05/29/2026
Clean Water on its Way to Algonquin Middle School and Poestenkill Neighbors
In January 2021, we found out that PFOA/PFOS levels at the Middle School existed in the well water at high levels.
In the coming weeks, the construction of Water District #2 will begin. This will ensure our children will have safe drinking water at school, as well as surrounding neighbors, many whose wells were also contaminated with PFOA/PFOS.
I have been involved in this effort since Day 1. I have been an outspoken supporter of this water district and when necessary, an outspoken critic of near non-exist effort by NYS DEC to identify the source of the contamination.
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped along the way to make this water district a reality. I also want to call out two people, who without their commitment and leadership we would not be here today.
#1 – Judith Enck, Poestenkill resident and former EPA Regional Administrator, appointed by President Obama. Ms. Enck was the first official to agree to attend the first public hearing once this news broke. She worked tirelessly to answer questions and shared her extensive knowledge with our residents. She brought the PFOA/PFOS contamination to the attention of our then Congressman Antonio Delgado, bringing state and federal attention and support for our residents. While some were trying to sweep this contamination under the rug, and downplay it, Judith helped us shine a light on this public health crisis and ensured it received the attention and support it deserved.
#2 – Supervisor Michelle Garofolo, when Michelle ran for office, she was clear in her commitment to getting this project back on track, getting the construction started and ensuring we would not lose any of the federal, state or Rensselaer County grant money which made this project viable. Michelle began working on this in November, weeks before she was sworn into office. Thanks to her leadership, Michelle saved this project through her hard work, long hours, ability to negotiate, and determination to not only our Poestenkill residents, but to every child who attends, and every child who will attend the Middle School in the future. It’s important to note that this includes children from Sand Lake and surrounding towns, who are part of the Averill Park School District. Supervisor Garofolo did this while providing clear transparency, by hosting public information meetings and public hearings, keeping our residents updated and informed. She accomplished all this in just a few months.
Water District #2 will be a transformative project for our town, for generations to come. It has taken more than five years, but this is a great example of what can be done when we work together for common sense goals.
