Let's call this a modern spin on community planning; a digital drawing board where all ideas are on the table.
We present a vacant space or property and ask you to tell us what you think would be the best use. Forget what zone it's in, ignore setback regulations, dump lot coverage rules and all the other zoning jargon that puts most people to sleep. What would you like to see there? What would be the best use for the community?
Our inaugural installment of this column received a couple of great suggestions, as did our subsequent posts. Now, we're hoping you'll weigh in on the building that housed Sciortino's for years.
The restaurant, which operated out of a Route 22 building in Southeast, recently closed. A LoHud.com story, posted last month, by Barbara Livingston Nackman states that the eatery had been in business since 1965.
A "For Lease" sign, advertising a property of 21,000 square feet, is hanging outside the building.
"Suitable for restaurant, medical, office, retail or night club," the sign reads.
So, Brewster and Southeast folks, do any of those options appeal to you? Why or why not? What do you think should become of the Sciortino's building?
Please leave your answer in the comments section below. Thanks for participating!
About this column: In highlighting vacant buildings in Brewster and Southeast, we aim to help residents take a proactive role in planning and building their community. We'll run this column every other Friday and, when appropriate, take your feedback to public officials and property owners, to inform their decisions about future uses. Know of a vacant building we should highlight? Email Ashley.Tarr@patch.com.
Brewsterfitness
"In the fall of 2012, we were contacted by representatives from Demian Pictures, a motion picture production company. In November, we toured the school with Demian Pictures and were provided with ideas and concepts for their redevelopment plans of the school. The representatives from Demian Pictures were also joined by the owners and operators of the Seven Star School of Performing Arts, a local dance company from Brewster. "
"I see no real solution for the property as it stands [translated: it's a knock-down]. The septic and parking are both inadequate for the size of the building, which itself has little architectural or historic value [not to be confused with sentimental value]. Such a large structure probably comes with large taxes, and probably requires significant sums to operate HVAC, light, keep clean and maintain. Whatever business opens there needs to generate large amounts of high-markup sales to meet the 'nut.' I doubt bookstores and health clubs generate enough markup to pay the monthly tab there."
Jennifer Maher Director/ Associate Broker J.Philip Real Estate Vice President Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors Chair Woman of the Putnam County Chambers of Commerce 914-330-7222 Jenn@jennifermaher.com