Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus announced that the Orange County Legislature voted 21-0 on July 1st to approve the County's purchase of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center, advancing Neuhaus's proposal to preserve and enhance this long-standing cultural asset.

The vote follows the Town of Chester's earlier approval of the plan and reflects strong bipartisan support for strengthening arts, education, and community life throughout the County.

"This is a win for our residents," said Neuhaus. "I want to thank the Legislature for their support and the Town of Chester for partnering with us. The Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center is a cherished part of our community, and now we're ensuring it remains a vibrant and accessible space for years to come."

Added Town of Chester Supervisor Brandon Holdridge, "I'm happy to see the high interest from the County Executive and overwhelming support from the County Legislator in the purchasing of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center. I'm looking forward to their formal proposal and working with them in a productive way moving forward. This could be a great opportunity for Chester residents and Orange County as a whole."

In terms of future uses for the Center, Neuhaus stated, "For decades I have seen and enjoyed what the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center had to offer to the public. What I think the County can do is bring it to a level that it's never been at before. I want to see free movies for senior citizens, a successful film festival, more performances for all ages, and increased educational opportunities. We are going to do everything that we can to make sure that it keeps its iconic charm, while at the same time expanding its potential for the public to enjoy."

Under County ownership, the Center will be revitalized and developed into a regional destination for live performances, educational programming, and community events. The venue will also provide new opportunities for collaboration with schools and local organizations.

"This investment is about more than preserving a building, it's about enriching the lives of our residents," Neuhaus added, "Just like our parks and museums, performing arts centers serve as vital community anchors. They stimulate our economy, foster creativity, build connections, and help define the identity of our County."

Support for the County's purchase of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center from the Town of Chester came from leaders in the County's Business, Education, Tourism, and Trades industries.

Kristine Young, President of SUNY Orange, said, "I believe County ownership of the Arts Center would unlock new ways for the College and the County to work together in service to our shared community. I welcome future opportunities to explore how we might make thoughtful, mission-aligned use of the Center moving forward."

Said Deborah Mc Bride Heppes, Chief Operating Officer of OUBOCES, "The SLPAC could serve as a vital resource for school districts across Orange County. In particular, OUBOCES sees immense potential in utilizing the facility for our Digital Film Academy, which currently lacks access to a professional venue for showcasing student work. The Center would provide students with real-world exposure and hands-on experience in a professional arts environment, something that cannot be replicated in a typical classroom."

"The acquisition is a forward-thinking step in enhancing Orange County's cultural appeal and strengthening the regional tourism industry," said Stephanie Johnson, Vice President of LEGOLAND New York Resort. "I support leadership making this vision a reality."

Heather Bell, President and CEO of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce stated, "Investing in the SLPAC is an opportunity to preserve and enhance one of the County's most iconic venues, while expanding access to arts, education, and entertainment for residents and visitors alike."

"This project represents a unique and impactful investment in both our local economy and cultural infrastructure," said Todd Diorio, President of the Hudson Valley Building and Construction Trades Council. "By purchasing and revitalizing this historic venue, the County has the opportunity to create good-paying union construction jobs, promote long-term economic development, and reinvigorate community engagement through the arts."

Located in the Hamlet of Sugar Loaf in the Town of Chester, the Performing Arts Center has hosted concerts, theater productions, film screenings, and public gatherings for years. The facility sits on 8.77 acres and includes a nearly 20,000-square-foot building with a 689-seat main stage, a 260-seat outdoor pavilion, and ample on-site parking.

For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected].

To stay informed about County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus' work and initiatives across Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on social media:

• Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus
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You can also watch NeuCast podcasts and the Leadership Speaker Series on the Orange County Government YouTube channel.