Letter to the Editor: Let’s make Chappaqua Crossing a win-win for both town and developer

Monday, July 26, 2010
by Dan Papes

Town Supervisor Barbara Gerrard’s letter in regards to Chappaqua Crossing from last week, “Supervisor Gerrard on issues raised about Chappaqua Crossing in NCNOW letters and commentary,” NCNOW.org, July 16, 2010, was a straightforward and thoughtful communication to all of us.

It is time to end what has been several years of conflict over this project and to roll up our sleeves and start working cooperatively with the developer to ensure Chappaqua Crossing moves forward in a fashion that is a win-win for both the town and the developer.

It has been adversarial for so long, and what good has come out of it? I’m sure some will find an answer or two to that question, but the fact is had we sat down and worked together two years ago we would have saved both parties—the town and the developer, enormous consternation and expense. Instead of collaborating, we fought. And where are we now? The property is in limbo, tax revenues from it are disappearing, and we have fought not just with the developer, but also among ourselves, in unhealthy ways.

We should urge the Supervisor (as she seems open to doing) and the town board to work closely with the developer to match up our concerns and desires and establish a plan that protects and enhances the interests of the town and its citizens, and that allows the developer to succeed with their project.

Sincerely,

Dan Papes