Petition calls for moratorium on new self-storage development in Mahopac

Some Mahopac residents are organizing opposition to additional self-storage development in the hamlet, arguing that such projects do little to enhance community character or provide long-term economic benefit. Instead, they are calling for development that is family-oriented, visually attractive, and aligned with Mahopac’s rural identity.

"It wants and needs Fable Farm."

As part of that effort, residents are encouraging community members to attend a public hearing on a proposed self-storage moratorium scheduled for Jan. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Town of Carmel Town Hall, as well as to sign a petition and contact town officials in support of limiting further self-storage facilities.

Residents can sign the petition HERE. 

The petition states:

We, the undersigned residents of Mahopac, Carmel, and surrounding communities, respectfully petition the Town Board of the Town of Carmel, New York, to adopt a town-wide moratorium on new self-storage facilities.

A moratorium is a temporary pause on certain types of development that allows town officials the necessary time to evaluate zoning, land-use impacts, infrastructure strain, and community priorities before approving additional projects. Given the scale of recently approved and proposed self-storage developments, we believe such a pause is both prudent and necessary.

The adoption of a moratorium would provide the Town with an opportunity to thoughtfully consider alternative uses for remaining open land that better align with Carmel’s long-term goals, including agriculture, environmental stewardship, education, and community-centered development.

The Town Board has scheduled a public hearing on the proposed moratorium for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 7:00 PM, at Town Hall, 60 McAlpin Avenue, Mahopac, New York.

Community-beneficial uses include recreational centers, farms, public parks, and local retail hubs that enhance our quality of life and promote sustainable economic growth.

By signing this petition, we urge the Town Board of Carmel to:
 • Adopt a town-wide moratorium on new self-storage facilities, and
 • Use that time to carefully evaluate land-use policies that prioritize open space, agriculture, and long-term community benefit.

This article is sponsored by Ann Fanizzi.