Brightwaters building code change would fix loophole

Brightwaters officials are considering changing the village’s building code to require that large-scale structural renovation projects adhere to current laws and restrictions.

The resolution introduced Monday night before the village board would affect renovation projects of more than 75 percent of a building’s original structure. Currently, property owners can demolish virtually an entire structure — except for a single wall or chimney, for example — and be grandfathered in, allowing them to rebuild under older building requirements.

The village planning board suggested the proposal after noticing building owners' seemingly skirting current demolition and building restrictions under the grandfathering clause.

Joseph Paliseno, planning board chairman, said the proposal would “benefit the village” by bringing uniformity to large-scale renovation projects.

Some members of the board of trustees say they support the measure. “I think it’s in everyone’s self-interest to adhere by the current codes for safety reasons,” trustee John J. Riordan said.

A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for Jan. 7.