By Eileen Gallagher
Feedback from the public and town board precipitated a change in plans for the property formerly owned by the Legionaries. During last week’s town board work session, Steven Oder of Soder Realty described his new proposal as a closed residential community known as “Rosehill.”
David Steinmetz, attorney for the developer, categorized Rosehill as an “exclusive, singular multi-family residential project.” Construction will cover virtually the same footprint, but with a significant reduction in traffic and about 25 to 30 percent less septic usage.
Oder delineated the changes using newly drawn plans. Gone are the spa and hotel; instead, 40 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom units with no age restrictions are on the table. In addition, there would be a smaller fitness center, 75 seat theater, and pool. According to Oder, the old Billy Rose estate and chapel would remain in place, and no building would be of a height greater than the estate, which he estimated to be 46 feet.
When asked by Lisa Katz, board member, about the visibility of the proposed community to residents of Tripp Street, he responded that he would “landscape the dickens out of it.”
Board member Elise Mottel mentioned the tennis courts, inquiring if they would be lit. Oder replied, “if it bothers people, then no.” In addition, he assured the board that the property would be “pristine,” and that he would mitigate any issues for neighbors.
Steinmetz asked for an acknowledgement that this plan is something that his client should pursue, so as not to waste time and money. Board member Jason Chapin reminded him that it is not up to the town board to agree or disagree with the project. “We rely on the planning and zoning boards.”
