May 12, 2023
On the New York City migrants situation, Schuyler County declared a state of emergency yesterday afternoon, in order to block the migrants from coming in.
“Schuyler County Legislative Chair Karl Blowers has issued an executive order that places the county under a Local State of Emergency that prohibits municipal programs from housing illegal migrants/asylum seekers,” county spokesperson Steve Getman said. “It also prohibits any hotel, short-term rental and motel in the county from entering into a contract to house them, or risk daily fines. According to Blowers’ order there is reason to believe that these migrants could be transported to Schuyler County, with no reason to believe they will leave. The order finds a potential emergency for the public with the threat of large numbers of people being transported to the county. The order notes that New York City Mayor Eric Adams has put in place plans to send illegal aliens to other areas and that Governor Kathy Hochul issued a May 9 Executive Order to boost support for asylum seekers. It also notes that Tompkins County, which borders Schuyler County is a sanctuary county, increasing the chances of migrants finding their way to Schuyler County.”
County spokesman Karl Blowers maintains that Schuyler County doesn’t have the appropriate services to take in large numbers of people, especially given its small population, and there is no legal basis to provide services to them through the Department of Social Services, the order states. “Under the order, anyone found in violation of the emergency rules may be liable for a civil penalty of up to $2,000 per migrant/asylum seeker per day, and could be found guilty of a Class B Misdemeanor. The Schuyler County Sheriff is authorized to issue appearance tickets for any violation and the County Attorney may commence civil lawsuits against violators as well.”
Both Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adas, are condemning the counties that are banning the migrants from coming in.
