Paraco Gas makes plans for extra storage tank

PINE PLAINS — Representatives from Paraco Gas presented the Planning Board with a request during Wednesday’s meeting to put an additional 30,000-gallon propane tank next to their current tank located on Route 199.

Mike Gioffre, company vice president, said the tank would allow the company to increase the availability of propane for customers.

"We have over 300 customers in town, as well many in surrounding areas," Gioffre said. "It would be right behind where the existing tank is. The fire marshall has already given approval to setbacks, layout and so forth."

Safety manager Mike Digiogio said one reason the company wants to build the additional tank is because of train strikes.

"When you have strikes, it creates a shortage because the trains are not delivering the propane," Digiogio said. "When you have strikes, it creates a propane shortage. When you have a shortage, you can’t serve your customers."

Planning Board Chairman Don Bartles said the board will review the company’s long form environmental assessment form at the next meeting.

"Residents have had some very valid concerns as far as safety and transportation issues, and these are questions that need to be answered," Bartles said. "Right now, the public hearing is still open and will continue until the next meeting."