“Yesterday, Gov. Hochul announced the launch of the ‘Prison Redevelopment Commission’ which is tasked with finding innovative ways to redevelop and repurpose closed facilities. The commission is consisted of a 15-member panel, with one big problem. Not a single member on the commission is from the North Country.

“How is the commission going to do right by North Country residents if we do not even have a voice at the table? The governor has shown a callous disregard for our area’s correctional facilities and employees through her 90-day prison closures—an extension of a misguided policy from her predecessor.

“We have just recently seen facilities closed at Watertown and Ogdensburg, which displaced hundreds of correctional officers and their families. Closures in 90 days are a disservice to law enforcement, their families, the local economy and even inmates who are transferred to over-packed and dangerous facilities.

“Before the commission proceeds any further, I am calling on the governor to add a North Country representative to the panel, immediately.”