Letter from Celeste Ryan

Ryan: ‘Did I Read that Right?’

In “The Freeman’s Journal” dated August 20, 2026, I read that the Town of Otsego may allow grandfathering of existing businesses but only until the grandfathered property is sold. (“Town Softens Language on Subdivision Acreage, Short-term Rentals” by Debra Moffitt.)

Did I read that right? Grandfathering is meant to be in perpetuity, not just until the property is sold. As owner of a grandfathered property in the Town of Otsego, the Mohican Motel, I object.

If I sell my property I will sell it as the way it has been used for the past 68 years. The building was built as a motel. The building would not be useful for other residential uses. If you won’t allow future owners to use the building as a motel, you will effectively have condemned the building.

Celeste Ryan
Cooperstown