Governor Signs Measure Sponsored by Senator Borrello Authorizing Sale of State-Owned Land at Cuba Lake

ALBANY, NY – Senator George Borrello announced that Governor Hochul has signed his legislation authorizing the sale of state-owned land surrounding Cuba Lake. The law clears the way for the owners of cottages and homes that surround the lake to purchase and own their lots, which are currently leased from the state.

“This achievement is a victory for the residents of Cuba Lake who want and deserve the opportunity to purchase the land that accompanies their homes, which they have cared for and enjoyed with their families for years,” said Senator Borrello. “The law will allow the Cuba Lake District to manage the administrative and financial aspects of the sales while also continuing its role in maintaining the lake. Both the state and lake residents will benefit from this long-sought change, making it a ‘win’ for everyone involved.”

The new law resolves an issue that has been the subject of discussion and negotiation since 1981 when the state established a special use district to manage the lake and eventually assume ownership of the land. However, efforts to move forward with acquiring the land stalled in the 1990s over legal issues concerning the location of several cottages on Oil Springs Territory. Despite that, interest in sale of the lands continued. 

Assemblyman Joseph Giglio, sponsor of the companion legislation in the Assembly, highlighted the cooperation of the state and local governments in reaching this agreement.

“The passage of this legislation is a prime example of local and state governments working together to achieve a goal. This bill, finalizing the sale of lands surrounding Cuba Lake by New York State, was requested by the community and the state responded. This is how our government is supposed to work, and I am pleased that we were able to see this legislation through to its passage,” said Assemblyman Giglio.

Proceeds from the sale will go into the Cuba Lake Management Fund, which will use the funds for maintenance and capital improvements. The dam and spillway will continue to be under the jurisdiction of the state and current public access points to the lake will be maintained for recreational use by the community.   

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