By Jason Scheer
It certainly won't be a big trip for members of the Orthodox synagogue's congregation, as the new property is just a few steps down the block.
Michael Friedman, second vice president of the synagogue, said the congregation has outgrown the building it has called home for seven years. "We're in a property right now that doesn't serve our needs," he said. Thus, the congregation recently purchased a second property, 661 Dogwood Ave., in order to better serve the members of the congregation, currently home to about 90 families.
On Wednesday, April 17, representatives of the synagogue appeared before the Town of Hempstead Board of Zoning Appeals seeking variances to certain codes, including total lot coverage, parking restrictions and the height of a fence.
As part of the congregation's plan, the current one-story home will have a second level constructed. In addition to building upward, four classrooms will be added for religious instruction during weekend services. Thus, the building will also expand slightly to the rear and sides of the property.
As for parking, the BZA requires roughly 85 parking spots for the congregation. However, there are special circumstances in this case. In keeping with their beliefs, members of the Orthodox congregation will not use their cars during the Sabbath services, the temple's busiest time. Thus, the synagogue asked the BZA for leniency in the requirements.
"There is no driving permitted from sundown on Friday and all day Saturday," Friedman explained.
Furthermore, the property is located directly across from the little-used Pathmark Shopping Center parking lot. A member of the BZA acknowledged that "the [Pathmark] lot is never so much as half full," and that it would provide adequate parking.
As for special ceremonies, such as weddings and bar mitzvahs, Friedman said the congregation has traditionally entertained small gatherings for the religious portion of these ceremonies. In regard to weddings, which generally are attended by more people, Friedman said, "In seven years of our operation, we have not had any weddings, and I don't anticipate that to change in the future."
Architect Mark Levin, who presented the plans to the board, said that they accomplish two goals. The first was to meet the functional and utilization needs of the synagogue. "The other directive from the synagogue was that the building maintains the residential character of the community," Levin said.
Friedman also assured the board that the property would be an asset, not an eyesore, to the community.
The BZA will make a decision in the coming weeks. If the project is approved, the congregation will sell its current property.
Comments about this story? Mal-wheditor@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 240.
