In The Final Hour - There Are Legitimate Taxpayer Concerns Over The Tuxedo Farms Special Permit

Posted October 8, 2022
I read the October 6 article by Chris McKenna in the Times Herald-Record Approval nears for 1,600-home project in Tuxedo with last-minute conflict over school site and was inspired to share my point of view.

On September 24, I met with Superintendent of Schools Jeff White at George F. Baker High School. The purpose of the meeting was to educate me about the site donated by Related for an elementary school to be constructed by the School District. According to the Districts' architect, the proposed area is not buildable without millions of dollars in site preparation. I then asked Ken English, Town Supervisor, to meet with me to see if they supported the District's request for an alternative property. Ken said he would not comment until the Town Council receives their own consultant's analysis of the District's formal submission of concerns recently submitted.

Before the Council approves the Special Permit, the District hopes the Council and developer will work together to find an alternative property to build the new elementary school. Once the Council approves the Special Permit, the District fears it will lose its leverage. I believe this to be true and support the District's position because taxpayers will pay the expense if the developer does not convey a buildable lot. The Town Council may vote as early as October 12.

Don't hesitate to get in touch with your Town and Village elected officials and visit the School Board's website https://www.tuxedoufsd.org/ for more information. 

Thank you,
Mayor MAC