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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-08-27-STB-FINAL-minutesSPECIAL TOWN BOARD MEETING Donation of Land for Recreation on Cold Springs Road Town of Ulysses August 27, 2025 The meeting was held in person at the Town Hall at 10 Elm St., Trumansburg NY as well as via Zoom videoconference. Notice of Town Board meetings are posted on the Town's website and Clerk's board. Video recordings of meetings are available on Youtube at https://www. you tube. com/channel/UCWVls--g9CpHlxdk9 YxZyPw. CALL TO ORDER: Ms. Olson called the meeting to order at 5:01pm. 4TTFN1l4NCF! TOWN OFFICIALS: In person- Supervisor- Katelin Olson Board members- Rich Goldman, Michael Boggs, Liz Weatherby, Mary Bouchard Town Clerk- Carissa Parlato Via Zoom - Attorney For the Town- Nathan VanWhy OTHERS: In person- Jyll Strothman, Nick Robertson, Kristen Matthewson, Allison Pritts, Lanny Joyce, Keith Hannon, Marlaine Darfler, Ben Darfler Via Zoom - Kate Krueger, Peggy Wilczewski, Tyler Sherman, Erika, Dolores Higareda, Natasha, Diane, Owner, Sage Peake, Cynthia Mannino, Mark Veca, Corina Benites, Nancy Cusumano APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Mr. Goldman moved to approve the agenda as amended. This was seconded by Ms. Bouchard and passed unanimously. PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR (3 minutes per person): (none) PUBLIC HEARING DONATION OF LAND FOR RECREATION ON COLD SPRINGS ROAD: Mr. Weatherby moved to open the hearing at 5:03pm. This was seconded by Mr. Boggs and passed unanimously. Ms. Olson invited anyone who wished to speak on the topic of the Cold Springs Road Land Donation to do so. Lanny Joyce said that he is strongly in support of the park and accepting it as he feels it will be great for his family, grandkids, athletics and recreation. 1 Kris Matthewson spoke on behalf of Taughannock Soccer Club and urged the board to accept the donation. He noted that the school district is stretched thin for clubs as well as fields. The Club is committed to being a responsible steward & partner to the neighbors as well as helping look for grants so that it is not a burden on taxpayers. Dolores Higareda supports the park and believes it is great for families. Keith Hannon spoke in favor. He said that things are not always perfect but can serve a purpose. Jyll Strothman lives near the land and said she is disappointed with the Pritts. She asked the board to keep the requirements for lighting and parking as this will change the lives of the neighbors. Marlaine Darfler said that it is important for kids to have a place to go. Many kids come to library and check out the park passes because they can't afford the park fees. Nick Robertson spoke in favor of accepting the donation. He supports youth sports and knows that locations are limited for recreation. He believes it is Important for the evolution of a community to make an investment in the outdoors in the age of screens. Ben Darfler supports the donation and believes that the town can figure out how to make it good for the community as well as the neighbors. Sage Peake is a neighbor to the property and supports it. Ms. Olson asked if anyone else online or in person wanted to speak. Hearing none, she noted that the town received 27 comments in favor and 1 opposed this week. For the April comment period, the town received 12 opposed and 67 in favor. This clerk read a few of the comments (See Appendix). Mr. Goldman made a motion to close the hearing at 5:25pm. This was seconded by Mr. Boggs and passes unanimously. OLD BUSINESS: Ms. Olson reviewed the parcel's environmental impact statement and the group discussed. She explained that the Comp Plan and Ag and Farmland Protection Plan are somewhat in conflict where one advocates for recreation and the other for farmland. The group further discussed the questions and with Mr. VanWhy's assistance, amended some of the answers. Ms. Weatherby explained that the environmental review only applies to the action of accepting the donation agreement and the subdivision and not for any development- that will be a separate review. Ms. Olson encouraged people to participate in the upcoming community engagement process to help decide what the space will eventually be. DONATION AGREEMENT DISCUSSION: Ms. Olson shared highlights of the agreement, including: • The land can only be used for recreation • Lighting • Parking • Fencing 2 • Planting/vegetative buffer between parks and properties ACCEPTING PART 2 AND PART 3 RESOLUTION #121 of 2025: ADOPTING PARTS 2 AND 3 OF THE FEAF Resolved that the Town Board adopt the proposed findings set forth in the FEAF Part 2, Part 2 narrative, and Part 3; make a determination that the proposed action will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts; and issue a negative declaration of environmental significance in accordance with Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law. Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Ms. Bouchard Olson aye Boggs aye Bouchard aye Goldman aye Weatherby aye Vote: 5-0 Date adopted: 8/27/25 AUTHORIZING TOWN SUPERVISOR TO ENTER INTO DONATION AGREEMENT AND PURSUE NECESSARY APPROVALS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE FIRST PUBLICLY OWNED TOWN OF ULYSSES PARK RESOLUTION #122 of 2025: AUTHORIZING TOWN SUPERVISOR TO ENTER INTO DONATION AGREEMENT AND PURSUE NECESSARY APPROVALS FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE FIRST PUBLICLY OWNED TOWN OF ULYSSES PARK WHEREAS, Marvin and Allison Pritts, owners of property located at 5150 Cold Springs Rd., Trumansburg, NY, have offered to donate approximately 15.234 acres of land to the Town of Ulysses for the purpose of establishing the first publicly owned Town of Ulysses park; and WHEREAS, the Town Board is grateful for this generous offer, which provides the opportunity for substantial recreational and environmental benefits to the community and future generations; and WHEREAS, the proposed donation requires approval from the Town of Ulysses Board of Zoning Appeals for an area variance, specifically 12 feet of relief from the required 50 feet of frontage, and approval from the Town Planning Department for a minor subdivision in order to create a flag lot, or in either case a determination by the Town Board that this action is immune from zoning and subdivision review; and WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses has reviewed the environmental significance of this action pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) and has determined that the action will have no significant adverse environmental impacts; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses hereby authorizes the Town Supervisor, I<atelin Olson, to execute a donation agreement with Marvin and Allison Pritts for the donation of approximately 15.234 acres of land located at 5150 Cold Springs Rd., Trumansburg, NY, for the express purpose of establishing the first park owned by 3 the Town of Ulysses, in the form attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Town Board expressly reserves its right to review and make a determination regarding the Town's immunity from its zoning and subdivision regulations, if in the best interests of the Town of Ulysses, and otherwise authorizes and directs the Town Supervisor to apply to the Town of Ulysses Board of Zoning Appeals for an area variance to provide 12 feet of relief from the required 50 feet of frontage, apply to the Town Planning Department for a minor subdivision to create a flag lot as necessary for the establishment of the park, and include in such applications for area variance and subdivision, vegetative screening from properties along Cold Springs Rd. (after consultation with the Tree Committee), no parking along the flag pole portion of the subdivision, and stockade fencing along the western side of the flagpole portion of the subdivision at the time a publicly accessible driveway is constructed; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor is hereby delegated authority to make such modifications to the applications for area variance and minor subdivision as necessary and appropriate to mitigate any concerns raised by the Board of Zoning Appeals and/or Planning Department as they conduct their reviews, and to withdraw such applications; and be it further RESOLVED, that the Town Board recognizes and confirms its review under SEQRA, and finds and concludes that the proposed action will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts; and be it further RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect immediately. Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Ms. Bouchard DISCUSSION: Mr. Goldman asked about the board being immune to its own zoning. Mr. Van Why explained that the board reserves the right to do so- the process includes a public hearing and completion of a checklist. The Clerk called a ROLL -CALL VOTE: Olson aye Boggs aye Bouchard aye Goldman aye Weatherby aye Vote: 5-0 Date adopted: 8/27/25 Ms. Olson noted the neighbors' concerns and hoped that they will be involved in the slow process to develop the property. She expressed her thanks to the Pritts family. UPCOMING EVENTS • September 9 — Regular Town Board Meeting, 7pm @ Town Hall 2 2026 Budget Meetings: • Monday, September 8 (10am), • Wednesday, September 10 (9am), • Wednesday, September 17 (9am) APPROVAL OF MINUTES: RESOLUTION 123 OF 2025: WAIVE FEES RESOLVED, that the Ulysses Town Board waive the fees associated with applications to the Town of Ulysses by the Town of Ulysses for the Cold Springs Road land donation project. Moved: Ms. Olson Seconded: Mr. Goldman Olson aye Boggs aye Bouchard aye Goldman aye Weatherby aye Vote: 4-0 Date adopted: 8/12/25 ADJOURN: Mr. Goldman made a motion to adjourn at 6:11pm. This was seconded by Ms. Bouchard and passed unanimously. Respectfully submitted by Carissa Parlato, Town Clerk, 9/16/25 5 /_\ J i.1Ec Outlook Support for Pritts property donation From Lanny Joyce <wsjl @cornell.edu> Date Mon 8/25/2025 10:46 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town staff and officials, We would like to once again voice, our support of the acceptance of the Pritts property donation to be used to create a first Town of Ulysses park. We are very excited about this possibility and the potential that it presents. We look forward to helping creative vision and make it become real for current and future generations of residence in the town. Best and thank you for your work. William S. ( Lanny) and Phyllis Joyce 3405 Krums Corners Rd. W.S. (Lanny) Joyce, PE CEM Ithaca, NY 607 592 2195 wsj1 @cornell.edu 8/27/25, 9:06 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Support For Land Donation From cora_anderson1 @icloud.com <cora_anderson1 @icloud.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 1:28 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear, Town board members I am a Trumansburg Varsity soccer player as well as a Taughannock soccer member, and I strongly support the acceptance of the land donation for recreation use. Having more field space is essential for both youth and school programs! Soccer has been an amazing effect on my life these past years, soccer is became my life and my greatest commitment and the acceptance of support for land donation would allow more students and coaches more opportunities and teaching spaces. for T -burg recreations. Please accept this donation and give our community the facilities we need. Thank you! Sincerely, Cora Anderson Sent from my iPhone https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9uLAAA 1/1 8/27/25, 10:18 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Support for Land Donation From Taishi Boshart <taiboshart888@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 11:48 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I am a Trumansburg varsity soccer and Taughannock soccer player. I strongly support the acceptance of the land donation for recreational use. Having more field space is essential for both youth and school programs. Soccer has improved my mental and physical health and I believe more space to participate in this sport should be available. Please accept this donation and give our community the facilities we need. Thank you, Taishi Boshart https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9YVwAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:05 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Accept rec land! From Jennifer Chorba <jchorba25@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 2:36 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Hello! Please accept the rec land donation, let's support kids playing outside! Warmly, Jennifer Chorba https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM92IgAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:04 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook New Public Park - Please read during the public hearing From Christine Feely <cmf2928@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 7:26 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I write this letter in support of accepting the land donation proposed for a community park. Having raised my three children in this community, I have seen the value of outdoor activities and involvement in sports on my children's health and personal growth. Many of the best moments that I recall from their childhoods were are around sports and outdoor events with scouts. As a physical therapist the state of the health of our community's children is important to me. There is no better way to support the health and fitness of our youth than giving them quality outdoor spaces to gather and play. There are very few spaces in this region for people to share. The school grounds are for school activities and barely meet the teams needs. It is clear that the community would benefit from more park space and field availability. Please accept this donation and expand our ability to promote health, fitness and a sense of community in Trumansburg. Christine Feely, MPT https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM%2BZ3QAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:04 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Support for Land Donation for Recreation From jonaferrari <jonaferrari@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 3:51 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board members, I fully support accepting the land donation to create a town park. I am a youth soccer coach, adult rec soccer player, and a parent in Trumansburg. My whole family participates and volunteers with the Taughannock soccer club. We desperately need more community rec space for both adults and kids. As a coach we have often had to use marginal and even dangerous spaces for soccer practice at the school. Just today we were trying to organize a fall adult soccer pick-up, and were told that it was difficult to find space anywhere at the TCSD campus. Please vote to accept this land donation! Funds can be raised to develop it once it is secured by the town. Thanks! Respectfully, Jonathan Ferrari, Rana Chen, ZaoHan Ferrari, Zafira Ferrari Jonathan Ferrari RA, LEED AP STUDIO FERRARI ARCHITECTURE PLLC FERRARI + FERRARI LLC studioferrariarchitecture.com mobile 971.645.1543 https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM96YQAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:07 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Support for Land Donation for Recreation From Jackie Cerretani Frank <jackiecfrank@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 12:58 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I am on the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the Taughannock Soccer Club. I urge you to accept the proposed land donation for recreation. This is a rare opportunity that will benefit our community for generations and solve the scarcity of space for recreation that has dogged our community for decades. My son Everett has played soccer with Taughannock Soccer Club since he was six years old, and went on to play on the modified and varsity soccer teams at the Trumansburg schools. My son Rowan has played t -ball, baseball, and soccer in Trumansburg. These sports have given them friendships, built character, helped them feel invested in their schools and community, and helped develop their sense of self. As long as my boys have played sports, all the community's teams have been squeezed for space. Practices have been pushed into corners of fields or cancelled altogether. Sports are a powerful positive force in the lives of Trumansburg's children. I urge you to accept this land donation and make that positive force accessible to more of them. This land would provide a foundation for healthy, connected recreation in our town. We of the Trumansburg Soccer Club are committed to being good stewards of the land and respectful neighbors, and we stand ready to partner with the town to make this vision a reality. Please accept this donation and take the first step toward solving a long-standing challenge in our community. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to creating opportunities for our children. Jacqueline Frank Board Member, Trumansburg Soccer Club https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9uCwAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:07 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Land donation From Erin and Rob kaplan <rkaplan54@yahoo.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 12:53 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Ulysses Town Board Members, We, Erin and Rob Kaplan, are writing to formally propose a land donation to the town of Ulysses. This generous contribution aims to address a critical need within our community: the lack of dedicated green space for recreation and community engagement. Currently, Ulysses lacks sufficient areas for children to play organized sports and for residents of all ages to enjoy the benefits of outdoor activity. This donation offers a unique opportunity to rectify this situation, creating a vibrant and welcoming space that fosters physical activity, social interaction, and a stronger sense of community. We envision this land being developed into a park, potentially incorporating features such as a playground, walking trails, and open green spaces, depending on the town's resources and preferences. The possibilities for enhancing the quality of life in Ulysses are substantial. We firmly believe that investing in green spaces is an investment in the future of our community. A well -designed park will not only enhance the physical well-being of our residents but also contribute to their social and emotional well-being, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and shared identity. We are confident that this land donation will be a valuable asset, leading to a more thriving and connected Sincerely, Erin and Rob Kaplan co Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9mLwAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:03 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Letter of support for acceptance of land donation From Tom Knipe <tom.knipe@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 7:49 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Good Evening, I am requesting that this letter be read during public comment at tomorrow night's Town Board meeting. Thanks! Tom Town of Ulysses Board, I write in support of the resolution to accept the donation of land to establish a town park at 5150 Cold Springs Road. Thank you for the thoughtful, open, transparent and fiscally responsible approach that you have taken to evaluate this opportunity. I think the park will be a great addition to the community. Tom Knipe Garrett Road https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM%2BZ8AAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:09 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Land donation From Molly Wadzeck Kraus <mollywadzeck@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 12:12 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Good morning, I wanted to write in my support for the proposed rec land donation. Thank you! https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9YbwAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:05 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Town Park, Support for Authorization for the Town Supervisor to Enter Into a Donation Agreement From Cynthia Mannino <paintdog35@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 3:06 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Hello Carissa, Please have my letter read out loud at the Special Town Meeting August 27, 2025. I am writing in support of the Authorization for the Town Supervisor to Enter Into a Donation Agreement and pursue necessary approvals for the establishment of the First Publicly Owned Park in Ulysses. A park is a place for all to enjoy their peaceful pursuits for generations to come. Thank you to Marivin and Allison Pritts for their generosity in offering to donate the land to Ulysses. Thank you to the Ulysses Town Council members for their excellent work in representing all of the people of Ulysses now, and in the future. Thank you, Cynthia Mannino Ulysses, NY https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM92KQAA 1/1 8/27/25, 10:17 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Public Comment in Support of Town Park From Isabella M <bema44123@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 11:51 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Hello, I am a resident of Trumansburg and I am writing this email in support of a Town Park. I would like this letter to be read during the public hearing as a public comment prior to the vote the town board will take on 8/27. Public parks are indispensable foundations of communities and important aspects to democracy. Parks are spaces for people to gather, exchange ideas, and pursue joyful activities. Therefore, I believe a Town Park would be an immeasurable benefit to the town of Trumansburg. Thank you and Kind Regards, Isabella Mannino https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9YYQAA 1/1 8/27/25, 10:18 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Support for land donation! From Eleanor Ouckama <eleanorfouckama@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 11:39 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I am a Trumansburg varsity soccer player and a Taughannock Soccer Club player, and I strongly support the acceptance of the land donation for recreational use. Having more field space is essential for both youth and school programs. Soccer has had a significant impact on my life, allowing me to develop and strengthen friendships as well as my own confidence. Having access to proper facilities is an essential part of connecting youth athletes and developing team environments. Please accept this donation and give our community the facilities we need. Thank you, Eleanor Ouckama https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9YPQAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:07 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Support for Land Donation From Evelyn Pennock <evelpennock@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 1:10 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I am a Trumansburg varsity soccer player, and I am in strong support of accepting the land donation for recreational use. Having more field space is essential for all youth and school programs, for both current and future seasons. When I joined the soccer team, I immediately felt included, and knew I was in good hands. It has helped me step out of my comfort zone, and be more confident on and off the field. Accepting this donation will allow others to have this experience, and carry on the tradition of excellence and kindness in our town. Please accept this donation and give our teams, youth, and community the facilities we need. Thank you, Evelyn Pennock https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9uHAAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:05 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Support for Land Donation for Recreation From Celeste Shaffer <cns62@cornell.edu> Date Tue 8/26/2025 1:57 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, On behalf of the Trumansburg Soccer Club, I urge you to accept the proposed land donation for recreation. This is a rare opportunity that will benefit our community for generations. It is vital we maintain space for the development for the younger generations, shaping our future with many of the life lessons that can be found only out on the field. This is space that can never be replicated or replaced and one that our community so desperately needs. This land would provide a foundation for healthy, connected recreation in our town. We are committed to being good stewards of the land and respectful neighbors, and we stand ready to partner with the town to make this vision a reality. Please accept this donation and take the first step toward solving a long-standing challenge in our community. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to creating opportunities for our children. Thank you, Celeste N. Shaffer https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9yPgAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:08 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Yay soccer! From Ijschererl3@gmail.com <Ijscherer13@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 12:36 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Yes, I support recreational fields!! Please accept the land donation. When it comes to kids playing outside, the answer is always Yes! Thanks, Lisa Scherer Sent from my iPhone https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9eCwAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:06 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook land donation From Maggie Scherer <magescherer@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 1:25 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> accept the land donation! yay kids playing outside! https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9uJAAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:03 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Support for Land Donation From Ella Simoneau <ellasimoneau7@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 11:38 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, My name is Ella Simoneau, and I am a Trumansburg varsity soccer player as well as a Taughannock soccer player. I strongly support the acceptance of the land donation for recreational use. Having more field space is essential for both youth and school programs. Soccer has given me so many important things in life —it has taught me passion, friendship, confidence, and determination. I honestly don't know where I would be today without it. I hope every child has the opportunity to experience the same benefits that I have. Please accept this generous donation and help provide our community with the facilities we need. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Ella Simoneau https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM%2BftQAA 1/1 8/27/25, 10:18 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook I& Outlook Support for Land Donation From Alaina Stockwell <alaina.stockwell@icloud.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 11:43 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I am a Trumansburg varsity soccer player, and I strongly support the acceptance of the land donation for recreational use. Having more field space is essential for both youth and school programs. Soccer is an outlet for many young kids. There are numerous positive effects that come out of the game. You build so many friendships, while also keeping your body and mind healthy. Not to mention the amazing coaches who are role models for the kids. Soccer is fun, but it also makes us better people. Please accept this donation and give our community the facilities we need. Thank you, Alaina Stockwell https://outlook.office. com/mail/in box/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1 f9F 19zfPdQABzM9YTAAA 1/1 8/27/25, 9:08 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Support for Land Donation for Recreation From Elizabeth Warner <ech1223@gmail.com> Date Tue 8/26/2025 12:45 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, My family and I urge you to accept the proposed land donation for recreation. This is a wonderful opportunity that will benefit our community for generations. We are active members of our community and our kids participate in soccer through Taughannock Soccer Club and baseball through Trumansburg Travel Baseball/Little League. I have also been an active volunteer and officer for the TCSD PTO for 9 years, and our oldest is now participating in school sports. My husband recently helped start a Trumansburg youth wrestling club in response the strong participation by Trumansburg students at the Four Towns Recreation wrestling program in Ovid. On many fronts, we've experienced firsthand the competition for recreational spaces in the T -burg community. This land would provide a foundation for healthy, connected recreation in our town. We are committed to being good stewards of the land and respectful neighbors, and we stand ready to partner with the town to make this vision a reality. Please accept this donation and take the first step toward solving a long-standing challenge in our community. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to creating opportunities for our children. Elizabeth and Richard Warner (parents of 5th and 7th grade students at TCSD, and athletes of TCSD, Taughannock Soccer Club, Little Blue Raiders Football, Trumansburg Little League Trumansburg Travel Baseball, Trumansburg Wrestling Club) https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM9eEQAA 1/1 Outlook Support for Land Donation for Recreation From Mark Boshart <mboshart55@gmail.com> Date Wed 8/27/2025 2:02 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I am the father of 2 teenage boys that are active in sports, particularly soccer, tennis and track. The acceptance of this land donation would be a huge benefit to our T -Burg community. It would be easily accessible for the T -Burg community and would provide needed practice field space for our youth sports. The accessibility of this site makes it more desirable to me verses the previous Jacksonville area site that was rejected previously. Thank you for accepting my input. Mark Boshart 2 Whig St Outlook Support for Land Donation for Recreation From Kate Krueger - Date Wed 8/27/2025 2:36 PM To Cadssa Parlato <derk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, On behalf of our family and the Trumansburg Soccer Club, I urge you to accept the proposed land donation for recreation. This is a rare opportunity that will benefit our community for generations. We, the Krueger family is comprised of two active community -minded adults and two T -Burg elementary school student -athletes who participate in multiple outdoor sports, including soccer, baseball, and track at this time. Even though our boys are only 6 and 8 years old, we've witnessed the density of activity in the available space at the school campus on most weekday evenings in both the spring and fall seasons. We are very excited by the opportunity presented by the acquisition of this land for sports and recreation use to help reduce that congestion and relieve the pressures of space and scheduling on everyone involved. We are happy to see opportunities open up for other recreation activities as well. This land would provide a foundation for healthy, connected recreation in our town. We are committed to being good stewards of the land and respectful neighbors, and we stand ready to partner with the town to make this vision a reality. Please accept this donation and take the first step toward solving a long-standing challenge in our community. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to creating opportunities for our children. The Krueger Family (Kate, Jeff, Henry (8) and Sam (6) Krueger) 4243 Waterburg Rd, Trumansburg, Town of Ulysses, NY 14886 and Trumansburg Soccer Club Brandon Manheim 4027 Waterburg Road Trumansburg, New York 14886 8/27/2025 Town of Ulysses Board 10 Elm Street Trumansburg, New York 14886 Dear Board Members, I am writing to express my full support for the proposed acquisition of the Cold Springs Road land being offered with the purpose of developing and dedicating it as a space that youth and adults can utilize for recreation. I am a lifelong resident of the greater Trumansburg area and currently have two children involved with youth sports. I have watched over the years as other municipalities have developed this type of space for their communities to enjoy. I think to myself each time I go to one of these locations for my kids' games how much of an investment in the future of our community it would be if we had something similar in our town. This acquisition would provide a safe, and accessible location that would show the town's support in the physical, social, and emotional well-being of our community's youth. Being a coach and parent involved with youth sports, I can see the importance of this type of space not only for our youth but for the interaction amongst parents and community members. I feet that this presents an opportunity for our town to provide a location that isn't just a place to play but also an area that fosters community connection, encourages healthy lifestyles, and provides a location for structured recreational activities for our youth. This type of facility would bean important step in building an even more connected community that would have benefits that are far-reaching and long-lasting. I urge you to move forward with this land acquisition and development into a space that reflects the needs of our youth and community. Thank you foryour commitment to improving the quality of life in the Town of Ulysses. I look forward to seeing this project move ahead! Sincerely7 Brandon Manheim 8/27/25, 9:02 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Land Donation From Adam Oppenheim <adamoppenheim@gmail.com> Date Wed 8/27/2025 8:42 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> To the Town Board Members: I'm writing as a parent of a children who participate in youth sports to urge you to accept the proposed land donation for recreation. These are rare opportunities - do something memorable with your terms of office! Public infrastructure and works development seem to only happen when ordinary civic participants do something extraordinary. You have a chance to prevent selfish development by a private actor in a beautiful part of the world - don't squander that! Adam Oppenheim https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM%2FP%2FQAA 1/1 8/27/25, 10:52 AM Mail - Carissa Parlato - Outlook Outlook Comment for park discussion From Rachel Ostlund Date Wed 8/27/2025 10:50 AM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Hi Carissa - The statement below is in support of the Town accepting the land donation, could it please be read at the meeting? I am not able to attend in person. Thank you! I am writing in support of the town accepting the generous land donation from the Pritts family, in order to create a community park. It's incredibly important that we prioritize the creation of free, accessible parks, and the land donation is providing the town with the rare opportunity to do just that. We need safe, free spaces that everyone can access in order to spend time outdoors, as well as spaces where kids can run around, play sports and be outside. Everyone, regardless of income, deserves equitable access to green space - and having a Town park in a central location means that the myriad benefits of outdoor recreation will be available to everyone in our community. It also is a symbol of the Town's commitment to shared resources and creating welcoming spaces for all. Easy, equitable access to parks and green spaces not only gives people access to space that improves their mental and physical well-being, but free community parks are an essential part of creating the social infrastructure necessary for healthy, vibrant and interconnected communities. Parks are egalitarian spaces where informal encounters and new connections bolster and build community - and as our community continues to grow and change over time, having spaces where both new and long-time residents and families can interact and build social connections are an important way to develop and create a sense of community identity. I am so excited for the tremendous possibility that this space holds! - Rachel Ostlund https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACgAC%2FEWg0A9Xyyhe6xQUO1f9F19zfPdQABzM%2FWSwAA 1/1 82]25, 1 16 PM Mail Carissa Patlato Outlook y Outlook Support for land donation From Erika T Reed Date Wed 8/27/2025 12:55 PM To Carissa Parlato <clerk@townofulyssesny.gov> Dear Town Board Members, I urge you to accept the proposed land donation for recreation. This is a rare opportunity that will benefit our community for generations. As a parent of children who participate, in youth sports and as a community member who has participated in adult recreation programs, additional recreation spaces for the community are vital for the wellbeing of our town, both for individuals and as a collective. We are far behind other local towns in our recreation spaces and offerings to the community. This land would provide a foundation for healthy, connected recreation in our town. We are committed to being good stewards of the land and respectful neighbors, and there are community groups who stand ready to partner with the town to make this vision a reality. Please accept this donation and take the first step toward solving a long-standing challenge in our community. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to creating opportunities. Sincerely Erika Reed Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer https //outlook office conmaiLinboxld/MJc LgAAPMAHYODEapaEc2byACgAC%2FEWg8A9Xyyhe6x000119F19zfPdQABzM%2FUOAAA 1/1 Outlook Rec fields From Bruce White - Date Wed 8/27/2025 4:25 PM To Carissa Parlato <derk@townotulyssesny.gov> Hello, I am reaching out as I won't be able to make the meeting tonight. I and my wife (Kelly White), support this initiative. We think this will go a long way to helping the community come together and give access to our youth that so many other communities already have. Please let me know if there is more to be done to reflect my vote of approval. Thank you, Bruce White Get Outlook for Android Outlook Town Park land Donation From Natasha Vonge Date Wed 8/27/2025 2:28 PM To Carissa Parlato <derk@townofulyssesny.gov> Hello, I am writing today about the land being donated by the Pritz family. I appreciate the generous donation to the Town at large but I am writing you all tonight to explain why I am against it. I have sat through a number of town board meetings this year in regards to this, as I am a resident of the road five houses down from where the proposed park would be. I know this location well, and I know how much this will effect the road and the residents nearby to it, let alone those of us scattered further along the road. Of the 15 or so houses on this part of the road, the proposed park location is in the middle of most of them. It in fact, would have it's proposed right of way running into the door yard of one of them and it would let out on front of two homes. These are homes to retired folks, folks who work from home as well as law enforcement. The added traffic and noise from it would be an immense disruption on a road that is already narrow, barely wide enough at times for two vehicles to go down depending on the size of them. Add to it that it is an unlined country road often used as a shortcut around the village and people rarely honor the speed limit, adding more traffic from a park would only add to these disruptions. The thought of a TCat stop on the road would also add to the congestion of it, as a bus would take up an entire side of the road, further disrupting things. Before a trail could be added in along the old railroad that has been discussed, kids would be riding or walking 2 1/2 miles to this location after school of they would like to use it. Same with other folks who would like to use it. While not far for those with a car or kids used to riding bicycles and old enough to do so safely, that distance, coupled with the aforementioned traffic issues, is a dangerous mix. Added to this is the fact that the driveway for this park in general, would cut through or border the yards of two homes. One of which would be required to move the leach field for their septic system according to the paperwork I have seen. Which leads to the question of where? That lot isn't large, and borders a creek, limiting the placement of it. How would the disruption of traffic be handled? How about their privacy and loss of land? On top of all of this, the residents of the town have been asking for a place for recreation. From little league teams to soccer teams, the town wants land for ball fields and places to play their games. The time would be vastly limited on a weekday due to the limitations of lighting as outlined in the draft donation agreement as would noise. Having friends whose kids are on various teams I have heard the struggles of late afternoon games that are rushed in parks due to the lack of lighting at the field making the games unenjoyable at times. And with all of that, any sort of sound from the games itself would be a disruption to the neighborhood. We can already hear Grassroots and the Fair, I can only imagine how much more disruptive noise would occur with ball games happening. All this to say, the Towns eagerness to accept this donation feels rushed. At every turn we have been told that these are future concerns as the land hasn't been accepted yet. However the lack of forethought put into all of this has made me lose trust that the neighborhood issues raised will be handled with care. And as a member of a family who has lived on this road for well over 100 years, it's extremely disheartening to hear. The word donation seems to have planted itself in people's heads as the easy solution to the town Park issue, without consideration of the issues it would raise in this location. I am not opposed to the town having a park, I just do not think this location is the best for it. And as a granddaughter of a former farmer, seeing 20 acres of agriculture land be taken away when it was actively used to instead be used for a park, maybe, when the town gets the opportunity to develop it, also hurts. Thank you for reading this, Natasha Lyon-Yonge 5381 Cold Springs Rd Outlook Re: Ulysses Updates for 8/29/25 From Kevin Hufford Date Fri 8/29/2025 7:30 PM To ulysses.derk@gmail.com <ulysses.clerk@gmail.com> I am sorry to hear the land donation was approved. It will diminish the appeal of living on cold springs road. The only reason they donated the land is so they don't have to pay property taxes on it. Very sad. Ulysses government sucks. On Fri, Aug 29, 2025, 4:17 PM Carissa Parlato, Town Clerk <ulvsses.clerkCalgmail.com> wrote: Happy Friday, Ulysses! Please note that Town offices will be closed on Monday for Labor Day. IN THIS WEEK'S ULYSSES NEWSLETTER: Update from Town Supervisor Comp Plan Public Hearing Climate & Emergency Planning for Private Wells Hunting Updates Comprehensive Plan Open House UPDATE FROM TOWN SUPERVISOR OLSON Greetings, Ulyssians! As we head into a holiday weekend and the unofficial end of summer, I wanted to reach out to share some exciting news. At a special meeting on Wednesday, 8/27, the Town Board unanimously approved a donation agreement with Marvin and Allison Pritts. The Pritts are donating 15.234 acres of land to be used to create the Town's first public park. I am very grateful to Marvin and Allison Pritts for this very generous offer and their trust in the Town of Ulysses to develop a park that is an asset for the neighborhood and the community is a whole. This is truly a monumental, historical event in the evolution of our wonderful Ulysses. Thank you for trusting us with this important responsibility! The Town Board has taken many months to thoroughly examine the environmental and financial implications of accepting this donation. We held two public hearings spread over three different meetings, and have been collecting public feedback for four months. Many thanks to the dozens of people who wrote in and expressed their support for or concerns about a donation of land. More information about the donation is available here, and the recording of the meeting is available here. Moving forward, the project will be referred to the Town Planning Board and Board of Zoning Appeals. The creation of a new parcel of land to be owned by the Town requires minor subdivision approval. The donation will also need a 12 -foot area variance (38 feet instead of 50 feet) from zoning for the