MAMAKATING – A proposed amendment to the Town Code that would assist emergency services sparked discussion among the Town of Mamakating Board as members weighed the necessity for life-saving infrastructure against the requirements of existing law.

Town Supervisor Peter Goodman explained that the matter stems from a request from Hatzolah Ambulance to install a modified communications antenna on a property on Eagle’s Nest Road. The antenna, part of a larger repeater system, aims to enhance radio coverage in an otherwise “dead spot” area.

Although the proposal meets zoning and planning requirements, an issue arose during the permitting process. The property on which the antenna sits still had property taxes owed at the time of the meeting by the owner. 

Under current Town Code, permits cannot be issued for properties with outstanding taxes, regardless of who the applicant is.

Goodman explained that the antenna is “a critical piece of equipment for [Hatzolah]. It leaves a big black spot … it’s a matter of life and death when you can’t contact somebody.”

To address this, the Mamakating Board is considering an amendment to a local law that would allow exceptions in cases involving emergency services leasing property with unpaid taxes. The overall goal is to prevent delays in essential public safety infrastructure while maintaining the integrity of the code.

Although there was agreement that the antenna was important, Councilman Tyler Wood stressed that the board is required to follow proper legal procedures before making any changes.

“There’s no law in our law that gives us the right to waive our town laws,” stated Wood, adding that even in situations like this, the town is unable to bypass established processes.

Because of this, the board cannot give the go-ahead to the request right away. Instead, the amendment must go through the formal process of a public hearing, allowing residents the opportunity to review and comment before any changes are made.

Officials acknowledged the urgency of the situation, particularly given the role of reliable communication in emergency response. 

However, they also pointed out the need to apply rules consistently.

“If we do it for one, we have to do it for all,” Goodman said, acknowledging concerns about setting a broader precedent.

While some expressed frustration with the timeline, there was a shared understanding that adherence to state and local regulations is necessary, even in time-sensitive situations.

“It sounds insane,” Wood remarked, citing the delay. “I’d almost break the law to allow them to do this at this point.”

The town board scheduled a public hearing on the proposed amendment for April 7 at 6 p.m., motioned by Councilman Matt Mordas and seconded by Wood. 

Following the hearing, the board may move forward with a vote.