Patch Poll: What to do About 129 Talcottville Rd.?

The Town Council recently voted to market the 10-acre parcel at 129 Talcottville Rd. while working around a conservation easement granted along the Hockanum River and hiking trail system on the property.

The land sits behind the commercially zoned Taco Bell and Blockbuster parcels. A narrow strip abuts Route 83 just to the north of Taco Bell's parking lot and an easement has been granted for access within the shared Taco Bell-Blockbuster driveway.

Taco Bell is currently undergoing an extensive renovation and the former Blockbuster sits vacant. The town seized the 129 Talcottville land in lieu of back taxes.

About 6 of the acres have conservation issues from wildlife to being part of the flood plane. The topography includes a steep slope to the rear of the parcel.

Densely populated subdivisions sit across the river.

Neighbors have asked outlined several concerns, including:

• Publicity regarding when it appears on an agenda for potential use.

• Maintenance costs to the town.

• Exactly what portion of the property can be developed.

• The exact parameters of the flood zone.

Neighbors have also termed the land a veritable wildlife refuge.