Zoning laws rendered town hearing unnecessary

Last week at the town hall in White Lake, the Town of Bethel held a public hearing for the consideration of expanded operating days for Bethel Speedway. Thanks to the Bethel board, it did not pass.

Here’s my question: why did we need to have a public hearing on this issue? I’m grateful that the board is willing to give residents a platform to voice their opinions and concerns, but, under these particular circumstances, a hearing wasn’t necessary.

At the hearing, I learned from a speaker, who is a lawyer representing a number of residents, that the speedway is classified as a “non-conforming use” business in Bethel. The town adopted zoning regulations years ago, and, since then, businesses like the speedway are not allowed under this zoning.

Since the Speedway existed before the zoning regulations, it is allowed to continue to operate (it is “grandfathered in”). However, it is stipulated in the zoning that grandfathered businesses that are “non-conforming use,” such as the speedway, are not allowed to expand or increase their operations. This is a law. If the board had passed the speedway’s expanded hours—and there were many residents/non-residents in the room who ardently desired it—it would have opened the town up to the expense and hassles of legal actions against the essentially illegal expansion. Again I say, thankfully, this did not come to pass. 

Karen Macbride

Jeffersonville, NY 

Thanks for helping Bethel keep warm through the winter

The Town of Bethel’s Local Development Corporation (BLDC) would like to thank Dr. Allen Abramson and the “posse” who have made the Bethel’s Citizens Energy  Assistance Program (CEAP) possible each year. With their generous donations and continuous support, this program continues to thrive. CEAP is a town program that provides assistance to those who are struggling with the cost of heating their homes through the winter months.

All funds that they have raised and donated have gone directly to help Bethel residents. Because of your generosity, we are able to further our mission in bettering our local community.

If anyone is interested in helping fund this program to better the lives of individuals in our community, please contact us at 845/583-4350, ext.102.

Again, thank you for joining in our efforts to make a difference in the Town of Bethel community. You make a difference every day! Thank you very much.

Daniel Sturm, BLDC Chairman

Bethel, NY

Kudos to Oliver King

Anyone who took the time to witness Oliver King’s reading of Frederick Douglass’s 1852 speech to the Rochester Assembly was richly rewarded. An incredible speech, spoken by a convincing actor. This episode of the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance Salon series stood out even amongst the typical outstanding programming.

Chuck Petersheim

Eldred, NY