The Orange County Legislature voted unanimously Tuesday to purchase the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center in Chester.
Legislators passed a resolution approving the purchase and the appropriation of $1,341,625.83.
County Executive Steve Neuhaus called the 21-0 vote a win for residents, one that will ensure the center remains accessible to the community for years to come.
The nearly 20,000-square-foot Performing Arts Center has hosted live music, theater productions, films and more for years. It sits on 8.77 acres and features a 689-seat main stage and a 260-seat outdoor pavilion.
“What I think the County can do is bring it to a level that it’s never been at before,” Neuhaus said Wednesday in a statement. “I want to see free movies for senior citizens, a successful film festival, more performances for all ages, and increased educational opportunities.”
County leaders say they want to revitalize the space and develop it into a regional destination.
The Town of Chester already approved the plan.
