MONTICELLO  —  A proposal to redevelop 88 High Street into a 30-unit workforce housing complex was brought before the Monticello Village Board last week by Selwyn Roberts of DSS Services LLC, but questions quickly arose about zoning and feasibility.

Calvin Osisami of Intercultural Resources Development and the head of the project explained why Roberts and he came before the board.

“Since we weren’t on the agenda, we just wanted to be heard. We put this proposal in after an RFP was opened, and we wanted to make sure there were minutes or an approval,” explained Osisami. “[Because] I sent an email and nobody responded back to us.”

Roberts confirmed they had already spoken with state officials and submitted cost estimates, noting that, “Right now we’re filling out documents to go back to the state for funding this project.”

Trustee Theodore Hutchins noted that the project is estimated at about $3.75 million.

Board members, however, pointed out issues with the proposal, particularly regarding the lot size of 2,400 square feet.

“The code requires for the lot to be 150-foot wide with a minimum of 10,000 square feet, then you have to add on to the square footage for each apartment,” detailed Trustee John Barbarite. “Part of the problem that I’m seeing is what you’re proposing at 88 High Street: a building with 30 units. This would require 45 to 60 parking spaces. What you’re proposing [follows] none of the code requirements to build anything on this small lot.”

“The picture I saw showed a four-story building,” explained Hutchins. “I think that the Village Code only calls for, in that area, just three stories.”

Roberts responded that they were open to changing the project plan.

“We’re willing to modify the project,” stated Roberts. “We just need confirmation with whatever the village requires, and we’re willing to do that.”

Village Board members made clear that no approvals have yet been given for 88 High Street. At the same time, they also discussed another proposal for the site that is under consideration.