Question 3: One of the values of waterfront property is a water view. This is frequently obscured by an overgrown jumble of growth in non-disturbance zones. How would you remedy this so our waterfront property owners can enjoy their waterfront views?
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SOUTHOLD TOWN BOARD 2009 CANDIDATE ANSWERS (in alphabetical order):
Albie DeKerillis: Property that abuts the water is largely controlled by our well qualified trustees, and I recognize their input and experience on the issue. The owner of said property should have the right to control vegetation, as long as no native species are destroyed and there are no objections by the Trustees. There are competing interests at work, and we must insure that the property owner can enjoy their land, while maintaining balance with the environment.
Albert Krupski Jr.: As a Town Trustee for twenty years, I know that no waterfront parcels were created equal. Some areas should have large buffers between development and the water to protect the natural environment. Some areas are densely developed and so large buffers wouldn’t be necessary. The size and type of the buffer depends on what needs to be protected and how, not on lot size or a “formula.” That is why every site must be field inspected, because they are all so different.
Christopher Talbot: I would think non native growth should be able to be removed and would encourage the Town Trustees to adopt such a position. Additionally, responsible trimming of vegetation should be pursued to improve vista’s and sightlines. This could be achieved through the development of Best Management Practices (BMP’s) to be developed among town and state agencies. This is a project I look forward to working on with Trustee candidate John Bredemeyer.
Jeri Woodhouse: We live in a unique area surrounded by beautiful beaches, bays, creeks, and inlets and the L. I. sound – yet human actions have contributed to the degradation of our waters, decline in shellfish populations, destruction of eelgrass, and contamination from septic flow, pesticides, fertilizers and other pollutants as well as farm and road run off, and animal fecal matter. The primary purpose of non-disturbance zones is to limit human interference and to encourage naturally occurring growth to capture some of these contaminants & protect our waters from their ill effects. This does not mean, however, that landowners have no ability to limit what is described as “ an overgrown jumble of growth” however our primary purpose must remain the protection of limited potable water resources and salt water food sources. Guidelines need to be made available for property owners seeking to enjoy waterfront views without destroying our common waterways.
FISHERS ISLAND JUSTICE 2009 CANDIDATE ANSWERS:
Louisa P. Evans: Currently, in certain instances, property owners may trim overgrown vegetation in non disturbance zones with permission from the Trustees. I would look to the Trustees for a policy which would help waterfront property owners enjoy their view while at the same time promote the growth of trees.
Dan Ross: With regard to opening water views, I would consider developing guidelines for an informal, non-public hearing approach. I would suggest procedural approach would require that the matter be on the Trustee’s agenda at least one meeting before a vote taken on a recommendation. If the Trustees felt important environmental concerns were at issue the guidelines would direct the Trustees to require a full blown permit application. This approach was taken with regard to the necessity for site plan approval with regard to certain agricultural related proposals.
SOUTHOLD TOWN TRUSTEE 2009 CANDIDATE ANSWERS:
David Bergen: Once again, realistic and reasonable standards should be incorporated into the maintenance of non-disturbance areas. The current code calls for the establishment of a non-disturbance area when an empty piece of waterfront property is slated for development. A practice needs to be followed which supports the health and growth of established or indigenous trees. This practice should include the elimination of “choker” vines, stem the growth of harmful species such as poison ivy, bamboo or phragmites, and allow the property owner not just access to their waterfront, but allow them some type of vista to enjoy. The opportunity to enjoy a view and the establishment and maintenance of a non-disturbance area should not be mutually exclusive terms.
Other municipalities have developed programs where low vegetation and a tree canopy can be maintained, while an open area is allowed which allows for the permeation of cooling breezes and great views. There is no reason why this type of program should not be considered for Southold.
John Bredemeyer: Prudent trimming of vegetation should be allowed in all areas of the town to enhance views. I believe that such trimming would have negligible negative impacts on the environment; some impacts would be positive such as providing habitat diversity, flight corridors for birds of prey and light for under-story vegetation. Best Management Practices (BMP’s) should be developed among the Town and State agencies to create guidelines that will allow this sort of work with a minimum of red tape.
Jill Doherty: Non-disturbance areas play a very important roll in protecting our properties. As such they are put in Covenants and Restrictions of subdivisions as well as conditions on a Trustee permit and Zoning Board of Appeals permits. I think that communication between the various Town departments is very important in establishing a protected area that can be enjoyed by the home owner. Many areas have non-native and invasive plants that overrun other plants and habitat. With careful planning and care these areas can work as a non-disturbance area while maintaining its value to the property owner.
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Candidates for Trustee: Ed Harbes, Audrey Horton and Karl Spielmann did not respond to our questions. Candidates who did not respond before press time are welcome to add their answers below using the comment box. SoutholdVOICE members are also welcome to post their comments below. Please stay on topic and start new topics in the forum! Thanks.
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