To the Editor:

Many are aware of the upcoming issues that have arisen with the Helderberg Avenue home to be demolished as Stewart’s proposes enlarging its footprint within the Helderberg and Severson avenues neighborhood.

The village of Altamont is known as a desirable, quaint, and historic village, with our Museum in the Streets, the historic fairgrounds, and many businesses housed in original buildings. We are a small community that is knit together within the larger town of Guilderland.

Many voices have joined together with letters, appearances at various boards’ meetings, petition-signing, and anonymous donations. Many residences in our neighborhood are united in thought, and now in action.

Concerned Severson Neighbors was established so that there was a “vehicle” for support by many of those within the neighborhood and the village at large. Many have asked about how they can help. And we are grateful. If you wish to provide assistance, contact us at CSN, Post Office Box 94, Altamont, NY  12009.

The village incorporated in 1890. Development and growth have been respectful and mindful of the history over the decades. Our village is like a woven fabric of historic buildings and new construction, most being mindful of aspects of the historic architecture.

But once those threads become frayed and begin to unravel, one cannot undo the damage. In this case, once the house is gone, it is gone forever.

Carol Rothenberg

Altamont

Editor’s note: Carol Rothenberg, who lives next door to the rezoned property on Helderberg Avenue, is a member of the Concerned Severson Neighbors.