At a recent town meeting I observed some opposition to the possible acquisition of the Roslyn Country Club property mostly because of fears about its cost to the taxpayers. However, our represenatives are assuring us this will have little to no impact on the overtaxed tax payer. It will be revenue neutral because of an existing catering facility and membership dues.
I, too, am concerned about my taxes but I’m more concerned about this rare piece of property that has been let go and denied its use. I’m more afraid it will be lost forever to an overzealous builder who would love nothing more than collect his rent from the profitable caterer and never open the rest of this 10 acre parcel that was built for recreational use. Or maybe he would rather build more homes in this already suffering community that has already been overbuilt. The town would like to take this opportunity and turn this land back into recreational use to even more residents than in the past.
What is most troubling is these opposers don’t want the town to do something positive for its residents. I have three children who are mesmerized daily by television, the Iphone, the Ipad, the Itouch, the Wii, the DS shall I name more? I am not alone. We are all struggling to raise our children in this high tech society where texting and sexting are the new hobbies. We need more places where our kids can go and play in a safe, fun environment not fewer.
Seniors need more places where they can read, play cards, swim, exercise, and socialize. The town wants to provide all its residents with more places like this and people say no. I cannot understand why anyone wouldn’t support something so positive for our children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents and ourselves. I want to see my children and the neighboring towns be able to use the Roslyn Country Club which has been denied for the last 6 years. The infrastructure is already there, this is not a new project but one that will salvage a landmark.
The history of the Roslyn Country goes deep and has served this population for several generations. This reminds me of when people were so vehemently opposed to the construction of the East Hills Park which posed a signifcant tax burden on its residents. There were legitimate concerns. Look at it now, a wildly successful park which has had an extremely positive impact on its community. I don’t hear anyone complaining anymore do you? We are told the Roslyn Country Club project doesn’t force anyone to join or impose any new taxes. I, too, think this park would be highly popular and have an extremely positive impact on the quality of life of those who join. Build the park!
Rochelle Garnock
