Concerns Over Proposed Golf Course Cottages in Riverhead
Residents of Riverhead are advocating for a reduction in a proposal that would allow golf courses to construct cottages on their premises, expressing worries about the potential for resort-style developments along Sound Avenue.
Proposal Overview
The town is contemplating a modification to its zoning code that would enable operators of standard 18-hole golf courses to build one cottage for each hole, aimed at boosting tourism and economic growth while still safeguarding farmland.
Mixed Opinions at the Hearing
During a recent public hearing, community members presented varied perspectives on the plan. Craig Vasey from Wading River argued that the cottages would not negatively affect traffic and would enhance the local tourism sector, stating, “Continuing to support our golf courses is the only way to go.”
Concerns About Development
Some attendees compared the proposal to short-term rental practices, voicing concerns over potential increases in traffic and noise issues. Others supported the idea but urged the town to make adjustments to prevent developers from taking advantage of the proposal for resort-like constructions. Kathy McGraw, a Northville resident, voiced this sentiment, suggesting that the board reconsider the plan entirely.
Town Planner’s Insights
In a Friday interview, town senior planner Greg Bergman indicated plans to revise the code and present it at a future work session. He expressed a willingness to add clarifications to the proposal to alleviate fears about resort-style developments emerging from the language currently in the draft.
Framework of the Proposal
This initiative is rooted in the town’s comprehensive plan, which suggests 600-square-foot, one-bedroom units on golf courses across all zoning districts. Following discussions, town officials decided to increase the size of the units to 1,200 square feet to accommodate families. Under the proposal, golf courses could employ farmland preservation credits to construct one cottage per hole.
Community Feedback and Environmental Concerns
Community members have also raised environmental issues regarding the potential impacts of this development. Barbara Blass from Jamesport acknowledged the creativity behind the preservation initiative but called for a more thorough examination. Meanwhile, Riverhead’s existing regulations currently forbid the use of preservation credits on golf courses, which adds to the complexity of the situation.
Next Steps
Riverhead town is inviting written feedback on the proposal until February 2. The town board will ultimately dictate policy and maximum unit sizes, while provisions may be drafted to limit attached units, thereby avoiding a hotel-like atmosphere.
