In a recent government meeting, legislators expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed $1 million allocation for the construction of a new building at Camp Herlick, known as Schweiger Hall. The discussions highlighted a lack of clarity about the building's purpose, funding sources, and its connection to school safety initiatives.

Legislators questioned the necessity of the building, emphasizing that it is a camp rather than a school, and sought to understand how the funding aligns with public school safety measures. One legislator pointed out that there was insufficient information provided prior to the meeting, expressing frustration over being left out of discussions that led to the proposal being placed on the agenda.

The building, which serves as a dining hall and a base for school-age programs, has been in disrepair for years, with previous attempts to fund repairs resulting in high bids and no acceptable offers. The current proposal aims to partially fund the construction of a new facility, with estimates suggesting the total cost could exceed $1 million. Legislators were particularly concerned about the absence of a detailed plan, including the overall project cost, design specifics, and the timeline for completion.

The meeting also revealed that the camp is expected to cover any costs beyond the initial $1 million allocation, but questions remained about the camp's financial capacity and the potential for private donations to support the project. Legislators emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan and clear responsibilities before committing taxpayer funds.

As the discussion progressed, it became evident that the timeline for utilizing the allocated funds is pressing, with a deadline for encumbering the funds by the end of the year. However, the project’s approval hinges on obtaining necessary permits from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which could delay the process further.

The meeting concluded with a call for more detailed information and a clearer understanding of the project's implications for both the camp and the local community, as legislators grappled with the balance between urgent funding needs and the necessity for thorough oversight.