Wake Robin developers return with modified plan

Wake Robin Inn is located on Sharon Road in Lakeville.

John Coston

Wake Robin developers return with modified plan

SALISBURY — At its April 28 meeting, the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission approved a modification to a permit it issued last year for an application to redevelop the Wake Robin Inn.

It was the first public presentation of applicant ARADEV LLC’s amended proposal since withdrawing its initial application to the Planning and Zoning Commission in December 2024.

“Generally, it’s a pullback in the intensity of development,” said Mark Arigoni, a Landscape Architect with SLR Consulting who has represented the applicant, ARADEV LLC, since its first submission. Arigoni said the new plans were meant to respond to calls from the public and P&Z to scale down and lighten the impacts of the project after an extended public hearing late last year.

The major changes include reducing the number of newly-built cottages from twelve to four. The event barn, which was a highly contentious aspect of the initial proposal, moved from its previous position as a standalone structure to instead being a part of the expansion of the existing Inn building. The spa building was adjusted so it sits closer to the main structure and further from the wetland.

After presenting the updated plan, the Commission levied several questions towards the applicant regarding the new project. Commissioner John Landon noted that the new cottages look larger than those initially proposed. Stephen Cohen, of ARADEV, confirmed that they are approximately 2,000 square feet, compared to the previous buildings which topped out at around 1,100 square feet.

After several other questions regarding storm water management, a state-listed species relocation, and alterations to the cottage parking and access schemas, the IWWC concluded its examination. Chair Vivian Garfein clarified that the IWWC was reviewing an alteration, not a new application.

“We are not reissuing a permit,” she said, “We are asked to approve a minor modification that we have already approved.”

The Commission voted unanimously to approve the modification. ARADEV was to reappear in the town Zoom room on Monday, May 5 to present its modified application to P&Z.

Latest News

School budgets pass amid strong turnout in May 20 polling

With robust voter turnout throughout the region, proposed 2025-26 education budgets passed handily, along with their additional propositions, in the polling held on Tuesday, May 20.

Webutuck Central School District

By a margin of 173 to 103, voters approved the 2025-26 budget totaling $28,665,850, an increase of 5.96% over the current year. After expected revenues are factored in, the amount to be raised by local taxes is $19,403,307, a 5.27% increase over the current year.

Keep ReadingShow less
Millbrook names top-ranked scholars

Amber Concannon

Photo provided

MILLBROOK — Strong leadership skills and confidence in communication are evident contributors to Amber Concannon having earned her designation as Valedictorian of the Millbrook High School Class of 2025.

“I have truly loved my time at Millbrook,” Amber said of her Millbrook schooling that began when she was enrolled in kindergarten.

Keep ReadingShow less
Village Trustees hear call to adopt law to limit local cooperation with ICE

Barbara Graham of Millerton speaks to Village trustees, Mayor Jenn Najdek and Millerton Police Chief Joseph Olenik during a May 21 special meeting.

Photo by Aly Morrissey

MILLERTON — The Village of Millerton board of trustees held a special meeting on Wednesday, May 21 that drew an unusually large crowd. Nearly 20 residents and supporters showed up to urge officials to adopt a local law aimed at protecting immigrants, including undocumented community members.

The law, as proposed by meeting attendees, would limit cooperation between local law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Keep ReadingShow less
Amenia gathers at Fountain Square

A traditional Memorial Day observance to honor the fallen was held Fountain Square on Monday, May 26. The ceremony included an Honor Guard from the Wassaic Fire Company standing by the Veterans’ Memorial Wall.

Photo by Leila Hawken

AMENIA — The community gathered at Fountain Square under sunny skies on Monday, May 26, for a Memorial Day ceremony to honor the fallen who bravely served their country. Remembrances, tributes, prayers and music combined to create the fitting annual tribute.

An Honor Guard from VFW Post #5444 of Dover Plains presented the colors at the start of the ceremony that began promptly at 11 a.m. with a welcome from VFW Commander Nick Woodard to the more than 100 who had gathered.

Keep ReadingShow less