The Delaware Riverkeeper Network has petitioned the Town of Highland to impose a moratorium on new development in the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River corridor. The organization presented its petition at the Town Board’s October meeting, citing the town’s ongoing Comprehensive Plan revision as a critical reason for the pause.
Delaware Riverkeeper argues that a moratorium is necessary to safeguard the town and the Delaware River from development that could conflict with the community’s vision for its future, as outlined in the evolving Comprehensive Plan. This ten-year plan, currently under revision, will guide zoning regulations, building codes, and land use policies for the next decade.
The petition also highlights the need to address inconsistencies in existing ordinances and emphasizes the town’s responsibility to protect environmental rights, as guaranteed by the New York Green Amendment (Article 1, Section 19). Delaware Riverkeeper presented thirteen reasons in support of the moratorium, emphasizing its benefits and timeliness for the town and its residents.
“The Town of Highland is uniquely positioned along the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, where many thousands come each year to enjoy the natural beauty of the River and its surrounding nature. And we applaud the Town’s commitment to preserving the scenic and aesthetic character of this area, as demonstrated by its active participation securing the Scenic and Recreational River designation and the development, implementation, and enforcement of the Upper Delaware River Management Plan. A halt in development within the River Corridor while the Comprehensive Plan is being updated would ensure that future development in this prized portion of the community contributes positively to the Town’s character, natural resources, economic growth, and overall public welfare. A moratorium right now just makes sense for the Town of Highland,” says Maya K. van Rossum, the Delaware Riverkeeper and leader of the Delaware Riverkeeper Network.
van Rossum appeared on Radio Chatskill to discuss why the group says there is a need to safeguard the town and the river.
Image: Delaware Riverkeeper