Rep. Jones Touts House Passage Of Massive Appropriations Bill

PORT CHESTER, NY — A multi-trillion-dollar spending bill has passed the House and Congressman Mondaire Jones said that a significant slice of that money will be coming to Port Chester.

Jones voted to pass the $1.5 trillion FY22 omnibus appropriations bills, which includes funding for several projects in NY-17, notably $250,000 for Port Chester's long-awaited boiler replacement project.

The funding requests were submitted as part of the new Community Project Funding program, which allows members of Congress to request federal funds for certain projects in their districts.

"By helping to pass the FY22 Appropriations bill, I'm thrilled to be delivering nearly $9 million in federal funding directly to vital projects throughout New York's 17th Congressional District," Jones said. "From improving public housing units to building much-needed infrastructure to creating health centers throughout our district, these projects are critical to improving the everyday lives of the people of Rockland and Westchester Counties. I'm proud to have fought for the funding our district deserves, and I look forward to the Senate passing this bill without delay."

Now that the bill has passed the House, it is expected to pass the Senate and then move on to President Biden's desk.

If the bill becomes law, the Village of Port Chester would receive $250,000 for its Village Hall Boiler Replacement project.

The funding would be set aside for a planned geothermal heating system that promises to "provide a clean, cost-effective alternative for traditional heating and cooling by eliminating fossil fuels and reducing energy bills while also complementing New York State's Clean Heat initiative."

It is estimated that a geothermal system will reduce electricity use by up to 50 percent. While traditional systems usually last 15-20 years, a geothermal system can last up to 10 years longer. It is hoped that reducing municipal utilities costs will save taxpayers' money and allow the Village to spend that money where it is most needed.