Straightening Out The Driveway Mess

MILLERTON — There was a public hearing held this past Tuesday night about the piece of property that lies between Brian Furey’s and Jeff Benvenuto’s properties. The land is especially desirable since Furey needs to access his land, which is partly in the village and partly in the town. Benvenuto also wants the land as part of his driveway is built upon it. Now the small piece of land is up for sale, and as both men want it; it’s up to the village of Millerton to decide how to best sell off the parcel in a fair and equitable way.

Benvenuto’s counsel was at the public hearing with a suggestion.

"If the village decides it wants to dispose of this property it should do so in a public auction," said Cailin Brennan, attorney for Benvenuto. "It would create the biggest benefit to the village of Millerton and that’s our position. It’s the simple and fairest way."

Allan B. Rappleyea represents Brian Furey. He too was at Tuesday’s hearing.

"Our view of the facts are close to counsel’s but different," he said. "The argument that you should sell to the highest bidder doesn’t hurt Mr. Benvenuto because he already has access. My clients suggest you have it valued and offer half to Mr. Benvenuto and half to them. Have it valued, split down the middle. It couldn’t be more simple and fair."

Mayor Michael Cawley explained why it was important to hold the public hearing.

"We’re trying to head off a lawsuit, and we’re doing our best to temper whatever lawsuits may come of this," he said, asking the board members what they thought would be the best solution.

"I think dividing this and letting each person have half of this is the most equitable," said Trustee Anne Veteran.

The board then decided to draft a resolution stating that the property, located on Highvue Terrace, shall be offered for sale, and that the parcel will be divided in half, and each half will be sold for $6,000 plus any and all costs incurred by the village. The right of first refusal will go to the other party should one of the parties fail to make an offer on the property.