Staff Report / January 12, 2026
Concerned community members plan to gather outside the Schuyler County Legislature this evening (Monday, January 12)to voice strong opposition to the county’s recent expression of interest in hosting a nuclear power project. The demonstration is scheduled from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m. at 105 Ninth Street in Watkins Glen, immediately before the legislature’s regular meeting.
The rally — organized by local residents and environmental advocates — is intended to send a clear message to county officials: rescind any bid or request that would make Schuyler County a potential site for a nuclear power facility of any size. Participants are expected to speak to lawmakers inside the Legislature after the outdoor protest.
Schuyler County was recently listed among eight upstate communities that have shown preliminary interest in participating in the New York Power Authority’s exploration of a proposed one-gigawatt nuclear energy facility. This comes as part of a broader state initiative to expand carbon-free energy capacity across New York.
Critics of the county’s stance — including Yvonne Taylor, Vice President of Seneca Lake Guardian — argue that any nuclear proposal carries significant financial and health risks. At the heart of their concerns are the costs of construction, potential delays before operation, and perceived long-term health impacts associated with nuclear plants. Taylor described Schuyler County’s interest as “short-sighted and irresponsible” and urged officials to focus instead on renewable energy development.
Organizers emphasize that residents from across the region are expected to attend the rally, hoping to influence decision-makers ahead of deliberations and future discussions with the New York Power Authority. They plan to continue pushing county leaders to prioritize alternatives that they say better protect public health and the environment.
The county’s inclusion on the Power Authority’s list reflects preliminary interest, and officials have noted that no final decisions have been made regarding nuclear siting. However, the debate highlights a growing tension between energy policy aspirations and local community values around economic development, environmental protection, and public health.
