Unexpected delays in the construction of Woodbury's only Golden Age Housing complex, Woodbury Cove, has possibly led to the misunderstanding among many Town of Oyster Bay seniors who are seeking more affordable housing that no more units are for sale. Complex broker agency Century 21 has clarified that 10 units in Buildings 6 and 7, which are still under construction, remain available to seniors whose economic status qualifies them for the community housing, which is exempt from certain taxes.

"Due to the amount of time gone by...there's a misconception that they're sold out, but they're not," emphasized Carole Ann Catapano, Century 21 owner/broker.

Construction on the seven buildings, totaling 100 units in all, fell behind schedule last year, forcing some seniors who were ready to change addresses to wait longer than they had expected. With that problem no longer an issue, Woodbury Cove wants to address its current problem, the marked decline in inquiries.

Catapano has unwavering confidence that there is no actual shortage of demand for this type of housing, something about which Town Supervisor John Venditto had his own doubts last year, until his research revealed that many seniors view S-2 housing as an attractive, low-cost lifestyle.

According to Catapano, the units in Building 6 will be ready by May and Building 7 will open anywhere from 90-180 days after a concrete slab project is completed.

S-2 housing is a relatively new and somewhat controversial category of town zoning that was introduced as a way to give long-time residents of a particular community, who no longer can pay their high property taxes, a means to remain living in their cherished community. Seniors must go through an application process and prove that their income status meets the requirements as established by the town's S-2 criteria. This assures that more affluent seniors cannot purchase a unit at the expense of a needier senior.

"The concept is to make available to seniors who built the community we know today an affordable alternative," said Catapano.

Woodbury Cove's standard two-bedroom, two-bath unit is being offered at $139,500 with a monthly maintenance charge of $290.16; however many options exist for seniors wishing to upgrade their quarters, from cabinets and carpeting to an optional patio and terrace.

According to Catapano, the key to S-2 housing is listening to whatt seniors living in the community desire in a home. Such input has led to the construction of one bathroom directly adjacent to the bedroom, central air conditioning, a 24-hour medical alarm system and a security intercom.

Seniors who are interested in Woodbury Cove should call Catapano at 938-0021.