Landmark Restrictions
To The Editor:

In a recent letter biased toward landmark designation [in the May 30 edition of the Gazette], the writer asserts that "compromise and flexibility will be necessary" and "the benefits to the community at large far outweigh any sacrifice". Well, make no mistake- the only people who will have to "compromise" and "sacrifice" are the owners of designated homes, not the community at large, especially when designation is imposed against the homeowner's will.

A New York City Independent Budget Office report states that owners of landmarked properties "face a significant curtailment of property rights". Homeowners in landmarked districts must submit to a detailed application process and abide by the rulings of the Landmarks Preservation Commission for any exterior changes, even cosmetic, that they wish to make to their homes. In addition, those homeowners are subject to substantial fines for noncompliance. These regulations and the IBO report are found on the Landmarks Preservation Commission Web site, www.nyc.gov/landmarks.

For the homeowner, compliance with Landmarks regulations means higher costs because of restrictions regarding materials that can be used and the required use of craftsmen skilled in restoration work.

In contending that public "input and comments are sought and considered" during the landmarking process, the writer may be unaware, or perhaps chose to omit, that the city has the power to assign landmark designation regardless of the public's will or circumstance, and a homeowner can not opt out. In addition, the writer did not explain that a significant number of people seeking to influence a decision for designation do not even live in the neighborhoods under consideration and, therefore, will not be burdened by the regulations.

Doubtless the writer believes that there are more virtues than disadvantages to landmarking. But to suggest that some homeowners are obligated to make sacrifices so that others can "enjoy and appreciate" is insensitive and inappropriate. It is quite reasonable for homeowners to resist being forced to give up some property rights and incur the additional expense and complication that come with landmark designation.
George Thomas
Flushing