NYSAC Opposes Closure of Great Meadow Correctional Facility

NYSAC Opposes Closure of Great Meadow Correctional Facility

The New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) strongly opposes the planned closure of the Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Washington County, which would have devastating impacts on Washington County, the local economy, public safety, and correctional staff. The planned closure was announced by the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) on July 18.

"The closure of Great Meadow is a shortsighted and irresponsible decision that will harm Washington County and the entire state,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario. “The prison is a vital part of the county's economy and public safety, and its closure will have severe consequences for New York families and for the entire regional economy. The state should reconsider this move and work with the county to find alternative solutions that will preserve the prison and its workforce."

The facility currently employs nearly 550 Correction Officers plus staff, but human resource experts predict that Washington County may incur approximately 2,250 job losses across the local economy and experience an increase in unemployment to as high as 5.8% as a result of the closure. With approximately one-third of households in Washington County below the ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) level, the loss of Great Meadow as a major source of employment and economic activity would be devastating. 

“At a minimum, we’re proposing that if the state does follow through on this plan, it should provide a dollar-for-dollar investment to offset the economic losses that the county and its community will face,” added Acquario.

NYSAC also questions the rationale behind the closure, as the facility houses many inmates with serious mental health and medical needs. Great Meadow also offers several programs and services that help rehabilitate the inmates and prepare them for reentry into society, such as vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and education. The closure would disrupt these programs and services, and potentially jeopardize the safety and well-being of the inmates and the staff.

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