Assemblyman Oaks Statement on Butler Correctional Facility

July 25, 2013

Assemblyman Oaks' statement follows:

Governor Cuomo's announcement Friday that he is proposing to close the Butler Correctional Facility by July of 2014 is the worst of news for the Town of Butler, Eastern Wayne County and our entire region. The economic impact on our region would be devastating. Butler already has the highest poverty rate in Wayne County, and this move would only add to the area's economic challenges.

I am concerned about job losses in the area as employees are forced to transfer to other prisons and move their families. The fallout could severely impact the tax base, hurting our schools and municipalities.

An empty prison campus would be a huge burden for the local community. The state has not been successful in helping other communities find reuse opportunities for closed prison facilities in other communities.

The correctional system has been involved in a process of downsizing over the past several years, and the Governor wants to close four more facilities next year, including the medium security facility in the Town of Butler. Any final decisions will have to be discussed and negotiated as a part of the 2014-15 New York State Budget. While this proposal may provide a way for the state to save money, these closings would be at the expense of some of New York's poorest rural communities. All options need to be considered before Governor Cuomo's proposal is further examined.

As I have only just learned of the Governor's plans, I will be working with Senator Nozzolio and local officials to develop a strategy and appropriate response to the Governor. I will do all I can to work on behalf of the local community.

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