Ramapo, NY - Trial Set for Developer of Yeshiva Housing

Ramapo, NY - The town is set to go to trial against the developer of a yeshiva with adult student housing on charges of running a preschool out of a trailer after settlement discussions broke down.

Town Attorney Michael Klein said the town intended to prosecute Mosdos Chofetz Chaim at 1 p.m. today in front of Judge Samuel Colman. The town cited the developer in February for operating without a site plan and a certificate of occupancy.
The developer could face a $5,000 fine on each of the six counts if found guilty. "We had discussions and nothing was finalized," Klein said. "We haven't heard back from them. We're ready for trial."

Construction on the 60-apartment yeshiva on Grandview Avenue site continued, and looked to be near completion.
Richard Ackerson, the deputy town attorney who oversees the Planning and Zoning departments and Klein said the project was allowed to continue because the developer had already received a building permit and the town's citation did not affect the project's construction.

Dennis Lynch, the developer's South Nyack-based attorney, said he would not discuss the details of any settlement discussion with the town. He said that if the town wanted to go to trial, his firm was ready. "While we respect the town, we fundamentally disagree with its charges," he said. "We're prepared to settle but not surrender. If an amicable solution can be reached we'll be happy. If we have to try the case we'll be equally as happy."

In addition to the town's citation, the state's Office of Children and Family Services had ordered the preschool shut down in March when it appeared the yeshiva was operating without a child care license or registration. The developer has appealed that decision as well.