Rep. Bill Owens is claiming a high degree of constituent service in New York’s 21st Congressional District, noting that nearly $3 million dollars went to constituents seeking help through his district offices in 2012.

The Plattsburgh Democrat also said he responded to over 30,000 constituent concerns related to policy and legislation through mail, email and personal phone calls, and that he reached over 27,000 constituents through town halls and “tele-town hall” events.

The $3 million includes social security payments, veterans benefits and other due compensation that residents of the district sought help to secure.

The congressman’s office notes that during the 2012 calendar year, the then-23rd Congressional District included Madison, Oneida and Oswego counties. The 21st District covers the area from Watertown to Plattsburgh and down to Glens Falls.

In all, Owens assisted over 1,000 individual constituents with cases before the federal government in 2012, and wrote over 100 letters of support for grants in the New York counties he represents, the statement said.

“I consider direct constituent service a top priority, and I rely on input from constituents to guide my work in Congress,” said Owens.

“Whether constituents have a concern about a federal policy or need assistance navigating the federal bureaucracy, I want them to know we’re here to help,” said Owens.