By Matt Youngfrau
MONTICELLO — February 20, 2001 – It took several tries, but ultimately Legislator Chris Cunningham’s objections over the county’s use of lobbyists Bolton St. John did see results.
During a recent discussion of renewing Bolton-St. John's contract, Cunningham voiced strong opposition, stating that the county had enough representation in New York State Senator John Bonacic and New York State Assemblyman Jake Gunther to assure foreknowledge and get results in the locally hot issue of casino gaming.
At that time, a resolution to renew Bolton’s contract passed seven to one (Cunningham was opposed and Steven Kurlander was absent), and it was expected to pass the full board at their monthly meeting this past Thursday, February 15.
However, that didn’t happen.
When the resolution to renew the contract came before the full legislature on Thursday, Cunningham once again voiced his opposition to renewing the contract. He attempted to get the motion tabled, but that attempt failed.
Legislature Chair Rusty Pomeroy explained that a Bolton St. John representative was scheduled to come back the first week of March to go over what duties Bolton would perform for the county. Based on that information, Legislator Rodney Gaebel suggested that they might hold off signing the contract until that meeting.
Once again, Cunningham asked that they table the resolution. This time, it passed eight to one (Legislady Leni Binder was opposed).
After the meeting with Bolton St. John takes place, renewing the contract will be discussed again.