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Town discusses taking surplus water‑district parcels for passive pocket parks
Summary
The board discussed taking five small wetland‑adjacent parcels from the Water District and using CPF funds to convert them into low‑maintenance pocket parks; members asked for appraisals, a CPF referral, DEC jurisdictional checks, and a site visit to estimate maintenance costs before any transfer.
The Red Hook Town Board discussed a proposal to accept several small parcels now owned by the Water District in the Linden Acres area and convert them into passive pocket parks, with proceeds or CPF (Community Preservation Fund) support used to help fund upcoming capital needs such as tank rehab.
Chair said the parcels have limited development potential, noted wetlands on parts of the parcels and suggested the next steps would include an appraisal and referral to the CPF committee. He framed the idea as "a couple of benches" and a low‑intensity resting area for neighborhood residents while emphasizing the need to evaluate the preservation and water‑resource benefits of the transfer.
Board members pressed for clarity on long‑term maintenance costs and whether the CPF’s 10% maintenance allowance would be sufficient; one member stressed that wetlands often require active management (e.g., invasive species removal) and recommended a jurisdictional determination by DEC to clarify buildability and value. The board agreed to schedule a site visit, request appraisals or a market assessment, and gather engineering/environmental guidance before any formal action.
