Some critics claim the perceived widespread support for the Broadwater liquefied natural gas terminal has stemmed from money promised to various organizations.

Broadwater is giving $150,000 to United Way this year for its Project Warmth program. In addition, the company has promised the low-income housing advocacy group ACORN $10 million to weatherize homes if the terminal is built. ACORN, the Hempstead Village mayor and the NAACP have come out in favor of the barge plan.

Broadwater Energy Vice President John Hritcko Jr. denies these promises amount to any sort of bribery in return for support. "Helping those people who can least afford the high cost of energy is all part of the process," he told News 12 Long Island.

Critics see it another way. They question Broadwater?s promise to pour money into minority communities, like Gov. David Pateron?s hometown of Hempstead Village, as unduly influential.

If the LNG terminal is ever built, Broadwater Energy says it has guaranteed New York state it will contribute tens of millions of dollars for what it calls a "community benefits package." Paterson's decision on the project is expected to come no later than Friday.

News 12 Long Island - Special Broadwater report Broadwater poll claims widespread support for barge Feds approve Broadwater LNG terminalEnvironmentalistsdemand probe of Broadwater adsBroadwaterdonation seen as publicity tacticFeds:Broadwater barge poses no environmental threat