Dear Editor:
As Chair of the NYS Senate Agricultural Committee, Jen Metzger has played leading roles in protecting and fostering farming in New York. She fought to protect and expand Farmers Agricultural Tax Assessment in the event of a Covid-related sales decline, and doubled the Farm Workforce Retention credit, farm employers to claim a refundable tax credit for each farm employee who works 500 or more hours a year. She co-authored a letter to U.S. Sec. of Agriculture urging that the USDA provide aid swiftly to NY dairy farmers adversely impacted by Covid-19., As Chair of the Senate Agricultural Committee, she joined with other legislators urging federal representatives to prioritize rural communities in the next federal stimulus package.
Metzger also demonstrated concern for the culture and conditions of rural communities. The pandemic has encouraged residents to use our parks and outdoor opportunities; she secured $250,000 Lyme and tick-borne disease education and funding for 2020-2021. She expanded the Community Preservation Act to help communities to protect unique natural, historic, agricultural and scenic venues and resources. This action protects farmland, open space and historical sites. She also has supported the development of Rail Trails in Sullivan and Orange counties.
At a time when too many in public office have failed to address the problems and concerns of the citizens, Jen Metzger stepped up to aid in finding solutions to rural and farmer challenges. Isn’t it nice to applaud our representative rather than complain? Thank you, Senator Jen Metzger.
Sincerely,
Glenn McNitt
Gardiner
The views expressed in this letter are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Mid Hudson News.
