The state will have the last word in allocating the $25 million which ExxonMobil promised to pay out for cleaning up a massive oil spill residue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. However, it will take the community's suggestions into consideration, assured Executive Deputy Attorney General for Social Justice Mylan Denerstein, during a meeting at the Polish Slavic Center.

In a room filled with community members, many of whom were Poles from Greenpoint, Denerstein explained that the recent agreement with the oil giant will be very beneficial and the money that ExxonMobil will pay will allow for removal of pollution mainly from the area near the Newtown Creek canal, but part of the funds will be allotted for compensation of damages.

Denerstein assured residents that they will be informed on the progress of the cleanup. She also mentioned that the state is planning to consult various organizations and institutions to get an idea how to best utilize the funds. She explained that the money will allow for improving the quality of water and air, and that it will serve to reduce toxic pollution as well as to undo the contamination of groundwater. She emphasized that the local community will be able to participate in decisions regarding how else to spend the money, whether it be put to use for park restoration or to create more playing fields for children.

Apart from community members and representatives from the Attorney's General Office, the meeting was attended by members of the environmental group Riverkeeper, as well as by local politicians. However, not everybody present shared Denerstein's optimism. Many expressed concern that the $25 million may not be enough for reducing all the damage.

New York State Assemblyman Joseph Lentol (D-District 50) advocated for more funds for that purpose. City Councilmember Steve Levin (D-District 33) questioned how the amount that ExxonMobil will pay compares to compensations paid in similar oil spills cases.