Development News for Southold, New York

Resident Appeals Denial of First-Time Homebuyer Tax Exemption, Citing Unique Circumstances

Mike Figurney, a lifelong resident and homeowner in Mattituck, appealed to the Town Board regarding the denial of a first-time homebuyer exemption for the Peconic tax. He explained that he inherited the family home after his mother's death and worked to buy out his sister's share to continue living in the home he grew up in. Figurney stated he was not buying a new house for investment or vacation but to keep his only known home. He paid the tax under protest due to the inability to risk losing the property and asked the board to reconsider his circumstances. The town attorney, having experienced a similar situation, empathized but stated that based on state tax law and equal treatment, Figurney does not qualify, suggesting appeals to state representatives. The board agreed to keep an open mind and review the appeal further, acknowledging the unique circumstances.

Resident Continues Plea for Action on Noise Pollution from Strong's Water Club

A resident, Eric McClure, expressed ongoing frustration with noise pollution from live music events at Strong's Water Club in Windermere. He detailed persistent issues with loud bass and drums penetrating his home, even with closed windows and doors, and reported that police response to noise complaints was ineffective. McClure highlighted that these events occur frequently without requiring special permits, unlike other venues, and questioned why a condition for music not being audible beyond property lines was applied to some permits but not others. He urged the board to take action, suggesting a review of the town code and potentially implementing an entertainment permit similar to Greenport's more stringent regulations.

Residents Demand Greater Transparency in Broad Meadows Project and Town Operations

During the discussion of the Broad Meadows marsh restoration project, residents expressed significant concerns about a lack of transparency, citing private meetings and limited access to project information, including survey data. Tom Stevenson, representing the Oyster Farms Robin Gun Club, echoed these sentiments, stating that stakeholders like his club are not being adequately included and that a lack of transparency fosters distrust. He noted that official information often requires FOIL requests and that there is a perception of 'secret meetings' and 'ex parte communications' that bypass public discourse. Stevenson offered the club's facility for informational sessions and stressed the importance of prioritizing transparency and listening to constituents.

Town Authorizes Support Letter for Broad Meadows Marsh Restoration Grant Amidst Community Concerns

The Town Board authorized the Supervisor to send a letter of support for Ducks Unlimited's grant proposal to restore natural tidal flow to the Broad Meadows marsh. This action is part of a larger, ongoing project discussion. The board decided to table the resolution after hearing significant public comment and board member concerns regarding project transparency, scope changes, potential environmental and property impacts, and the need for more detailed information. The decision to table allows for further information gathering and public discussion before potentially committing to the project or the grant, with the possibility of the town applying for the grant itself if Ducks Unlimited is unqualified.