In February 2023 applications were submitted by the Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation for four potential sites to house two types of state prisons in Hempstead County. Two sites were to be considered for 1,000- inmate maximum security prison facilities, and two for smaller prisons. These applications were submitted on behalf of the residents and landowners of Hempstead County without seeking public comment outside of a small, select group. The larger sites were proposed for placement in rural areas of the county, and smaller sites owned by the City of Hope were also proposed for the smaller facilities.

All residents, landowners, and business owners in Hempstead County will ultimately be impacted by hidden costs that will fall on the county for long-term support of a facility located in our midst.

In addition to hidden costs, research shows the quality of life for residents in and around prison communities change in terms of increases in: divorce rates, alcoholism, substance abuse, suicide, health and mental well-being, family violence, as well as other crimes.

In short, the people of Hempstead County do not want a state operated prison facility of any size or type within our county and are in great opposition to any efforts made for one to be built here. We call for the removal of applications for all site locations submitted by the Hempstead County Economic Development Council.

The people of Hempstead County have a limited window of time where public comment can be made in opposition of placement of a prison in our midst. This petition is to serve people across the county, no matter their affiliated town or zip code, to stand together.