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Mayor Karen Smythe of Red Hook has raised concerns over the town's recent decision to take over the Red Hook Boat Club through eminent domain. The town board voted 3-2 in favor of the takeover, aiming to secure public access to the river. However, village officials, including Smythe, question the necessity of the action and the lack of collaborative planning, especially regarding police protection for the proposed public park. Smythe noted that the town relies on the village for police services and emphasized the need to adjust contracts and budgets accordingly.
The process has faced criticism for its lack of transparency and communication. Town Supervisor Robert McKeon stated that details about spending on an eminent domain attorney would require a freedom of information law request. The Red Hook Boat Club, which has operated for nearly 70 years, plans to challenge the takeover in court, arguing that the property is unsafe for public use and conflicts with existing waterfront revitalization policies.
During the town board meeting, which saw a packed and sometimes raucous crowd, McKeon and Deputy Supervisor Bill Hamel defended the decision. They cited the town's long-standing planning documents and the need for public waterfront access. However, board members Christine Kane and Julia Solomon voted against the proposal, expressing concerns about the use of eminent domain.
The takeover has sparked significant opposition from both the boat club and some community members. Commodore Richie Ross stated that the decision has "broken the hearts of the boat club and the community." The club and its supporters argue that the town's approach is heavy-handed and unnecessary.