HomeMy WebLinkAbout20190604 Cluett House Bed and Breakfast Correspondance (17) October 15, 2019
City of Saratoga Springs Planning Board
City Hall 474 Broadway
Saratoga Springs, New York 12866
Re Objection to Robin Lauder, LLC Permanent Special Use Permit—2 Clement Ave
Dear Mr. Torpey:
At the recommendation of the Board, a meeting was held on September 29th at 2 Clement Ave. We
approached the meeting with an open mind as did the other seven neighboring families in attendance.
We felt confident that unity was possible by suggesting a couple of options available to the owners.
The owners emphasized that the home was purchased for the purpose of converting it to a business that
would potentially afford them an early retirement. The neighbors welcomed the family to the
neighborhood with open arms and suggested the possibility of moving into the home as resident
neighbors. This was rejected, since they found the neighborhood noisy,traffic busy, and unsafe to raise
their young family. They preferred their safe, peaceful and secluded neighborhood near the lake. They
sent a clear message that they will continue to run the B & B one way or another as long as it is not in
their backyard. Yet they continue to seek permission to add a burdensome layer of the unacceptable
and undesirable elements into our neighborhood!
As a possible resolution, and for the peace of the neighborhood, a neighbor stepped up and offered to
purchase the property. This was immediately rejected,without consideration, on the basis of pursuing
corporate goals and feeling confident that they will be granted. We were then told if there continues to
be no movement from the neighbors,we can expect the same behavior concerning future rentals.
Keeping in mind,this gathering followed a disturbing 3 day rental consisting of excessive noise,traffic
and partying with strangers coming and going all hours of the night.
Therefore,we ask the Board to reject this proposal for the following reasons:
• Negative effect on property values{confirmed by comments from applicant) as well as the
marketability of these homes especially since the Board of Realtors is looking to mandate a
disclosure within so many feet of a B & B.
• This is a unique historic neighborhood and gateway to the North Broadway National Historic
site,where the majority of these homes have remained single family residences for 150 years.
• This will set a precedent, since there are no B & B's approved in a UR1 zoned neighborhood,
which will eventually create a domino effect.
• Overwhelming opposition from the neighbors.
• Corporate agenda with no communication or regard for the safety and concern of the
community and fellow neighbors.
Respectfully,
Catherine &John Benequisto