To the Editor:
This is an open letter to the citizens of Knox.

My name is Eric Marczak, a resident of Knox for 24 years, and a Navy veteran. Retired after 30 years of service at the New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Laboratories, I have expertise analyzing water, soil, air, and blood samples for various toxins.

I’ve been part of the team that studied the Hudson River PCB event, as well as Love Canal, and numerous private wells and industrial sites.

I chose to live in Knox for so many of the same reasons that folks who responded to the town’s comprehensive plan polling questions do. Check it out for yourself; it’s posted on the town’s website.

Our residents have some great observations, ideas, solutions, and suggestions. Unfortunately, it was done anonymously, so we don’t know who these clever folks are.

Mind you, the comprehensive plan expresses the wishes of the people. At one of the land-use training programs, they stressed the importance of consulting the comprehensive plan and town ordinances when making important decisions.

In my opinion, the present administration has done a great job for the community’s finances. Because it’s been so focused and with no Conservation Advisory Council, I feel that some important issues have fallen between the cracks.

The top three concerns as expressed in the comprehensive plan, are water quality; residents do not want to change the rural character; and, of course, no increase in taxes. A light business district, and a local source for groceries, gas, and sundries are among the top as well.

Our leaders have been heading in that direction — kudos.

Understand me fully; being 74 years of age, there is nothing in this for me. The future generations deserve the best environment to live their lives in, and they can’t be present to defend themselves.

My focus is on water and other environmental and conservation measures. There should be a sense of urgency to start the wheel turning and be proactive.

Knox is an oasis of beauty, wildlife, and unique resources. I would love to have a parlor-style meeting with concerned citizens to discuss some of the issues and problem-solving strategies.

Folks with a science background, engineers, lawyers, health care, anyone that can make a positive contribution is invited. If you love these hills as much as I do, please call me at 518-872-9324.

If there are enough folks, we can set a date. A sincere thank you.

Eric Marczak

Knox