BBPA Responds: Setting the Record Straight

June 21, 2024

Dear Village Residents,

I hope this message finds you well. As representatives of the Barrier Beach Preservation Association (BBPA), we feel it is imperative to address and clarify several points made by Mayor Vegliante in his campaign emails sent to the entire village regarding our properties and the proposed developments on 906 and 914 Dune Road, as well as the adjacent land.

Firstly, we must emphasize that the BBPA has always prioritized the preservation and responsible stewardship of our barrier beach environment. Our mission is to protect the natural beauty and ecological significance of our village while supporting community activities that align with these values.

Falsehoods and Misrepresentations

The Mayor’s assertion that our properties are being underutilized or that we have been uncooperative in collaborative efforts is unfounded. Over the past several years, the BBPA has made numerous attempts to engage in constructive dialogue with the Village Board. Unfortunately, our requests for meetings have consistently been ignored or dismissed. Despite this, we remain open and willing to discuss any proposals that genuinely consider environmental impact, sustainability, and community benefits.

Threats

It is also important to address that the Mayor has never directly discussed the BBPA properties with the board. Instead he has allowed threatening rumors to circulate throughout the village about seizing BBPA properties via eminent domain. This aggressive stance, whether true or merely rumored, not only undermines our efforts but also disregards the standards that should govern such actions. The BBPA firmly believes that any development should be pursued through transparent and fair negotiations, respecting the property rights of all parties involved.

Community Engagement and Recreational Opportunities

While the Mayor’s vision of developing recreational facilities such as pickleball and basketball courts may seem appealing, it is crucial to approach such developments with caution and ensure they align with the vision of all residents, especially those living close to the property.  The BBPA supports enhancing community engagement but insists that any development must be sustainable, environmentally friendly, and in line with the broader vision of ALL to preserve our barrier beach. 

Financial Stability and Growth

The claim that these developments will support the financial stability of the BBPA is misleading. Our organization is committed to maintaining financial health through responsible management and fundraising efforts based on environmental stewardship, not through forced acquisition and development of properties. We are dedicated to serving the community’s best interests without compromising our core mission. 

A Call for Genuine Collaboration

We echo the call for a cooperative effort but stress that true collaboration requires mutual respect and a shared commitment to the village’s long-term well-being. We urge all residents, especially on this Election Day, to critically evaluate the information being presented and to support initiatives that truly reflect our shared values of preservation and community well-being. The BBPA stands ready to work with a Village Board that respects both our mission and the interests of all village residents.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Your BBPA Board

John Monti, Priscilla Adam, Sara Covelli, Catherine Woolfson, Audrey Nelson