The Multi-Family Housing Moratorium Is In Place
by Doug La Rocque
The local law that puts a stop on any new construction of apartment buildings or multi-family homes in Brunswick was approved at the Thursday, March 11 Town Board Meeting. Having been filed with the NYS Secretary of State, the six month moratorium is now in effect. A public hearing held before the meeting saw very few speakers, with most in favor of the legislation.
Town Councilman Mark Balistreri telling The Eastwick Press after the meeting, “density is a concern,” a sentiment echoed several times in the past year by the town’s Planning Board. He also said “it’s time to step back and take a look at our zoning,” particularly in light of the changes made four years ago and “any unintended consequences.”
The board plans to review their zoning laws, as they affect not only multi-family housing, but other areas of concern as well.
Heavy Trucks On Route 2
During public comment, there was a concern expressed about the number of large trucks on the road, and the speed at which they are traveling. This was brought up after a recent rollover accident in the western portion of the town. Supervisor Phil Herrington responded that the speed on the road is set by New York State (current 55 miles per hour), and that the NYS Department of Transportation (DOT) often tells him, when addressing both Route 2 and Route 7 concerns, “do you think you have the only problem spot in the state?” The Supervisor said the town can write another letter asking the speed be reduced, but it has not had any impact with DOT in the past.
It Would Behoove Hannaford To Cooperate
Water and Sewer District Supervisor Bill Bradley said he has been having some difficulties in obtaining the needed documents concerning Hannaford’s plans for storm water management for its recently proposed new store on Lord Avenue. He indicated its lack of cooperation could lead to unintended delays in the approval process for the store, something Hannaford appears to want to move on expeditiously.
Other Notes
There was concern about the landscaping operation now taking place at 414 Brunswick Road (NYS Route 2), the former Welch Farm. Some residents feel it is not a permitted operation under the town’s current zoning law, something Supervisor Herrington says he wants looked into.
The Brunswick Community Library has re-opened to the public, but on an appointment basis only.