By Ivan Pereira
Although plans to set up a controversial motel in Springfield Gardens were halted due to changes in the area’s rezoning, the developer is still fighting to set up his establishment, much to local residents’ dismay.
Saleish Ghandi has filed an appeal with the city Board of Standards and Appeals to permit construction of his lodge at 219−05 North Conduit Ave., which City Councilman James Sanders (D−Laurelton) contends will charge hourly rates.
The motel is blocks from Springfield Gardens High School and the councilman and residents have protested against the developer’s determination to build it in the area.
“Whether we have to fight this one on the streets of Queens or in the courtrooms, we will continue to fight to protect our children,” Sanders said in a statement.
Ghandi and his associates did not return calls for comment.
Since the beginning of construction in May, residents and the councilman have led several protests against the motel, including one at the front door of Ghandi’s Great Neck home. Parents have said they fear the motel will bring suspicious activity to the school and harm students’ well−being.
The construction of the proposed two−floor motel was halted by the city Department of Buildings after the City Council approved the 220−block rezoning of Laurelton and Springfield Gardens.
Since the foundation of the motel was not established by the Sept. 4 approval, the construction was closed because the new designation prohibited two−story buildings, according to Sanders.
The councilman said Ghandi and Community Board 13 would attend a special public hearing on the proposed motel Nov. 10. at St. Luke’s Baptist Church, at 133−21 232nd St. at 7:30 p.m.
“Just as adamant as Mr. Ghandi is about constructing this motel is how adamant my community is about ensuring it isn’t constructed at all,” Sanders said.
Reach reporter Ivan Pereira by e−mail at ipereira@timesledger.com or by phone at 718−229−0300, Ext. 146.
