Residents urge preservation of Clarkson (Rouse) Mansion; village says no demolition application filed

A large contingent of residents addressed the Board of Trustees on March 24 to urge steps to preserve the Clarkson (also referred to as the Rouse) Mansion, a historic property in Bayville. Speakers expressed concern about reports the current owner, UCP, may seek to sell the property and about the possibility of demolition or subdivision.

Bill Blier, citing prior conversations with trustees, urged the board to form a trustee-led committee to work with residents and stakeholders to find a solution that would prevent demolition. Jake, a high-school student who said he has researched local mansions, described the mansion as one of the last remaining historic houses in Bayville and urged conservation measures so future generations can see the building.

Multiple speakers suggested adaptive uses — including senior independent-living apartments, a hotel conversion, or other community-serving purposes — though trustees and staff noted current residential zoning could limit commercial conversions such as a hotel without a rezoning or variance. A resident noted a sign indicating the building contains 78 rooms, and other speakers described the building’s interior as being in poor condition.

Village staff told residents there has been no formal application for demolition or subdivision filed with the village; the building owner’s representative (UCP) has indicated they are exploring options but no permit or sale has been submitted to the village. Trustees reminded attendees that any substantial change — such as rezoning or a variance — would require formal application, public notice and review.

Residents also raised traffic and parking concerns tied to potential reuses, and urged the village to consider historic designation or other tools to protect the property. Trustees said they would monitor developments and work with stakeholders if formal proposals are submitted.

The village did not adopt any formal preservation measure at the meeting; attendees asked the board to consider more proactive outreach and possible committee formation to evaluate options if UCP moves forward with a sale or redevelopment plan.