THE NYS SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS CRITICIZES REMOVAL OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER AS COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS IN COLONIE

January 21, 2010

THE NYS SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS CRITICIZES REMOVAL OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER AS COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS IN COLONIE

In a letter dated January 11, 2010, addressed to Supervisor Paula Mahan, Dr. James J. Yarmus, PhD and president of the NYS Society of Professional Engineers criticizes the appointment of Jack Cunningham as commissioner of public works.

Yarmus cites the position’s job description as one that requires a professional engineering license as recognized by New York State as a critical component and contends, “Giving an unlicensed individual authority over the operations and maintenance of this critical public infrastructure not only jeopardizes public safety, it also potentially burdens the town from a liability standpoint.”

The letter was referenced in the organization’s most recent electronic newsletter that was distributed to its entire membership after the appointment of Jack Cunningham was made public by a January 6, 2010 Times Union article and publicly criticized by Colonie Town Board member Dan Dustin.

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Editor’s Note: Find attached, the letter from Dr. James J. Yarmus, PhD, PE and NYS Society of Professional Engineers president to supervisor Paula Mahan. For more information about Dr. Yarmus and the NYS Society of Professional Engineers, visit their website: http://www.nysspe.org/index.php