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Kara Wilson's avatar

I think the suggestion that the village hold a series of open houses at the Gouveia House, is great. Can this happen? How does this happen? Can I help make this happen?

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Michael Balter's avatar

Since tomorrow evening is a Work Session there is no public comment, but a combination of emails to the mayor and board and public comments at the next BoT meeting might help. The Croton Community Facebook page is also read by most village officials and is a good place to state opinions as well.

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J D's avatar

I would love to see the house turned into art space. I think of the Katonah Museum and how it often takes me and my friends to Katonah and spend money in local restaurants. I've always found the Village Board very short-sighted on this topic.

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Andrew K Dickey's avatar

Well written. The problem with Gouveia Park, in my opinion, is that it is right next to Route 9 and all the noise that the highway generates. I have been there several times to walk the path and every time I come away thinking you simply could not have outdoor activities.

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Michael Balter's avatar

The noise is a serious problem. It should have been part of the due diligence when the park was acquired by the village. But there really wasn’t any due diligence. Ann Gallelli was doing a favor for her friend Laurel Gouveia and the board went along. The public was kept in the dark until it was really too late.

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Guy Pardee's avatar

As usual well stated, written with balanced opinion.

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HockeyNY85's avatar

Excellent article. I also think Paul Steinberg wrote a strong letter in the Gazette regarding this topic.

I feel making this into an art space or related is somewhat redundant and a copout since we already have village locations that serve as such, including public spaces like the Municipal Building and Library. These places, private and public, could probably be supported more by the people of Croton. It doesn’t give me much hope that this would be a hot cultural “artsy” spot however well reinvented.

Crotonites have a habit of wishing for things and then not supporting them if they come to fruition.

I find it a shame that we have been on the hook for this money pit with no identity because of a hidden sweetheart favor/deal. I actually see the property as a huge liability. A great place for teens to drink and party or for somewhat hidden meetups of whatever nature.

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