Saratoga Standard

Senator Stec has expressed significant disappointment regarding the announced closure of Great Meadow Correctional Facility, scheduled to occur within 90 days. He criticized the decision as part of a broader trend he perceives in the state's criminal justice policies.

"I am extremely disappointed by the announcement that Great Meadow Correctional Facility will be closed within 90 days," Senator Stec stated. "Time and again, I’ve spoken out against prison closures and the continued dismantling of our criminal justice system. Today’s announcement is just another example of how our state continues to put criminals before law-abiding residents and law enforcement."

Senator Stec attributed the declining prison population numbers, often cited by the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) and the governor's office, to what he described as "lax criminal justice policies" and reforms. He specifically mentioned actions by the state parole board and bail reform measures.

"DOCCS and the governor’s office love to tout declining prison population numbers. But that number continues to decline because of lax criminal justice policies and 'reforms.' The state parole board continues to release murderers and other convicted violent felons back into communities, and bail reform has ensured that many people who are arrested are able to evade penalty," Stec remarked.

The senator also highlighted concerns about economic impacts on local communities due to prison closures. He pointed out that Great Meadow Correctional Facility provided approximately 650 jobs, while nearby Washington Correctional Facility only offers 75 positions.

"Meanwhile our communities are left with closed, vacant prisons that are slowly turning into blight. But there’s a major human element involved. Great Meadow was home to 650 good-paying jobs for residents in our region. Neighboring Washington Correctional Facility only has 75 jobs available. That means that nearly 600 jobs and families are likely leaving our community. This is a devastating social and economic blow to the area," Stec said.

Senator Stec urged reconsideration of the closure, advocating for alternative uses for Great Meadow Correctional Facility that could benefit local economies.

"Instead of closing Great Meadow and letting it fall apart at the expense of taxpayers, the governor’s office needs to do the smart thing and ensure that this facility can serve as a source of economic opportunity for the region," he concluded.