By John Nugent
The Great Neck Estates Board of Trustees voted Monday to postpone action on building permits for two vacant properties.
The First Playhouse of Great Neck Corp. seeks to amend a previously issued incentive zoning permit for its property at 102-112 Middle Neck Road. The company plans to develop multiple-family residences and retail space on the property and has requested additional time to prepare its proposed amendments to the zoning permit.
“We want to see the building developed ASAP,” said Mayor William Warner.
Mayor Jean Celender of nearby Great Neck Plaza attended the board meeting and added, “We want to assist you and be a partner with you” as both communities are concerned about vacant buildings in the downtown area.
Additionally, Paul Bloom representing the owners of the Rose Building at 212-230 Middle Neck Road, appealed for an extension of nine months to complete cost estimates for redeveloping the site.
He said increased expenses are anticipated for insurance and fees, and new tariffs will raise the cost of construction materials. Bloom declined to be interviewed after completing his presentation.
Members of the board expressed concern that both buildings have been vacant for many years and said they will expect progress reports at the next meeting on June 10.
In another matter, the board welcomed Kevin J. Ryan as a new officer on the village police force. The mayor administered the oath to Ryan in a brief ceremony at the opening of the session.
Chief Rick Moreno, in an interview afterward, noted that Ryan comes to Great Neck Estates with many years of experience as a detective in the NYPD Narcotics Division. He and other officers in attendance applauded enthusiastically after the new officer was officially sworn into their ranks.
The mayor reported that a public hearing will be scheduled for a measure on penalties for damage to streets and public property. Currently the maximum fine is $250. The board is seeking to increase that amount substantially.
Also, the board authorized the mayor to sign an architecture agreement for design of the proposed new village hall.
