I’ve heard from many residents regarding the old community center building at 653 Hamel Ave in Ardsley. A rumor has been swirling that the building was acquired by a local contractor, who plans on converting it to an office and using it for storage. There are two pieces of this rumor worth addressing.
The first is that the property has been acquired by a local contractor- this cannot be confirmed. Indeed a local contractor has been identified and has an interest in purchasing the property. This contractor has begun cleaning out the property, and this is when Code Enforcement made contact with his crews. In a follow up discussion, it was noted that the property has not changed hands, yet, as there are issues transferring the deed. This is confirmed by Montgomery County, who still lists the deed (as of this morning, May 16) as follows:
“Last August, a name change was filed with the state, re-designating Glenside Manor Civic Association as Ardsley Civic Association and Ladies Auxiliary, who would be the seller of this property, if it is being sold.”
The previous deed lists Glenside Manor Civic Association as the Owner who incorporated in 1924, and purchased the property in 1926. Last August, a name change was filed with the state, re-designating Glenside Manor Civic Association as Ardsley Civic Association and Ladies Auxiliary, who would be the seller of this property, if it is being sold.
On the second part of the rumor, its been noted that the property is being contemplated for conversion to an office. As it stands right now, the building’s use, as listed on the deed above, is social/ fraternal hall, which would be grandfathered on the site. The building lives within the R-4 Zoning district, which allows for single family residential development, outdoor recreation, Class 3 Places of Worship, and group/ personal care homes. Conditional Use approval could be granted for Emergency Services, Life Care facilities, Municipal Complex, Nursing Homes, or Class 1, 2, or 3 places of worship. Special Exceptions under the zoning code would be considered for a Utility Operating Facility, and Outdoor Recreation Facility. Accessory uses allowed include No-Impact Home-Based Business, which is a home office (someone would need to live there). The R-4 Zoning District does not otherwise allow for Contracting Shops (D-2 Use) or Professional Office (F-5) use.
The building is in poor condition and is in need of considerable upgrade to accommodate any occupied use, which would require permits, and potentially a zoning hearing. If something is submitted, I will alert neighboring residents. As it stands right now, the building has not changed hands, at least, not according to County records.
“The R-4 Zoning District does not otherwise allow for Contracting Shops (D-2 Use) or Professional Office (F-5) use.”