Concerns rise over flood risks and affordable housing plans

In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding stormwater management and the potential impacts of a proposed development in Sag Harbor. The discussions highlighted the stark contrast between the permitted wastewater flow and the proposed effluent output, which is projected to be over 20 times greater than what is typically allowed in the area. The current permitted flow stands at 570 gallons per day, while the proposed development anticipates an output of 11,257 gallons daily, raising alarms about the strain on the local sanitary system.

Participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment of stormwater runoff, particularly in light of the anticipated increase in hardscape associated with the project. They called for a revision of the scoping document to include a more realistic rainfall model, suggesting a shift from the standard three-inch rainfall to a five-inch model, reflecting the increasing intensity of storms due to climate change. Additionally, the history of flooding in the area was underscored, with references to a recent incident where the parking lot experienced significant inundation.

Concerns about sea level rise were also prominent, with reports indicating potential increases of 13 to 25 inches in the coming years, which could severely impact the proposed site. The need for a detailed study on this issue was strongly recommended.

On the topic of affordable housing, the meeting participants expressed skepticism regarding the financial viability of the proposed units. They highlighted the lack of clarity on how the developer plans to finance the project, particularly in relation to New York State's tax credit incentives for affordable housing. Questions were raised about the operational plan, occupancy expectations, and the overall sustainability of the housing initiative.

Lastly, the discussion touched on the importance of understanding the implications of previous coal tar remediation efforts on the site, urging the Planning Board to consider the site management plan in their evaluations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the necessity for thorough environmental assessments and financial transparency in the face of significant development proposals in vulnerable areas.