When Governor Cuomo was inaugurated, he gallantly rode into town brandishing a shiny tax-cutting sword, extolling the need for fiscal responsibility and sacrifice by all New Yorkers and municipalities. Unnecessary programs would be slashed, necessary ones trimmed and we would have to learn to live within our means. He claimed we needed to get our financial house in order to stop the flight of residents and businesses to states with affordable taxes and standard of living. We would stop all the Ponzi Financial schemes that would leave our children holding the bag.

Then something happened. Governor Cuomo drank the “Legacy” Kool-Aid and decided we need a new and bigger Tappan Zee Bridge along with 15 Billion Dollars of other road projects. The truth is we cannot afford nor do we need a new bridge.

Population Growth studies by Social Security and the Census Bureau clearly indicate that the population in New York state and the nation is decreasing, not increasing and our children will face a severe financial crisis sustaining the program as my generation of Baby Boomers retire. The same demographics apply to the Tappan Zee Ponzi scheme. As the population decreases, traffic will decrease proportionally. At the very least, an independent organization should examine the demographic studies of the New York state Thruway or whoever is ramming the bridge project down our throats.

Governor Christie had it right when he refused to participate in a joint NY, New Jersey project foisted by Schumer, Bloomberg and the Federal Govt. He bravely stated that we could not afford it. The project supposedly would cost 5 Billion dollars of taxpayers' money, but we know based on the performance of the current 287 Construction project, that the cost will be double or triple with interminable delays. Not to mention the irreparable damage to the environment of beautiful river towns such as Tarrytown and Nyack.

Contrary to the assertions of the big government steamroller, we do not need a new bridge. One of the options originally proposed and summarily dismissed was to repair and properly maintain the bridge. This is the best option and by far the most cost effective with the least adverse environmental impacts. The so-called new construction jobs will be to out of towners and will not stimulate nor employ the local economies.

As Governor Cuomo demanded from all of us, I implore of him. Govern within your means. Be fiscally responsible and don't bankrupt future generations to build your legacy. Responsible taxpayers, please voice your opposition to this ill-conceived folly. 

- Gus Montero, broker, Sleepy Hollow Real Estate

Tarrytown