POTSDAM — Rep. John M. McHugh visited the village Tuesday, where he met with SUNY Potsdam President John F. Schwaller, as well as a small group of concerned taxpayers.

The congressman, R-Pierrepont Manor, posed for a photo with Mr. Schwaller when he arrived at the civic center.

The college official wanted to thank Mr. McHugh for his support for SUNY Potsdam's Center for Math and Science, which received $97,000 in funding through a national spending bill approved this winter.

"What would Potsdam be without the colleges?" Mr. McHugh said. "I'm always dealing with Dr. Schwaller and Clarkson and SLU, because they're mainstays of the educational system in New York. It's critical to the economy to try to be helpful when we can with a federal grant for the campuses."

Norwood residents Mary A. and William S. Grant spoke privately with the congressman about a pattern of high property assessments in their area.

Worried that high property taxes eventually will force them and their neighbors to move away from Norwood Pond, the couple recently wrote a letter to town and state officials, as well as newspapers.

"The issue is one of assessments, and the local property taxes that result. Sadly, it's not unusual or uncommon to hear, particularly in the recreational tourism areas. Their case is somewhat unique in that one assessment roll period produced large increases," Mr. McHugh said. "I did promise to write state elected officials to focus attention on the issue."

Several disabled veterans worried about their benefits also spoke with the congressman Tuesday.

"You never know what's going to come forward. Today, it's more personal concerns, veterans benefits and the procedure to get reconsideration," Mr. McHugh said. "It's whatever folks want to bring."

Mr. McHugh also brought his mobile office to Franklin County Tuesday afternoon.