New York State Senator Rob Rolison continues his advocacy for the Spackenkill Union Free School District as discussions continue over the proposed Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement for IBM’s planned $2.5 billion Quantum Facility at its Town of Poughkeepsie campus.

Spoken at the public hearing and in a letter sent Monday to Think Dutchess Alliance for Business CEO and Executive Director Robin D. Mack and copied to Dutchess County Industrial Development Agency Chairman Mark Doyle and the IDA Board of Directors, Rolison urged those involved in the negotiations to carefully consider concerns raised by Spackenkill school officials regarding the proposed agreement.

School officials have expressed concern that the agreement, as currently proposed, will not keep pace with the district’s financial obligations and have advocated for a greater share to support Spackenkill students, faculty and families. The issue is also personal for Rolison, who grew up in the Town of Poughkeepsie and graduated from Spackenkill High School.

“I fully support this project. As discussions surrounding the PILOT continue, I respectfully ask the IDA and all parties involved to carefully consider the concerns previously raised by the Spackenkill Union Free School District. School officials have expressed concern that the agreement, as it currently stands, will not keep up with the school district’s financial obligations. The district believes the agreement should provide a greater share to support its students, faculty and families. 

IBM’s decision to make this historic investment in Poughkeepsie is an important opportunity for our region, as the economic development will have a lasting impact on Dutchess County and the Hudson Valley. This project and our community must succeed together.” his letter reads.