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Gas Station Problem Should be Rectified, Not Prolonged
Dear Editor:
In reference to last week's article about the County Line Equities property in Garrison (Market / Gas Station at Route 403), I would like to tell you about one of the partners. Joseph Giachinta is a cousin of ours who has lived in Cold Spring his whole life and been in business here for over 35 years. He has always been a hard worker and one who has always given back to the community. Joe is always donating to the many local organizations, not just financially but with his own time and equipment as well, whenever asked.
Unfortunately between misunderstandings, miscommunications and "grandfather laws", this project raised some red flags but none that can't be remedied with the help of the Town of Philipstown boards.
Joe has worked on many projects in the area and has always gone through the proper channels with the Town of Philipstown boards. He has always taken into consideration the aesthetics of his buildings rather than the higher cost of the project. He is someone who is trying to improve the look on Route 9, not destroy it, why now would he intentionally start this project on a wrong foot if not misled. Understand he lives here too with us and with a very large part of this family in this community; his intentions are good. Would you prefer to look at the mess that was there before Joe started or look at the beautiful, much needed market/ gas station.that has been there for years already?
He has spent much time and money on this project. Regardless of all of the negative words printed in last week's paper, there are issues that are not true and issues being addressed now with the Town of Philipstown.
Everyone on the Town of Philipstown Boards, as well as the Philipstown Citizens Alliance, should work together to rectify the problem so he can finish the project rather than grasping at straws to prolong it. Who wants to look at another valuable piece of commercial property along Route 9 (which the Town is short of) turn into a site for unwanted items?
Please remember, it's businesses like Joe's, as well as all other local businesses, that give back to the community with their many donations to various sports, school functions, children's organizations and many, many more.
Richard and James Pidala
Philipstown
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