Photo: JULIO CESAR AGUILAR / AFP / Getty Images
Amazon is set to receive over $80 million in tax breaks for a new warehouse in Orange County. The proposed 3.2 million-square-foot facility, located in the rural area of the county, aims to create over 750 jobs within three years of its completion. The county's Industrial Development Agency (IDA) approved the tax breaks in a 5-1 vote, with Amazon and Scannell Properties agreeing to pay about $48 million in taxes over 15 years under a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement, according to Times Union.
The tax incentives have sparked controversy among local officials and residents. State Senator James Skoufis criticized the deal, arguing it fails to create "high-quality, well-paying jobs" and could lead to employees needing public assistance. Skoufis also raised concerns about the environmental impact and the need for additional municipal services.
Amazon spokesperson Steve Kelly countered these claims, stating that average pay is increasing to over $23 per hour, with total compensation exceeding $30 per hour when benefits are included. The company also highlighted that fulfillment and transportation employees have seen their pay rise by 35% over three years, according to Amazon News.
Despite the tax breaks, the project still requires approval from the Town of Wawayanda. The Zoning Board of Appeals plans to hold a public hearing to further discuss the development. As the debate continues, some residents and officials remain divided on the benefits and drawbacks of Amazon's expansion in the region.