POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. -- Governor Andrew Cuomo has shined the spotlight on utility companies throughout the state after thousands of New Yorkers were left without power following back-to-back nor'easters last month.

And now, as public hearings on utility performances during the lead-up and response to the storms continue throughout the state, conversations Monday focused on the response in Dutchess County.

The forum at Poughkeepsie Town Hall was one of 20 public statement hearings scheduled to identify issues and concerns about the storm response across New York.

The State Department of Public Service are designing the meetings to focus on the preparedness of major utility companies that call New York home -- and what efforts could be adopted to keep the lights on during future storms.

Communities throughout the Hudson Valley suffered from two severe storms between March 2nd and March 14, which left more than 590,000 New Yorkers without power.

For their part, officials with Central Hudson say the public hearings are also helpful to them, giving officials a chance to hear from their customers about what they can do better.

Public hearings are scheduled to continue throughout the end of the month. If you were unable to attend last night's meeting -- you're encouraged to visit the Department of Public Services's website and submit your comments online.