The recent article in the Port Washington Times addressing the Baxter House unfortunately contains significant inaccuracies.
It unnecessarily created anxiety within the community.
All members of the community can rest assured that the village is adhering to all relevant procedures that relate to changes to the Baxter House, which, as you know, was designated as a historic structure by the Village years ago.
Also, all should understand that the designation by the village pertains only to the exterior of the structure — the village jurisdiction does not extend to the interior.
The Baxter House is a private residence, and the configuration and contents of its interior are entirely up to the owner, not the Village.
This is entirely different from, for example, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, the former homestead of President Theodore Roosevelt, which is owned and maintained for the public.
With respect to the Baxter House, to this point, informal discussions between village representatives and the homeowner and her representatives have included the possibility of major renovations and also demolition followed by reconstruction of the Baxter House.
But those are informal discussions, and the Village has not yet received an application, let alone reached a decision.
The homeowner has now retained an architect, who has, at the Village’s request, submitted blue print drawings depicting the details of the existing house.
Ms. Wu’s attorney has advised the Village that drawings for a proposed project should be completed in a week or so, at which time a formal application to our Landmarks Commission will be made.
Only then will the Village schedule a public meeting for the application.
The Village will give notice to our residents, who will have the opportunity to attend the meeting and view Ms. Wu’s proposed project.
In the meantime, the village has issued two outstanding orders to remedy, which are being appealed by Ms. Wu.
Nora Haagenson
Village of Baxter Estates Mayor
Readers Write: Port Times wrong on Baxter House
