New York comptroller rips river regulators.

Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY) (via Knight-Ridder/Tribune News Service)

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COPYRIGHT 2004 Watertown Daily Times

Byline: Chris Garifo

Nov. 24--ALBANY, N.Y. -- The Hudson River-Black River Regulating District paid full-time salaries to part-time workers, and its board approved prior to any public hearings $1.6 million in fee increases for access permits and provided full benefits to board members who were ineligible for salary or benefits, according to a state Comptroller's Office audit.

"The board of directors of the Hudson River-Black River Regulating District should act as the first line of defense, ensuring that the district operates appropriately and effectively and provides careful financial oversight of public monies," state Comptroller Alan G. Hevesi said. "Unfortunately, as we have seen at other public authorities that we have examined around New York state, the board has fallen short in its duties."

The five-member board is appointed by Gov. George E. Pataki.

The audit's...

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