Statement by Louis P. Ciminelli, NYPA Chairman, on the Death of Charles Poletti

Contact
Michael Saltzman
914-390-8181
michael.saltzman@nypa.gov

August 12, 2002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Following is a statement issued by Louis P. Ciminelli, chairman of the New York Power Authority, concerning the death Thursday, Aug. 8, of Charles Poletti, former governor of New York and a trustee of the Power Authority during the time that giant hydroelectric projects were constructed in Northern and Western New York:

“I was saddened to learn of the death of Charles Poletti, the only individual ever to serve as governor of New York State (1942-1943) and a New York Power Authority trustee (1955-1960). Through the course of a long, remarkable career, which included directing civil affairs operations as an Allied military governor in war-torn Italy during World War II, Mr. Poletti distinguished himself as a dedicated public servant, with uncommon professionalism, courage and character.

“His years as a Power Authority trustee coincided with the Authority’s construction of the St. Lawrence-Franklin D. Roosevelt Power Project in Massena and the Niagara Power Project near Niagara Falls. The two hydroelectric projects provide some of the lowest cost electricity in the nation to consumers and are a bulwark for job-producing businesses and industries.

“In 1982, the Power Authority named its natural-gas and oil fueled plant in the Astoria section of Queens in Mr. Poletti’s honor. The facility, which had begun operation several years earlier, has long been a source of economical power for New York City and Westchester County government agencies, for schools, hospitals, subways and commuter trains, municipal buildings and other essential services.

“On behalf of myself and my fellow trustees and all the staff at the Power Authority, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mr. Poletti’s family during their time of sorrow.”