_{Ed Cowley III, Altamont}

_{Kristin Casey, Altamont}

In a home-rule state like New York, zoning can counterbalance larger economic forces that shape the way we live.

_{Beth and Spencer Tyson, Altamont}

A family will be searching for a new home if Stewart's expands. But they say suitable rent is so scarce that the move could push them out of the village.

To the Editor:

Stewart’s Stores has asked to expand its footprint so it can ruin the perfect set up we have now.  Similar in size to Route 20, Stewart’s want to expand by removing a valuable and important property so it can double its gas sales and provide more seating.

Let’s review this request for its pros and cons.

To the Editor:

Stewart’s recently submitted plans, for a building addition, to the village of Altamont.  Upon this submission, the planning board rightfully requested that Stewart’s “knock the building down and start over” and we completely agree.

To the Editor:

As a member of the Altamont Comprehensive Plan Task Force, which received public input and was adopted by the village board to set the vision for the future of Altamont, I have to wonder whether the proposed expansion of Stewart’s into the surrounding community complies with this vision.

The village board could have rejected outright the request to enlarge its commercial district so Stewart's could grow but has decided instead to draft a law that would change the zoning, allowing for public discussion.

ALTAMONT — The Altamont Stewart’s Shop wants to expand. A local property owner and Stewart’s entered a sales contract that could give the store room to grow, but local residents voiced their opposition to the expansion at Tuesday’s Altamont Village Board meeting.