An architect fought for a better view of the Hudson River in his home during the November 7 Town of Newburgh planning board meeting.

David Niemotko, an architect who lives in Monroe with his wife, Tracey, is looking to acquire Lot 4 of a subdivision on Mariners Court and wants to reorient the driveway towards nearby River Road so the property can face the Hudson River.

Currently, the back of the property faces the Hudson River, but not the front.
“We’re requesting this access so that we can orientate the house with a view towards the Hudson River,” he said.

Before a public hearing commenced on allowing this property accommodation to be made, Niemotko assured that it would not affect driving for current residents of River Road.

“We did locate the driveway somewhat central to the two surrounding driveways,” he said.

Mona Sappredine, a relative of Anthony and Paul Porpiglia—original owners of the subdivision—presented a letter to the board with the original covenants for the property.

Sappredine and Niemotko eventually came to an agreement that they both wanted the property to face the Hudson River, but Sappredine argued that Niemotko should go about his vision without changing the structure of the development.

“The houses were designed to be built a certain way,” she said. “That was the original vision.”

Board chairman John P. Ewasutyn declared that the changes would not have any impact on surrounding properties after hearing from both Robert Dickover, attorney for the planning board, and Patrick J. Hines, consultant from McGoey, Hauser and Edsall.