Tempest in a Teapot

A notice issued by Citizens Against Non-Accountable Absentee Neighbors announced a call to arms by residents for a "bold community discussion" at Canaan Town Hall on Monday, January 13th at 7 pm, the regular monthly meeting of the Canaan Town Board. The rationale? "Canaan is for neighbors, not tourists! Take back Canaan from the ‘weekenders’ and absentee Owners!” The anonymous group went on: “Weekend homeowners and short-term investors don’t live here—but they disrupt the quiet way of life we cherish. This is our chance to draw the line and demand accountability.” Other concerns about proposed Local Law No. 4 is its taking away property rights, the use of inspectors to enter a home without a warrant, and ADA compliance. Discussion at last month's board meeting focused on the classic scenario, namely, a boisterous party like a teen left home alone partying with friends, too many and probably inebriated. Canaan is part of the Berkshires, a major tourist attraction. We ❤️New York and need to welcome visitors and their money spent locally. Increased sales tax revenues have permitted neighboring New Lebanon to move forward with a major sidewalk project without any impact on local property taxes. We have reached out to the Columbia County Tourism Board and the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce for information on the impact of tourism and their take, if any, on the proposed law in Canaan.