Remembering

Bill Haynes

To The Editor:

Bill Haynes, my colleague on the Garden City Board of Appeals for more than 15 years, passed away last week. Bill & I were appointed to the Zoning Board at the same time. I can't recall an evening that Bill missed during that period of time except for the last few when his health kept him from attending our hearings.

Bill Haynes served the Board with distinction, dedication, and without personal agenda. He had deep respect for preservation of the unique architectural style and open space in the Village and fought anything he believed to be out of character with those ideals. His engineering background was a welcome addition to the various professions represented by other Board Members.

Many a night Bill would ask exactly what a proposed renovation would look like and comment on the good, the bad, and the ugly when he felt comment was needed. Bill was fearless and could look a neighbor or friend right in the eye and tell them that he was against their project.

Bill and I disagreed on many of the appeals we considered. His opinions were always respected by the Board. He was thoughtful and logical and could make a compelling argument for an opinion only he held. If Bill agreed with you on difficult cases, you knew you had made the right decision for the community. There are few who serve our Village with the conviction and passion of a Bill Haynes. He will always be remembered and deeply missed.

Michael T. Schroder

Estates Representative

Board of Appeals