A New York State-run facility for individuals with developmental disabilities has been without functional air conditioning for nearly three years, creating what a union leader described as “oppressive heat” for residents and staff. The Sunmount Developmental Center in Tupper Lake, operated by the state Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), has struggled with its cooling system amidst rising summer temperatures.
Public Employees Federation President Wayne Spence detailed the situation in a letter to state Director of Operations Jackie Bray, calling the issue a “serious, ongoing priority that demands immediate attention.” Spence stated he personally toured the facility and experienced the extreme heat affecting both staff and the vulnerable resident population.
During a statewide heat wave, temperatures in the region where Sunmount is located have reached into the upper 80s and low 90s, with heat index values climbing into the 90s. These conditions pose particular risks for Sunmount residents, who often have complex medical, psychiatric, and behavioral needs, including autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Ilana Slaff-Galatan, a psychiatrist, warned that the heat can increase the risk of seizures for individuals with these conditions, and that certain psychiatric medications can impair the body's ability to regulate temperature and respond to dehydration.
An OPWDD spokeswoman acknowledged the ongoing issues, stating the agency has been working to address failing central air conditioning or where it is not feasible due to aging infrastructure at Sunmount. She added that programming in affected areas has been adjusted to take place in cooler spaces, and portable units are being installed while permanent solutions are sought.
Spence urged Bray to provide an explanation for the prolonged lack of air conditioning, detail the steps taken to address it, and specify when a permanent solution can be expected.
The air conditioning failure is the latest concern for Sunmount, which has a history of allegations including abuse, neglect, falsified records, staffing shortages, and inadequate oversight. Public reports over the past decade have documented criminal cases involving employees accused of harming residents or covering up incidents.