Monsey, NY - Neighborly Approach Helps Synagogue Plan

Monsey, NY - The developer of a synagogue in a residential neighborhood is working with residents to address their concerns about the proposed three-floor, nearly 10,000-square-foot building.

Kahal Noam Elimelech Litzenks is planning to build the synagogue on Dolson Road near its intersection with Remsen Avenue on a triangular piece of land that is just short of an acre. The synagogue would serve 15 to 20 families. The congregation has been in existence for more than 20 years and was housed in a building on Central Avenue in Clarkstown.
The town's Planning Board had previously approved development plans by a group called Lakewood Minyan at the site in 2003, but since then, the property was sold to the congregation and the plans were changed slightly, it includes the addition of a parking lot that would have 23 parking spaces.

Elizabeth Diamond's family has lived on Hilltop Place, which sits directly behind the proposed synagogue, for 47 years, like most of her neighbors, she was upset to hear that a synagogue was proposed adjacent to her home, especially considering that another one is being built about 300 feet away, but in speaking with congregation officials, many of her concerns were alleviated. "My concern is that it is going to be turned into a yeshiva," said Diamond, 41. "We don't want it to be a school."
But, Harry Jeremias, the congregation's coordinating member, said he had spoken with Diamond and had reassured her that there would be no yeshiva at the site, and that a 6-foot fence would separate the synagogue from her property.
"We will accommodate what they request," Jeremias said. "That's what sets us apart from other projects in Monsey that brings in shuls or synagogues. It's not an issue. Every neighbor understands and knows that we are sensitive to their concerns."
Diamond said she appreciated the congregation's willingness to listen to neighbors' concerns.