Zoning decision leaves Wilmington condo project in question

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December 22, 2008

Space questioned for 36 units near beach

By JACOB RESNECK The Press Republican Sat May 15, 2010, 01:43 AM EDT

WILMINGTON — The future of a second-home project in Wilmington is in question after the Wilmington Zoning Board of Appeals denied a request that would have allowed as many as 36 condominiums near the town beach.

First Columbia, an Albany area developer, had proposed building townhouse-style condos on 9.8 acres off Fox Farm Road.

As the plan exceeded local zoning restrictions, developers had applied to the Zoning Board for a variance that would allow an increase in density.

"Our zoning would only allow 20 (units), and they were asking for zoning for up to 36 units," Wilmington Town Code Enforcement Officer Bob Guynup said.

But at a public hearing last month, some residents had turned out to express their concern on the neighborhood, especially the town-owned beach.

One of the most vocal critics was Larry Hegele, who owns a cabin resort next door. He said public outcry likely put the brakes on the proposal.

"I'm cautiously optimistic. I think this is a good thing," he said of the Zoning Board's decision.

The board voted 5-0 last week to deny the variance.

Zoning Board Chairman Thomas Hinman said there was concern on the board "whether or not the project fit."

An engineering firm retained by the town but paid for by the developer had also raised questions whether there was ample space for septic systems to serve 36 condos on less than 10 acres.

The developers will have the option of submitting a revised application, but it is unclear what the next step will be as First Columbia representatives have not returned repeated phone calls.

"We'll just see where it goes from here," Hinman said Monday.