Dear Scenic Hudson Member,

I'm delighted to report on two public policy successes that the environmental community won -- with your help -- at the end of the 2007 NY legislative session.

Hudson Valley Community Preservation Act (HVCPA): PASSED!
Our work for clean drinking water, working farms, scenic vistas, historic main streets and recreational areas for our children was bolstered by this new law that makes it easier for towns in Westchester and Putnam Counties to preserve land. Senator Leibell and Assemblyman Bradley deserve praise for this landmark achievement that sets a precedent for the entire valley. I encourage you to call Senator Leibell (518 455 3111) and Assemblyman Bradley (518 455 5397) to thank them for their extraordinary efforts.

Expansion of Environmental Protection Fund (EPF): PASSED!
The bill to expand the Environmental Protection Fund to nearly $300 million by 2009 was approved by both the Senate and Assembly in the final hours of the legislative session, putting us closer to our goal of $500 million. The EPF is used to fund critical projects in the Hudson Valley and around the state -- from waterfront-revitalization programs and community parks to farmland protection -- and its expansion could not have come at a better time.

We Couldn't Have Done it Without You
These victories were truly a team effort. Throughout this legislative session, we've reached out to you, our Scenic Hudson members, when letters and phone calls to Albany were needed. I know the pressure you exerted on your elected officials was a big factor in getting these bills approved. Please accept my heartfelt thanks.

Gearing Up for Future Battles
In the coming weeks, I'll be sending you details of Scenic Hudson's new public policy initiatives. We're in a race against time: powerful real estate developers are clamoring to grab up riverfront property, and we're doing everything we can to save that land. Our legislative strategy focuses on securing funding for protecting the land that matters most and working with elected officials to strengthen land-use regulations. And once again, we're going to need your help. Active, engaged citizens like you are crucial to our success.

Thanks for all that you do.

Sincerely, Ned Sullivan President Scenic Hudson

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