The Peru Gazette

“I was very surprised and disappointed to learn today of plans to close the Chateaugay Correctional Facility,” said Senator Betty Little. “My concern is for the correctional officers who would be affected and their families.  Without a doubt, the closing of a facility is a financial blow to them and the community.

“I’m working on gaining more details and what can be done to prevent the closure.  There are a lot of factors to look at including the security and safety of the system.  Also, the state has to weigh the financial impact on the community and the potential for reuse.  “Other regions of the state not only have a better capacity to absorb the economic impact of a closure, but the real estate is of much higher value. Camp Gabriels, abandoned in 2009, still sits mothballed.  And the 27-acre Lyon Mountain property just sold at auction to the lone bidder for the asking price of $140,000.”