Town board approves demolition plan for dilapidated Baldwin Harbor beach‑club property after residents press for remediation

The Town of Hempstead board voted to close a public hearing and approve action to remove a derelict one‑story masonry commercial building in Baldwin Harbor that officials called a dangerous structure.

Neighbors urged faster action at the hearing, citing graffiti, fires, repeated trespass, rodents and mosquito breeding in a neglected pool. "It's been left to rot all these years," said Barbara Steyer, who lives across the street and asked what security, fencing and flood mitigation the town would require after demolition. Deputy town officials told attendees the town does not own the property but has deemed the building dangerous and will move forward with demolition and efforts to remediate sanitation concerns.

Multiple residents pressed for clarity on ownership and past sale attempts. "I think there were a few people that were interested in purchasing the property," one speaker said; the deputy commissioner responded that ownership issues and liens likely stopped a sale and that the owner is a corporation whose name was not provided. Residents also requested enforcement paths for deeded easements and urged that the town take into account homeowners' property interests if redevelopment is proposed.

Several commenters called on the town to consider acquiring the parcel for public use. "I'd like for the town to explore negotiations to acquire the property, convert it into some sort of a safe public space," said Maribel Ellis. Town officials said prior suggestions included converting the site to a park but reiterated that no redevelopment application is currently before the town.

The board recorded a motion to close the hearing and approve the action; the clerk read unanimous 'Aye' votes from the supervisor and council members present. The town indicated it will follow county requirements for extermination and sanitary remediation when taking down the structure and will fill in the pool and address plumbing and debris to limit health hazards.

Next steps: the town will assess costs to the property owner and proceed with demolition and cleanup; residents were told to present any deeded property interests if and when development proposals arise so the town can consider them.