT: Ortt, Norris Blast International Joint Commision’s Lake Level Decision

Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I – North Tonawanda) and Assemblyman-elect Mike Norris (R,C,I – Lockport) today blasted the International Joint Commission’s decision to increase the frequency and volume of lake level fluctuations – known as “the Plan 2014.” The “International Joint Commission Lake Ontario - St. Lawrence River Plan” would significantly increase the cost of shoreline maintenance and has been opposed nearly universally by Western New York officials and residents. The legislators noted the significant impact this would have on the local economy and local governments.

“This decision just shows that today’s government is not working for the people,” said Ortt. “Hundreds of miles away, unelected bureaucrats are making major decisions that will have a devastating impact here in our community. Had they asked or listened to those who live, visit, or work along Lake Ontario, they’d know we’re already dealing with a dangerously-deteriorating shoreline. The Joint Commission’s plan amounts to throwing gasoline on a fire. We need consistent water levels for local residents, small businesses, and family farms along the shore, not heavy fluctuations that will only aggravate flooding and erosion. I will continue to work with elected representatives at all levels to stop this plan in its tracks.”

“This decision by the IJC is an insult to the residents of the Lake Ontario Shoreline and further exacerbates our community’s faith in bureaucratic government institutions,” said Norris. “It is clear that the IJC is willingly pursuing its own agenda and ignoring the concerns and voice of our community.  I plan fully, to fight tooth and nail against Plan 2014, and thank Congressman Chris Collins and Senator Rob Ortt for their respective leadership on this issue.”