12/16/2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lake Communities Alliance Celebrates Major Legal Victory in Avon Park Case – Calls for Continued Support to Protect Local Environment
ALT: Rock Hill Lake Communities Residents Win a Battle, but a Development War Looms
Lake Communities Alliance Celebrates Major Legal Victory in Avon Park Case – Calls for Continued Support to Protect Local Environment ALT: Rock Hill Lake Communities Residents Win a Battle, but a Development War Looms
Rock Hill, NY – In a major victory for local residents, the Lake Communities Alliance (LCA) announced today that the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division Third Judicial Department, has ruled in favor of the community, overturning approvals for the controversial Avon Park development project. The court’s 3-2 decision invalidates the negative declaration, site plan approval, and special use permit granted for the project, which was planned on a 550-acre property in the heart of the community.
The Avon Park project, which was initially presented as an expansive distribution center/ warehouse, was revealed to be a massive distribution center with plans for significant alterations to the local landscape, including the clearing of forests and the construction of sprawling infrastructure. Local residents raised concerns that such development would not only harm the environment but would also pave the way for further, expansive development that could fundamentally alter the character of the community.
In response, the LCA filed a legal challenge, arguing that the project lacked a comprehensive SEQRA (State Environmental Quality Review Act) assessment required by law to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of large-scale developments.
In addition to overturning the approvals for Avon Park, the court also ruled favorably on a related issue, remanding the sewer district referendum appeal back to the lower court Judge for further review. This decision recognizes the community’s right to referendum to allow registered voters to decide on the sewer district extension, provided sufficient valid signatures are confirmed.
“We are extremely pleased with the court’s decision, which is a major step forward in protecting the integrity and environment of our community,” said Steven Mogel, Esq., a past president of the Sullivan County Bar Association and the attorney representing the LCA. “This ruling confirms that the community has a right to weigh in on development that will affect all residents, and that decisions must be made transparently and responsibly.”
While this ruling is a significant victory, the LCA cautions that the battle is not over. The developer still has the option to appeal to New York's highest court, and ongoing legal efforts are required to ensure that future development in the area adheres to smart, sustainable practices.
The LCA is calling on all residents and supporters to help fund the continued legal work needed to protect the community and the environment.
So far, the LCA has funded thousands of dollars in legal fees through the personal donations of a small group of residents. However, more support is needed to maintain momentum and cover the costs of any future legal challenges.
“We are hoping for 100% participation from all residents to ensure that we can continue to stand up for responsible development in our community,” said Jessica Lansdale, LCA president. “Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference.”
How to Support the LCA: Residents and supporters are encouraged to visit the LCA’s website at rhlca.org to sign up for updates and to make a donation. Donations can be made via:
● PayPal: PayPal Link
● GoFundMe: GoFundMe Link
● Zelle: lakecommunitiesalliance21@gmail.com
● By Mail:
LCA
PO Box 881
Rock Hill, NY 12775
The LCA is committed to ensuring that future development in the area undergoes thorough environmental reviews and that it aligns with the community’s long-term goals of sustainability, responsible growth, and the preservation of the natural beauty that makes the lake communities so special.
Together, we can continue to protect the environment, quality of life, and character of our communities for future generations.
About the Lake Communities Alliance (LCA): The Lake Communities Alliance (LCA) was formed to protect the natural beauty, environment, and quality of life in our lake communities. The LCA advocates for responsible development that prioritizes environmental preservation and sustainable growth. The organization is committed to ensuring that all large development projects undergo thorough environmental reviews under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and that they meet the best interests of the local communities
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Media Contact:
Taryn Duffy 917-520-1968
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