REMARKS
Historical context of NYC's watershed protection efforts
2:03:37
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86 sec
Council Member Gennaro provides historical context for NYC's watershed protection efforts, reflecting on his personal involvement in the process since 1990. He emphasizes the unique nature of NYC's watershed protection program and expresses his continued commitment to supporting these efforts.
- Gennaro began his career in the council in 1990, coinciding with the start of major watershed protection efforts
- He describes the process as an 'amazing journey' and a part of making watershed history
- Emphasizes that NYC's approach is unique among watersheds across the country
- Expresses confidence in DEP staff, including Paul Rush (who couldn't attend the hearing)
- Pledges his support as committee chair for ongoing watershed protection efforts
- Highlights the importance of continued engagement with DEP and the environmental community to meet new challenges and maintain the Filtration Avoidance Determination (FAD)
James F. Gennaro
2:03:37
and a pledge.
2:03:38
You know, this is how I started my career.
2:03:42
I came to the council in 1990.
2:03:44
As a staff member of this thing started to pick up, and this was such an, you know, such an amazing journey for a then young man to be engaged in, to kind of be a little part of making watershed history.
2:03:58
Nothing like this has ever been done in any other watershed across the country.
2:04:03
And the journey continues.
2:04:07
And I have you know, a lot of faith in good folks from DEP, including Paul Rush, who I understand couldn't be here today.
2:04:19
He's doing important things.
2:04:21
As he always does.
2:04:24
And you have a partner in me as you'd share this committee, and I don't speak for the full counsel.
2:04:32
Oh, are you pulling this down for a reason?
2:04:35
Oh, fine.
2:04:36
Was in the middle of my thing here.
2:04:38
Mhmm.
2:04:40
And and and I I look forward to ongoing engagement, you know, with with with with the EP, you know, and the environmental community, you know, to make sure that, you know, we can meet the new challenges, keep the fad going.
2:04:59
And guess one more question.
2:05:04
Is there any estimate whatsoever as to how about I just ask the scary question?
