Southampton officials look to buy and raze a Hampton Bays motel to build luxury condos

Southampton Town officials want to buy the Bel-Aire Cove Motel so they can tear it down before securing construction permits and architectural drawings for a willing developer, Newsday reported. The owners are willing to sell for $1,060,000, according to Southampton town supervisor Jay Schneiderman. Last year, the hotel, which largely operates as a year-round residence for its occupants, was found to be riddled with code violations including bedbugs, electrical problems, missing smoke detectors and a slew of other complaints. If the plan goes forward, officials envision eight two-story luxury units on the site, but Schneiderman added that the town would consult with Hampton Bays residents and businesses regarding best uses for the land. He believes the town could make a small profit on the property, and if they do, this project “could be a model” for other projects. [Newsday]