What Happened at the Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting?
January 16, 2008

I attended the Zoning Board meeting in order to see what others thought about the new proposed Artspace Project. A local resident was opposed to the “height” portion of the zoning request; another raised a question about parking. The dissenting residents represented about 15 percent of the people that addressed the Zoning Board.” The majority of Patchogue residents that addressed the Zoning Board were not only in favor of the project, they were adamantly in favor of allowing this project to go forward, without restriction.

One resident spoke from first hand experience about the “Buffalo, NY, “Artspace Project.” He stated that the “Arts Community,” had a positive effect on the area, resulting in an increase in property value.

The focal point of the complex is a Seventy Five foot tower that should have a view of the Great South Bay, and possibly the ocean. The ultimate use of the tower space was intentionally left undefined, giving the “Artist Community,” some room for creativity.

I could visualize a “Wine and Cheese Reception” in the “Tower Room;” the same type of event that the Southampton residents have on their Subway Platforms! We must "just be sure" that we do not allow an artist from Milan Italy to display his “Light Bulb Artwork!” Would I like to attend a Chamber Music Concert, while enjoying Coffee and Pastry, in an outdoor plaza? Absolutely!

The details were being considered by the Zoning Board, but the ultimate decision to allow the Art Space Project to go forward, is up to our Mayor and Trustees.

It was obvious to me that Eighty Five Percent of the people that spoke at that meeting, were really excited about the new possibilities that would “open up” through acceptance of this project.

I saw, genuine enthusiasm, in the faces of the Patchogue Residents that attended that meeting. I am in favor of the project, and am looking forward toward forthcoming cultural events, that will blossom from this Artspace Project.

Send your comments to the Maple Avenue Neighborhood Watch, via Email at davispark2000-manw@yahoo.com You could also click "Comments {below}," then Click "Anonymous." Type your message, and then click "Publish Your Post." Names, Addresses, and Telephone Numbers will not be published; text may be paraphrased, to facilitate anonymity.

If you would like to be informed of future Neighborhood Watch activities, meetings, and area problems, please send your name and Email address via the comment box described above. This information will remain confidential!

Our thanks to Google, and Blogger for Hosting our site!