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Residents press Board on Elkay apartment plans, citing wetlands, traffic and oversight concerns
Summary
Multiple residents opposed the proposed Elkay apartment project and related developments, citing federal wetlands, endangered bats, outdated environmental studies and traffic impacts; the supervisor said planning-board review and escrowed consultant work handle environmental review.
A cluster of residents testified at the Town Board meeting June 8 to oppose the Elkay apartment project and other nearby developments, raising environmental and traffic concerns and asking how the town will review environmental-impact materials.
Nathaly Spilotros of Hy Vue Drive said residents had "poured over the scoping review document" and identified "red flags all over that review," citing five acres of federal wetlands, drainage issues and "an endangered bat species" on the site. She asked, "Who will be reviewing the environmental impact study on behalf of the Town when it comes out?" Supervisor Gilbert J. Piaquadio replied the Planning Board typically oversees review and that escrowed consultant funds pay for independent reviewers, adding, "We take no part in it here, at this board... It's really a Planning Board issue."
Other residents, including Anthony Cimaglia and Jane Gentilly, pressed the board to reconsider zoning and to coordinate the town's comprehensive plan with county guidance. Speakers warned that multiple proposed projects (Overlook Farms, Rockwood Drive subdivision, Gardner Ridge/Creek Run) concentrate new housing in North Plank Road/9W corridors and could aggravate congestion. Several asked the board to consider a moratorium or to demand up-to-date traffic and environmental studies before approvals.
Supervisor Piaquadio and Town Attorney Mark C. Taylor emphasized that planning-board procedures, escrowed consultant reviews and statutory processes govern impact reviews; the Town Board said it has authority over land acquisitions but generally defers planning-review functions. Residents said they would continue petitioning, fundraising for independent review and requesting additional public hearings.
