Roxanne Fisher challenges Red Hook boat club property acquisition at town board meeting

During the Red Hook Town Council meeting on May 13, 2025, community concerns took center stage as residents voiced strong objections to the proposed coastal assessment form (CAF) related to the acquisition of the Red Hook Boat Club property. Roxanne Fisher, a local resident, highlighted significant issues regarding the board's approach, emphasizing the need for a more transparent and community-focused process.

Fisher criticized the council for relying on outdated planning documents from as far back as 1993, arguing that these do not accurately reflect the current needs and demographics of Red Hook. She pointed out that the town is in the midst of updating its comprehensive plan, supported by a $100,000 grant from New York State, and questioned why the board was rushing to advance a major land acquisition before this critical update is complete. Fisher warned that moving forward with the acquisition could lock the community into a costly project that may not align with the town's updated vision.

Additionally, Fisher raised concerns about the timing of the agenda, which included the critical vote on the CAF referral just hours before the meeting. This last-minute notice left residents with little time to prepare their responses, undermining the transparency of the process. She noted that the board was set to vote on this matter just days before a public hearing scheduled for May 16, where residents planned to express their concerns about the boat club proposal.

Fisher urged the council to delay the vote until after the public hearing and to ensure that any waterfront plans align with the ongoing comprehensive plan update. Her call for a more deliberate and transparent approach resonated with the audience, reflecting a broader desire among residents for greater involvement in decisions that impact their community.

The meeting underscored the importance of community input and the need for the town council to prioritize transparency and trust in its decision-making processes. As the council moves forward, the implications of their decisions regarding the waterfront and land acquisitions will be closely watched by residents eager for a collaborative approach to Red Hook's future.