New uses proposed for Snouders building

Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto ended a recent council meeting by repeating a question asked by many local residents.

What, he wanted to know, will become of the Snouders Corner Drug Store building?

Speculation has grown since the landmark closed last month, with suggestions ranging from the historic to the contemporary. While a foundation seeks to restore the 19th century building as a soda fountain-anchored community center, some downtown advocates favor commercial space.

The pharmacy, established in 1884, was Oyster Bay's longest continuously operating business until it closed Dec. 7.

"And it still could be considered an anchor of our community," said Oyster Bay-East Norwich Chamber of Commerce president Michele Browner. "Ideally, we would love to see something high-profile."

Phil Blocklyn, executive director of the Oyster Bay Historical Society, suggested a coffee shop or wine bar for the ground level. Dawn Riley, executive director of the Oak Cliff Sailing Center would like an inn for the upper floors.

But the president of the newly formed Snouders Corner Drug Store Foundation wants to use the building to provide free meeting rooms for local clubs. He also plans to include displays highlighting the pharmacy's history, which include stories of former President Theodore Roosevelt receiving telephone calls there and a bulletin board where servicemen's letters were posted during World War II.

"We will use the building to promote an appreciation of history, educate the public on the role of a corner drugstore in the community and provide charitable services," Ray Eaton said.

Snouders co-owners have given the foundation until July to show they can raise enough money to purchase and renovate the building. Without real progress toward the $3-million goal, the building will be sold.

Eaton said Thursday the foundation was close to starting its fundraising campaign. He has met with the Oyster Bay Main Street Association, which helps obtain preservation grants.

"Now's the time to look at all the possibilities," said association director Isaac Kremer. "But pretty quickly, it's going to come down to a business decision."