Bethel Development Moratorium at Standstill After Tie Vote

A proposed one-year moratorium on new high-density residential development in Bethel is at a standstill after a 2-2 tie vote at the town board meeting. The tie came with one board member absent, leaving Supervisor Dan Sturm and one council member in favor, and two council members opposed.“The reason it's out of standstill is because there was some discussion on whether the tie vote meant that they could reintroduce the measure at next month's meeting or if it would have to go through the process of introducing a local law again,” said Isabel Braverman, editor in chief of the Sullivan County Democrat.Supporters, including the citizens group Bethel Roundtable, want a pause while the town updates its comprehensive plan, which hasn’t been revised since 2006. “They see an increase in high-density development in the town, which they say puts a strain on resources, can have detrimental environmental effects,” Braverman said.Opponents argue the moratorium is unnecessary, pointing out that existing projects follow all zoning and planning rules. Five pending high-density projects in Bethel, including developments with 141 and 170 units, would not be affected by the moratorium.Rabbi Ben Halberstam, whose name with a Brooklyn address is listed on documents for proposed housing developments currently before the planning board, urged the board members who voted in favor of the moratorium to reconsider if it does come up for a vote again. Representing a large group of the Hasidic community, he said their housing projects should be allowed. “He said that they follow all of the rules and the laws, from the zoning and the DEC environmental laws,” Braverman said.The town’s comprehensive plan committee is expected to present findings in four months, but board action could take longer. Supervisor Sturm said the town attorney is reviewing options after the tie vote.For more coverage, visit scdemocratonline.com.