Sean Patrick Maloney: “Mr. Chairman, I strongly and firmly support his amendment, as does the mayor and the governor, and really in a…”

“Mr. Chairman, I strongly and firmly support his amendment, as does the mayor and the governor, and really in a bipartisan spirit, the delegation of New York State. Along with the gentleman from California (Mr. Horn), we held a series of hearings on Governor's Island in New York, and basically this bill is a reality check. In no way is this island worth $500 million; and if this price tag is attached to it, then we will not be able to develop it for the public service purpose that the governor and the mayor and all of the citizens of New York State and indeed everyone who visits New York could benefit from the development of this island. This island was given to the country for defense 200 years ago, and now we are celebrating really the anniversary of that time; and it is time for the Federal Government to return the island to New York with the same generosity that New Yorkers showed by returning it to us at no cost so that we can follow through with the governor's and mayor's plan for development of it in a cost-effective, balanced way with educational, cultural, and as a tourist attraction. It has many historic forts that would benefit really the country. It is an important opportunity for this Congress to really respond in a reasonable way and support the gentleman's amendment, and it is certainly in the best interests of New York State and, I would say, the country.”