Letters

The recently proposed purchase of a 30-acre property in Wainscott for $56 million raises serious questions about the use of our Community Preservation Fund [“East Hampton Plans Wainscott Land Acquisition From Ron Lauder,” 27east.com, October 1].

Ronald Lauder acquired this land in 2021 with the stated intention of preserving it from development. Yet now the town is willing to spend two-thirds of its $85.5 million unencumbered fund in 2024 on a property that Mr. Lauder bought for $66 million in 2021.

Is there more to Lauder’s 2021 acquisition? With a net worth of $4.5 billion as of September 2022, why can’t we rely on his commitment to preserve the land? Instead of rushing into a costly deal, the town should explore alternatives that align Lauder’s intentions with community interests. Perhaps a tax incentive or a restriction on development would suffice, allowing him to keep the property while fulfilling preservation goals.

Meanwhile, our beautiful Hamptons landscape suffers from a severe infestation of pitch pine beetles, leaving hundreds of dead trees in their wake. Rather than funneling $56 million into a questionable deal, the CPF should prioritize the urgent cleanup of infected areas. This funding could support efforts to remove hazardous debris and maintain lands already owned by the town.

Furthermore, a grant partnership program could assist local residents in addressing this natural disaster on their properties. Given the reality of climate change, which threatens the viability of pitch pines in our area, proactive management is crucial.

Instead of facilitating a wealthy private landowner’s financial maneuvering, let’s invest in a robust local initiative that genuinely protects our environment and community.

Eileen Dannemann

East Hampton