Le Moyne College wins approvals for two student‑housing conversions amid neighborhood praise and conditions

The Planning Commission approved major site‑plan reviews for two Le Moyne College properties in the Salt Springs neighborhood after college representatives described operational changes and neighborhood outreach aimed at reducing off‑campus impacts.

College representatives Gary Peyton and Jack Brower explained that Le Moyne purchased a portfolio of formerly absentee‑owned houses and worked to improve safety and behavior by eliminating some bedrooms for egress or quality issues, installing egress windows where feasible, and instituting a property‑management and screening process for student tenants. Brower described new campus security patrols and a lease structure to hold students accountable for neighborhood behavior.

Neighbors who testified praised the college’s efforts. "Since Le Moyne has taken over management things are greatly improved," said neighbor John Ny. Longtime resident and former faculty member Jeffrey Chen said the college’s outreach has been "wonderful" but called for continued communication on capital changes. Commissioners included conditions in approvals requiring all on‑site parking to remain behind the front façade, correction of an illegally expanded driveway on one property, and required permit filings prior to work.

What the approvals mean: The college may proceed with the approved site improvements and internal management changes; driveway restoration and parking conditions are required and will be enforced through final permits and inspections.