Cuomo watch: Look for website, hearings on LIPA

When Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo set about advancing a plan for rebuilding the Tappan Zee Bridge, he launched a series of meetings around the Hudson Valley to let residents and local officials weigh in.

Look for the administration to follow the same playbook for the Long Island Power Authority.

The administration last month began pushing for privatization of the embattled utility in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy. But Long Island elected officials have raised doubts, saying they aren't convinced that privatization would bring lower electricity rates.

Cuomo now will dispatch a top aide to determine a consensus with local leaders. If this follows the Tappan Zee model, it will include hearings, toll-free information lines and an informational website.

-- Yancey Roy