The future of the Masera Learning Center property in West Islip was up for discussion Tuesday.

A community forum was held to discuss plans for the property.

A developer for senior housing provided an overview of its plans for the property's 11 acres.

The Masera Learning Center, built 65 years ago, on Udall Road is currently owned by the West Islip School District. The school board says tearing down the building and creating 120 units of senior housing would be a good use for the property and would have the least impact on the surrounding community.

Others told News 12 that senior housing would make the area overcrowded. They favor a lesser amount of affordable homes.

"It is going to cause havoc in this neighborhood. it's too much," says Steve Damiani, who has lived across the street from the school. He is one of many neighbors who are not happy about the plan.

"I think it should be open for anybody, just regular housing. There are so many people that are looking for affordable places to live," says resident Maryrose Evangeliou.

The school district says it wouldn't be cost effective to build private homes on the property. Until the district can find a buyer who will serve the best interests of the community, they will keep looking.