Proposed Malta barracks move is outrageous

Critics of Save Luther Forest accuse us of not supporting law enforcement. We are supportive but do not believe this residential location, which will destroy 4 acres of forest and the quality of life we chose when purchasing our homes, is the only location that meets the needs of the State Police (“Residents angry over barracks plan,” May 6.)

This property, which belonged to the town, was gifted to the State Police at their request without input from residents and no consideration to property owners who border this parcel. One entrance crosses the bicycle path on Dunning Street, which is heavily used daily, and the other proposed entrance is within our neighborhood.

The Town Board claims this has been discussed for years, yet it seems to be the best-kept secret in Malta. Every resident I have talked to is shocked; they had no idea this was happening, including our homeowners association president, who says he only heard about it in December.

Some 10 years ago, the town wanted to relocate the firehouse to the same location. Residents started a petition and got the media involved and the firehouse was moved to Parade Ground Village, a more suitable location.

Since the town “gifted” this to the State Police, it conveniently takes the town out of the picture, which the town supervisor and at least one Town Board member are quick to point out. It gives the state complete control, apparently not going before the Town Planning Board and with no input required from residents. Coincidence? Doubtful.