BY: Keith S. Shikowitz
HAVERSTRAW, NY – The first regular meeting of the Haverstraw Town Board for 2025 commenced with a ceremonial moment as George Coffinas was sworn in as Haverstraw Town Justice. Following this, the board tackled an extensive agenda with 40 items, focusing primarily on key infrastructure and development projects in the town.
Investment in Recreational Facilities
Among the most significant financial commitments approved during the meeting were allocations for two major town-owned properties:
- Haverstraw Recreational Complex: The board approved a $6.5 million capital project funding for the ongoing expansion and enhancement of the complex, referred to as Phase III of its development. While specific improvements were not detailed, the investment signals the town’s commitment to providing high-quality recreational facilities for residents.
- Phillip J. Rotella Golf Course: An additional $280,740 was earmarked for improvements to this well-used public golf course, ensuring continued maintenance and upgrades.
These allocations reflect the town’s priority in maintaining and improving community amenities that serve both residents and visitors.
Public Discussion on Chair Factory Redevelopment
The meeting took an important turn during the public comment section when Angela Huneault, representing the development company proposing a project at the Chair Factory site in the Village of Haverstraw, addressed the board. The Chair Factory redevelopment is a proposed mixed-use project by MPACT Collective, that includes a substantial number of new housing units.
Town officials voiced serious concerns about the project, particularly in relation to its potential impact on Haverstraw’s housing density and affordability landscape. Supervisor Phillips emphasized the town’s long-standing leadership in providing affordable housing within Rockland County but raised questions about the sustainability of additional subsidized units.
One of the primary concerns is that while the developer has committed to prioritizing local residents in housing allocations, federal grant requirements necessitate broader outreach across multiple counties. This has led to skepticism among town officials regarding whether the housing will genuinely benefit Haverstraw residents as intended.
Debate Over PILOT Agreements
A critical issue raised during the discussion was the proposed Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT) agreement for the project. The developer initially sought a 44-year tax reduction agreement, later negotiating it down to 34 years. However, this still sparked debate among town officials about whether the extended tax breaks would place an undue financial burden on the town’s taxpayers.
The PILOT agreement aims to incentivize development, but officials questioned whether such a lengthy period was fair to other residents who continue to pay full property taxes. The town remains cautious about long-term financial commitments that might disproportionately benefit developers while impacting public services and budgets.
Impact on Local Schools
As the town evaluates the potential effects of the Chair Factory project, local school district officials were also drawn into the conversation. North Rockland School District Superintendent Dr. Kris Felicello provided insights into how the influx of new housing could affect student enrollment and school capacity.
The district is monitoring its available space but remains concerned about a sudden increase in student numbers. While North Rockland schools currently have sufficient capacity, officials are wary of scenarios where rapid population growth forces costly expansions, increased staffing, or even structural changes like split sessions.
With multiple developments in progress throughout the town, including hundreds of new residential units, the district is actively negotiating its role in the PILOT agreements to ensure that schools are adequately funded and not left shouldering financial shortfalls from reduced tax revenues.
Looking Ahead: Next Steps for the Project
The town remains divided on how to proceed with the Chair Factory project. Officials are waiting for further input from the school district before making a final decision. Supervisor Phillips stressed that any new agreement must balance economic development with community needs, particularly in housing, taxation, and education.
The next steps will include:
- Further negotiations between the town, school district, and developers to find a mutually beneficial solution.
- Additional review of financial implications, particularly concerning tax incentives and housing distribution.
- Continued public engagement, with residents encouraged to provide input at future town board and school district meetings.
Community Concerns Continue to Shape Policy
The meeting highlighted how Haverstraw officials are navigating the challenges of economic development while preserving the town’s financial and infrastructural stability. With a history of embracing affordable housing, Haverstraw now faces a critical decision on whether further expansion will serve the best interests of its residents.
As discussions continue, town officials and residents alike will watch closely to see how negotiations unfold, determining the future landscape of development in Haverstraw.
Stay tuned to Rockland News for updates on this evolving story.