By Emma Stanton, Staff Writer
The Woodstock Resort Corporation said this week it will move forward with an appeal of the District 3 Environmental Commission’s Act 250 decision to deny its application to demolish two historic homes located at 14 and 16 South Street. That decision was issued on March 23.
In its decision, the board stated that the resort’s request did not adhere to Act 250 Rule 34 (E), citing the resort’s responsibility to adequately maintain and preserve the two properties as stipulated by the commission back in 2009.
After the decision was issued, the Standard spoke with Peter Kopsco, District 3 coordinator, about what could happen next with the two historic houses. “The denied party has the opportunity to request an [alteration] to the commission’s decision,” Kopsco said.
He explained that filing for an alteration could only happen in the first 15 days following the posted decision. An alteration, according to Kopsco, would entail the commission reviewing all submitted material and potentially reaching a different decision. “One and only one motion to alter with respect to the decision, or with respect to the denial party status, can be filed,” Kopsco said.
Kopsco explained that there is also an appeal period, which runs for 30 days following the date of the decision or the date of any altered decisions.
Kopsco added that if the commission’s denial stands, the precedent established in the 2009 decision will stand. Kopsco explained that this precedent states that the Inn must adequately maintain the two homes and send annual reports of the homes’ maintenance.
In correspondence with the Standard earlier this week, Benjamin Pauly, director of Property Operations and Design for the Woodstock Inn & Resort, said, “The Woodstock Inn & Resort will move forward with an appeal of the District 3 Environmental Commission’s Act 250 decision. Throughout its history, the Resort has remained committed to being a strong community partner — supporting local initiatives, contributing to the village’s economic vitality, and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. We recognize our neighbors’ concerns regarding the loss of the structures at 14 and 16 South Street and are confident we can address all Act 250 criteria. We take pride in our team members and the services we provide and remain dedicated to working collaboratively to preserve the character, vitality, and shared future of Woodstock as a place we all call home.”
Pauly told the Standard that the Resort Corporation’s appeal to the state would be submitted on Wednesday afternoon.
