OLCOTT, N.Y. (WBEN) -Governor Andrew Cuomo examined sewer and infrastructure in Niagara County on Wednesday as rising water levels along Lake Ontario present flooding concerns again for shoreline communities.
The governor also called on the International Joint Commission, a body composed of Canadian and American officials who regular the highs and lows of the Lake Ontario water levels, to "do a better job" about the water management.
"Their job is to manage the water flow," Cuomo said. "We now have the same pattern and the same system year after year after year. They are managing the water flow. If you are managing the water flow, you shouldn't be in these constant flooding situations."
Cuomo did not give any specifics on what the IJC should do to manage the water flows.
The board controls outflow of the lake through a dam on the St. Lawrence River. When the dam is opened and water is allowed to pass, it presents flooding concerns for shoreline communities near Montreal. If left closed, its water flow presents flooding concerns for similar communities in New York State.
Last Friday, the IJC announced that a major flood event is underway with levels in some areas above the 2017 peak and water levels will continue to rise due to rainfall across the basin.
Representatives from New York State are scheduled to meet with the IJC on Thursday. Cuomo said dialogue between the state and the international commission haven't gone smoothly in the past.
"I believe that New York State has been disrespected in that process," Cuomo said. "I believe New York State has been asked to shoulder more pain and more damage than the surrounding jurisdictions. We are very considerate of our neighbors and the surrounding jurisdictions but this is year after year after year of the same discussion."
Cuomo calls the restraints for the IJC "excuses".
The governor examined Olcott infrastructure, including sewers and drains, and announced that communities affected by the flooding were issued a general permit so they can make short-term repairs to their homes ahead of the flooding. He also called for proactive infrastructure investments so that millions aren't spent on emergency repairs.
"I can't tell you how many times people have said to me 'Well, this is a once in a 100 year event'," the governor said. "Yeah, once in 100 year events happens now four or five times a year. This is a new weather pattern that we're dealing with."
Cuomo also said additional pumps need to be in the area to assist with drainage.