As a long-time Cutchogue resident, I am deeply concerned about the potential impact of certain provisions in the Southold Town Code on our community's character and quality of life. Specifically, I am referring to Section 280-28, which outlines the bulk, area, and parking regulations for Affordable Housing projects within our town. This provision, contained in the Affordable Housing District allows projects of Tenant-Occupied Middle Income Family Dwelling Units (“MIFDU”) of less than 850 square feet to have a land area of only 3,300 square feet per unit; more than three times the density permitted for Owner-Occupied Affordable Housing units, which requires a minimum of 10,000 square feet of land area. The current 3,300 square feet of land area per unit is twelve times denser than our one-acre Zoning, and over twenty-four times denser than two-acre zoning!

It is crucial for our Town Board to take immediate action to amend this section by striking the density provision of 3,300 square feet of land area for every MIFDU unit less than 850 square feet of floor area. This density is not aligned with the values and characteristics of Southold Town. The Town Zoning Code should require that all Affordable Housing developments have a minimum land area per unit of 10,000 Square feet, regardless of whether they are Owner-Occupied or Tenant-Occupied, or whether they are above or below 850 square Feet per unit.

Southold Town has always been cherished for its serene landscapes, close-knit communities, and single-family residential areas. Allowing smaller tenant-occupied units without appropriate consideration for their impact on density would disrupt the harmony we have worked hard to maintain. It is essential that any new development projects align with our community's unique characteristics.

By removing these provisions from Section 280-28 of the Town Code, we can ensure that future projects adhere to an appropriate density level that respects both existing residents' rights and the overall character of Southold Town. This amendment will also foster greater acceptance among residents for future new developments.

I urge all fellow residents who share my concerns about preserving our community's identity to sign this petition. Together, we can send a strong message to the Southold Town Board that it is vital to prioritize responsible development practices while maintaining the essence of what makes Southold so special.

Thank you for your support in safeguarding our beloved town!

Sincerely,

Jack Norris