THOMPSON—A new summer camp and bungalow colony, proposed by Congregation Yeshiva Ateres Shloima—also known as Camp Bobov—may soon take shape in the Town of Thompson.

Near Goldfarb and Gartner Roads, the development spans 98 acres and includes plans for 183 housing units, accommodating 150 students and 32 staff members.

The proposed facilities feature dormitories, a dining hall, sports courts, a swimming pool, classrooms and a synagogue. The developers have said that the project will “integrate seamlessly with the environment.”

According to their operations plan, “the camp’s mission is to foster personal growth through Chassidic values.”

A public hearing was held at the Thompson Planning Board on November 13, saw mixed reactions to the proposal. Many residents expressed concerns about the potential impact on the community.

Jay Barry Azzato, a resident living near the proposed site for 25 years, wrote, “This proposed project will forever impact my life, my lifestyle, and my usual and customary way of living.” He raised concerns ranging from increased noise and traffic to privacy issues and potential light pollution.

Vincent Tavernese, owner of Unique Escapes, a luxury geodome retreat located nearby, voiced cautious support for the project. In a letter to the board, he urged measures to mitigate potential disruptions, stating, “Increased traffic on Gartner Road, especially during peak seasons, would severely impact the peaceful environment we have worked hard to create.” 

Tavernese proposed directing primary access to Goldfarb Road, designating Gartner Road for emergency use only. He called for a balanced approach that allows the camp to succeed without compromising the tranquility crucial to local businesses like his.

Joel Cohen of JK Expediting Service Corp, representing Camp Bobov, assured those at the public hearing that the camp’s activities would be low-key and aligned with Chassidic principles.

The Thompson Planning Board voted to begin the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) process, which aims to address the public’s concerns. 

The planning board said its role is of a neutral evaluator of zoning and environmental compliance, explaining that while the project meets zoning requirements and cannot be denied outright, conditions may be imposed to address the community’s worries.