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Victor group indebted to Katzen

Dear Editor:

As a member of the Drumlins Concerned Citizens neighborhood group in Victor, I would publicly like to express our sincere gratitude to a member of the legal  community in Rochester. Nearly two years ago, when the residents of the Drumlins learned about an extensive rental apartment project being proposed for our neighborhood, it was decided opposition to this plan would need legal support. We would not be able to handle this difficult situation alone.

My husband and I had met Leon Katzen, of the law firm Lacy, Katzen, Ryen and Mittleman, in 1967, when he handled our first house closing. Over the years, we've contacted Mr. Katzen with minor questions and he was always very willing to talk with us. With the apartment concern, it was only natural for me to contact him again.

Neither he, nor I, would ever have believed that phone call I made November 1999, would ultimately result in two years' dedication on his part.

What seemed to be a simple decision became a legal entanglement, involving multiple levels of lawsuits. Around each bend, there seemed to be even more "history" to a decision that had to be made by the town's government. Mr. Katzen, patient but firm, explained that justice had to prevail, and it ultimately would.

Justice, obviously, is the backbone of his exceptional legal career. He knew there was a development plan that would be more suitable for our community and strongly, but quietly, presented his case for the town and the residents. His advice to hire excellent consultants provided the town with detailed information that emphatically supported our continued opposition. His hours, weeks, months and ultimately years were dedicated to what was right.

When I would visit him in his office, chairs, desk and floor-space were piled high with folders, maps and briefs of Drumlins information. He was truly devoted to seeing our concerns through to the end. On Sept. 25, a unanimous decision was made by the town government supporting Mr. Katzen's two-year effort.

Although a new application from the developer is still in process, the residents of the Drumlins of Victor know that what will ultimately be constructed will be reasonably similar to what had been approved in 1985, and will be a fine complement to the existing community, only because of the dedication and devotion of Katzen. We are truly indebted to him.

To think the following comment was heard when Mr. Katzen first represented the DCC: “I didn't think he was still practicing law.” He certainly is!  He'll never retire.

                                         Marsha W. Senges

                            Drumlins Concerned Citizens

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