Thompson, NY - Bungalows On Hit List

Thompson, NY - The town has drawn up a proposed law that would force the colonies to build new bungalows on full foundation slabs, a move designed to rid the town of seasonal dwellings built on piers.

Bungalows have dotted Thompson's landscape for more than 100 years, and passions have run high on both sides of this issue. "We want everything up to state code," Supervisor Tony Cellini said. "Some are right next to each other. If one caught on fire, they would burn the whole colony."

The board will introduce the law at its regular meeting tonight and likely schedule a public hearing the same night.

Some proposed changes include:

* No bungalows, including existing bungalows, can be within 25 feet of each other.

* In most cases, the owner will be required to put down a foundation when adding new rooms.

* An appropriate number of trash compactors must be installed and enclosed by a suitable structure and a gate.

The town has a building ban in place at the colonies, but has recently started granting permits to some owners who agree to comply with the proposed regulations, Cellini said. "They (bungalow owners) know we are doing it for their safety and aesthetics," Cellini said.