Photo of 66 Wainscott Main Street looking south to the Atlantic Ocean-- Credit: Wainscott Heritage Project
The following are our comments spoken and submitted to the record for the Public Hearing held in front of the East Hampton Town Board at 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024 in consideration of the proposed $56 million Community Preservation Fund Acquisition of the 30+ acres known as 66 Wainscott Main Street in Wainscott, East Hampton
Good evening, Town Board. Jaine Mehring, Amagansett Resident, speaking here as an individual citizen.
My comments tonight support the proposed CPF acquisition of the 30-acre parcel known as 66 Wainscott Main Street for the four purposes as stated in the public hearing notice.
I cite the parcel’s unique beauty; its centrality to the character of Wainscott and East Hampton overall; the historic significance of the structures and viewshed; and the need for the restoration of Wainscott Pond on two fronts: restoration of the grossly degraded water quality, as well as restoration of public access.
Every time I stand on the side of Wainscott Main Street and gaze across the meadow, upon this serene and sweeping landscape, I think about the first five lines of a Wordsworth poem* I studied in my youth:
“There was a time when meadow, grove, and stream,
The earth, and every common sight
To me did seem
Apparelled in celestial light,
The glory and the freshness of a dream.”
Indeed, the glorious alchemy of the land, the light, the mist, the wildlife, the water, and the historic structures at "66" make for the most evocative and ethereal sight -- often this parcel really does appear to be “apparelled in celestial light.”
Though I have gazed upon this place again and again over the decades with a profound sense of joy, I’ll admit, in more recent years -- given the construction pressures visible now all around -- a nagging sense of dread had crept into my head when I visited. No matter how bucolic and how iconic the view, the reality has been: as long as it stayed in private control, the risk of development and degradation grew.
But now – with a vote of this committed board, a stroke of the pen, and lots and LOTS of cash -- that looming risk is finally extinguished…the site preserved in perpetuity -- and that is not only a relief, but indeed -- it is a “fresh dream” come true.
For a minute now, I’d like to broaden my comments somewhat and cite the next four lines of that poem:
“It is not now as it hath been of yore;—
Turn wheresoe’er I may,
By night or day,
The things which I have seen I now can see no more.”
As the stanza says, in Wainscott, as in our four other hamlets: wheresoever we may turn—those things which WE have seen -- beloved vistas, open space, woodlands, dark skies, structures that embody the fabric of the community – increasingly, “we NOW can see no more.”
It’s true: preserving parcels like this can yield meaningful positive impact. The Town CPF Plan document notes: “purchases...have the potential to restore the integrity of some of our important natural areas that have been damaged by unwise development.”
Move in most any direction away from 66 Wainscott Main Street -- walk up and down Wainscott Hollow Road, walk Sayre’s Path and Beach Lane -- and clear becomes that “unwise development” the CPF document references, gobbling up precious soils, obliterating historic vistas, and un-darkening night skies.
In conclusion -- we celebrate today the power of the CPF, and the significance of this momentous acquisition. Yet, we must not overlook a broader context.
While we are preserving the good, we need to be pre-empting the not so good-- or these millions of dollars could be for naught.
Preservation transactions might end with cash----but in fact, preservation more broadly begins – with - code: a strong land ethic as well as conservation and sustainability objectives must be rooted deeply in East Hampton Town land use regulations.
Thank you.
*Ode: Intimations of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood,
William Wordsworth, 1807
Addendum for Reference: The East Hampton Town Board's Press release dated September 30, 2024 announcing this proposed acquition, as well as the October 3, 2024 formal "Public Hearing Notice" Resolution:
Town Press Release Posted on: September 30, 2024
East Hampton Town to Consider Acquiring Iconic 66 Wainscott Main Street
The Town of East Hampton intends to notice for public hearing on October 3rd at 6:00 PM the acquisition of the historic 66 Wainscott Main Street property using Community Preservation Funds (CPF) for $56 million for the preservation of Open Space, Agricultural Lands, Historic Places and Property, and the Protection and Improvement of Water Quality. This remarkable 30-acre parcel has long been recognized as a key asset in preserving the community's character and natural beauty.
This property, featuring stunning views of Wainscott Pond, is included in the Town’s Community Preservation Fund project plan and is situated within several protected districts, including the Agricultural Overlay District and the Harbor Protection Overlay District. The acquisition will help safeguard vital wetlands and maintain the area’s ecological integrity.
“Acquiring 66 Wainscott Main Street is an essential step toward preserving one of our town’s most iconic landscapes,” said Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez. “This property represents not just a breathtaking view, but a profound commitment to maintaining our community’s unique sense of place and identity. As the largest Community Preservation Fund purchase in East Hampton’s history, this acquisition underscores our dedication to safeguarding our natural and historical heritage for future generations. Mr. Lauder’s vision and commitment to conservation have set a remarkable example for us all, and we are deeply grateful for his generosity and leadership in this vital effort. This acquisition will not only protect vital wetlands and enhance public access but also ensure that the rich stories and traditions tied to this land continue to resonate within our community. It is a pivotal moment that reflects our collective responsibility to preserve the beauty and integrity of East Hampton for years to come.”
In 2021, Mr. Ronald Lauder purchased the property for $66 million to prevent its development and has since worked diligently to maintain the meadow and enhance the viewshed. His willingness to consider selling the parcel to the Town for considerably below fair market value exemplifies a profound commitment to land preservation.
The Osborn family’s connection to the land at 66 Wainscott Main Street dates back to the 17th century, when Thomas Osborn settled in East Hampton in 1648. His son, John Osborn, is credited as a founder of Wainscott, establishing a homestead in the area by 1668. Over the generations, the Osborns cultivated the land, contributing to the agricultural foundation of the community. The family’s influence was marked by their establishment of several notable structures, including a Saltbox house built around 1675, which remained in their possession until the mid-20th century.
As the Osborn lineage continued, they adapted to changing economic landscapes while maintaining a strong connection to the land. The property contains two structures built in the early 20th century. In 1904, Louisa Edwards Osborn, widow of John Melvin Osborn, built the current family farmhouse to serve as a summer boarding house, reflecting the burgeoning real estate and tourism market of the time. In 1915, the family also built a cedar shingled two story barn. However, in 1922, following the death of her son Thomas, Louisa sold much of the family farmland, retaining only a small plot. This marked a pivotal moment in the Osborn history, as the family faced the transformation of their agricultural heritage amid rising real estate speculation.
The land eventually changed hands with two families occupying and modifying the property. Notably, in 1927, Louisa's nephew, Raymond Osborn and Augusta Halsey purchased the farmhouse lot, and were later able to purchase the pond acreage back into the family, continuing the Osborn family farming legacy in Wainscott. The land they once cultivated transitioned to new ownership in the 21st century, highlighting the ongoing evolution of Wainscott.
The proposed acquisition of 66 Wainscott Main Street not only honors the historical significance of the Osborn family but also reclaims a vital part of East Hampton's agricultural past. By acquiring this land, the Town is ensuring that the story of the Osborns—a story of resilience, adaptation, and connection to the land—will continue to resonate in the community. This initiative also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving not just the physical landscape, but the rich history that defines the character of Wainscott.
Hilary Osborn Malecki, a descendant of the Osborn family, stated, “The acquisition of 66 Wainscott Main Street is not only a pivotal moment for our community but also a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of my ancestors. This land has been a part of our family for generations, and its preservation honors the history and values that have shaped Wainscott. As we reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of those who came before us, it’s inspiring to see the Town take this important step to protect our shared heritage. This property represents not just a scenic view, but the stories of hard work, resilience, and deep connection to the land that the Osborns embodied. I am truly grateful for the collaborative efforts of all involved in this initiative, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the rich history that has defined our community.”
Wainscott Pond has been identified as an impaired water body under the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Priority Waterbodies List. The pond, which is owned by the East Hampton Town Trustees, has experienced frequent harmful algal blooms, posing serious threats to aquatic ecosystems and human health. A recent monitoring study conducted by the SUNY Stony Brook Gobler Laboratory and funded by the Trustees, revealed that Wainscott Pond is the most consistently impacted water body in East Hampton, with every sample exceeding the bloom threshold. Alarmingly, the average concentration of blue-green algae reached levels that significantly surpassed the state’s recreational safety limits, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to restore the pond’s health.
Acquisition of the 66 Wainscott Main Street property, which encompasses roughly one-third of the pond's shoreline, would not only allow for public access but also enable further water quality monitoring through the Town's CPF Water Quality Improvement program. This initiative will facilitate comprehensive analysis to identify pollution sources, including stormwater runoff, agricultural activity, and outdated septic systems. By collaborating with the Town Trustees, the Town would look to implement remedial actions such as upgrading on-site sanitary systems to nitrogen-reducing technologies, enhancing stormwater management practices, and establishing buffer zones to minimize nutrient and contaminant inputs into the pond. These efforts are crucial for revitalizing Wainscott Pond and ensuring the long-term health of this vital natural resource.
Clerk of the East Hampton Town Trustees Francis Bock said, "We are thrilled to collaborate with the Town on improving the water quality in Wainscott Pond. This partnership will not only provide public access to this waterbody for the first time, but also allow us to increase the vital monitoring and implement necessary improvements. Our commitment to restoring the health of this impaired water body is unwavering, and we are eager to work together on initiatives that will combat harmful algal blooms and protect our community's valuable aquatic ecosystems for future generations." In addition to its historical significance, the flora and fauna of 66 Wainscott Main Street underscore its ecological importance. The property primarily consists of meadowland, interspersed with patches of woodland along the western edge, and encompasses approximately 2.5 acres adjacent to Wainscott Pond, which is critical for both biodiversity and water quality.
The meadow is a vibrant habitat for a diverse range of plant species, including both native and non-native grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs. Notable flora includes the butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), which supports pollinators, and blue flag iris (Iris versicolor), which thrives in the wetland areas. The landscape features a mix of over 70 species, providing critical habitat for various wildlife. However, the presence of invasive species, such as autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) and silver grass (Miscanthus sp.), poses a threat to native biodiversity. These invasives can quickly dominate the landscape, shading out native plants and altering the habitat structure. Ongoing management practices, including regular mowing and targeted removal of invasive species, will be essential to maintaining the health and diversity of this important ecosystem.
The property is also home to a rich array of wildlife. Species such as white-tailed deer and wild turkeys frequently traverse the meadow, while red fox dens have been observed in the area, highlighting the site's value as a habitat for larger mammals. The diverse bird population includes migratory and resident species alike, such as the great blue heron (Ardea herodias) and the eastern towhee (Pipilo erythrophtalmus), utilizing the meadow and wetland for breeding, feeding, and resting. The presence of species like the diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) near the pond further emphasizes the ecological significance of the area.
Councilmember David Lys added, “This marks an important step toward preserving the natural beauty and historical integrity of East Hampton. Acquiring 66 Wainscott Main Street is a testament to our dedication to protecting our community’s treasures for generations to come.”
“Mr. Lauder’s dedication to protecting this land will leave a lasting legacy in our community,” stated Scott Wilson, Director of Land Acquisition & Management. “This acquisition aligns perfectly with our goals of conserving our significant natural resources.”
The proposed acquisition of 66 Wainscott Main Street marks a historic milestone as the largest Community Preservation Fund purchase in the Town of East Hampton’s history. This acquisition not only underscores the Town’s commitment to preserving open space but also sets a precedent for future conservation efforts. By investing in this significant parcel, we ensure that the community's character, natural beauty, and historical legacy are protected for generations to come.
The public is encouraged to attend the hearing slated for Thursday, October 17th at 6:00 PM to learn more about the proposed acquisition and to share their thoughts on this critical initiative.
Resolution of the EH Town Board to Notice for Public Hearing:
COUNCILMEMBER LYS
RESOLUTION: 2024-1217
CATEGORY: Public Hearing
SPONSORED BY: Councilmember Lys, Supervisor Burke-Gonzalez
DEPARTMENT: Land Acquisition
66 Wainscott Main St. SPH NPH CPF Acquisition and Amend 2024 M&S Plan
Authorize CPF Acquisition & Amend 2024 CPF M&S Plan
Purported Owner: 66 Wainscott Main LLC
Location: 66 Wainscott Main St., Wainscott
SCTM #: 300-200-2-29
WHEREAS, the Town of East Hampton is considering the acquisition of approximately 30 acres of primarily vacant land, with several Historic structures located on 66 Wainscott Main St., Wainscott which lands are identified on the Suffolk County Tax Map as SCTM #300-200-2-29; and
WHEREAS, the proposed purchase price is $56,000,000.00, plus associated costs, survey, title, prorated tax, and recording charges; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of said acquisition is the preservation of Open Space, Agricultural Lands, Historic Places and Property, and the Protection and Improvement of Water Quality; and
WHEREAS, the Town's proposed funding source is Community Preservation Funds; and
WHEREAS, on April 4, 2024 the Town Board adopted the 2024 Management & Stewardship Plan (M&S Plan) for CPF properties pursuant to Town Law 64-e (6) which requires a property to be included in this Plan in order to expense any management and stewardship costs to the Community Preservation Fund; and
WHEREAS, said M&S Plan shall be in effect for calendar year 2024 with updates permitted from time to time at the discretion of the Town Board after a public hearing; and
WHEREAS, this interest in real property may require management and stewardship activities; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that pursuant to § 247 of the General Municipal Law and § 64-e (8) of the Town Law of the State of New York, the Town Board will hold a public hearing to consider the following:
A) The acquisition of the above described property, reputedly owned by the 66 Wainscott Main LLC at a cost to the Town of East Hampton not to exceed $56,000,000.00 plus associated costs, survey, title, prorated tax, and recording charges
B) An amendment to the 2024 M&S Plan to include said property; and be it further
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk is hereby directed to publish a Notice of Public Hearing in the October 10, 2024 edition of the East Hampton Star.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TAKE NOTICE that the Town Board of the Town of East Hampton will hold a public hearing in the Town Board Meeting Room, East Hampton Town Hall, 159 Pantigo Road, East Hampton, New York, pursuant to § 247 of the General Municipal Law and § 64-e (8) of the Town Law of the State of New York on October 17, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon after that this matter may be heard, to consider the following:
A) The Town's acquisition for the preservation of Open Space, Agricultural Lands, Historic Places and Property, and the Protection and Improvement of Water Quality, with Community Preservation Funds of a property located at 66 Wainscott Main St., reputedly owned by 66 Wainscott Main LLC, and consisting of approximately 30 acres of primarily vacant land with several historic structures at a cost to the Town of East Hampton not to exceed $56,000,000.00, plus associated costs, survey, title, prorated tax, and recording charges, said property being described on the Suffolk County Tax Map as SCTM #300-200-2-29
B) An amendment to the 2024 CPF Management & Stewardship Plan to include said property
The public hearing will be held live and in-person by the Town Board and will be available electronically by video and teleconferencing, and will be televised on Local TV (LTV) Channel 22, and available for livestream on the LTV website (<<https://www.ltveh.org>>). The public shall be permitted to appear in person but may also provide comments on the matter being heard by calling 351-888-6331.
Any person or party wishing to be heard with respect to the foregoing may do so, in person or by agent or attorney, by teleconference to the live meeting, or by written comment addressed to the East Hampton Town Clerk, 159 Pantigo Road, East Hampton, New York 11937. Comments may also be submitted to the Town Clerk by email to CBrennan@ehamptonny.gov <mailto:CBrennan@ehamptonny.gov>. All comments must be received by the Town Clerk by the date and time of the public hearing.
Please check the meeting Agenda posted on the Town's website (www.ehamptonny.gov <http://www.ehamptonny.gov>) for any changes, and for updated information.
Dated: October 3, 2024
Financial Impact:
No impact for SPH NPH
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