By Dana Williams
The new date was announced at the town's public hearing on Nov. 13.
According to town officials, the date had to be changed because approval of the plan requires a super majority - five of seven board members in favor - and not all of the members were able to attend the meeting.
"We are very disappointed that the meeting didn't take place," said Rosalie Norton, president of the West Hempstead Civic Association. "Residents took off that day to make their voices heard ... and I just hope they can get the new day off, because it's so close to the holiday."
The Urban Renewal Plan is the product of a months-long study by the independent consulting firm Saccardi and Schiff. It recommends, among other things, that developers build no more than 45 units per acre - preferably townhouses or senior housing - on the property where the controversial Courtesy Hotel now stands. The plan also recommends a mix of homes and businesses on both sides of Hempstead Avenue.
The plan has caused much controversy since it was unveiled earlier this year, because it differs from what many West Hempstead residents would like to see done with the hotel property. They endorse a proposal from Trammell Crow Residential, a development firm that is looking to purchase the property to build multiple-story apartment buildings. The Trammell Crow plan calls for a total of 220 units, which breaks down to roughly 80 units per acre. Residents also contend that the plan works for the area, because it would attract young professionals who would utilize the nearby train station to commute to New York City.
The Urban Renewal Plan, however, describes the Trammell Crow plan as being too dense.
The Courtesy, widely considered a blight on the community, has been the site of a variety of criminal activities, including prostitution, drug use and assault.
Comments about this story? DWilliams@
liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 282.
