Hudson Valley News

The New York State Public Service Commission is reviewing the proposed merger of Poughkeepsie-based CH Energy Group -the parent company of Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation - and Canadian utility company Fortis, Inc.  A public comment period will close at the end of the month, and at least one group of residents from Ulster County has written with its concerns.

The House of Representatives last week passed an expansion of the Violence Against Women Act after Senate passage earlier in February. President Obama is expected to sign the expanded version of the 1994 Act shortly.

Governor Andrew Cuomo and IBM officials recently announced a public-private partnership they say will prepare New York students for high-skills jobs. The idea is based on a school in Brooklyn, highlighted by President Obama in his State of the Union speech.

The idea, say both the Governor and IBM officials, is to provide students with skills for careers in STEM, or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, while, at the same time, advancing regional economic development in New York.

GOSHEN – Redistricting of the Orange County Legislature’s 21 districts has been approved in committee and is expected to be approved by the full lawmaking body later this week.

The reapportionment is required to keep all districts within the same approximate number of constituents.

Rules, Enactments and Intergovernmental Relations Committee Chairman Steven Brescia said even though a public hearing is required before a vote and approval by the county executive, time is a factor in the need to approve the new plan.