Orange County residents voice mixed reactions over Amazon Warehouse and Distribution Center project in public hearing
Some expressed concern of the proposed Amazon project and its requested 20-year PILOT—or payment-in-lieu-of-taxes request.
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In a public hearing on Tuesday evening, residents of Slate Hill and nearing communities had mixed reactions to a proposed 3.2 million-square-foot Amazon Warehouse and Distribution center in Wawayanda - and what it would mean for the community.
Some expressed concern of the proposed Amazon project and its requested 20-year PILOT—or payment-in-lieu-of-taxes request.
According to Sen. James Skoufis, the request would allow Amazon to avoid paying $102 million in taxes.
Amazon's net worth is at $2.2 trillion, according to the Associated Press.
In a statement, Sen. Skoufis said, "enabling this kind of corporate greed is something none of us should stand for."
Conversely, the Orange County Industrial Development Agency, also known as the I.D.A. says the project will bring in "750 permanent jobs, hundreds in construction, and $64 million in new tax revenue for schools."
The IDA also said the PILOT will help grant local EMS and fire companies with more than $12 million.
Some people were excited for the economic boost Amazon would provide, such as Middletown resident Joan Gaston.
"This area is a little depressed and we need more commercial influx. I'm hoping it will create jobs in the area...in the neighborhood...it's all positive in my opinion," said Gaston.
Others flat out opposed the project.
"There are anti-trust violations, there are labor violations, there are safety violations. A company like this should never be supported by hardworking people in this county," said Orange County executive candidate, Michael Sussman.
At this time, the ID.A confirms Amazon is looking for other options if the "deal does not suit them," and stated earlier Tuesday in a statement that nothing has been approved at this time.
