“Today’s Economic Development budget public hearing comes at a fortuitous time with the start of the Joe Percoco corruption trial just last week. START-UP NY has failed, costing New Yorkers nearly $400 million; a top aide to the governor is on trial for accepting bribes related to economic development projects and the Regional Economic Development Council Awards are a nightmare, pitting neighboring counties and regions against each other for funding they all need. I am a sponsor and strong supporter of legislation (A.5657) that will shed light on how these funds are being handed out and put an end to the pay-for-play schemes we have seen. All regions of our state deserve funding for economic stimulus programs, not the chosen few. I encourage residents to pay close attention to how economic development funds are allocated during this year’s budget negotiations.”