Dear Abraham Moses:

I agree with you. The "so-called Kiryas Joel Alliance" indeed has no authority to deal with the pipeline, or with any other issue for that matter. To their credit they said so themselves.

I will, however, take issue with your position that Kiryas Joel takes while the surrounding area gives. Let’s use the Harriman Sewer Plant, which is run by Orange County, as an example. This plant was found to be in violation of EPA regulations on many occasions and it was forced to pay fines. Orange County was also sued by developers (outside Kiryas Joel) for not providing them sewer capacity as it was obligated to do.

Orange County had no choice but to defend those costly lawsuits when the Kiryas Joel Sewer Plant came to the rescue. By Orange County’s own admission Kiryas Joel saved the County millions of dollars in legal fees.

So, for you to think of yourself, as the "giver" is simply incorrect.

And let me give you just a bit more food for thought. Your school district and the state jointly spend more than $15,000.00 to educate each child in Salisbury Mills, but less than $500 per child in Kiryas Joel. Think about it, Abraham Moses. Are you really the giver and is Kiryas Joel really the taker?

Finally, you ask what security Kiryas Joel offers its neighbors. Offers are traditionally made across a negotiating table not in the media. I can only suggest that you contact Kiryas Joel and I'm convinced you’ll be pleasantly surprised.