by David Flint
The Stephentown Town Board held a public hearing on Monday to hear what residents think about buying the property between the Town Garage and the Stephentown Memorial Library. Town Supervisor Larry Eckhardt reported at last month’s Town Board meeting that the owner of the property would be selling and wanted to give the Town the opportunity to make a first offer. The Board estimates the cost of purchasing the property and demolishing
the existing house would run between $100,000 and $115,000. According to Town Clerk Patricia Gallup, comments from about 13 people in attendance seemed to be about 50/50 for and against. Most wanted more information about what exactly the Town would do with the property. Thoughts from the public and the Board included making a small town park, having room for expansion of the Town Garage and providing parking space for the Library. There was some consensus, however, that if the Town Board opts to pursue the matter they should put it up for a referendum and let the people decide.