State Senator Patty Ritchie met Monday with Gov. Cuomo’s nominee to lead the New York Power Authority, and discussed ways the agency can help Northern New York create jobs and improve the economy.

“I was pleased to have this chance to meet with Gil Quiniones to discuss ways we can work together to help grow the economy of Upstate, Central and Northern New York,” Senator Ritchie said. “NYPA needs someone who knows the issues and can hit the ground running, and I was very encouraged by Mr. Quiniones’ depth of knowledge and obvious concern for the needs of our region.”

Senator Ritchie, who serves on the Senate's Energy Committee, said that, among other issues discussed, she asked Mr. Quiniones to help resolve two key issues that could deliver new jobs in the region: the proposed Eagle Creek cogeneration project in Ogdensburg, and resolving contract issues with the St. Lawrence River Valley Redevelopment Agency (RVRDA).

“I’ve been working with NYPA for several months on both of these projects and I told Mr. Quiniones that I appreciate his assistance and his efforts,” she said. “NYPA is an important partner in our efforts to help create jobs and improve our region’s economy.”

Mr. Quiniones’ nomination still needs confirmation by the full Senate.