Residents of the Stony Brook community voiced strong opposition during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed five-story senior living facility adjacent to their neighborhood. The meeting highlighted concerns over the building's height, density, and potential impact on property values and quality of life.

Terry Holmes, representing the Stony Brook Homeowners Association, emphasized that the proposed development, which would house over 200 residences on a significantly smaller plot than their own community, was not in line with the residential character of the area. He noted that the facility's height—75 feet—would loom over their homes, obstructing views and privacy. Holmes pointed out that when residents purchased their properties, they were assured of a residential environment, not a commercial one.

Henry Schneider echoed these sentiments, describing the facility as resembling a \"glorified apartment complex\" rather than a community-focused development. He raised concerns about increased traffic, noise, and the removal of trees that currently provide a buffer between the neighborhoods. Schneider, a retired civil engineer, argued that the development would drastically alter the neighborhood's character and negatively affect property values.

Other residents, including James Dwyer and Kathy Bethune, expressed similar worries about the environmental impact of the construction, particularly the loss of mature trees and wildlife habitats. Dwyer highlighted the presence of barred owls in the area and lamented the potential destruction of a valuable ecosystem. Bethune added that the increased traffic from staff and visitors would disrupt the peacefulness of their community.

Raymond Aurora, another nearby resident, raised concerns about the safety of children playing in the area, citing the expected influx of vehicles associated with the facility. He stressed that the development would compromise the quiet, green environment that attracted families to the neighborhood.

As the public hearing concluded, it was clear that the proposed senior living facility has sparked significant apprehension among local residents, who are advocating for the preservation of their residential zoning and community integrity. The commission is expected to deliberate on the matter, weighing the community's concerns against the need for senior living options in the area.