On January 31st, after a21-day trial, Brighton Grassroots, Save Monroe Ave. and Clover/Allens Creek Neighborhood Association delivered their closing statements. We believe the community made a compelling case. Namely, that the Town failed to follow New York State law when it allowed the Developer to build its oversized plaza on top of a public recreation trail (the Auburn Trail). 

The Court has until April 22nd to render its decision. We are hopeful it will rule much sooner. If we prevail, then the residents of Brighton will have the right to petition for a vote to protect the Trail. If we win that vote, the Developer will likely have to redesign the plaza in a manner that does not interfere with the Trail and in a way that affects the size of the plaza. 

We’ve said many times –and we’ll say it again – we do not oppose having a Whole Foods in the plaza. The purpose of our lawsuit is to force the Town and Developer to follow the law. That means the Town needs to get permission from the State Legislature before it can move a public Trail. It never did that. And it means the Town must allow the public to petition for a vote, as well. It never did that either. 

We will let everyone know as soon as we have a decision from the Court, and what happens next.

Thank you for your support and encouragement.

Howie Jacobson

Managing Member, Brighton Grassroots

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