Pocantico Land Donation With 31 Homes Still Carries Environmental Risks
Opinion Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the author/producer’s interpretation of facts and data.
As a longtime resident of Mount Pleasant and former candidate for town supervisor, I am concerned that your Apr. 14 article, “County Advisory Board Recommends Exploring Pocantico Lake Purchase,” does not emphasize how important this land is to protect the current use of a county park.
Pocantico Lake Park is a Westchester County park enjoyed by people from throughout Westchester. I live six miles away, and during my last hike around the lake I met many people from all over Westchester enjoying the park. It is one of the few lakes in our area that has easy accessibility while its unique, tranquil setting makes visitors feel they are deep in the woods.
The proposed development, however, risks current enjoyment and recreational use of a county park. At a recent meeting, the town supervisor discussed a potential donation of land. Follow-up questions by residents clarified that the developer is still trying to build a 31-home subdivision, which many have argued will not only degrade the environment but also risk polluting a potential drinking water supply for all Westchester residents. The reference to a potential donation does not reduce the impact this proposed development will have on use of a county park.
Purchasing the park is important for everyone in Westchester. It would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to not only expand a county park that is used by thousands, but also protect current use of the park.
In my 48 years as a Westchester resident, I don’t ever remember the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Advisory Committee issuing a resolution recommending purchase of real estate for park purposes. This should be given serious consideration by our elected officials.
Joe Bonanno
Valhalla
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