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Ulster County lawmakers are voicing strong opposition to a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Chester, Orange County. Sixteen Democratic members of the Ulster County Legislature have sent a letter to Chester officials, urging them to reject the plan, which they believe would bring "shame and dishonor" to the Hudson Valley. The proposed facility involves converting a warehouse into a detention center as part of a larger ICE plan to house 80,000 immigrants nationwide.
Homeland Security's plan has faced significant backlash from local leaders, including Chester Town Board, Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus, and U.S. Representative Pat Ryan. According to Daily Freeman, the lawmakers' letter expresses concern that the facility could lead to increased ICE activity and extrajudicial actions in both Orange and Ulster counties.
State Senator Michelle Hinchey has also expressed her opposition, stating in a press release that the proposal is a "threat to the safety, values, and economic stability" of the region. Hinchey, along with other local leaders, has criticized the dehumanizing nature of the facility and its potential impact on local communities.
Congressman Pat Ryan has launched a petition against the facility, rallying community members to oppose the plan. Over 10,000 residents have signed the petition, highlighting widespread regional disapproval.