HUDSON, N.Y. - The major fire that broke out at TCI of New York in Ghent earlier in the month has prompted a lot of controversy, one point being the lack of a notification system in Columbia County.
Thousands of gallons of mineral oil and PCB's burned for hours, while many residents were sleeping.
Lieutenant Tom Lanphear of the Columbia County Sheriff's Office says he studied 8 to 10 companies in search of a good fit for an alert system for residents to use. In the end, he says it narrowed it down to three options, recommending "Code Red", which will cost $22,000 a year and include weather alerts.
Residents who sat in on the meeting were generally satisfied with the outcome, saying no matter what option is chosen, it is better than what they had.
However, Leonard Sugin points to what he believes is a bigger problem making sure the proper checks and balances are in place for companies that deal with hazardous materials.
While demolition of TCI of NY has begun, the Columbia County Public Safety Chairman says it will ultimately be up to the town of Ghent's planning board if the company will be allowed to re-build.
In the meantime, residents say they are happy with the progress that is being made.
The Code Red notification system will be voted on next Monday by the full board, and if adopted, will likely be implemented less than a week thereafter.
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