Assemblywoman Tenney Votes ‘No’ on Budget for Nano Tech

Local leaders are questioning Assemblywoman Claudia Tenney’s judgement after Tuesday night’s budget vote.  Tenney voted 'no' on all 10 budget bills, including the portion of the budget that will fund the Nano Tech Utica project, the key element in the region’s recovery plan.

“How do you not vote to bring jobs and growth to your area,” asked Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente.  “What are you doing for the people who voted you into office?”

Tenney, who was at a public appearance on Tuesday in Broome County, communicated to WIBX via text messages but would not go on-record.  She said a public release would be issued on Tuesday night.

Butler released a statement following the passage of the budget calling it an ‘election year budget’ that promises ‘many things to many people.’

“While I am concerned about many aspects of the budget, the proposal for tax relief, economic development efforts, additional funding for schools and libraries and other positive initiatives convinced me to support most of the state spending plan,” said Butler.

In October, Governor Cuomo announced $1.5 billion dollars in funding to create a Nano Tech facility at SUNY in Marcy. The first phase of the construction was completed in February and more than 1500 jobs are expected when the project is complete.

“I understand that there are times when you need to vote no,” said Picente, ‘but, ‘No’ on

everything doesn’t create jobs and it doesn’t create an environment that grows the area’s economy.”

One local conservative who called in to the Keeler in the Morning radio show on WIBX said Tenney’s vote is in-line with the Conservative values.

“A Conservative’s idea of Economic Development is “creating a climate that is business friendly to encourage economic development - as opposed to New York’s definition which is driving people and businesses to move out of the state.”

Tenney recently announced her plans to challenge Congressman Richard Hanna in the upcoming Republican primary in June. Tenney will join two additional candidates who have declared intent to challenge Hanna in the June Primary. Michael Kicinski, of Earlville, a member of the Norwich Tea Party Patriots, and Michael Vasquez, of Binghamton, a political commentator and insurance agent, both Conservatives.

Signed petitions are due with at least 1250 valid signatures by the April 10th deadline.