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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFI Growth Plan - 1994 -4 l ~ ~ . . . . / F~hers Island Growth Plan , October 1994 PB ST7\FF ~.r. P, u;;- . ill rn @ ffi D Wi ~ ij)i !i/Ii u NOV 2 /99.q. i! 0,iI I~' . 1 ! i SOUTH(iT:)T.~j;;'i~_1 1 ptj:2it:iifJ: ':)~~~_~_.~,,,J . . ~ ... . Contents , Preface................................................................................l Why We Should Wony................................................3 Sununary............................................................................5 1. Govemance....................................................................6 II. Year-round Residents...........................................13 III. Protection of the Natural Environment.......16 N. Seasonal Development........................................26 Know Your Hamlet......................................................30 Thanks and Acknowledgements............................32 . ~ '..- . . Revised 10/94 Page 1 PREFACE The 1994 Fishers Island Growth Plan seeks to describe the current state of Fishers Island and community sentiment toward where and what Fishers Island should be in the future. In a process that took well over a year, the 1994 Growth Plan Committee worked with the Original Growth Plan Committee and many Island organizations, associations, clubs, businesses and interested individuals to identify widely-held assumptions and concerns regarding growth and recommended strategies for addressing those concerns. Progress has been made in addressing recommendations of past Growth Plans. , The Fishers Island Gazette was established to improve communication and education on Island issues. The Walsh Park Benevolent Corporation was established to address year-round housing problems. The Fishers Island Ferry District instituted a "commuter" ferry schedule. While conducting the 1994 Growth Plan Update, the committee determined that the original Gro\\th Plan Assumptions remain largely valid today. They include; * Fishers Island must have a viable year-round population, * Efforts must be made to slow the growth of the seasonal population, * The Island should remain a residential community, * For the foreseeable future, our Island's official governance will remain the same; we will continue to be a hamlet within the Town of Southold and * The natural environment must be unequivocally protected. Today, the community consensus seems to be that the unique character of the Island -- the special things that attracted all of us here in the first place, such as, the residential orientation, the lack of tourism, the natural beauty, safety for our children and the small village atmosphere -- has continued to draw people to the Island, particularly on a seasonal basis. . . ...' 2 Several obstacles to bringing people to the Island on a full time basis were identified: high property taxes, the diminishing pool of moderately priced housing and rental space, lack of commercial space, high utility rates for businesses, an accommodating but not always efficient ferry freight system, the seasonal only nature of cultural events and activities, the absence of formal daycare and the high cost and declining number of Island students at the school. The universally perceived danger to Fishers Island remains the steady erosion of our unique character. The next section entitled, UWhy We Should Worry" examines this danger further. , . .... . . 3 WHY WE SHOULD WORRY Fishers Island faces the unpleasant consequences of three threats: increased seasonal house and population density, a declining year-round population and tourism. 1. Increasing Density: Fishers Island has experienced a steady annual growth in new seasonal home construction, with a zoned building capability of having 500 more homes built on the island in addition to the 500 now existing. This new home development, along with existing home additions and site management practices, must be responsibly planned and managed or the following will occur: . The increased mass of motor traffic mixed with pedestrian, bicycle, jogger , and other traffic will inevitably result in an accident. . The sheer volume of traffic on the roads will make them less safe, and result in a host of "safety" improvements including stop lights, caution lights, zebra crossings, ete. . The limited and non-renewable water supplies will be increasingly contaminated and be inadequate to supply the increased potable water demand. . The Emergency services capacity of Health, Fire, and Police will be deemed inadequate. . Demand will exceed the existing Island physician services and equipment. . Solid waste generated will exceed present handling capacity. . The environment will markedly degrade with resulting decrease in all plant and animal populations. . The character of Fishers will be permanently and irretrievably changed. 2. Declining Year-round Population: The continuing decline in the year- round population threatens the vitality of the Island's character and infrastructure. Meanwhile, demand for the services of the year-round population has been rising with the growth in Island homes, and the increasing seasonal population. Without successful efforts to stabilize and increase the numbers of the year-round community, the Island faces the following threats: . The human character will change to that of an anonymous summer community. . . ~ 4 . Emergency Services, many now staffed by volunteers, must either disappear or be replaced by professionals. This includes the Fire Department and the Sea Stretcher. . The infrastructure, including water, power, telephone, roads, postal service, etc..., will deteriorate. 3. Tourism: Local services which cater to or encourage transient tourists and visitors are an ongoing concern. The consequences of this threat are readily seen throughout the places Fishers Islanders have chosen not to be. , . . . . 5 SUMMARY I. GOVERNANCE The intent of the Governance section is to describe the governing bodies and decision makers that most immediately affect our community. It is suggested that year-round residents be given priority consideration for local Town positions. It is urged that Islanders become familiar with the governing bodies and individuals in positions of authority. Residents should attend meetings of tax districts and become familiar with the issues that impact all of us. II. YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS It is recommended that we seek ways to strengthen the year-round population, recognizing that Island life is not for everyone. The Ferry District must continue to cooperate with the community and ensure that their policies and operations do not discourage potential year-round residents. Walsh Park Benevolent Corporation is encouraged to continue their inventory and acquisition of year-round housing and rental units. We must aggressively seek appropriate new businesses to supplement traditional existing business activities. A good school is critical in attracting and keeping year-round residents. III. ENVIRONMENT Our wetlands, watersheds and aquifers must be protected from contamination and destruction. Our shorelands must be preserved. Habitat and species diversity must be maintained. To accomplish this, three actions will need to be taken. First, the people of Fishers Island themselves must develop the will and knowledge to manage their existing properties in environmentally responsible ways. Second, the voluntary Island associations and the official town and county organizations must increasingly understand and communicate the threats to the Island's environment. Third, the environmental laws which already exist must be uniformly enforced. IV. SEASONAL DEVELOPMENT The seasonal residents of Fishers Island have been, in general, careful and concerned stewards of the Island, devoting time, energy and resources to enhancing the quality of life for all Islanders. Owners of undeveloped parcels of land are encouraged to investigate the land trust program. The Island's historical sites and monuments should be preserved. Increased seasonal and construction traffic has caused our roadways to become unsafe. The Ferry District is encouraged to minimize provisions for tourism or increased seasonal capacity. . . . . 6 I. GOVERNANCE Background Fishers Island is an island hamlet of the Town of Southold on Long Island. Therefore, it is politically and geographically isolated. lD the past, Chis isolation had been considered an advantage. Islanders were able co remain almost entirely independent. While the Town of Southold and Fishers Island are subject to growth pressures. as is much of the coastal United Scates, the goals and objectives of these separate communities have not been entirely consistent More Islanders now seek a participatory role in and a berrer understanding of the decision-making that affecrs governance of their community. lD 1985, a scudy group w.lS formed to investigate qualifications and procedures-for incorporation as a Village. There is ongoing debate about the advantages and disadvantages of incorporation. The information below briefly describes the governing bodies and decision makers that most immediately affect our community. A. Although the Fishers Island Representative to the Southold Town Board/Justice represents the entire Town of Southold, he/she understands that his/her major obligation is to serve the people of Fishers Island. To that end, this document should serve as a useful guide. Fishers Island is subject to Town-wide laws and regulations that occasionally have adverse impact on Island quality of life or bear no relevancy to the goals of the community. The opposite is also true when Islanders seek.a special ordinance or regulation that would not apply in Southold. In addition to his/her judicial duties, the holder of this office seeks to minimize impacts of irrelevant or adverse Town Code amendments and address special Island concerns through meaningful communication with interested Island constituents and appropriate Town entities such as the Town Trustees. The holder of this office is also an Ex-0fficio member of the Board of Directors of the Fishers Island Civic Association. B. Paid Town positions on the Island are described, and in some cases appointed, on an annual basis. Year-round residents should be given priority consideration for these positions. The Civic Association supports and guides holders of these positions in their efforts. Inquiries about positions should go to the Town Represen cative/ Justice. . . ~ . . 7 . pl"nning Board: The Board consists of five appointed members that meet weekly for work sessions and meet bi-weekly to vote. The Board exists to ensure the safe and proper use of land. Fishers Island has a representative on the Planning Board. The term of service is five years with no limit on the number of terms. The Board deals with major (involving over 5 lots) and minor (involving 2 lots) subdivisions, commercial buildings, country clubs, etc.... They suggest changes to zoning laws as needed. All County, State and Federal regulations must be met before requests are considered or approved by the Board. As Fishers Island has been designated a Critical Environmental Area by the County, the Long Environmental Impact Form, an engineering survey and an archeological survey must be submitted as well. The Town Master Plan has been adopted at all levels for the west end of the Island and the OImsted Plan has been accepted by the Town as zoning for the east end. , . Zoning Board of Appeals: The Board consists of five appointed members that meet once a month or more frequently if necessary. The Board exists to protect the public welfare and interest as outlined by current laws and regulations relative to the use of land and buildings. The Board provides a means of relief when a permit is refused/denied by the Building Department. Fishers Island has a representative on the Zoning Board. The term of service is five years with no limit on the number of terms. The procedure for an appeal varies according to the type of category (signs, accessory apartments, etc...). All appeals require appropriate category forms, a denial from the Building Department, payment of stipulated fees and assurance that the matter does not lie at the state level with the Environmental Conservation Regulatory Affairs Unit. . Building Inspector: A part-time, year-round employee appointed on an annual basis to represent the Southold Town Building Inspector on Fishers Island. He/she conducts site inspections on all Island horne/property improvements. Provides assistance with and tracks all Island building permit applications. Monitors compliance with building codes, licensing regulations and, to a degree, environmental regulations. . Highway Department: * Assistant Superintendent: A part-time, year-round employee appointed on an annual basis to act as the coordinator between the Southold Highway Superintendent and the two Fishers Island highway crew members. Also acts as the the Island public information and . . . . . . 8 complaint officer for the Highway Department. * Crew. Two full-time, year-round, contracted employees on Fishers Island. Duties are to maintain the roads and keep them safe for travel. This includes patching pot holes, clearing drains, sanding and plowing, trimming, planting new and removing old trees, maintaining Town equipment and, if possible, responding to special problems, when they arise. . Enforcement positions: * Town Constables: There are two year-round, part-time constables appointed on an annual basis who, as designated peace officers, are primarily involved in patrol and traffic direction. They direct , pedestrian and vehicular traffic at scenes of fires, accidents, and public events, patrol parking areas, issue summonses, answer questions for and direct the public, testify in court, make reports and assume police duties as directed. * Bay Constables: There are two year-round, part-time Bay Constables, appointed on an annual basis, who are responsible for patrolling adjacent waterways. Their duties include ensuring proper utilization of mooring, anchorage, and recreational areas and channels in West Harbor. They are also available to patrol East and Hay Harbors and to assist Town officials when conducting working visits to the island. . The Southold Board of Town Trustees regulate any activity along the shoreline of the Town and its inland wetlands. The Trustees review permit applications, conduct public hearings on permit applications and make occasional visits to Fishers Island to conduct site inspections. The Trustees operate independently of the Southold Town Board and are elected in separate Town-wide elections. Fishers Island would benefit by having an Island resident, familiar with local conditions and Island ecology, on the Board of Town Trustees. C. The following Island Tax Districts strive to provide basic and adequate infrastructure for our residential community. . Fishers Island Ferry District "The object and purpose of the district shall be to acquire, construct, equip, operate and maintain a public ferry for the . . . . . 9 transportation for hire of persons and vehicles, and goods, wares and merchandise, from convenient points on Fishers Island, across the waters of the Long Island Sound and other adjacent waters or tributary thereto, to points within and without the state. A further object and purpose of the district shall be to acquire by gift, purchase or lease, an airport or landing field situated on Fishers Island, and to operate and maintain such airport" (excerpts from 1947 Charter amended in 1951). A candidate seeking a seat on the five member Board of Commissioners must be a property owner and registered voter on the Island to qualify. Board members serve five year terms with no limitation on the number of terms served. In order to vote in Fishers Island Ferry District elections which are usually held in early August, you must be a property owner or registered voter on the Island. Absentee ballots are not available. The annual Budget meeting is usually conducted in late August. Referendums are held on an as needed basis. . Fire District The Fishers Island Fire District provides basic equipment and the fire house for the Fishers Island Fire Department. Although independent, the volunteer Fire Department operates as a division of the Fire District. The Department conducts several community and fundraising events on an annual basis. Money generated from these events is used to cover operation of the Sea Stretcher ambulance boat and to defray equipment improvement costs, such as improvements currently being made to the radio system. There are five members of the Fire District. One Commissioner is elected each year at a December election. One must be a registered voter in the District to vote in this election. There are no absentee ballots. The Fire Department conducts elections among its members to determine Line Officers who are then recommended to the Fire District for appointment. . School District: The Fishers Island School is a New York Public School for grades pre K-12. Students are able to earn a local diploma, Certificate of Completion or a New York State Regents Diploma. The Board of Education is dedicated to educating students to develop desired moral, ethical, and cultural values, to stimulate and expand a continual learning process and to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of the . . . . 10 rights and responsibilities of American citizens, which will enable them to function effectively as independent individuals in a democratic society." Additionally, the "Board strives to conduct district affairs by way of a continuing, open dialogue between the community and the school... wish[ing] to maintain its high level of sensitivity to the needs and desires of the community and to act expeditiously to meet changing needs and conditions." A candidate seeking a seat on the five member Board of Education must be a resident and present a petition signed by 25 residents to qualify. Board members serve for three year terms with no limitation on the number of terms served. In order to vote in Union Free School District #4 elections (includes Board members and annual budget) which are usually held in May, you must be a resident of the District for at least 30 days prior to the election. A bs~n tee ballots are available. . Garbage and Refuse District The District is responsible for receiving and transporting household garbage and waste off the Island. Since state law required that the Island dumps and landfIlls be closed, the District has established a successful recycling program and trash transfer program. The former burn dump has been excavated and now serves as the site for yard waste and contractor and demolition waste. The District has worked closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on appropriate clean up and closure procedures at the Island's Picket Property landf1ll10cated east of the gate house. The Town of Southold has assumed clean up and closure responsibility for the former metal dump. The District sponsors an annual Household Toxic Waste Day each summer providing residents with an opportunity to properly dispose of such items as paints, oils, batteries, etc... . A candidate seeking a seat on the three member Board of Commissioners must be a property owner or resident to qualify. Board members serve three year terms with no limitation on the number of terms served. In order to vote in Fishers Island Garbage and Refuse District elections, which are usually conducted in December, you must own property or be a resident of the District for a least 30 days prior to the election. Absentee ballots are available. . The Fishers Island Sewer District was established in the mid-eighties to ensure effective disposal of sewage and waste water for residents in designated Fort Wright areas. Proper maintenance and operation of this system is critical. The Southold Town Board members act as commissioners for this . . 11 Island tax district. D. It is important for Islanders to be familiar with and be able to communicate with the myriad governing bodies at the Federal, State and County levels that affect our quality of life. Those that are most present on the Island are briefly described below: . State Troopers: Two Troopers from Riverbead, Long Island are stationed on Fishers Island. One from May 1st through October 31st of every year and the other from June 1st through Labor Day. They are able to enforce any New York State law (including environmental regulations), although they are primarily involved in patrol and traffic direction. . Department of Environmental Conservation (DEe): VariOU$ Regional units, such as the Regional Solid Waste Engineer or tidal and freshwater wetlands staff from the DEC, make regular field visits to Fishers Island for inspection and enforcement purposes. The DEC will review proposed projects in light of its own statewide regulations. For information on specific regulations concerning air, water, solid waste, etc..., call the Regulatory Affairs Office. Application guides are available to assist the general public in preparing acceptable permit applications for projects that affect tidal or freshwater wetlands. Activity conducted within 100 feet of a freshwater or tidal wetland requires a permit. E. The Fishers Island Civic Association has a mandate to responsibly represent all Island residents, businesses and organizations. It aggressively strives for consensus, or at least majority opinion, on goals and objectives of the community. The Civic Association conducts open meetings, provides written material covering the deliberations of the Directors, communicate through the Fishers Island Gazette and other appropriate newspapers and works in dose affiliation with the Town of Southold and all representatives of the Town. The Civic Association has several committees described below. For more information, contact the Civic Association. . Police Advisory Committee: The mission is to ensure open, two-way communications between the public and law enforcement officials. This Committee develops, in conjunction with the Town Justice, enforcement officers and review by the Civic Board, clear expectations of the officers and enforcement priorities which are announced at May QJIarterly Civic Association Meeting. . . 12 . Harbor Committee: The mission is to provide all Island harbor user groups a forum for discussing harbor issues and to provide the Town Board with recoJllJllendations for balanced, fair, harbor policy and regulation built on the broadest possible consensus and endorsed by the Civic Association membership. This committee has been officially recognized by the Town of Southold and is known as the Fishers Island Harbor Committee. . Senior Citizens Committee: This new committee is charged with identifying and meeting the needs of the Island's senior citizens, securing Town and County assistance programs if eligible, and establishing and providing guidance for an Island senior citizens coordinator. . The Fishers Island Gazette is a major opinion forum. Its policy is to publish all the news free from any government pressure and independent of any political bias. . . . . 13 II. YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS Background Hiscorically Fishers Island has been blessed with year-round residents who have been good stewards of the community. Most families owned their own homes and absentee ownership of an Island business was unknown. This scene has been changing. The Island population has declined in the last 20 years from just over 500 CO under 300 today. Volunteers who maintain the critical functions that preserve and enhance the quality of life on the Island are stretched thin. It is recognized that it is in our best interest CO find ways of strengthening the year-rolJIJd population and that the factors involved in doing so are complex. Fishers Island offers a lifestyle that is not for everyone. Mainland amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, diversity in out-of-school opportunities for children are traded for a more rural and isolated experience. Those people deciding to live on Fishers Island must contend with the challenges of access CO and from the mainland, availability of suitable housing, and the slightly higher utility rates and property taxes. Those with children must consider all that the Fishers Island School has to offer. While commuting to the mainland for work is now a possibility, those who wish CO establish a business on the Island must deal with the particularities of the Island. The decline in the number of year-round residents has stabilized, thanks to a housing program and an improved feny schedule, but at too low a level to consider the battle won. Also, job opportunities on the Island do not meet the needs of all persons seeking employment. Awareness of these and other socia-economic trends is critical in devising programs aimed at making Fishers Island an attractive place for families to live and work. A. Now that the Ferry schedule accommodates a "reverse" commute from the Island to the mainland, efforts should be made to recruit families from the Groton/New London area whose work schedule would permit such a commute. Additionally, efforts should be made to recruit families seeking our unique lifestyle from similar communities across the country. B. Housing programs for year-round residents should continue to be expanded. The Walsh Park Property on North Hill has been developed to house 12 families. The Walsh Park Board of Trustees also recognizes that the lack of adequate, affordable . . . . 14 rental properties is a critical issue. They have agreed to work with all interested parties to improve this growing Island concern. C. Efforts should be made to aggressively seek appropriate new businesses for the Island to supplement traditional existing business activities. Available commercial space is a priority in order to encourage a business owner to consider the Island a good location to work and live. Primary consideration should be given to Island residents for the limited commercial space available. It may be necessary to offer some form of pro active community assistance to aid a prospective business locate space, arrange financing if necessary and so on. We should continue to support properly licensed, tax paying Island businesses and particularly those who employ year-round Island residents. A business round table that would meet in a Rotary Club fonnat sho1Jld be established by the business community which would offer a place to discuss issues and concerns such as utility demand rates, ferry freight and housing needs for employees. D. The mainland has been made more available to Island residents. The Ferry District Commissioners must continually study and evaluate the changing needs of year-round residents and Island businesses and arrange schedules and fares to accommodate these requirements whenever possible. Presently, higher seasonal fares are a hardship for year-round residents. E. A good school is critical in attracting and keeping year-round residents. The high cost and low enrollment at the Fishers Island School is an ongoing concern. The 1994-95 budget is $1,979,795. There are currently 78 students pre-K through Grade 12, and 28 of these are off Island students. Maximum capacity of the school building is 100 to 120 students. There are 21 employees of the Fishers Island School. The school-owned housing is currently full. F. Provision for a health care system is critical to attracting and keeping year-round residents. Fishers Island has first class emergency services. The Island Health Project provides a continuous residency of doctors from St. Lukes-Roosevelt Hospital in New York City. The Fire Department provides the Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's) and the "Sea Stretcher" personnel. Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London provides continuous care and assistance. G. The volunteer Fishers Island Fire Department, including the continuous EMT training, are an integral part of the well being of all residents, guests and workers. . . 15 H. The Island People's Project is an organization that develops, implements and supports programs that contribute to the social, cultural and overall quality of life of all residents. Its main emphasis has been in organizing and running a summer recreational program for ages 4-12. I. We must encourage the Town Board to address issues and concerns involving Island senior citizens commensurate with what is offered to mainland citizens. J. The churches and their related organizations are an integral part of the spiritual and social fabric of Fishers Island. K. There are several recreational facilities on Fishers Island that contribute to the quality of liie on the Island. The Fishers Island Movie Theater, the tennis courts by the school, and the boat ramp in Pirate's Cove have all recently been refurbished through private contributions and Town funding and are available for public use. Members of the American Legion Hall welcome the public as guests. The bowling alley is also available to the public. These facilities must be well maintained and not allowed to fall into disrepair again. 1. The Sanger Fund has provided funding for many important Island projects since its establishment. Individuals or Island groups lacking funds required to accomplish projects beneficial to the community are encouraged to apply to the Sanger Fund. . . 16 III. PROTECTION OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT Background Fishers Island and its surrounding waters is an environmental rarity which needs the protection of all its residents and visitors. Its environment is under pressure from a variety of sources, primarily new individual home development and the managemenr practices of the existing homes and lors. Distanr observers are perhaps more aware of the rarity of the Fishers Island habitar than the residents of the Island. The following is a description of the Fishers Island Ecological Complex by the Lonl! Island Sound Coasral Management Prol!ram: , " The Island is surrounded by the highest quality marine waters in the Sound region... Along the shore are coastal salt ponds, brackish and salt marshes, a sheltered bay and coves, maritime sandy beaches, rocky intertidal communities, and small offshore islands. Inland areas of the Island host freshwater ponds, coastal plain pond shores (rare), shrub swamps, and red maple-hardwood swamps, oak-hickory forests, a maritime beech forest (globally rare), other forested areas which help protect the Island's water supply and prevent invasion of exotic species, shrub thickets, and managed maritime grasslands (fire-maintained). Many of the Island's rare species are concentrated in wetlands... About 45 species of plants listed as rare, endangered, or threatened are found on the Island, as are over 90 breeding bird species, including osprey... and at least eight other protected species. The beach areas are used by many varieties of sea birds, wading birds, waterfowl, shore birds, and passerines... islands off the north shore host one of the largest nesting concentrations of double-crested cormorants in New York State. Seals... concentrate in the area during winter months..." This fabulous diversity of habitat on and around the Island nurtures an abundance of fish and wildlife which form the essential part of the Fishers Island experience. This is what its residents are committed to protect through The Fishers Island Growth Plan. The need for prorection of the environment and enforcement of its attendant laws outweighs the inconvenience and constraint on any individual homeowner, club, business or other entity. No governmental enforcement authority can take the place of an aware dtizenry on Fishers Island. Every house and household has , . . . 17 an individual impact on the environment. The cumulative effects of each household's brush and site clearing, pesticide use, septic maintenance, plantings, wetland treatment, etc... is enonnous. An example of environmental success through the changed practices of each household is the introduction of recycling programs by the Garbage and Refuse District. Today nearly eVeJYone acknowledges that wetlands, waterfront, wildlife habitats, ponds, watershed lands, aquifer basins, and scenic areas are important components of the Island's unique ecological significance and character. In the past, a smaller seasonal population and lower home density afforded Island residents the luxUI}' of manipulating their individual properties without dramatically altering the perception of being surrounded by a diverse, undisturbed natural environment. Now, each property owner, caretaker, contractor, landscaper and business proprietor must be mindful of his or her impact on the sum of the whole through individual household practices. A. Conservation Organizations: Support the work of the Fishers Island Conservancy. This organization has acted and should continue to act as the lead organization in environmental matters on the Island. The Conservancy should take the lead in building consensus to define the environmental protection priorities of the Island, thereby avoiding alarmist posture and maintaining credibility. The H.L Ferguson Museum has campaigned to preserve the Island's historic, cultural, architectural and archaeological resources. It is required that when evidence of prehistoric, Colonial or Native American occupation appears during construction or any land improvement project, the owners of such land should notify the Museum and allow for professional archaeological assessment to take place before the site is destroyed. The importance of extracting and preserving infonnation on the Island's past cannot be overstated. B. Environmental Regulation: The growth objectives, topography, and economic structure of Fishers Island are in many ways radically different from those of Southold and Suffolk County. For example, unlike Fishers Island, Southold has and wishes to encourage a sizeable tourist industry. The zoning structure, regulatory machinery and bureaucracy put in place for the concerns of Suffolk County and Southold are often irrelevant, confusing and sometimes at odds with the interests and concerns of Fishers Island. Many of the distant regulatory officials. at the Town, County, and State levels are understandably unfamiliar with the topography and specific environmental needs of Fishers Island. The communication among the . . . . 18 distant regulatory authorities, the few local Fishers Island regulatory authorities and civic groups has been unsatisfactory. The zoned single home capacity of Fishers Island has been fixed at roughly 1,000 building lots, with approximately 500 homes presently in existence. The environmental intent of this Growth Plan is to chart a slow growth path for the Island as a residential community which accepts the role of daily stewardship of its precious and fragile environment. The environmental challenge for regulations, regulators and Island citizens is to see that future actions are consistent with this intent in four areas: new home building, renovations, topographic alteration and property/home management. Accordingly: · New and detailed information is available in the Fishers Island Watershed Studv conducted for the Fishers Island Conservancy and the Suffolk County Health and Planning Departments. This study documents and maps the critical watershed areas of Barlow, Middle Farms, and Treasure Ponds. It also maps rare species and environmentally sensitive habitats in' those watershed areas. In combination with DEC information and watershed information developed in the mosquito control program, a thorough information base exists for Fishers Island. This information base should be consolidated by the Fishers Island Conservancy or another appropriate group and then overlaid on the building lot maps of the Island. These maps should be made available to all regulatory authorities and property owners for use when they are considering building lot applications. The Conservancy plans to expand the database on rare species and sensitive habitats Island-wide. · The Southold Town Board has intermittently employed an environmental engineer to review Fishers Island projects and plans that had environmental dimensions and fell under the Town's purview. This poSition has been useful to Fishers Island in the past and should be in the future. The Conservancy the Civic Association and FIDCO feel such a person is needed. There are three useful roles played by this person: education/information, Inspection, and enforcement. · There should be a Fishers Island representative among the Southold Town Trustees, which has jurisdiction over environmental matters. · Fi~hers Island has been designated as a "Critical Environmental Arean (CEA) by Suffolk County. Islanders are awaiting formal CEA recognition by the . . 19 Southold Town Board. Such action by the Town Board would coordinate and streamline the permit application process and give more visibility and credibility to the designation. . The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Southold Board of Town Trustees have jurisdiction over most activities affecting the environment: new home building, topographic manipulation and activities around the water. The Health Board is a Suffolk County office which has the responsibility for septic and water supply. In matters such which affect navigable waters, such as dock building, the u.s. Army Corps of Engineers gets involved. All visits by these authorities to Fishers Island should be specifically and generally publicized. Specifically, notice should include the Fishers Island representatives of the Building , . Inspector, Plannmg and Appeals Boards, as well as the Island Town Board representative, the Civic Association, the Conservancy and FIDCO. Generally, notice should be posted at the Post Office. Fishers Island Constables, Bay Constables and State Troopers have the authority to enforce environmental regulations and should increase their efforts. . Local officials on Fishers Island and concerned citizens' groups have not uniformly received timely notice of building permit applications. Notice of any building or land use permit requests received by Southold Town Departments or Boards, as well as Suffolk County Boards, should immediately be forwarded to the aforementioned Island officials. The Civic Association should create and implement an Island Land Use Advisory Committee. Such committees have been established in other Southold and Suffolk County hamlets to receive and coordinate the flow of information among government officials, local citizens, and concerned citizens' groups. C. Inland and Open Waters . Aquifers: In order to protect the vital water supply of Fishers Island, the Fishers Island Water Company is strongly urged to act on the reservoir protection recommendations of the recent Fishers Island Watershed Study. This study confIrmed the earlier reservoir protection recommendations of the Trust for Public Land study. In brief, a "Watershed Protection Area" should be legally established around the critical watersheds of Barlow Pond, Middle Farms Pond, and Treasure Pond, prohibiting pond-Side development. . . 20 Fishers Island Development Corporation is urged to facilitate the establishment of the "Watershed Protection Area" in cooperation with the Water Company, such as through exploring the possibility of building lot exchanges. . Wetlands: The remaining wetlands of Fishers Island must be protected from disturbance, human waste contamination and insecticide and fertilizer run-off. Wetlands connect to, and provide f1ltration for, the water supplies of the Island. They provide habitat and nursery protection to plant, anima1 and marine life. Wetlands are sometimes seasonal, and therefore not always easily discernible. Many wetlands have been f1lled in in the past and there remains the danger of ongoing "inching in". , Both the New York DEe and the Southold Board of Town Trustees have jurisdiction and regulations covering wetlands. They are encouraged to see that the environmental regulations are enforced. Permitting requirements vary by authority and specific features of the location. Any owner or contractor should always check with these authorities before altering a wetland or the area within 100 feet of a wetland. Property Owners should be aware that the use of pesticides and herbicides or any clearing within 100 feet of a wetland is regulated by the above authorities and that they must check with these authorities before commencing. The osprey population of Fishers Island and much of the coast was almost destroyed due to the seepage of DDT into the food chain through the coastal wetlands. This is the most dramatic example of the connection between land- based management practices and the wetlands. In this way, all Island residents are connected and affected by the pesticidal, herbicidal, and fertilizer practices of each property owner on the island. Organic and biological fertilizer and pest management alternatives now exist to the chemical school of gardening. An excellent example of biological application versus chemical application is the Fishers Island mosquito control program of the Conservancy. . Harbors: The newly formed Fishers Island Harbor Committee is made up . . . . 21 of delegates of all harbor user groups. One of the goals of the Harbor Committee is to restore where necessary and protect the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the waters surrounding Fishers Island. The Bay Constables will enforce agreed upon regulations. The Fishers Island Harbor Committee is urged to seek a solution to the disposal of boat septic tank waste. Both Hay Harbor and West Harbor have a fecal pollution problem. Some property owners near West Harbor and Hay Harbor have inadequate waste- water treatment installations or septic systems. Home owners should have their sanitary systems tested if there is any concern about their adequacy. Dye tests are easy to do and will give property owners an indication of whether untreated waste is flowing directly into our harbors. Fishers Island Conservancy is very helpful in setting up dye tests. This situation needs to be monitored continually. The Fishers Island Conservancy is urged to continue its harbor pollution testing. · Coastland: Beachstone should be removed only by those with legal permits to do so. Removal should be kept to an absolute minimum, since beach stone is an easily gathered, and not easily renewed, resource. Unauthorized removal can cause severe erosion of adjacent areas including encroachment of saltwater into coastal fresh water ponds. The coastland not only provides food sources for birds but also provides space for breeding colonies. Breeding colonies and nests should be admired from afar and not disturbed if we are to continue to enjoy our shore birds. · Surrounding Waters: As part of the SeawoIf program, the Navy intends to dump 2.7 million cubic yards of severely contaminated Thames River bottom sludge at the New London Disposal Site (NLDS) just 1-112 miles off Fishers Island's north-west coast, and proximate to the enormous tidal flows between the Race and Long Island. The SouthoId Town Board, and the SouthoId Board of Trustees as well as Suffolk County and the New York State DEC are urgently requested to oppose the use of NLDS. The Fishers Island Conservancy should be supported strongly by the citizens of Fishers Island in their legal opposition to the Seawolf dredge and disposal project. Island residents with connections to other conservation groups are urged to seek the cooperation of those other groups in opposing this dump-site. . . . ' 22 The Navy Undersea Warfare Center has installed cables and an electronic sled (complete with far-offshore mooring buoy) at Wilderness Point, an important natural habitat and recreational fishing area. This activity, while understandable for national security reasons, should be continually monitored for pollution, and other environmental abuses. Unlicensed dragging by large trawlers, illegal lobstering, and other fishing and marine infractions are seldom enforced. The New York DEC, New York State Police (NYSP), the Fishers Island Police Advisory Committee and the Fishers Island Harbor Committee are urged to seek a solution to the problem. D. Refuse . The Southold Town Board is presently discussing the alternative costs of , capping and a thirty year monitoring program for the metal dump versus mining and removal to off island sites. The Fishers Island Conservancy strongly supports the mining of the dump and argues that the total cost of the two alternatives is comparable. In the absence of a prohibitive cost differential, the Fishers Island Civic Association insists that mining and removal be done on the grounds of safety. Fishers Island, unlike Southold, is a very small place with finite interconnected critical aquifers on which the public depend. Therefore, a Zero Tolerance Policy should be adopted to solutions which endanger the public aquifers. The alternative of capping the metal dump and monitoring the ground water contamination to determine if and when the water supply is tainted offers an unacceptable level of risk to this small Island. . Efforts to close and cap the existing Pickett property landfill must be better explained and understood by Fishers Island property owners before they can support any plan. The necessity of mining the landfill to remove hazardous material before capping should be considered. . The residents of the Island commend the Fishers Island Garbage and Refuse District Commissioners for the well-reasoned and managed system of recycling and garbage disposal. However, it is the residents themselves who must make the system work in two critical ways: reducing the solid waste load created by each one of us, and recycling all possible materials. In the U.S., the average amount of solid waste generated per year is 2,000 pounds for each . . 23 woman, man, and child. Each person coming to Fishers Island should think twice before bringing non-recyclable disposable products to our Island which has no on Island disposal capacity. . The F.I. Garbage and Refuse District has organized an extremely valuable "STOP DAY" which allows Islanders to dispose of all dangerous toxic products, such as, batteries, paint thinner, pesticides, etc.... Participation by all Islanders is a must. . Brush is now chipped at the former burn dump site for $5 a truck load. . The road and beach litter situation is an increasing problem. The Troopers and Constables are encouraged to enforce the laws against littering. While there' are many culprits, contractors should insist that their employees obey these laws. The Civic Association will continue to sponsor a road clean up day in the spring. All Islanders are encouraged to volunteer for this effort. E. Habitat Preservation and Open Spaces: All property owners, caretakers and contractors must become more aware that land clearing is habitat destruction and therefore should be done selectively, carefully, and gradually over time. The increasing housing density on the Island is destroying wildlife habitat in its creation of human habitat. We easily understand that roads, tennis courts, pools, etc... are devoid of wildlife habitat. However, property owners must also come to understand that large manicured lawns are monocultures whose fertilizer, herbicidal and insecticidal run-offs can turn wetlands and ponds into algae ponds. "Cleaned up" tree groves with no undergrowth of native species such as high-bush blueberry, etc... become habitat deserts. Every property owner is responsible to each other for the preservation of wildlife habitat and open spaces on the Island. . The H.L Ferguson Museum Land Trust has spearheaded the effort to set aside and preserve open areas of Fishers Island. To date, the Trust has preserved 64 acres of open space. All residents should be aware of, and encouraged to participate in, the granting of conservation easements and donations of property to this effort. . FIDCO policies have the largest single effect on the future of open spaces on Fishers Island. Subdividing land should continue to be prohibited. Minimal site clearing should be encouraged. FIDCO's largest tenant, the Fishers Island Club, should continue to review and refme its golf course management strategy for minimum environmental impact. . Southold has a town-wide program of acquisition of open spaces. The . . 24 application of this program needs to be investigated and coordinated with the Museum. . We should all be grateful to property owners who allow the continued maintenance of nature trails through their properties. The open space and recreation systems on the Island including the nature trails should be maintained, enlarged by landowner cooperation, gifts, and easements. . There is a need for a tree policy for public land. For example, the beautiful maples on Whistler Avenue need to be replaced as they die. We must continue to take advantage of the Town of Southold Tree Program which provided and planted 30 trees over the past two years. . The Navy Undersea Warfare Center property on Fishers Island must continually be monitored for the possibility of being deemed surplus. , F. Recommended Practices: Judicious use of all natural resources on Fishers Island is encouraged. Residents should: . Minimize lawn areas, use of fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides, . Protect wetlands and wildlife habitat from encroachment and run-off, . All septic systems should be pumped of solids regularly, . Older septic systems should be dye tested for run-off, . Recycle when possible and reduce disposables, . The Conservancy and FICA are urged to create and distribute pamphlets on appropriate environmental practices of home management and site development. G. Potential Environmental Threats: If recommended actions of the Growth Plan are not taken, the following may occur: . Barlow, Middle Farms and Treasure Pond reservoirs potentially contaminated from new home development and septic infIltration, . Aquifer contamination occurs from old metal dumpsite and at the Pickett Property landfIll, . SeawoIf dredging spoil pollutes surrounding waters, . Irresponsible home management practices of clear cutting, wetlands infIIl, poor septic location and hard surface run-off all lead to open space reduction and degradation of environment,f. Loss of remaining wetlands due to f1lling and site clearing, septic intrusion, etc... leads to loss of wildlife habitat and decline in species, . Continuing broad herbicide, insecticide, and fertilizer applications lead to ground water contamination and wetland elimination, . . 25 . Hay Harbor and West Harbor septic contamination continues to be a problem, . Severe garbage and refuse handling problems due to high growth in solid waste generation, decline in recydables, increased disposables, . Continued rising demand on well water without protected reservoir system results in salt water intrusion and water rationing, , . . , . 26 IV. SEASONAL DEVELOPMENT Background The land mass of Fishers Island is divided into approximately 1000 existing building lots. Subdivisions could create an additional 77 building lots within the current zoning regulations. Island-wide, there are approximately 500 residential housing units now in existence with several planned for construction in the next few years. Of the buildable lots on the east end, there are 214 that remain unimproved. The escalating value of Island real estate has resulted in various properties being considered as investment opportunities. This has had an adverse impact on the housin~ available to aspiring year-round residents. A second housing related issue pertinent to seasonal development is home rentals. There was a time when seasonal homes remained vacant while owners were not on the Island. Now, more and more seasonal owners are renting their homes when not in use, for both long and short term periods. This has had the effect of increasing the overall seasonal population. It is clear from the Plan Assumptions listed earlier that one goal of the Growth Plan is to enhance the year-round population and to slow seasonal development. However, it must be recognized that seasonal growth is occurring. For example, new house starts are at 3 to 6 per year, a growth rate of about 196, and rentals are up as noted above. The fundamental issue in seasonal development is management of the tension which exists between individual private property rights and development that adversely impacts the overall infrastructure and fragile environment of Fishers Island. A conscious effort to maintain a residential community with little or no rourism is being made by both seasonal and year-round Island residents willing to forego commercial amenities that typica1Jy attract tourists. Island businesses have been willing to cater almost exclusively to Island residents. The Island's infrastructure is geared to providing services for year round and seasonal residents, with little or no provision for tourism of the type evident on Block Island or Martha's Vineyard. Unusual in many other places, the seasonal residents of Fishers Island have been careful and concerned stewards of the Island, devoting time, energy and resources to enhancing the quality of life for a1J Islanders. Employment, supported by the seasonal population, is strong. . , . . 27 A. Sensitive Properties . In order to manage seasonal growth responsibly, agencies and organizations with authority must build consensus on priorities in order to protect the infrastructure and environment for the benefit of all. They must then agree to support the enforcement of existing laws which ensure protection of our unique Island. . All Island properties that provide widespread publiC access or bear the potential of becoming tourist attractions or sites for development (large parcels) should be inventoried and the owners made familiar with this Plan and its assumptions. Owners and buyers of property zoned commercial are also encouraged to utilize that property in a manner consistent with this Plan. , . The Ferguson Museum Land Trust accepts donations and maintains Island properties to be held as open space in perpetuity. Owners of undeveloped parcels adjacent to their principal properties are encouraged to investigate the land trust program. They will benefit from the proximity to green space, as well as the tax benefits such a donation will provide. The Museum should conduct a public presentation of the program periodically to broaden its base. . Southold Town has established a Farmland Preservation and Open Space Program to purchase properties or development rights to those properties that contribute to the aesthetic and rural character of the Town. B. Island individuals, organizations and businesses should work to preserve the integrity of the Island's historical sites. The Ferguson Museum should prepare and make available an inventory of such sites and monuments in order to protect and maintain them. It is hoped that new construction and renovations are done in the character of the Island. C. Fishers Island Development Corporation (FlOCO) is the major private property owner on the Island with buildable lots traditionally sold to seasonal residents. The Olmsted Plan, developed for the east end of the Island, has been adopted into law as a formal planning and zoning structure by both Southold Town and Suffolk County. FlDCO honors the Olmsted Plan and does not intend to support subdivisions similar to those as have occurred in the past. FIDCO has had a policy against further land sales . . . . . . 28 for some time. FIDCO, in cooperation with other agencies and boards, is in the position to and must discourage development practices on the east end that will have an adverse impact on the environment, infrastructure or character of the Island. D. Short term and group rentals by homeowners and real estate agents are strongly discouraged. E. Fishers Island businesses are encouraged to continue operating in a manner that is consistent with this Plan, providing goods and services for residents as the target client base for their operations, and not providing for increased tourism. F. We commend the efforts of the Island Clubs to manage their growth in a manner consistent .,.lith this Plan. , G. The Fishers Island Ferry District bears responsibility for the two major public points of entry to the Island, the airport and the ferry boats. There is fundamental disagreement over the role and ability of the Ferry District to affect the growth rates of the Island. It is believed that a conflict exists between the operating philosophy of the District - to provide safe and efficient transportation to all who present themselves - and the public perception that there is too much traffic on the Island. It is difficult to avoid the conclusion that the Ferry District either explicitly or implicitly impacts growth on the Island through its policies. The Ferry District efforts to address seasonal capacity through their commitment not to expand beyond a two boat system is to be commended. The Ferry District is encouraged to consider the growth implications of the following: * The proposed New London Terminal Expansion Project, * Expanded parking on the New London side, and * Policies concerning scheduling, pricing, reservations and space entitlements. H. As the seasonal population increases, so does the use of the Island's roads. The rural nature of the Island's road system, albeit consciously chosen and cherished, is not always conducive to safe transportation. Many steps have been taken to accommodate the number and types of roadway users on a seasonal basis. There are too many vehicles on the Island. Whenever possible, residents should leave excess vehicles on the mainland. I. Seasonal residents are encouraged to become educated about Island issues and recognize that Fishers Island is a year-round community, not just a seasonal "get- . , . . 29 away". Registering to vote and voting as a Fishers Island resident is a good way to get involved. Check your voter quaIifications for the various Island taxing districts such as the School District, Garbage and Refuse District and Ferry District, described in the Governance section of this plan. J. The Fishers Island Utility Company has worked diligently to improve the delivery of basic services such as phone, electric and water. As seasonal growth occurs, careful consideration must be given to the capacity of these delivery systems as well as other systems such as sewage septic systems. , . . . . 30 FISHERS ISLAND HAMLET OFFICIALS Justice Louisa P. Evans Term: 4 years Salary: $22,986.00 per annum Kenneth L. Edwards, Planning Board Member Term: 5 years Salary: $6,953.00 per annum Serge J. Doyen, Jr., Board of Appeals Member Term: 5 years Salary: $6,953.00 per annum Robert E. Wall, Building Inspector & Rep. for Health Dept. and Consumer Affairs Ten"!): Effective 1-1-94 and shall hold such positions at the pleasure of the Town Board, unless otherwise provided for by law. Salary: $7,167.00 per annum Howard Hancock, Assistant Superintendent on Fishers Island, Highway Department Term: Effective 1-1-94 and shall hold such positions at the pleasure of the Town Board, unless otherwise provided for by law. Salary: $5,991.00 per annum A. R. Grebe, Jr., Constable Term: Effective 1-1-94 and shall hold such position at the pleasure of the Town Board, unless otherwise provided for by law. Salary: $9,828.00 per annum with benefits Lawrence Horn, Constable Term: Effective 1-1-94 and shall hold such position at the pleasure of the Town Board, unless otherwise provided for by law. Salary: $9,828.00 per annum with benefits Thomas F. Doherty, Bay Constable Term: 1-1-94 to 12-31-94 Salary: $2,502.00 The Town to pay all expenses for fuel required for the operation of Mr. Doherty's boat while he is performing services for the Town during the term hereto, and payment for seasonal docking facility space at a Fishers Island marina for Mr. Doherty's boat. William Wall, Assistant Bay Constable Term: 1-1-91 to 12-31-94 Salary: $1,950.00 The Town will pay all expenses for fuel required for the operation of Mr. Wall's boat while he is performing services for the Town, and up to $250. during the term of the agreement for servicing the motor of Mr. Wall's boat. . . . . 31 Fishers Island Harbor Committee, Leslie O. Goss, Chair 788-7029 or 788-7694 Fishers Island Police Advisory Committee, Co-Chair Scudder Sinclair, 788-7374 Co-Chair Iinda Hale, 788-7170 Senior Committee, Betty Peishoff 788-7292 Tree Committee, Peter Burr 201-444-0525 or 788-7845 Southold Town and State Officials New York State Deparunent of Environmental Conservation 516-444-0360 or 0350 To'Wn of Southold Trustees, Albert]. Krupski, Jr., President 516-765-1892 , Town Hall, Judith T. Terry, Clerk 516-765-1801 New York State Troopers 788-7600 Ron Muldarig Kevin Drew Fishers Island Tax Districts Ferry District Reynolds duPont, Jr., Chairman 788-7878 Phil Knauff, Manager 788-7463 Capt. Mark Easter, Marine Operations Manager Garbage & Refuse District Gregory Thibodeau, Chairman 788-7777 School District George Homing, Chairman 788-7793 Dr. Cornelius O'Connell, Superintendent 788-7444 Fire District Arthur Walsh, Chairman 788-7605 Fishers Island Sewer District (Fort Wright area) Louisa Evans 788-7646 . . .. , 32 THANKS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Fishers Island is a gem worth protecting. Careful planning and vigilance on the part of residents is necessary to ensure that Fishers Island remains a naturally beautiful sanctuary. The 1994 Growth Plan Update Committee thanks all residents who willingly dedicate their time to care for Fishers Island; who work together to solve the problems which face us all. The Update Committee thanks the following individuals, businesses and organizations for their specific contributions to this document. It would be impossible to reflect accurately the sentiments of the community without their help. We gratefully acknowledge: Richard Baker, original Growth Plan Committee P.J. Bigelow, Owner, Bigelow Contracting William Bloethe, Owner, Fishers Island Shopping Center & Village Market Board of Town Trustees, Peter Wenczel Ellen Boswell Annie & David Burnham, Race Rock Garden Company Bradford Burnham, original Growth Plan Committee Frank Burr, original Growth Plan Committee Stanley Droskoski, Chief of Police Judge Louisa Evans and The Southold Town Board Roben D. Evans Patty Faulkner, original Growth Plan Committee Charlie Ferguson, H.L. Ferguson Museum Fishers Island Club, Inc.; Richard W. Goss, President Fishers Island Conservancy; John Thatcher, President Fishers Island Development Corporation; Roben B. Calhoun, Jr., President Fishers Island Ferry District; Reynolds duPont, Jr., Chairman Fishers Island Highway Department, Jim Hancock Fishers Island Union Free School; Dr. Cornelius O'Connell, Superintendent Fishers Island Utility Company; Tom Doherty Fishers Island Yacht Club; Stephen A. Cook, Commodore Garbage & Refuse District; Gregory Thibodeau, Chairman Cindy & Frank Gillan, Seaside Home & Garden Company Goose Island Corporation; Mary Roberts, President Dick Grebe, Constable William Haase, Fishers Island Real Estate Agency " . ~ .. . .... . . . 33 Rose Harvey, original Growth Plan Committee Hay Harbor Club; Robert W. Parsons, President Larry Horn, Constable Edwin Homing, Island Naturalist Island Health Project; Catherine Jenssen, Secretary Island People's Project; Mary Walter, President Jon Kibbe, original Growth Plan Committee Ken Lanier, former Superintendent Fishers Island School Sarah Malinowski, Growth Plan Update Coordinator John W. Mettler Ill, original Growth Plan Committee NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation; Ray E. Cowen, P.E., Regional Director Harri,s parso,ns, original Growth Plan Committee Police Advisory Committee; Iinda Hale & Scudder Sinclair Bagley Reid, Mystic Isle Realty Inc. William Ridgway, original Growth Plan Committee James Righter Jay Scanlon, President, Island Gardeners Rachel Schmader, The Beach Plum Charles Stepanek, original Growth Plan Committee Southold Conservation Advisory Council; Iinda J. Cooper, Secretary Southold Highway Department, Ray Jacobs, Superintendent Southold Planning Board; Ken Edwards Southold Zoning Board of Appeals; Serge Doyen Gregory Thibodeau, Chair Pres. Village Greenery Town Board Solid Waste Committee, Alice Hussie Town Open Space Comminee, Ruth Oliva Bob Wall, Fishers Island Fire Chief, Building Inspector With sincere thanks, The 1994 Growth Plan Update Committee: Peter Burr, Sally Cashel, Chris Edwards, Laura Edwards, Leslie Goss, Joe Henderson, Steve Malinowski, Betty Peishoff, Carol Ridgway and Art Walsh. *This document has been printed on recycled paper SSOCIA TION 06390 516.788.7029 ). .,- . Rate US. Postage Paid '".'. Fishers Island, N. Y. 06390 Pennit #4 ,