A holistic retreat organized by Black women may be coming to Oneida County, but it's getting some pushback from some people in the community. A presentation was held at the Ava Town Hall on Wednesday about the project.
Members of Black Women's Blueprint are hoping to turn land they bought in the town into a holistic retreat center for women and men. It would provide healing services, campsites, workshops and spas, while respecting the environment.
The group tells Spectrum News there has been some misinformation spread about the retreat on social media. They hope people will come directly to them with questions.
"I am very excited about this project and I hope that our neighbors will be as excited. I hope that any fears will dissipate about any rumors," said Black Women's Blueprint Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director Farah Tanis.
Organization members declined to comment about if the retreat would owe property taxes. Planning board members say more public hearings will be held in the future.