Mount Vernon planning board presses for independent environmental review as neighbors oppose two‑lot subdivision at 55 Pondfield Parkway

On Sept. 9, 2025, the Mount Vernon Planning Board heard extended public comment and argument on an application by Mad Properties LLC to subdivide 55 Pondfield Parkway — a 20,000‑square‑foot lot — into two 10,000‑square‑foot parcels and later construct one single‑family home on each new lot. The board did not vote to approve the subdivision and instead instructed staff to pursue a limited independent environmental review and to gather related municipal records before taking a formal action.

Neighbors urged the board to require independent studies and more review because of concerns about bedrock removal, stormwater and sanitary infrastructure, demolition‑stage hazardous materials and proximity to Hunt’s Woods and Laurel Brook. The applicant’s attorney, Mark Blanchard, told the board the proposal is for two zoning‑compliant single‑family lots and argued many issues would be regulated through building‑permit reviews. Community counsel and several residents countered that the application’s supporting materials were incomplete and that independent analysis was needed.

The board’s discussion focused on what specialist work La Bella — the firm the city council previously authorized — should perform. Planning staff and board members…