The Peru Gazette

State Senator Dan Stec News Release of 6/5/25 – A constitutional amendment sponsored by Senator Dan Stec (R,C-Queensbury) to facilitate the sale of Camp Gabriels in the Town of Brighton in Franklin County passed the state Senate today. Senate bill S548 enables the property to be sold or leased and ensures that the funds from the sale go toward forest preserve acquisition in the Adirondack Park. This is the fifth consecutive year Stec’s legislation has passed the Senate and still awaits first passage in the Assembly.

            Passage of this legislation in both houses of the Legislature this year is the necessary first step in making the amendment a reality. It must pass both houses this year, and again in 2027 or 2028 during the new Legislative Session before it can be eligible for voters.

“The continued dormancy of the Camp Gabriels facility has had a negative impact on our local economy and quality of life,” Stec said. “If we’re serious about repurposing closed prisons and using them as economic drivers, a constitutional amendment to facilitate the sale of Camp Gabriels is necessary. Passing it removes this financial liability from the state and helps our region move forward on projects to generate the jobs, revenue and economic activity we’ve needed in Franklin County since Camp Gabriels closed in 2009.

“In addition to the economic potential, this amendment ensures we continue forest preservation in the Adirondack Park for years to come,” he continued. “I’m hopeful that the Assembly will also take action this year, as it is the vital next step in bringing this amendment to voters and ensuring this site can improve our region.”