State Senator Patty Ritchie met with North Country lawmakers Wednesday in Albany to discuss her plan to return unused land at the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center back to the community to be used for economic development and job creation. 

From the Senate, attendees included Senator Betty Little and a representative for Senator Joe Griffo.  From the Assembly, attending the meeting were Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, Assemblyman Marc Butler, Assemblywoman Addie Russell and a representative for Assemblywoman Janet Duprey.

On Tuesday, Senator Ritchie formally introduced legislation (S.6661) to facilitate the transfer. The plan is supported by the St. Lawrence County Board of Legislators, Ogdensburg City Council and the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center Task Force.

In addition, lawmakers also discussed legislation to support the growth of the wine and grape industries in St. Lawrence County.  Under legislation sponsored by Senator Ritchie (S.6321), the “St. Lawrence County Wine Trail” would be established in an effort to put local wineries and vineyards on the map, boost local business and create jobs in the region.