Community Turns Out for Meeting on Manocherian Subdivision

PIERSTOWN—More than 100 concerned citizens attended a standing-room only meeting on Sunday, September 7 at the Pierstown Grange. Prompted by the proposed major subdivision of 1,500 acres of farmland, forest, and wetlands on the west side of Otsego Lake, Otsego 2000, Otsego Land Trust, Otsego County Conservation Association, and the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station held the meeting to hear from community members and then to amplify their comments.

“We wanted to hear directly from residents to see what type of development they wanted for the area,” said Ellen Pope, executive director of Otsego 2000.

While many comments and concerns were voiced about the Manocherian subdivision proposal, which would create 111 buildable lots ranging in size from 4.2 acres to 60 acres, there was a broader discussion about what community members envision for the future of the area.

“We want to know what the community’s priorities and parameters for development are,” said Gregory Farmer, executive director of the Otsego Land Trust, who moderated the 90-minute discussion.

Pope opened the meeting, explaining that the three environmental organizations and the BFS work collaboratively on issues of environmental concern, and emphasized that Otsego 2000’s role is to ensure that proposed development projects are compatible with the region’s environmental capacity and community character.

Shelby MacLeish, OCCA assistant director, spoke about her organization’s scientific approach to water protection. Farmer outlined OLT’s mission, and the role of planning and environmental protection. Florian Reyda, director of the BFS, which borders the proposed Manocherian development, spoke about SUNY’s commitment to education on the parcels that they own.

About 25-30 people spoke. Issues raised included the need for affordable year-round housing, concerns about traffic and the burden on State Route 80, water quality, the water table, town services, and community character. Some called for the towns of Otsego and Springfield to pass moratoriums so there is time to assess and plan for what is in the best interests of both towns.

Pope noted that the Town of Otsego is currently revising its comprehensive plan, and the Otsego Lake Watershed Nine Element Plan will be completed in 2028.

“Comprehensive plans define the vision for the community,” said Farmer.

“And the plans then inform any revisions to a town’s land-use law,” added Pope.

The organizers of the meeting encouraged community members to contact their town boards.

“Town Boards represent the people in the communities they serve, but they need to know community members’ priorities so they can act on them,” said Pope.

“We want to provide a perspective on how to grow a healthy community,” Farmer emphasized.

The meeting organizers encouraged people to attend town board and planning board meetings, offer comments, and remain engaged.

Sketch plans for the proposed Manocherian subdivision are on view at the Town of Otsego and Town of Springfield offices. Community members can call the town clerks—Pam Dean, Otsego, (607) 547-5631, or Jeannette Armstrong, Springfield, (315) 858-0008, to make an appointment to view them.

The group may hold additional listening sessions in the near future. More information is available at otsego2000.org/environmental-stewardship.