While I was Away!
Some may have misunderstood some of my quotes from different sources while I was away on vacation. I reiterate my support for the proposal involving Iona College’s withdrawal of the 10-story dorm proposal. This follow up is meant to avoid any misunderstanding of my previous statements. The statements were intended to show my support for the temporary changes raising the occupancy limit on the existing dorms and should not be viewed as a reward for the College’s past non-compliance. It was to enforce the need to move forward towards a solution that benefits all parties and finds a solution for Iona College’s need for student housing. Again, we all must work together with Iona College, The City of New Rochelle and the Neighborhood Associations surrounding the college in a fashion that works for all of us.
I wish I had been here for the Press Release about the Iona College Dorm Proposal being dropped. I am delighted and as I said, “This is not a victory but an opportunity”. My support of this decision is only limited to this action. I would not want to see one hundred and fifty students and their families lives disrupted because of someone else’s misgivings. I also feel the same about Dr. Nyre. It would not be fair to hold him accountable for the deeds of someone else. In the interest of good relations it only makes sense. This must be temporary and looked at in further detail.
We cannot make light of the situation. Iona College violated their own personal CR1 zoning so they can’t say they did not know. We must hold all accountable from Iona College and The City of New Rochelle. This was a head count they agreed to on the last DEIS. We see ourselves once again changing the rules to accommodate Iona College. Time and again they come back in the same fashion. Not adhering to agreed terms. Now they want to increase their head count which is in non-compliance with their past agreements. While the president has changed, he is not the only one calling the shots. All must be held accountable. What if something serious happened when they had the fire at Loftus Hall? Iona College’s and The City’s response so far is too vague. We need answers and solutions. More work needs to be done, this should not be political or agenda driven by anyone involved. We must communicate openly and in the best interest of Iona College, the neighbors and The City of New Rochelle. I feel from what I have heard about Dr. Nyre, he is willing to work in a collaborative effort taking a fresh look at the College’s development needs along with The City of New Rochelle’s and that of the area surrounding Iona College.
As I say, “Common Sense for the Common Good”.