ROCK HILL – The New York State Hamaspik Association (NYSHA) owns Hamaspik Resort in Rock Hill, which is functioning as a combined hotel and campground. They are set to undergo a new public hearing on May 24, which is mandatory as part of the resort’s special use permit requirements.

The upcoming public hearing is slated to focus on the impact that the Hamaspik Resort’s operations had on the community during the 2022 season. 

However, it is important to note that this hearing will not pertain to any ongoing or future projects at the resort.

The resort is currently in the process of constructing a recreational building and pool.

The applicant recently came before the Thompson Planning Board on April 26 for a discussion on the special use permit renewal and a modification to the site plan. 

The applicant wants to relocate the swimming pool to be behind the playground. 

According to Jim Carnell, the Director of the Thompson Building, Planning, and Zoning Department, there have been recent complaints from residents in the area. 

However, Carnell clarified that the complaints were primarily related to the visible construction of the recreational building. He further noted that all work being carried out on the property is in compliance with relevant regulations and has been approved through the necessary permits.

The new recreational building will be a 37,000-square-foot building that will be used for classrooms, an indoor sports arena, and an additional shul and mikveh. 

The property plans to be functioning as a multi-use property, as a hotel during the winter months, and during the summers as a sleep-away camp that will cater to individuals who are “diagnosed with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, behavior disorders, brain injury [and] will have the opportunity to enjoy a summer camp catered to their needs,” according to the operation plan. 

The special use permit was for one year and was conditional on the applicant having another public hearing for the renewal. 

As per the Project Overview, the capacity for campers at the site for the year 2022 was set at 40, with an additional allowance for 92 staff members. The camp was scheduled to operate from July 4 to September of the same year.

Furthermore, all fees needed to be paid before the plans were signed along with the installation of signage along Rock Hill Drive stating that additional parking was available in the rear of the resort.

Additionally, the camp was subject to random inspections per the Thompson Town Code.