Debate over Falls Village Inn’s request continues

FALLS VILLAGE — The Board of Selectmen heard lengthy public comment on the ongoing negotiations between the town and the owners of the Falls Village Inn over the encroachment issue at the old firehouse on Railroad Street at the regular selectmen’s meeting Monday, Nov. 18.

The problem is the rear wall of the  old firehouse encroaches four inches onto the inn’s property.

First Selectman Henry Todd explained Great Falls Property, the company that owns the inn, is willing to give up the four inches and another 10 feet in return for the old firehouse not becoming a restaurant that serves dinner, or an automotive business or garage.

Tom Scott opened by saying the selectmen need to have a clear idea of what townspeople want to see done with the property.

Tim Downs urged the selectmen to reach a deal on the boundary between the old firehouse and the Inn.

Dick Heinz said any encumbrances attached to the title will result in the property’s value being diminished.

Judy Jacobs said property uses should be a question for the Planning and Zoning Commission. She questioned the wisdom of allowing restrictions that could last for years.

Dusty Blass said “common sense has gone out the window” and wondered why the inn’s owners don’t offer to buy the building. He also noted that no representative of the inn had come to the meeting.

Henry Todd said he is very reluctant to go to court over the matter. He said he consulted the town’s attorney, Chip Roraback. The cost of litigation would probably be between $60,000 and $80,000, take at least two and half years, and very likely result in an order from the judge for the parties to settle the matter out of court, thus leaving everyone back where they started.

The discussion went back and forth for more than 30 minutes. One suggestion emerged: that the selectmen call a special meeting, invite the inn’s representatives, and go into executive session.