Support Responsible Development in Teaneck

We, the leadership team of the 61 Church Street Legal Defense Fund, were gratified to learn that on April 18th the Board of Adjustment application requesting variance relief and site plan approval to construct a high school at 61 Church Street was withdrawn. Our attorney, Gail Price, also confirmed that the contract itself was canceled, assuring us that the withdrawal is permanent in nature.

However, we have two important tasks before us. First, until we know that the 61 Church Street site will be developed responsibly, in ways that preserve our neighborhood, we must remain mobilized and continue our work together. We cannot let our guard down. Whatever is proposed next, needs to be compatible with our neighborhood. The leadership team is in the process of forming a task force to include planners, architects, grant writers and neighbors. As a first step, all of us will seek ideas for development of the site and possible neighborhood-friendly proposals from our community.

In the April 26th edition of Teaneck Voices, an article referring to our specific situation asked, “Will an applicant with a more appropriate and zone-consistent use now come forward?” And it answered, “That is the hope. In any event, the now far better organized and prepared neighborhood will be in an optimal position to participate in any subsequent zoning approval process. And the next developer proponent will have the advantage of working with an informed and competent group of neighbors advocating an enhanced neighborhood.”

Second, the law firm that provided us with legal services will issue our final bill in May, so we do not yet know exactly what we need to fundraise. However, although we have raised more than $10,000, we know that our legal expenses exceed what we have raised to date, and may reach our original $20,000 goal. We are asking each of you to do what you can by pitching in another donation and/or by generating contributions from neighbors and friends for our successful effort.

Our strategy of mobilizing our community and supporting our cause with legal representation was successful. We look forward to your continuing participation and support.

Thank you!