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LERAY PLANNING BOARD MINUTES December 6, 2007
1. Open Regular Meeting Board members in attendance: Chairman-Fred Tontarski, Larry Covell, Al Cameron, Sam Biondolillo, Jerry Hobbs, Karl Vebber, Steve Putney, Community Development Coordinator-Jessica Jenack, Zoning Enforcement Officer-Dean Russell, Clerk to the Supervisor-Steve Harter, Town Supervisor-Ronald Taylor and Town Engineer-Kris Dimmick. Other people in attendance were: Walter VanTassel, Don Davidson, Adam Kokinda, Patrick Currier, Jason Fuller, Gerald Walts, Guy Javarone, Gaetano Javarone, Troy Chisamore, Tom Converse, John Converse, Joe Converse, Dan Drappo, Tim Newman, and John Drozd.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Approval of Minutes from the Previous Meeting The minutes from November 1, 2007 were received. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Cameron. This motion passed 6-0, with Mr. Putney abstaining due to his absence from the prior meeting.
4. Correspondence and Communication There was no correspondence or communication.
5. Unfinished Business
Walt VanTassel, U-Lock It – Preliminary Site Plan Review – to operate a U-Lock It self storage facility consisting of sixteen (16) 5’ x 10’ storage units, U-Haul Trucks and trailers located at the intersection of US Route 11 and Holbrook Rd, Tax Parcel #65.17-1-18. The Board reviewed the Revised Site Plan. The Board conducted an Environmental Review. A motion was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Cameron for the Planning Board as Lead Agency to conduct an Environmental Review for this Unlisted Action. This motion passed 7-0. It was determined that the proposed action would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. A motion to declare a negative declaration was made by Mr. Cameron and seconded by Mr. Biondolillo. This motion passed 7-0. A motion was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Putney to deem the application complete. This motion passed 7-0.
Adam Kokinda – Preliminary Site Plan Review – to operate a Golf Driving Range, including the upgrading and utilization of an existing barn, gravel parking area, located at 30105 US Route 11, Tax Parcel #55.00-1-20.4 and #55.00-1-20.5. The Board reviewed the Preliminary Site Plan. The Board conducted an Environmental Review. A motion was made by Mr. Vebber and seconded by Mr. Biondolillo for the Planning Board as Lead Agency to conduct an Environmental Review for this Unlisted Action. This motion passed 7-0. It was determined that the proposed action would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. A motion to declare a negative declaration was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Cameron. This motion passed 7-0. A motion was made by Mr. Covell and seconded by Mr. Putney to deem the application complete. This motion passed 7-0. A motion to schedule a Public Hearing for January 3, 2008 at 7:15pm was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Covell. This motion passed 7-0.
Robert Lake – Preliminary Subdivision Review – involves the subdivision of a parcel into two (2) lots along US Route 11, Tax Parcel #74.12-1-70.1. The new lot consisting of 4.359 acres will be given to Joseph Converse. The Board reviewed the Revised Subdivision Plat. A motion was made by Mr. Cameron and seconded by Mr. Covell to set a Public Hearing for January 3, 2008 at 7:25 pm. This motion passed 7-0.
6. Public Hearings
Walt VanTassel – Preliminary Site Plan Review – to operate a U-Lock It self storage facility consisting of sixteen (16) 5’ x 10’ storage units, U-Haul Trucks and trailers located at the intersection of US Route 11 and Holbrook Rd, Tax Parcel #65.17-1-18. The Chairman opened the Public Hearing. Mr. John Drozd expressed his concerns to the Board. He owns the neighboring parcel and would like to see a fence put up due to the fact the remaining vegetative buffer is too thin. He also stated that he would like to see another type of business located on that parcel (sit down restaurant) on the Route 11 corridor. He feels that a storage facility is not aesthetically appealing bordering the Route 11 corridor or welcoming to the soldiers. He would like the area not to look like a big Strip Mall. He also asked if Mr. VanTassel cleared his land before he had the okay from DEC, Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Recreation. Mr. Tontarski stated that to his knowledge Mr. VanTassel had recently gotten clearance, but yes, some clearing had occurred prior to. Mr. Javarone suggested to the Board that there be a limit as to the number of trucks and trailers displayed on the lot at one time to be consistent with his requirements by the Planning Board. He also asked if Mr. VanTassel had proper documentation from U-Haul giving him approval to operate at that facility. The Chairman stated the Board would be looking for this documentation before any final approval is considered. Mr. Don Davidson addressed the Board next. He would like the Board to consider appropriate and professional growth for the Town. He stated that the Town Zoning Law calls for: “encourage the orderly development of land for its most appropriate use within the Town.”(158-3). He also told the Board there was no consistency between some of the projects to date. Mr. Davidson stated that there is a place for everything in the Town and he doesn’t feel the Route 11 corridor is a correct area for this type of project. He is concerned with the use of the word “Temporary” being attached to the project. Also, the fact that no one will physically be there to conduct business on a regular schedule does not promote safety within the Town. He would like the Board to take the project and make it look more professional. Mr. Drozd spoke again and expressed his concern over the lack of proposed lighting. He does not want to promote vandalism as there will be no person on site on a regular basis. He wants the Board to consider that if finalized he has to live next to this project. The Chairman informed Mr. Drozd that an attempt to add lighting had been made. With no other comments, a motion to close the Public Hearing at 7:32 pm was made by Mr. Putney and seconded by Mr. Cameron. This motion passed 7-0. The Board then asked Mr. Currier to provide an update on the lighting. Another 400 watt light and pole had been added to the lot. The Board is still unsure if and what type of lights would be placed on the buildings because no design documentation was provided or a revised light spillage plan. The Board is requesting a wooden stockade fence be placed between Mr. VanTassel’s project and the Drozd’s. Mr. Currier is reminded to refer to the Zoning Code for specifics on the fencing and vegetation. The location of the Sewer Easement with the Town needs to be added to the Site Plan. Mr. Currier responded that was an issue between the Town and Mr. VanTassel. The Chairman responded that it needed to be addressed and shown on the Plan. The Board is requesting a copy of authorization from U-Haul. Also, approval from Merle Otis, the Highway Superintendent, on the driveway and culvert needs to be provided to the Board. Mr. Dimmick would like the Site Plan to show existing drainage and discharge now that the pipe is open along US Route 11. Mr. Vebber stated that the issue of the project being “temporary” is a concern for him. Mr. Vebber added that the Board is trying to look at the Code and trying to move ahead as far as what the Board wants for the Town. Mr. Tontarski has said there is concern with the appearance of the building as well as the lack of pavement on the lot. Mr. Covell and Mr. Biondolillo both agreed that the Board needs time to address the comments from the public as well as the outstanding issues with the Site Plan before providing any approvals. Mr. Cameron commented on the lack of authorization from U-Haul, stating that Mr. VanTassel needs this in place before any type of Approval can be considered. Mr. Hobbs asked Mr. VanTassel what his ultimate plan for the parcel was. Mr. Hobbs asked if it would be contingent on a future lot for purchase. Mr. VanTassel commented that he would ultimately like to place a climate controlled, multi-story storage building if he were to purchase the adjoining parcel. When and if this were to occur he would not comment on but said he might know within one week. Mr. Davidson stated that if temporary, some type of time limits should be set (like 6 months).
7. New Business
Gerald and Bonnie Walts – Sketch Plan Review for Major Subdivision – to subdivide a 54 acre parcel of land into five (5) lots: Lot 1 = 3.671, Lot 2 = 1.377, Lot 3 = 1.377, Lot 4 = 1.377, and Lot 5 = 46.668. The subdivision is located along Nellis Road, Tax Parcel #64.11-1-19. The Board reviewed the Subdivision Plat. The Board conducted an Environmental Review. A motion was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Cameron for the Planning Board as Lead Agency to conduct an Environmental Review for this Unlisted Action. This motion passed 7-0. It was determined that the proposed action would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. The Board will need the topographic lines labeled on the Final Subdivision Plat as well as showing the remaining portion of the parcel and the creek. A motion to declare a negative declaration was made by Mr. Biondolillo and seconded by Mr. Vebber. This motion passed 7-0. A motion to set a Public Hearing for January 3, 2008 at 7:35 pm was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Covell. This motion passed 7-0.
Troy Chisamore – Sketch Plan Review for Minor Subdivision – to subdivide an existing 5 acre parcel of land into two (2) lots: new lot = 2.014 with a remaining lot of 2.986 acres. The subdivision is located along VanTassel Road, Tax Parcel #54.19-2-22.12. The Board reviewed the Subdivision Plat. The Board conducted an Environmental Review. A motion was made by Mr. Putney and seconded by Mr. Cameron for the Planning Board as Lead Agency to conduct an Environmental Review for this Unlisted Action. This motion passed 7-0. It was determined that the proposed action would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. A motion to declare a negative declaration was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Vebber. This motion passed 7-0. A motion was made by Mr. Cameron and seconded by Mr. Putney to deem the application complete. The motion passed 7-0. A motion to set a Public Hearing for January 3, 2008 at 7:45 pm was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Biondolillo. This motion passed 7-0. Mr. Dimmick suggested that Mr. Otis review this plan.
John Converse – Sketch Plan Review for Minor Subdivision – to subdivide a 3.43 acre parcel of land into two (2) lots. The subdivision is located along Andrew Drive, Tax Parcel #74.16-1-5.62. The Board reviewed the Subdivision Plat. The Board conducted an Environmental Review. A motion was made by Mr. Vebber and seconded by Mr. Hobbs for the Planning Board as Lead Agency to conduct an Environmental Review for this Unlisted Action. This motion passed 7-0. It was determined that the proposed action would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. A motion to declare a negative declaration was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Cameron. This motion passed 7-0. A motion was made by Mr. Biondolillo and seconded by Mr. Vebber to deem the application complete. This motion passed 7-0. A motion to set a Public Hearing for January 3, 2008 at 7:55 pm was made by Mr. Putney and seconded by Mr. Hobbs contingent upon receiving an actual Field Survey Map ten (10) days prior. The Board would like a copy of the easement from Steve Converse. This motion passed 7-0.
Griffith and Fuller – Sketch Plan Review for Major Subdivision – to subdivide a 21 acre parcel of land into three (3) lots: Lot 1 = 7.078, Lot 2 = 3.744, and Lot 3 = 8.670. The subdivision is located along County Route 17, Tax Parcel #54.00-3-19.82. The Board reviewed the Subdivision Plat. The Board conducted an Environmental Review. A motion was made by Mr. Cameron and seconded by Mr. Putney for the Planning Board as Lead Agency to conduct an Environmental Review for this Unlisted Action. This motion passed 7-0. It was determined that the proposed action would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. A motion to declare a negative declaration was made by Mr. Vebber and seconded by Mr. Hobbs. This motion passed 7-0. A motion was made by Mr. Hobbs and seconded by Mr. Vebber to deem the application complete. This motion passed 7-0. A motion to set a Public Hearing for January 3, 2008 at 8:05 pm was made by Mr. Putney and seconded by Mr. Cameron. The Board would like clarification on the survey if the measurement was taken from the center of the road or the Right-of-Way. There may be an issue on the Town’s 3-1 lot configuration law. This motion passed 7-0.
Calcium Fire Chief, Tim Newman and Fire Commissioner, Dan Drappo, spoke to the Board about the need for increased fire protection equipment in the Town of LeRay. At present, Dawn Homes is proposing three story units. Fort Drum is the only fire department with equipment (ladder truck) high enough for a third story rescue, and they cannot guarantee their availability. Black River has a ladder truck but it is not equipped with a platform on it for rescues and is only 50 feet high. The approximate cost for a ladder truck would be $800,000.00 but the price was a rough guess. At this point, Dawn Homes has plans to install sprinklers in their buildings.
Dan Drappo commented on a two tier tax system. This would increase the taxes for the businesses that are “causing the problem” having a three story hotel or apartment. This would have to be done in zones. The Board and Mr. Newman are hoping to ask the developers for contributions and may ask those who have already developed in the Town. Mr. Newman stated that the Calcium Fire Department would be large enough to house the truck. The truck could be shared by the neighboring Villages with a contract. Also, when Calcium is on line with the Water District, one truck would not be needed and could be traded. Mr. Newman is going to confer with Mr. Drappo and the commissioners at their meeting next week to proceed with this endeavor. Based on this discussion, the Calcium Fire District felt that they did not have adequate resources to rescue an individual at the newly proposed Dawn Homes project. In terms of SEQR, the Board did not have enough information from Dawn Homes to satisfy the Fire District’s concerns. The Board will tell Dawn Homes to contact the Fire District and the Town to discuss the fire protection issue further.
8. Report of Community Development Coordinator Mrs. Jenack reported on the Public Comprehensive Plan Workshop. There was a brief presentation on facilities and resources in the Town. The group was then divided up and worked on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The consultant will summarize the information and will post it on the internet. Another workshop is planned for February 2008.
9. Report of Zoning Enforcement Officer
10. Report of Administrative Clerk to the Supervisor Mr. Harter provided the Board members with an updated Developer Financial Agreement Statement.
11. Adjournment Prior to adjournment, a motion was made by Mr. Vebber and seconded by Mr. Putney to hold a work session on December 13, 2007 at 6:00 pm to discuss the public comments regarding the U-Lock It project and the Dawn Homes project.
A motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:30 pm was made by Mr. Covell and seconded by Mr. Hobbs. This motion passed 6-0. Mr. Cameron was absent for the vote. |