OTHER MATTER TYPES:
I handle applications for a variety of land-use approvals, as well as opposition to such applications where appropriate:
- zoning use and area variances
- special permits
- subdivisions
- lot-line modifications
- building permits
- wetlands permits
- architectural and/or historic permits
Disputes between landlords and tenants, including:
- Evictions
- Actions by tenants for breach of warranties
- Lease disputes and damages claims
Case Study: Permits Issued for new Waterfront Home
In 2015, I succeeded in obtaining all of the necessary permits for a client to build a new home on Big Fresh Pond, north of the Village of Southampton. The permitting process was difficult, for many reasons. First, there was substantial opposition by neighbors, who argued that a restrictive covenant going back to the 1930s prohibited the development. Second, the property was so constrained that significant wetlands variances were required from the Conservation Board of the Town of Southampton and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Finally, the property was severely infested with invasive bamboo and required a mitigation plan unlike anything the Conservation Board had previously considered.
I worked with local planners, engineers and architects to develop, refine and present an application package that was ultimately approved. In addition, I did deep historical research and used old surveys and aerial photographs to demonstrate to the Town that a house had previously existed on the lot. I effectively addressed the neighbors’ legal arguments regarding the restrictive covenant and prevented it from becoming an issue before the Conservation Board. Ultimately, all necessary approvals were granted, the neighbors declined to make any legal challenge in court, and the project is, as of this writing, under construction.