Congers Civic Association Joins Opposition Of Proposed Desalination Plant

The Congers Civic Association Board of Directors joined other local organizations and announced its support of the Rockland Water Coalition’s opposition of United Water's proposed Haverstraw Water Supply Project desalination plant. 

The association’s board made its decision following an information session with the water coalition. The board’s vote took place earlier this month following the December 12th question and answer session, which involved about 45 association members. 

"The Rockland Water Coalition made an excellent information-filled presentation to our civic association at its quarterly meeting in December on the background, available water resources, and factual data concerning the proposed desalination plant,” said Gerry O’Rourke, Congers Civic Association president. “This resulted in our board unanimously signing on in opposition to, as well as questioning the real need for this questionable and costly venture.” 

Founded 32 years ago, the Congers Civic Association is one of the oldest active civic organizations in Rockland County. The association has more than 350 members and works to encourage community pride, preserve local history and foster volunteerism. The association sponsors events and activities including candidate debates and an annual community anti-litter cleanup campaign. To get involved, contact O’Rourke at gerryo2@optonline.net or at 845-268-8639.

With the addition of the Congers Civic Association, the Rockland Water Coalition’s partnership numbers more than 30 environmental and civic groups throughout Rockland and the Hudson Valley. The coalition was formed to look at the environmental and economic impacts of United Water's $189 million proposal to build a Hudson River desalination plant to provide the county's drinking water. The coalition has advocated for other conservation measures and a re-examination of the water sharing agreement for the Lake DeForest Reservoir between United Water New York and New Jersey.