 Sullivan County Democrat: Oct. 20, 2006 To The Editor Re: Letter from Grace Segrell In Grace Segrell’s letter to the editor pleading for her neighbors’ understanding Mrs. Segrell does not deny the information describing the flaws in the developer’s sketch plan map. As the owner of the property, one would think, Mrs. Segrell would know the boundaries of her property. Further she clouds the issue by her unfounded accusations of trespassing. Although it was stated in the meeting that some information was obtained from horsemen and hunters who had been on the property there is no evidence that they were there illegally. In fact most of the evidence presented at the meeting was obtained from comparing maps available to the public with the developer’s map. The opposition to the development does not object to Mrs. Segrell selling her property and indeed shares her concerns regarding property taxes. Residential development is more costly in terms of community services and the likelihood is that, given the size of the New Turnpike Road project, the taxes of Cochecton residents will be increased if this project goes through. The opposition is also not asking that Mrs. Segrell preserve her property for the pleasure of a few. This is not a case of a small land owner objecting to a property sale because the view from the front window will be destroyed. This development will have a profound negative effect on the community. Although Mrs. Segrell’s situation does elicit sympathy her solution is to permanently alter the environment and essentially destroy the rural community surrounding her land. It is difficult to reconcile her request for understanding from good neighbors with her actions.
Jane M. Roth |