 Sullivan County Democrat: Oct. 6, 2006 A Balancing Act To The Editor: The September 28th meeting of the Cochecton Planning Board was an admirable example of civic activity. Although there was confusion as to the purpose of the public hearing for the Catskill Homes Development, (which made it very clear that the procedures for the application and environmental review of proposed projects as established by town and state law must be closely followed), the Planning Board members permitted the Cochecton residents to voice their concerns. Members of Keep Cochecton Rural and other community residents opposed to the project presented information on numerous issues: increased traffic and noise: impact on water supply, waste disposal, ground water resources, and wildlife; the visual impact of a 42 home suburban subdivision in this rural community. Most significantly there was compelling evidence casting doubt on the accuracy of the developer's sketch plan map which would render the sketch plan useless for the purpose of determining the available land for development. The developer's representative, Marty Miller, chose to interpret the concerns voiced by the residents as opposition to all growth and development in Cochecton. He stated that people were coming to Cochecton whether the residents wanted it or not. Characterizing the issues in this way may serve the developer's interest but does not benefit the residents of Cochecton and diverts attention from the serious issues at hand. Between "No Growth" and a 42 home suburban subdivision there is opportunity for development in Cochecton. The town can accommodate new homes, new residents and even new commercial ventures. Growth and development does not require Cochecton to become a town of suburban subdivisions. The challenge facing the residents of Cochecton is how to balance preservation of the rural nature of the community with the pressure for development. Members of the Town Board and the Planning Board are key players in meeting this challenge and in providing the leadership to move Cochecton forward with out destroying the essential nature of the community. The zoning laws should be reviewed and revised so that growth is compatible with the size and density of the surrounding community.
Keep Cochecton Rural |