Dear Sound Shore Neighbors,

In response to a number of requests, I want to share with you my views on the proposed rezoning of the Hampshire Country Club grounds in Mamaroneck.

As a concerned citizen, I stand in opposition to the current Hampshire Club proposal. That said, please understand that as your County Legislator, I would have no jurisdiction over this issue, which is largely a Village of Mamaroneck matter.

What is being proposed?

In essence, the current owners of the Hampshire Club want to build a large condominium complex (120+ units) with extensive underground parking. To this end Hampshire must ask the Village to rezone the property to permit high-density development.


Environmental concerns

As anyone who has walked, biked, golfed or driven through the property knows from personal observation, Hampshire is subject to chronic flooding. There was even a drowning death on the property during the Nor'easter of 1992. Since the proposed condo complex is at the heart of the flood-prone area of the property, it would provoke even more dangerous flooding in future storms.

Preservation of community character

Some of the property in question is in a Marine Recreation Zone. If Hampshire's rezoning were allowed, other waterfront properties along Boston Post Road might be at risk, depriving our entire Sound Shore community of our unique and treasured marine and recreational assets.

Fiscal implications

Even though the developer contends that the project will generate revenue for the community, the development will inevitably further burden municipal and school services resulting in a net cost to both the Village and the Town of Mamaroneck. That could necessitate a hike in school, village and Town taxes. Clearly this is not a desirable outcome.

Further information about the Hampshire proposal may be found on the Mamaroneck Coastal Environment Coalition website: http://www.mamaroneckcoastal.org

Please feel free to contact me if you have further questions on this issue.

Thank you.

Catherine Parker,

Your Candidate for Westchester County Legislator