Senator Farley Announces State Legislature Recommends To Keep Mt. Mcgregor Open

The New York State Budget for fiscal year 2005-06 includes $6 million to keep Camp Mt. McGregor open, announced State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R,C - Schenectady).

"I am proud to have lead the fight to keep this minimum-security correctional camp in Wilton open," Senator Farley said. "The budget that is being passed by the State Legislature will include funding to keep this facility open for the fiscal year 2005-06."

The Executive Budget included a proposal to close Mt. McGregor, as well as to close or downsize other correctional facilities throughout the state. The recommendation was proposed in the Executive Budget in the last fiscal year, 2004-05, but was also defeated by the Legislature.

"Mt. McGregor is special in that the prison has long been a good neighbor in the community," Senator Farley explained. "Prisoners participate in numerous work programs at local governments and community organizations. People throughout Saratoga County benefit from these work programs, and the prisoners gain valuable work experience. The prison is an important part of our economy, and of our community."

Mt. McGregor has a budget of some $6 million, houses 300 inmates, and employs over 80 corrections officers and other employees.