Inlet View Removed From Agenda – Hearing Set for Former Firehouse

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By Linda Cicoira — Chincoteague Mayor Arthur Leonard and the town council had anticipated discussing a developer’s plans for Inlet View Campground tonight.

However, on Sept. 28, that subject was taken off the agenda for the town’s monthly meeting. “Their request for support was being withdrawn” and developer’s lawyer “asked to be removed from the agenda,” Town Manager Jim West said.

No trespassing signs were put up at the campground and anyone venturing inside was followed and asked to leave. The place appeared to otherwise be vacant of residents, but their trailers, campers, bicycles and other belongings were left behind as a reminder of days gone by. Those ordering visitors to leave did not identify themselves.

“We are not aware of any specific hazards,” West said. “The potential developer stated that there were hazardous material that they promised to clean up. They presented pictures of what appears to be abandoned go carts and old rusted LP gas containers.”

Septic violations were also alleged. West said, “The town is not aware of any current violations.  We have been notified in the past, but the then owner, or maybe still current owner, corrected them at the direction of the health department.

West said the public expressed concern with sewage lines buried along Main Street at the Sept. 19 council session.

Old Firehouse

Meanwhile, a public hearing will be held tonight on plans to purchase the former fire hall at 4026 Main Street. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company has agreed to a sell the building to the town for $600,000 and also will relinquish the lease on the town’s Cropper Street property.

A flyer attached to the agenda shows the key points to buying the former firehouse and include it’s a cornerstone property on Main Street, it is integral to downtown historic aesthetics and is a core part of the town’s history, and it has revenue-generating capability.

The potential uses include a housing project, restaurants, or a food court marketplace like at Norfolk’s Waterside. The notice said additional ideas are welcome. The meeting starts at 7 p.m., in the town hall.

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