News

As The Southern Tier Reopens, Some Local Officials Want More State Guidance

By Natalie Abruzzo

Published May 15, 2020 at 5:05 AM EDT

WSKG_STier Reopening_05152020

CORNING, NY (WSKG) - As the Southern Tier Region reopens, local officials are mixed about the state’s messaging

In a press conference Thursday, the head of the Chemung County Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA) said communication with the state is good.

The coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is seen in yellow, emerging from cells (in blue and pink) cultured in the lab. This image is from a scanning electron microscope (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Rocky Mountain Laboratories)

“I've appreciated the correspondence when I've reached out to the state,” said Joe Roman, the Executive Director of CCIDA. “They've gotten back to me. And I think they've been very forthright with the documents that they've provided. Remember, this is a huge new endeavor for everyone here.”

The feeling is different in Steuben County.

Legislative Chairman Scott Van Etten claimed in a press release the state has not answered his questions about reopening.

Governor Andrew Cuomo said the responsibility for regional reopening falls on local officials and individuals following social distancing and health safety guidelines. He implored regions to check the COVID-19 numbers daily.

Other regions opening Friday are the Finger Lakes, Central New York, North Country and Mohawk Valley.