Tenney tours ethanol plant in Medina, meets with local officials

Press Release, Congresswoman Claudia Tenney

Provided photo: Tim Winters, president and CEO of Western New York Energy in Medina, gives Congresswoman Claudia Tenney a tour of the facility on Bates Road.

MEDINA – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) on Monday visited Niagara and Orleans counties to visit local businesses and discuss the issues facing small business owners in Western New York.

Congresswoman Tenney began her day by touring Western New York Energy, the only ethanol biofuel producer in New York. During her visit to the facility on Bates Road in Medina, she toured the new expansion of the facility and spoke with employees about their work to produce renewable energy.

Tenney then met with business and community leaders in Orleans County to discuss how to promote business growth in the region. Following the meet and greet, Tenney toured Medina Business Park, where local officials showed her how they are working to promote business growth in the county.

The day ended with a visit to Rubberform in Niagara County. Tenney met with employees and business leaders and highlighted her recent introduction of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act to boost investments in American manufacturing. The Congresswoman introduced the AIM Act in the House of Representatives earlier this year alongside Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL).

Tenney was joined by various elected officials and community leaders throughout her visits, including Michael Dobell, the CEO/CFO of Orleans County Economic Development; Gabrielle Barone, the Vice President of Development of Orleans County Economic Development; Timothy Winters, the President and CEO of Western New York Energy LLC; William Eick, the Orleans County Legislator, District 1; Michael Sidari, Mayor of the Village of Medina; Sean Pogue, Supervisor of Town of Barre; and Don Allport, Orleans County Legislator.

In Niagara County, the Congresswoman was joined by Rick Abbott, Niagara County Legislator; Tony Nemi, Niagara County Legislator; Michael Casale, Commissioner of the Niagara County Department of Economic Development; and Bill Robbins, the President and Founder of RubberForm Recycled Products LLC.

“It was a great honor to visit Orleans and Niagara counties and meet with several local small businesses,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Family-owned and locally-operated businesses are the backbone of Western New York’s economy and provide thousands of jobs across New York’s 24th district.

“As a small business owner, I know firsthand the struggles these companies face operating in a business un-friendly state like New York, and it was great to speak with them about their priorities. I am committed to fighting for them in Congress. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, one of my top priorities is to support legislation that eases the tax burden on small businesses, boosts employment opportunities, and encourages greater growth and prosperity.”