House race: where candidates stand on district issues

Editor's Note: In a recent editorial on the race for New York's 23rd Congressional District seat, the Watertown Daily Times raised a series of questions and identified issues important to Northern New York. The three candidates — Republican Dierdre K. Scozzafava, Democrat William L. Owens and Conservative Douglas L. Hoffman — provided written responses to the questions which were compiled by Times staff writer Jude Seymour. The questions and candidates' answers follow:

How do they feel about federal attempts to widen and deepen the St. Lawrence Seaway to accommodate larger oceangoing ships?

SCOZZAFAVA: I will oppose efforts to widen and deepen the St. Lawrence Seaway to accommodate oceangoing ships. As demonstrated by past events, this type of project will bring unavoidable environmental consequences to our north country communities, while others will reap the long-term economic benefits further down the Great Lakes system. Our fishers and boaters will be the long-term losers from such a project. That being said, we must continue to conduct much-needed maintenance and ensure that all maintenance efforts be carried out in an environmentally sound way.

OWENS: The St. Lawrence Seaway is critical to our local economy and has a significant impact on our day-to-day lives here in the north country. Federal officials need to work closely with local officials when it comes to the Seaway so that we're not infringing on property rights or environmental protections when it comes to the Seaway. I have some serious concerns about this proposal, but I would want to talk more with local officials and property owners before making a final determination.

HOFFMAN: The federal attempts to deepen and widen the St. Lawrence River have been initiated by Great Lakes congressmen west of the region. Their agenda runs contrary to that of the citizens of the 23rd Congressional District. They are viewing it as an economic development issue in a distant place. I will take an active role in the Great Lakes Conference of Congress, where I would vocalize my constituents' and my concerns about the impacts that such a massive project would have on the environment and on a host of other issues. Right now our nation is in an economic crisis. I'd ask the hard questions about how proponents plan to pay for this. I have pledged that I will not support legislation that will raise taxes. In my opinion, funds destined for this project would be far better spent repairing and improving our crumbling infrastructure system, including our interstate highways.

Do they support winter navigation in the Seaway?

SCOZZAFAVA: I do not support operating the Seaway for 12 months a year.

OWENS: Local leaders like the Save the River coalition have raised some very legitimate concerns about the proposal, and as a congressman, I would reserve any final judgment until spending more time with local officials and property owners discussing this important issue.

HOFFMAN: Winter navigation should be taken off the table. It is totally contrary to maintaining the environmental integrity of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

How would they help protect the waterway from encroachment of invasive species?

SCOZZAFAVA: The St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. has taken an important first step by requiring all oceangoing vessels to flush their ballast water before entering the Seaway system. However, more needs to be done. I will support new requirements, coupled with tax incentives that spur innovation, to advance new technology to reach no ballast on-board standards from large oceangoing ships. In the state Assembly, I've been supportive of efforts addressing various invasive species and their impact on our waterways.

OWENS: As a congressman, my job would be to listen to property owners, local officials and experts on this issue to see where I can best be of service in this area. I have heard some interesting proposals including requiring large ships to dump ballast water before entering the Seaway, and these are the sorts of approaches we need to consider. Any undertaking regarding the Seaway needs to be done with environmental concerns in mind, be done in full compliance of existing environmental laws and keep recreational boating in mind for our tourism industry.

HOFFMAN: Save the River and Congressman McHugh have taken the lead on this issue and I commend them for it. Canadian and American stakeholders have acknowledged that invasive species are a real threat in the Great Lakes / St. Lawrence Seaway system. The institution of precautionary regulations on the shipping industry is only the first step. We must work with the shipping industry and take every step necessary to protect our waters while at the same time not inhibiting the free flow of trade.

Where do they stand on the development of a rooftop highway from Watertown to Plattsburgh?

SCOZZAFAVA: I have long supported the development of the rooftop highway from Watertown to Plattsburgh. We have already seen the first important step of this project with the allocation of funding and construction of the Fort Drum Connector Road. I will work to authorize and fund the rooftop highway, also referred to as 1-98, which will spur both short- and long-term job creation in the north country.

OWENS: I am a strong supporter of I-98. This represents the kind of investment in infrastructure we need to be making right now. It will help create jobs and will also bolster our economy by opening up transportation lanes for commerce in the long term.

HOFFMAN: The I-98 "rooftop highway" is an issue that has been on the table for close to 50 years. There is no easy answer that can be fit into a few lines. The first and perhaps biggest question is what is the real cost of this project and can we realistically expect to find funding for it. Once that question is addressed, a whole range of other issues arise, including: the highway's actual route and its impact on communities, individual's property rights, the environment, how quickly it will impact the economy and the magnitude of impact vs. the magnitude of cost. Finally, an analysis of benefits compared with other worthy infrastructure projects that may be on this table. As congressman, I will work closely with all levels of government — local, state and federal — as well as with non-governmental organizations and private citizens to identify the solution that best serves the economy and the people of the 23rd Congressional District.

Would they approve of plans to transform the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. into a federal power-marketing entity, as proposed by Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio?

SCOZZAFAVA: No, I do not approve of plans to transform the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC), as proposed by Rep. Marcy Kaptur. First, this proposal will drastically change and redefine the mandate of the SLSDC. The hardworking employees of the SLSDC are valued residents of Massena. This plan will shift their core mission away from the north country. Now is not the time to enact policies that will likely shift jobs outside of our region. Secondly, Rep. Kaptur has made comments indicating that this new entity could be used as a mechanism to expand the physical footprint of the Seaway, which I do not support.

OWENS: I have concerns about this plan and fear that this could lead to jobs leaving our region at a time when we need to be doing all we can to protect and create more jobs in our communities. Like any plan with such serious ramifications for our district, I would closely examine it and work with local leaders on the issue to make sure that we move forward with the best interests of our district in mind.

HOFFMAN: We have a big enough federal government as it is. As a rule, bureaucrats in Washington tend to be part of the problem, not the solution. I would oppose it.

What factors should determine the location of power-generating facilities in the rural district? Should any areas be off-limits?

SCOZZAFAVA: We need to bolster the opportunity for public input on decisions regarding the location of power- generating facilities. The public's input is needed and invaluable. That is why I have co- sponsored and worked to enact such legislation. We must also strike a balance between the needs for developing new energy sources, respecting our local communities, and preserving and protecting the environment.

OWENS: When determining the location of power-generating facilities we must keep in mind both property rights as well as environmental protections. I would work with local officials to make sure that any new facilities, particularly clean energy-producing facilities which I strongly support, are built while prioritizing the interests of our communities. We must approach these issues in a way that will protect and preserve the Adirondacks while meeting our power needs.

HOFFMAN: There is no blanket statement that can be made on an issue like this. Each location must be dealt with on a site-by-site basis. In the end, I believe strongly in home rule.

How should the routing of electrical transmission lines to convey power from rural to urban areas be located and permitted?

SCOZZAFAVA: The state of New York, not the federal government, must be the final entity determining the placement of power lines. Local residents must have a strong voice in this process, and I will work with local landowners and communities to ensure that their private property rights are respected and protected.

OWENS: I would propose to have power lines buried underground as long as it could be done in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner. I would not support any efforts, however, that would infringe on property owners' rights or environmental protections, and would want to work with local officials to make sure we are gathering their input before moving forward with a final decision on this issue.

HOFFMAN: Nobody wants transmission lines in their backyard or ruining their views, or for that matter the environment. But, New York and America need power. Ultimately this is a home rule issue. It's up to localities, not the federal government.

Will the candidates commit to protecting the power generated at the Moses-Saunders Power Dam that makes possible thousands of jobs in Northern New York?

SCOZZAFAVA: Yes, I will commit to protecting the power generated at the Moses-Saunders Power Dam and oppose efforts to shift power out of state. I was a sponsor of legislation in the Assembly that committed power to the north country.

OWENS: I will fight to protect the power produced at the Moses-Saunders Power Dam while also fighting for new investments in infrastructure and green energy to help create more jobs in our region.

HOFFMAN: This is not a federal issue. America needs power. Once again, home rule.

How do they stand on border issues? Should security override citizens' desire to travel freely between Northern New York and Canada and the need for smooth commercial travel? Should the federal government interrupt fishing trips, picnics and boating excursions in the name of protecting the border?

SCOZZAFAVA: We must strike an appropriate balance that recognizes the need for security along the northern border while also remaining mindful of the legitimate commerce and trade that occur every day. Border security policies and procedures justifiably changed after the horrible events of Sept. 11, 2001, but we must recognize the historical, free relationship between the United States and Canada, our largest trading partner. I will work to modernize border-crossing facilities that will reduce wait times, and advocate for pre-clearance screening stations for trucks. Like most in the north country, I feel that many government regulations are written by people who have never lived or worked in the environment that will be regulated. A prime example is the overburdensome "report in" regulations placed on fishermen, who must show appropriate documentation if they merely drop anchor in Canadian waters. I will also support efforts to harmonize border document crossing requirements for both land and sea travel, including those used by tour boat and fishing captains. However, I will staunchly work with my colleagues to oppose illegal cross-border activities, such as the smuggling of marijuana and cigarettes.

OWENS: We have a unique relationship with our neighbors to the north and our border security policy needs to reflect the realities of that relationship. I do not think there is a "one size fits all" solution to this issue, as what works for us will clearly not work in south Texas. We need to make sure that we are doing all that we can to keep our borders secure but also strike a balance so that we're not infringing on trade or commerce. I have a deep understanding of border issues as a result of spending decades working to bring Canadian investment to our community. My efforts have resulted in bringing over 200 companies to the region which have helped create 2,000 jobs over the course of that time. Canada plays a significant role in our economy and is a major trading partner, and we cannot take steps that would jeopardize that role.

HOFFMAN: Sept. 11, 2001 totally changed the dynamic on this issue. We live in an age of Terror. In this day and age it would be judicious to defer to the Department of Homeland Security on such issues. That said, I would be a vocal advocate on behalf of my constituents' needs, both personal and economic, to ensure that crossing between the U.S .and Canada be kept simple and as hassle-free as possible.

Acid rain / Adirondack issues.In their campaigns so far, the candidates have only touched upon the many areas in which they will be expected to govern if elected.

SCOZZAFAVA: One of my legislative priorities will be to combat acid rain by continuing the work of Congressmen McHugh and (Sherwood) Boehlert. Aside from acid rain destroying forests, killing fish and poisoning water, many scientific studies have identified a relationship between elevated levels of the fine particles that cause acid rain and increased illness and premature death from such heart and lung disorders as asthma and bronchitis. While this scourge impacts all parts of Northern and Central New York, it has a particularly devastative impact on the Adirondack Park. I will encourage the use of every tool, whether administrative, judicial, or legislative, to combat acid rain, caused principally by sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, and mercury precipitation from coal-fired power plants. The time is now to enact strict reduction requirements, as true opportunities to amend the Clean Air Act are few and far between.

OWENS: Green energy initiatives have been a large focus of my campaign. Investments in green energy will not only help us create jobs and reduce our dependence on foreign oil but they'll also reduce toxic emissions that cause acid rain in the Adirondacks. That is why I support the American Clean Energy and Security Act that was passed earlier this year with Secretary McHugh's support. This bill, thanks to McHugh's leadership, took important steps toward protecting the Adirondacks from acid rain caused by toxic emissions. In addition, the bill also made significant investments in the green energy industry, and we need to continue to encourage these types of initiatives so that we can create jobs here in our region.

HOFFMAN: John McHugh was a leader on this issue and I plan to pick up where he left off.

WATER LEVELS

SCOZZAFAVA: If elected, I will be the only member of Congress representing the American portion of the St. Lawrence River, as well as a majority of Lake Ontario's shoreline. Therefore, I will strongly urge the International Joint Commission to select Plan B+ as the appropriate water-level management plan for Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. For nearly 50 years, the Moses-Saunders hydro-dam has greatly changed the region's natural ecosystem, and Plan B+ would allow the Lake and River to return to a state experienced before the dam was constructed while also extending our summer boating season.

OWENS: In my discussions with local officials, I have heard a lot of support for the B+ program. Whatever final decision is made on this, we must keep our ecosystem, our tourism industry and the needs of property owners in balance. As a member of Congress, I would work to facilitate this balance by bringing all sides to the table for an open discussion on the issue.

HOFFMAN: As congressman, I will take an active and visible role in fighting for water regulations that will treat all north country interests fairly.

DAIRY ISSUES

SCOZZAFAVA: Throughout my service and my campaign, I have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the issues that matter most to the agriculture community. In the state Assembly, I was named to the Farm Bureau's "Circle of Friends" list for my pro-farming positions. I co-sponsored legislation to prevent property tax increases on farms and fought to get $30 million in aid for our struggling farmers. As a key component of my congressional campaign, I have vowed to protect and expand federal aid to farmers and stated my clear opposition to the burdensome and ineffective regulations included in the cap and trade bill.

In Washington, I will:

■ Advocate that federal MILC (Milk Income Loss Contract) payments be linked to inflation.

■ Urge reform of the Federal Milk Marketing Order system, as was called for in the 2008 Farm Bill. The marketing order system should be reflective of the cost of production and market changes.

■ Advocate for tighter food safety regulations on Milk Protein Concentrates (MPCs) imports.

■ Push for the expansion of the H2-A visa system to include seasonal dairy workers.

■ Fight efforts to increase government regulation on farmers, including efforts to change the scope of the Clean Water Act to apply to farms.

■ Oppose all efforts to implement a "cow tax." Methane released from cows on family farms in New York should not be regulated as a greenhouse gas.

■ Support efforts to encourage farm-based renewable energy development, such as anaerobic digestion.

OWENS: Dairy farmers are critical to our economy but right now they're struggling. That's why I've joined Sen. (Charles) Schumer's call for an investigation into price-fixing because while milk prices for consumers remain high, our farmers are being paid less and less for the milk they're producing. We need to make sure they're getting a fair price for their milk so it's fair for consumers and producers. In the interim, we also need to increase aid for farmers who are struggling with falling prices and support federal efforts to purchase surplus cheese and other products our farmers are producing.

HOFFMAN: My wife's family had one of the first dairy farms in the Adirondacks when they settled there in the 1860s. She grew up on a dairy. It's a tough way to make a living. As I've traveled the district. I've met with dairy farmers and heard their concerns. There are a wide range of very real issues that they face on a daily basis, milk pricing being the most important. I would create an informal advisory group of dairy farmers from across the district to advise me on the issues, so I could be the best possible advocate for them in Congress.

FORT DRUM AND VETERANS

SCOZZAFAVA: Throughout my service I have been a strong supporter of our men and women in uniform as well as our veterans. I will serve as the voice for members of the Fort Drum community, the men and women of the 10th Mountain Division and their families as a member of the House Armed Services Committee.

During the last of round of BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure), I fought to ensure that Fort Drum remained open and I will continue that fight to make certain that Fort Drum remains a premier power-projection platform. When our country needs its brave fighting men and women, the 10th Mountain Division will be equipped, prepared and ready to climb to glory.

I will work with regional entities such as the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization to ensure increases in the military Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and establish a home equity insurance program to help protect against home sale losses when military families relocate during down housing markets.

In Washington I will serve as an aggressive advocate for veterans. It is incumbent upon us to deliver the benefits that were promised to them, including health care and resources for their family members. I will work to improve communications between veterans and the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure that facilities have adequate staffing levels. I will also work to enact policies that ensure veterans are properly treated for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and that we fight any stigma associated with receiving such treatment; that reduce the backlog of disability claims; and that provide for job counseling.

OWENS: I will always fight to keep Fort Drum strong. The talent, work force and resources housed at and around Fort Drum make the base a tremendous economic engine for the region, as well as a critical component of our national security. Fort Drum will be one of my highest priorities in Congress. As a veteran myself, I also understand the need to honor the sacrifices of our servicemen and women with the kind of care they deserve when they return home. I will fight for health care benefits for veterans, particularly those suffering from PTSD.

HOFFMAN: I spent six years in the National Guard and the Army Reserve; I trained at Fort Drum. I believe in a strong national defense, and so, I believe in a strong Fort Drum. In Congress I will work tirelessly to be as strong an advocate for Fort Drum as John McHugh was.

WIND POWER

SCOZZAFAVA: Wind power has an important role to play as our nation expands its renewable energy portfolio. I will support the efforts of local communities to ensure the proper placement of wind farms, through targeted tax incentives.

OWENS: Upstate New York has already taken strides to promote a green energy economy, and that's creating good-paying jobs for working families across the state. Whether it is solar, wind, biomass or other technologies, our congressional district is already up and running with a green energy industry. We need to promote more of this kind of investment so we can continue to create better-paying jobs for upstate New York.

HOFFMAN: Totally a home rule issue. The federal government should stay out of it.