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Residents urge study and block four‑lot East Shore Drive subdivision, citing road, septic and environmental risks
Summary
Neighbors at a Town of Lumberland public hearing urged the planning board to require further review — including DEC approvals and an environmental impact check — before approving a proposed four‑lot subdivision on East Shore Drive that would widen a private dirt road and add year‑round homes near Mohican Lake. Speakers raised concerns about septic runoff, loss of trees and emergency access.
The Town of Lumberland Planning Board heard strong opposition at a public hearing over a proposed four‑lot subdivision on East Shore Drive, with multiple residents warning that converting a narrow private dirt road to a 20‑foot paved road would degrade neighborhood character and threaten Mohican Lake’s water quality.
“My husband and I own two properties on the Short Drive on Mohican Lake… Expanding this roadway into a 20‑foot paved road would dramatically and permanently alter the character, safety, and environment of our neighborhood,” said Margaret Garbernatley, a long‑time resident who asked the board to require an environmental impact study before any approval. Other residents cited the removal of mature trees and large natural boulders, potential erosion and stormwater runoff into the lake, and the proximity of steep, lake‑sloped building lots that increase sediment risk.
At the hearing, Scott of Fusco Engineering, representing the applicant Mohican Lake Friends LLC, said soils testing has been completed and conventional septic systems are proposed. He added that East Shore Road would be paved to town road standards and that a perpetual maintenance agreement would place road‑upkeep responsibility on the new lot owners. “There will be a maintenance agreement… the burden of maintaining that road will be forever on these four lots,” he said.
Residents questioned whether an HOA made up only of new owners would fairly govern a road used for decades by current, full‑time residents. They also raised emergency‑access concerns: several speakers said it is presently difficult for fire apparatus to negotiate a sharp turn near a culvert and asked how the town would ensure reliable passage by emergency vehicles if the roadway is altered.
Other commenters pointed to wetlands and DEC jurisdiction, asking the board to verify that all state environmental approvals have been obtained for both the roadway and building activity. Don Panetta, speaking for local lake users, said he doubted DEC would permit extensive work near wetlands without further study. Several speakers also warned that additional lakefront homes and boats would worsen seasonal overcrowding.
The board did not vote on the application. Members said they wanted time to digest public input and additional materials; the public hearing was left open and the board requested applicants supply clarifying plan language, driveway/centerline documentation, and proof of any required state approvals before the next meeting.
The planning board’s next steps include review of revised plans and comments from staff and the highway superintendent. The hearing remains open.
