Rallying Community Supporting Press Conference with BP Vito Fossella and NYS SENATOR Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

When only two of the ten elected officials respond to a pressing issue affecting Staten Island, it sends a clear message: more action is needed. Recently, Borough President Vito Fossella and New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton held a press conference addressing a significant problem plaguing our community regarding Battery energy storage stations (BESS). Their willingness to step forward is commendable, but the silence from the other eight officials raises concerns about the level of commitment to our neighborhood’s well-being.

This post explores the importance of community involvement, the challenges Staten Island faces, and how we can join forces to support our neighborhood and demand meaningful action.

The Press Conference and Its Message

The press conference brought attention to a critical issue impacting Staten Island residents. While the details of the problem were clearly outlined by Fossella and Scarcella-Spanton, the absence of the majority of elected officials was noticeable. This lack of unified response weakens the community’s ability to push for effective solutions. To also include our NYS Attorney General Letitia James and NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams have equally both FAILED in responding to our numerous requests for assistance over a dozen emails sent to their office with NO response.

Why Community Support Matters

Community support is the backbone of any successful campaign for change. When residents come together, they create a powerful force that elected officials cannot ignore. Here’s why your involvement matters:

• Amplifies the message: A united community sends a clear signal that the issue is urgent and demands attention.

• Builds accountability: Officials are more likely to act when they know their constituents are watching and engaged.

• Strengthens neighborhood bonds: Working together fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

  
  

By joining the fight, you help ensure that our neighborhood’s concerns are heard and addressed.

What Staten Island Is Facing

While the press conference focused on a specific problem, it reflects broader challenges Staten Island faces. These include:

• The lack of accountability on these BESS Stations

• Public safety concerns impacting daily life in the face of these BESS stations

• Environmental issues threatening local parks and waterways

• Potential health risk if these station were to fail

  
  

Each of these problems affects residents’ quality of life. When officials fail to respond collectively, progress stalls, and the community suffers. This also raises the concern of a potential "Pay To Play" Scheme between Elected officials and Energy Companies.

How You Can Take Action

Supporting your neighborhood starts with simple but effective steps. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Attend local meetings and forums: Stay informed and voice your concerns directly to officials.

• Join community groups: Connect with neighbors who share your commitment to improving Staten Island.

• Contact your representatives: Let them know you expect action and accountability.

• Participate in organized events: Rallies, clean-ups, and awareness campaigns show strength in numbers.

• Use social media responsibly: Share accurate information and encourage others to get involved.

  
  

Taking these actions helps build momentum and keeps pressure on elected officials to deliver results.

Moving Forward Together

The press conference was a call to action. It showed that leadership exists but also revealed gaps in commitment. Our and ALL neighborhoods deserve full attention from all elected officials. By standing together, we can push for the comprehensive response Staten Island needs.