Video public hearing should be postponed

To the Editor:

I hope the Altamont Planning Board will postpone the April 27 public hearing posted on the village website as a Zoom video event.

The board’s agenda has two important matters requiring public input that won’t be practically achievable with a computer application since it is not accessible for all residents. Especially important is the site plan review of Stewart’s Shops’ major demolition and building project in the heart of the village.

Even for residents able to access a video meeting and comfortable speaking online, reviewing and discussing complex materials like drawings and technical reports for stormwater management, petroleum pollution controls, and appropriate landscaping, will be problematic.

Postponement until after the current COVID-19 shutdown will allow a true public hearing.

Kirby Wilson

Altamont

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