Goshen Town Board faces public backlash over proposed new town hall project

In the dimly lit town hall of Goshen, a spirited debate unfolded during the Board Meeting on March 13, 2025, as residents voiced their concerns over a proposed new town hall and the management of local resources. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of skepticism and urgency, reflecting the community's desire for transparency and fiscal responsibility.

At the heart of the discussion was the contentious proposal to build a new town hall, which many residents, including longtime local Joe Buck, vehemently opposed. Buck argued that the existing building has sufficient space and that the board was prematurely allocating funds for a project that the community did not want. “You’re already spending money on something that people aren’t gonna want and don’t need,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for a thorough public debate before any decisions are made.

The board members acknowledged the concerns but maintained that they were in the early stages of exploring options. Supervisor Mark Pluth assured attendees that no final decisions had been made, and that public input would be crucial moving forward. However, residents like Chris Healy expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the necessity and funding of the proposed project. “There’s already a lot of pushback out there,” Healy noted, calling for clearer explanations to the public about the rationale behind the new town hall.

In addition to the town hall discussions, the meeting also addressed pressing issues related to municipal services, including the timing of garbage pickups that have been disturbing residents' sleep. Healy highlighted the early morning pickups that have been waking children, urging the board to find a solution that respects the community's peace.

Another significant topic was the ongoing concerns regarding the Outer Ring Landfill, where residents expressed anxiety over safety issues related to explosive gases. The board discussed the need for a stop work order to ensure safety, but faced challenges due to regulatory constraints. The urgency of the situation was palpable, with residents demanding accountability and action from the board to protect their community.

As the meeting drew to a close, it was clear that the residents of Goshen were not just passive observers but active participants in shaping the future of their town. The discussions underscored a community grappling with growth, safety, and the need for responsible governance. With a promise of further public engagement on the town hall proposal and a commitment to address safety concerns, the board left the meeting with a clear message: the voices of the residents would not be ignored.