‘Granting variances should be a privilege'

To the editor: I am requesting that this letter be read at the Town of Warwick’s March Zoning Board of Appeals meeting and entered into the minutes. On Feb. 27, 200, I attended the ZBA meeting to oppose the request by G. Rhein Builders Inc. for a variance to use a private road for a seven-lot major subdivision, instead of the required specifications for a town road. If the ZBA grants this variance, it will be setting a precedent that could be detrimental to the town. Typically, only a minor subdivision is allowed off of a private road. If this variance is granted, what is to stop the next developer to ask for a 8, 9, or 10 lot sub-division off of a private road? The only one to profit from this would be the developer. They can maximize the land with minimal cost for proper roads. Aside from this, there are numerous other issues. Emergency vehicles such as ambulance and fire need properly maintained roads for services. Typically, private roads are not maintained as well as town roads. Lots 6 and 7 are approximately one half mile from the main road and would pose a dangerous situation in inclement weather when an emergency response is required. Would the town be liable? Lot 7 has a sewage disposal system 100 feet from federal wetlands. In rainy season or snow melt the ground water from these wetlands run down into our lake. The well for our house is in this vicinity. Is the runoff going to affect the wildlife that depends on the lake and the drinking water in our house? The people on Amity Road have had problems with their wells when new wells in the vicinity have been drilled. Will the town bear the burden of correcting it? There is also the issue of educating more children. A seven lot subdivision means at least 10+ children. Our taxes are appalling, and the town keeps letting developers maximize the land. I hope you see what granting this variance will do. It is opening the door for unforeseen problems. I urge you not to approve this variance. Follow the codes as they have been written. Granting variances should be a privilege to the applicant, without being detrimental to the town. Thank you for your consideration, Frank LoRusso Warwick