This past Saturday, September 23, 2006, Orange County Legislators Bill Lahey and Tony Marino led a discussion with a lively crowd of concerned local citizens and taxpayers about the status of the site selection of the Newburgh OCCC Branch Campus.
Joshua Smith introduced the speakers and gave an overview of the history of the Orange County Community College Site Selection Committee, which was commissioned by the County to select the best site, but was never consulted for a final recommendation and has not been involved in this process since February 2006. Smith spoke about college enrollment trends, drawing from his professional expertise as a community college president and chancellor.
Antony Takahashi gave a presentation drawing from his expertise as a financial analyst, comparing the costs of the various sites. He based his analysis on the best information that is publicly available.
Carla Decker, President of the Newburgh Historical Society, read a prepared statement from the Newburgh Historical Society affirming its mission to preserve the historic nature of the streetscapes of Newburgh, which is its greatest asset.
Following the presentations the legislators spoke and fielded questions. There was overwhelming support for the Armory Site, and questions about why there has been no serious effort by our elected officials to make this site available sooner.
During the discussion two of the three City of Newburgh appointees to the siting committee expressed support for the Armory site.
Posted below are four short clips from the first hour of the informational meeting, in addition to the slides of Takahashi’s powerpoint presentation. Additional excerpts from the meeting, including further public comment and discussion at the end, will be posted shortly.
Joshua Smith presents background information on Orange County, New York’s demand for public higher eduction. Demographic shifts and lack of investment in maintenance has led to the present situation–major rennovation and investment in facilities is required in order to meet community needs.
Bill Lahey identifies the proponents of the Broadway site and explains why the project is behind schedule:
“I submit to you that what has delayed this project by six months is the fact that we’re tied up on this site that the legislature probably doesn’t want, by people who won’t give it up.”
Audience member expresses gratitude to Chairman Lahey for taking the time to “do the homework” necessary to determine the best site for OCCC.
Audience member questions Armory availability, and Chairman Lahey responds with his awareness of that status.
