Dutchess County Legislature Opposes Proposed Federal Immigration Detention Facility in Chester

Poughkeepsie, NY - At its March Board meeting, the Dutchess County Legislature passed a resolution opposing the proposed federal immigration detention facility in the Town of Chester. The resolution passed 20-0 (5 absent) with unanimous bipartisan support, and cites concerns around due process, transparency, and potential impacts 
on public health, infrastructure, and community stability. 

Chair Yvette Valdés Smith stated, “Tonight, the Legislature issued a powerful and  unified rebuke of federal immigration policy. I was proud to join my colleagues on  both sides of the aisle to stand in solidarity with Orange County in opposing this facility and to reaffirm Dutchess County’s identity as a welcoming community. While federal leaders fail to live up to the ideals enshrined in our Constitution, this body voted to recognize the rights and dignity of all people, and will continue to resist any effort to violate the liberties which define our nation.” 

“Dutchess County is a welcoming community, and we are proud of that,” said Legislator Anna Shah (District 5). “But we are also a Legislature that takes our responsibility to govern very seriously. This resolution makes clear that we will stand up  for constitutional principles, community stability, and the promise of liberty and justice for all that we commit to every time we pledge our allegiance to the American flag. There is no controversy; we stand for humanity and the rule of law." 

Legislator Chris Drago (District 19) said, “Dutchess County does not want an ICE Mass Detention Facility or increased ICE activity.  When law-abiding Dutchess County residents are abruptly taken by ICE, the harm extends beyond the individual, causing trauma to children and families and the destabilization of local businesses. Our priority is public safety, which means all our neighbors are safe in their homes and communities, able to travel without fear, work, and raise their families.”

Building on these points, Legislator Lisa Kaul underscored the urgency: “Let's be clear about what is happening: Illegal incarceration without due process. People are being held indefinitely, with no legal protection. There is no oversight. There is no accountability, and people, including children, are dying inside from lack of medical care and outright physical abuse. There is only one way to stop this: prevent it from happening in the first place.” 

For more information about this resolution or upcoming legislative meetings, please visit dutchessny.gov or call the Dutchess County Legislative Offices at 845-486-2100.