Sussman: “… a bought and paid for government …”
GOSHEN – The fate of the existing but dormant Orange County Government
Center could hinge on whether the County Legislature heeds a call to override
a vetoof a resolution that could have led to a sale of the structure to
a private developer.
Architect Gene Kaufman has proposed preservation of Paul Rudolph’s 40-year-old modernist structure, which some consider an architectural masterpiece, but has also been labeled a “monstrosity,” by turning it into a center for visual arts. It could include apartments for artists.
While not specifically endorsing the Kaufman proposal, attorney Michael Sussman said it the kind of concept the county should consider.
“We don’t have a process that’s reflecting the public will,” said Sussman, during a Wednesday afternoon news conference.
The issue is County Executive Steven Neuhaus’ veto of a legislative resolution that would have permitted the legislature to pursue what he calls a “two-building” solution: selling the existing structure to a private developer who would preserve most or all of the integrity of the building, and constructing a new government center.
That, he said, makes economic sense because the money saved with this plan could be used for much needed county infrastructure projects.
Sussman contends there are other issues going on besides what he sees as a common sense solution.
“The question then is was this veto bought and paid for by those who stand to profit from implementation of the plan, which now promises to cost, after bonding is complete, at least $40 million more than its alternative,” Sussman questioned. “Again, to me, it appears a prima facie case for collusion could be made out.”
He said that this raises the possibility of a suit, something he said could be avoided if the legislature votes to override the veto when it meets later today. An override is not on the agenda. The attorney also is not saying whether he is confident there would be the 14 votes needed for an override.
Sussman contends this is but one example of something he said is systematic in county government.
”The dynamic that’s permitting it to occur is a bought and paid for government, and that’s the problem that’s more pervasive and cuts across many issues.”
