LIBERTY — A local law poised to switch two Grossinger properties from residential districts (R1) to Resort Hotel districts (RH) in the Town of Liberty received support from members of the public. 

If approved, the proposal, Local Law #3 of 2024, is set to change Town Code Chapter 147 by “adding several parcels to the Resort Hotel (RH) Zoning District, as well as revise the definition of destination,” and removes certain uses from the principal permitted use column and special use column of the Schedule of District Uses for the Resort Hotel RH zoning district.”

Those who offered support for the proposed legislation included town residents Allen Werlau, who said that Liberty is “long overdue for healthy growth,” and Cora Edwards, who said she would like to see an increase in tax dollars from a growing hotel and tourism industry in the town.

Also speaking in favor of the local law was Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development President and CEO, Marc Baez, and Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association (SCVA) President and CEO, Roberta Byron-Lockwood.

The Town Board accepted the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) parts two and three in the process of making that switch Monday night, making the town lead agency.

County’s Comments

As part of the County’s GML-239 review of the proposal, Commissioner of Sullivan County Division of Planning, Community Development and Environmental Management, Heather Brown, noted it was in alignment with the town’s Comprehensive Plan and left the project up to local determination.

“The proposed amendments would support objectives outlined in Liberty’s Joint Comprehensive Plan, working towards diversified tourism with a balanced mix of year-round activities,” said Brown.

Town Board member Vince McPhillips noted that the proposed uses of the two properties are both positive things to happen to Liberty, and that the board should seek outside counsel on zoning as they move forward. Board members John Lennon Jr., Dean Farrand, Sherri Kavleski and Supervisor Frank DeMayo shared McPhillips’ sentiment.