Letter to the Editor - The Millerton News - 5-14-20

The pains of over-restrictive zoning

I write this letter as a citizen interested in the survival of our community. My wife and I have lived in the Millerton area our entire life. Our children are graduates of the Webutuck school system. We have much to be thankful for including the life and prosperity we’ve enjoyed here. Sadly, I feel that prosperity is being threatened from within. Before going on, let me say I’m not doing any finger pointing or mentioning any names. I’ll let the facts speak for themselves.

If you doubt small town survival is at stake, take a look around to envision our future.  Drive through West Cornwall, Conn., at the covered bridge, once a thriving little hamlet, it’s a mere shadow of its former self. Consider the decline of Falls Village and its struggle to maintain an ever declining student body at their elementary school.

Enter Millerton from the east on Route 44 and witness one business after another lying dormant. Progress through Main Street toward Route 22 and notice former mainstays Saperstein’s and Dutchess Auto vacant, Terni’s is sure to follow. Is the picture becoming any clearer?

Seems to me we’re all victims of the I know what’s best for Millerton syndrome. Restrictive zoning and overzealous planning boards share some of the blame. Opportunities lost include a Stewart’s, Hannaford and several others, not to mention Harney Tea being forced to move a new business elsewhere.

I’ve heard statements like “Millerton is too good for a Dollar store,” “We don’t need another tire store in town,” or “Who wants a Dunkin’ Donuts?”  Is that what zoning is all about?  By the way, did you know the Millerton American Legion got permission to use their heretofore illegal outdoor sign?

 Doctor, is it too late to save the patient?

 John Walters

Millerton