To the Editor:

As a long-time resident, from 1979, of 111 Helderberg Ave, I am concerned about the proposed plan to rezone a residential area to that of a commercial site for the purpose of expanding Stewart's Shop. My understanding is that the Village Comprehensive Plan took many months to create, thoughtfully considering those areas within our village that would be designated for commercial development.

As stated in that document, under the section “Vision of Altamont,” it foresees a community that is distinguished by a strong sense of place and identity, and a community which "...retains its significant country and village design and character...." That planning has allowed the village to support two gas stations, and six various eating establishments within the space of approximately two blocks, including the Stewart's Shop.

But now, the homeowner of 107-109 wants to sell his property to Stewart's Shop for its expansion. That house, supporting two families, would be gone from the neighborhood.

Rezoning is required and being considered. Is this the way of the future with business developments? Will more of our village fall victim to commercial creep? Will homes next to commercial sites be purchased and torn down with the intension of being sold to those businesses, as was apparently Mr. Peter Baumann's plan as he stated at the Village Board meeting?

I and others have many concerns, several being the increase in traffic with five streets meeting at that intersection, an increase in early morning and late night noise levels, and added lighting. Enlarged parking means more snow for removal with questions about runoff into the bordering creek.

And what about the current school bus pick-up and drop-off area near Stewart's? There are at least 12 young children within the Helderberg and Severson avenue area that will be attending the elementary school over the next several years. Will safety be an issue?

Additionally, there is the decrease in property values.

Altamont has a quaint and historic feel to it as one drives into town.

Will the enlarging of the village's commercial area to allow for a larger site for the Stewart's Shop enhance the beauty and historic features of our village? Will this and possible future rezoning attempts into existing residential areas allow for an erosion of the vision as set out in the comprehensive plan? I hope not.

Carol Rothenberg

Altamont