The public hearing on the housing complex at 2 Mohonk Avenue will continue Tuesday, February 10 at 7pm at Village Hall. We are concerned this project has numerous violations in its design and execution resulting in buildings that risk New Paltz’ financial position, as well as, the lives of students living at the complex and our Fire Department.

— How do fire trucks access the buildings at 2 Mohonk Avenue?

— Why do these buildings not have sprinkler systems to comply with NYS Fire Code considering their height and stick-frame construction?

— Who pays for a lawsuit if someone dies at a housing complex that appears to have been constructed in violation of state and local laws?

— What happens to an R-2 zoned neighborhood when an R-3 sized housing complex is jammed in requiring outsized police attention and potentially compromising neighborhood character and area property values?

We are appealing the certificates of occupancy and compliance for 2 Mohonk Ave because code enforcement is essential to maintain and preserve 1) community character and 2) our tax base. Local zoning regulation (§212-4) clearly includes the following:

• “To encourage the most appropriate uses of land in the community in order to conserve and enhance property values.”

• “To prohibit uses, buildings or structures which are incompatible with the character of development or the permitted uses within specified zoning districts.”

New Paltz must insist that all development abide by our existing laws or we run substantial risk of permanent, adverse effects to our community, neighborhoods and residents’ safety. These provisions were established to preserve and protect while responsibly allowing for and anticipating growth.

Please join us and share any concerns during public comment at Village Hall on Tuesday, February 10.

Sincerely,
Tim Rogers, Theresa Fall & Terry Dungan