HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-03-25 CPSC Final Minutes Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
Zoom Hybrid Meeting
Meeting Minutes
March 25,2026
Final on:April 16,2026
Committee Members Present:Acting Chair Elizabeth Weatherby, Roxanne Marino, Karl Klankowski, Mo
Klein, Kim Moore, Katelin Olson, Alison Weaver, Karen Meador
Committee Members Absent:Ann DiPetta,Tai Basilius
Quorum Present
Comp Plan Consultant Present: Matt Horn
Comp Plan Consultant Present on Zoom:Jessica Geary
Town Staff Present: Lori Asperschlager, Niels Tygesen
Members of the Public Present: Sarah Adams, Helen McLallen, Rich Goldman, Shirley Brown, Bob
Howarth,Vivian Rose, Sigrid Paun
Members of the Public Present on Zoom: Linda Liddle, Greg Reynolds
Proceedings
Acting Chair Elizabeth Weatherby called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm at the Town Hall.
Approval of Agenda
Marino would like to discuss what the committee will do with the public comments during the Latest
Comp Plan Draft, Continued Discussion.
Motion: Klein motioned to approve the amended agenda; Klankowski seconded. Passed unanimously.
Approval of Past Minutes(March 11, 2026)
Motion: Klankowski motioned to approve the amended March 11 minutes; Weaver seconded.
Passed unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING (Continued Hearing of the Draft 2025-2045 Comp Plan
Weatherby mentioned that the public hearing has been open since September 9.The committee will
monitor the 30 minute timeframe tonight. Once the committee has passed the draft plan to the Town
Board there will still be time for public comment.
Motion: Olson re-opened the public hearing; Klankowski seconded. Passed unanimously.
Vivian Rose provided written comments to the committee. Referred to those comments and would like
the committee to extend the public comment period until April 18, allowing a full month from the latest
draft. She would like the photos labels in the Executive Summary. Also spoke about concerns regarding
climate change and taking care of our natural resources.
Bob Howarth provided written comments to the committee. As a former BZA member and chair he
understands the importance of a comprehensive plan in decision making for the town. Spoke about
concerns regarding climate change included in the plan and flood risks in the town.
Sarah Adams provided written comments to the committee. If there is any way to continue to have
public hearings and discussions before the committee passes the draft to the Town Board she would
support that decision.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 20
March 25, 2026
V. Rose spoke again and would like to appeal again to the committee to extend the public comment
period and shared a concern that building more housing in the town may not be affordable or
accessible.
Rich Goldman spoke about housing affordability and how building more housing does not necessarily
lower the cost of housing.
Shirley Brown spoke about the importance of caring for the natural environment. The quality of life in
the town will be diminished if we do not take care of the water, air, and land.
Greg Reynolds spoke about some missing data points in the plan, but appreciated the inclusion of
farming, small businesses, and cottage industries. Would like the town to support small ag venues and
cottage industries that residents and non-residents can enjoy.
Motion: Klankowski motioned closed the public hearing; Klein seconded. Passed unanimously.
LATEST COMP PLAN DRAFT:03.18.26,Continued Discussion
Matt Horn from MRB spoke about the plan for the discussion tonight to review and revise Appendix A.
He asked the committee to take 10 minutes to review the changes to Appendix A suggested by
committee members.Any changes and edits that need discussion can be talked through before voting.
After review Weatherby stated the committee would review Appendix A first by going through
Klankowski's document of consolidated changes.
Page 1
1. To merge LR-P-2.2.1, LR-P-2.2.2, LR-P-2.2.3, and EN-P-1.1.6 into one policy block:
I make a motion to completely revise LR-P-2.2.1 in the Land Use and Rural Issues Element as follows:
"LR-P-2.2.1 Support the long-term viability of agriculture in Ulysses by coordinating with Cornell
Cooperative Extension, the Soil and Water Conservation District, and other regional partners to provide
technical assistance, succession planning resources and education programs for farmers."
2. Based on the above revision to LR-P-2.2.1:
I make a motion to remove policy numbers LR-P-2.2.2, LR-P-2.2.3 in the Land Use and Rural Issues
element and EN-P-1.1.6 in the Environment and natural Resources element.
EN P 1.1.6 Explore ways that the TA-;.A.fn aSSO.-St with the ffe5ervatiOR ef prime agrieultUFal land and
access to it f.,r+h.,'., n+ing to n+in.�e farming Ont.,the fut-Wr
3. 1 make a motion to amend objective H-0-1.1 in the Housing element as follows:
H-0-1.1 Strive to meet current and projected regional housing needs of all economic and demographic
groups by increasing Ulysses' housing supply.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 20
March 25, 2026
4. 1 make a motion to remove policy numbers H-P-1.2.1 and H-P-1.2.2 in the Housing element per
recommendations from Liz and Roxanne.
ity ;;hp,,*the TAwR's geals f9F equal hE)HSiRg access, Fe5P9RSdbiI4ies fE)F each party, edueatiRg
eqmFnHR
t*
Motion: Klankowski motioned to approve amendments 1-4 on page 1 of the document, Klein seconded
Passed unanimously.
Marino brought up the wording for LR-P-1.1.2 in the Land Use and Rural Issues to change the wording
for on the Hamlet Area Development Plan based on previous discussion of the future land use in
Waterburg.
Motion: Marino motioned to amend Policy number LR-P-1.1.2 in the Land Use and Rural Issues element
to, "Create a Hamlet Area Development Plan that focuses on improving Jacksonville's and Water",
public realm and sense of place."; Moore seconded. Passed unanimously.
Page 2
Committee pulled amendment 1 for discussion.
1. To merge H-P-1.1.1, 1.1.2 & 1.1.3 into one policy block:
I make a motion to completely revise H-P-1.1.1 in the Housing Element as follows:
"H-P-1.1.1 Conduct research and analysis, including housing studies and zoning audits,to identify
strategies that increase housing supply and affordability in Ulysses."
Meador had concerns about mandating projects that may be too costly to be feasible. Suggests using
words like "consider" so it's not too strongly worded. Discussion ensued.
Motion: Olson motioned to completely revise H-P-1.1.1 in the Housing Element as follows:
"H-P-1.1.1 t Consider research and analysis, including housing studies and zoning audits, to
identify strategies that increase housing supply and affordability in Ulysses."; Weatherby seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Meador brought up concerns about signage and deep ditches on Kraft Road. Need to balance the need
for drainage and flood control and safe transportation for bicyclists, pedestrians, and vehicles. Olson
said the town is aware of this and it is a state matter and the town is trying to communicate with the
state about the concerns. Agreed to discuss as a separate policy in Transportation after reviewing the
consolidated document.
Committee agreed that the remainder of Page 2 could be moved as a block.
2. Based on the above revision to H-P-1.1.1:
I make a motion to remove Policy numbers H-P-1.1.2 & H-P-1.1.3. in the Housing Element.
H P 1.1.1 Create a new Housing Advisory Committee to ce—nd-i-ict research and- M-ake Fe-c-A-MmeRdations
heusing al(s) aFe achieved.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 20
March 25, 2026
nEE2Te,'-at81"" dBEtl„Te-FlT
3. 1 make a motion to relocate and amend policy number H-P-1.2.8 in the Housing Element to
objective area T-0-1.1in the Transportation element as follows:
n—1 1.2.9 T-P-1.1.X Connect neighborhoods to parks and other amenities and services with sidewalks,
designated bikeways or bike paths and safe infrastructure to ensure that residents can access them.
4. I make a motion to amend policy number H-P-1.3.4 in the Housing element as follows:
"H-P-1.3.4
ZGRmRg „l - --,pal rY -,l er sitive eRViF9RmeRtal i t. Explore legal options for designating
housing types below a certain threshold or within certain areas as Type 2 actions under SEQR".
5. I make a motion to relocate policy number H-P-1.5.2 in the Housing element to EN-0-2.1 in the
Environment and Natural Resources Element as follows:
H P 1.5.2 EN-P-2.1.X Identify environmentally sensitive areas such as land subject to flooding currently
and in the future, streams and riparian corridors, unbroken habitat areas, and other important features
and restrict housing development within those areas.
Motion: Olson motioned to accept amendments 2, 3,4, and 5 on page 2,Weaver seconded, Passed
unanimously.
Marino brought up other changes that the Clerk and Jessica had that were not included in Klankowski's
consolidated document in the sections reviewed by the previous motions. Committee agreed to make a
note of them and come back to those after reviewing the consolidated document.
Page 3
1. 1 make a motion to amend objective H-0-1.6 in the housing element as follows:
H-0-1.6 ERSH,eit's Work to make it possible for households of all income levels to live affordably in
Ulysses, and reduce overtime the unmet housing needs of lower-income households in Town.
2. To merge H-P-1.6.1, 1.6.4& 1.6.6 into one policy block:
I make a motion to completely revise H-P-1.6.1 in the Housing Element as follows:
"H-P-1.6.1 Support the development and preservation of affordable housing through tools such as land
banking, streamlined permitting, public or nonprofit land acquisition, and mixed income housing
initiatives."
3. Based on the above revision to H-P-1.6.1:
I make a motion to remove Policy numbers H-P-1.6.4& H-P-1.6.6. in the Housing Element.
sur
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 20
March 25, 2026
H P 1.6.6 ldeRtify fep sale, eF aequiFe IaAd- -and market it te d-,--�.k--IA-peFS With Festric-Ame—ps A-A develepiRg
families, se-mers, etc.
4. 1 make a motion to remove policy numbers H-P-1.6.2 and H-P-1.6.3 in the Housing element as
these are likely not actionable.
,
seRsrete,etc-.
H P 1.6.3 ExpleFe the peteRtial Of a land ValHe taxati9R system te mere equitably distribute tax burdeRS.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve the 4 amendments on Page 3 as presented, Klein seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Page 4
1. 1 make a motion to relocate policy ED-P-1.2.1 in the Economic Development element to LR-0-2.3
in the Land Use and Rural Issues element and to revise ED-P-1.2.1 as follows:
And i
ex stingus+r�sses a,Td-att aEt raew=b s+ia��ses.
"LR-P-2.3.X In accordance with the Town's Agriculture and Farmland protection plan, re-establish and
support an agriculture committee in the Town to provide input from local farmers, farmland owners,
and agricultural businesses on how to expand and support a diversity of agricultural activities in
Ulysses."
2. 1 make amotion to amend policy number ED-P-1.2.4 in the Economic Development element as
follows:
ED-P-1.2.4 Promote housing and population growth in the Town, to provide existing
industries like education, healthcare, government and retail with access to customers and workers.
3. 1 make a motion to remove policy number ED-P-2.1.5 in the Economic Development element.
We do not have an Industrial Land Character area identified on the FLUM.
ED P 2.1.5 Ce—nside.r identifying a petential i-ndustri.a.1 -area A—r an industrial park, se IJ lysses
eaR puirsuie E)PPE)OURities in ways that dee neet deetract from its natural
landseape.
4. 1 make a motion to remove policy number ED-P 2.2.1 in the Economic Development element as
this is already addressed in H-P-1.3.2 in the Housing element.
5. 1 make a motion to relocate policy ED-P-2.2.4 in the Economic Development element to T-0-1.1
in the Transportation element.
F=D PP : T-P-1.1.X Make targeted infrastructure improvements for pedestrian and cyclist connectivity
throughout the Town, like fixing sidewalks, widening and protecting bike lanes, installing lights and
making improvements as needed to enhance neighborhoods.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 20
March 25, 2026
6. 1 make a motion to remove policy number ED-P-2.2.5 in the Economic Development element.
,
+ ; eeRsideped.
Meador pulled amendment 5 for discussion.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve amendments 1-4 and 6 on Page 4; Weatherby seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Discussion on amendment 5 ensued regarding ditches and damage to plant life after trimming. Creating
an additional policy will be revisited after the review of the consolidated document.
Motion:Weatherby motioned to change amendment 5 on Page 4 as written, Klein seconded. Passed
unanimously
Marino would like to revisit ED-P-1.2.3 after review of consolidated document.
Page 5
1. To consolidate ED-P-3.1.1, ED-P-3.1.2, ED-P-3.1.3 and ED-P-3.1.5:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number ED-P-3.1.1 in the Economic Development element
as follows:
ED-P-3.1.1 Coordinate with Trumansburg Chamber of Commerce and County organizations to market
available jobs for the local workforce, including promoting job fairs and career training opportunities.
Based on the above revision to ED-P-3.1.1:
2. 1 make a motion to remove policy numbers ED-P-3.1.2, ED-P-3.1.3 and ED-P-3.1.5 in the
Economic Development element.
their yierkferr-r CiRd a ert yni+ies+e teach in demand- SLillr- in Ulysses.
ED P 3.1.2 Ce-e-rdinate vVith municipalities and employers to host a jeb fair, enabling the local �.AVArkfArr-p
+e fined n uv eh e eFtunities -,nrd +I.A.9ith ler•-,l employers.
and career trainiRg, eRabling thern te dle.m.A—nstrate what jebs in key iRdustFies leek like, engage studeRtS
aAd the IIA-Cal Wed(fE)ree, and tP--RC--h Aecessary skills. Examples of engagement ceuld be participating iR a
ea reer day or her+inn a +ei it of. their far•ili+ies fee sty dents
nn rl,e++he Leh beard wmthmn the Tewn + neFease n+
3. 1 make a motion to relocate policy ED-P-4.1.1 in the Economic Development element to CU-0-
1.1 in the Capital Facilities, Services and Utilities element.
Cnto-D-4 1 1 CU-P-1.1.X Explore the creation, expansion and repair of water infrastructure in order to
protect the Town's water resources and ensure the Town has safe drinking water.
Motion: Klein motioned to approve the 3 amendments on Page 5 as presented; Weaver seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 20
March 25, 2026
Page 6
1. To merge T-P-1.1.1 and T-P 1.1.6 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number T-P-1.1.1 in the Transportation element as follows:
T-P-1.1.1 Coordinate land use planning with transportation elements by supporting mixed-use
development near transit services and planning multimodal improvements in growth areas such as the
Hamlet of Jacksonville."
2. Based on the above revision to T-P-1.1.1:
I make a motion to remove policy number T-P-1.1.6 in the Transportation element.
T P 1.1.1 Revise the ZE)RiRg E)FdiRaRGe te peFmit denser mixed use areas aFE)61Rd tFaRsit serviees.
T P 1.1.6 Create a Harnlet ef jael(sen,Allp- N/lastp-P WaR that would detail multimedal imprevements and a-
expaRs ens.
3.To merge T-P-1.1.3, 1.1.4& 1.1.13 into one single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise T-P-1.1.3 in the Transportation Element as follows:
"T-P-1.1.3 Improve bicycle connectivity by identifying local bike routes. Work with NYS DOT and TC to
identify and widen road shoulders as needed to ensure safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
4. Based on the above revision to T-P-1.1.3:
I make a motion to remove policy numbers T-P-1.1.4 and T-P-1.1.13 in the Transportation element.
f ers+s + epeFate.
hem
Moore asked that TC is spelled out as Tompkins County in the comp plan.
Motion: Klein motioned to approve the 4 amendments on Page 6 as presented; Olson seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Page 7
1. To combine T-P-1.1.2 and T-P-1.1.5 in the Transportation element,
I make a motion to completely revise T-P-1.1.2 in the transportation element as follows:
"T-P-1.1.2 Expand pedestrian infrastructure such as sidewalks, crossings, and walkable street networks,
particularly in the Hamlet of Jacksonville, growth areas, and new subdivisions."
2. Based on the above revision to T-P-1.1.2
I make a motion to remove policy number T-P-1.1.5 in the Transportation element.
other r,+�
3. To merge T-P-1.1.7,T-P-1.1.8,T-P-1.1.9,T-P-1.1.10 and T-P-1.1.11 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number T-P-1.1.7 in the transportation element as follows:
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 7 of 20
March 25, 2026
T-P-1.1.7 Collaborate with TCAT, regional planning agencies, employers, and local partners to improve
transit services,transportation programs, and funding opportunities for residents."
4. Based on the above revision to policy number T-P-1.1.7 in the transportation element.
I make a motion to remove policy numbers T-P-1.1.8,T-P-1.1.9,T-P-1.1.10 and T-P-1.1.11 in the
Transportation element.
T P 1.1.9 Collaborate with I(ey stakeholders te Feseareh shared fHRdiRg 9PPE)FWRities and aFeas ef
possible eellaberatien.
related geals,.-
Motion:Weatherby motioned to approve the 4 amendments on Page 7 as presented; Klein seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Page 8
1. To merge T-P-1.1.14,T-P-1.1.15, CW-P-2.1.3 and CW-P-2.1.4 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number T-P-1.1.14 in the Transportation element as follows:
T-P-1.1.14 Improve connections to the Black Diamond Trail and other recreational routes by expanding
trail access points, bicycle routes,wayfinding information and mapping preferred and safest cycling
routes"
2. Based on the above revision to policy number T-P-1.1.14 in the Transportation element:
I make a motion to remove policy number T-P-1.1.15 in the Transportation element and policy numbers
CW-P-2.1.3 and CW-P-2.1.4 in the Community Well-Being element.
ethheFs.
CW P 2.1.3 Support the creati.een Aef additie-inal traimis and bike paths , especially the-Se that can Connect
3. To merge CU-P-1.1.1 and CU-P-1.1.2 into a single policy:
I make a motion to amend policy number CU-P-1.1.1 in the Capital Facilities, Services and Utilities
element as follows:
CU-P-1.1.1
Teydn's vVat„r. ,�,�+r,�+�+„ p „ide muneeipal ,.ateF+„ PAP-re Fesidents. Evaluate expansion of municipal
water service areas based on cost, community interest, and appropriateness for long term growth."
4. Based on the above amendment to policy number CU-P-1.1.1:
I make a motion to remove policy number CU-P-1.1.2 in the Capital Facilities, Services and Utilities
element.
Tewx.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 8 of 20
March 25, 2026
Motion: Olson motioned to approve the 4 amendments on Page 8 as presented; Klein seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Page 9
1. To merge CU-P-1.1.4, CU-P-1.1.6 and CU-P-1.1.7 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number CU-P-1.1.4 in the Capital Facilities, Services and
Utilities element as follows:
CU-P-1.1.4 "Provide residents with information about drinking water safety, including well testing
resources and alternative drinking water options and proactively implement the strategies identified by
DWSP2 to protect and promote drinking water safety and options for residents."
2. Based on the above revision to policy number CU-P-1.1.4:
I make a motion to remove policy numbers CU-P-1.1.6 and CU-P-1.1.7 in the Capital Facilities, Services
and Utilities element.
CU P 1.1.4 %A.Inrk wmth Tempkins CGURty Whole Health ;;nPI Nipw YArk State De artment of Health W
J ,;Ih!e.. .,II ter+.,stir,..f.,r r si d RtS
prevCIJ P 1.1.6 Adopt the TeWR of Ulysses DFiRking Water Seurce Protection Plan -;;Rd preactively implemeRt
the strategies idlemified_
`"'
3. 1 make a motion to relocate policy number CU-P-2.1.5 in the Capital Facilities, Services and
Utilities element to T-0-1.1 in the Transportation element.
C"�-P 2.1.5 T-P-1.1.X Ensure that public transit stops and routes within the Town are safe and
maintained.
4. 1 make a motion to relocate policy number CU-P-3.1.4 in the Capital Facilities, Services and
Utilities element to CR-0-3.2 in the Climate Change and Resiliency element.
C"�-P 3.1.4 CR-P-3.2.X Explore opportunities to promote renewable and environmentally-friendly energy
sources in the Town, in alignment with the New York State Energy Plan.
5. 1 make a motion to amend policy number CU-P-2.1.6 in the Capital Facilities, Services and
Utilities element as follows:
CU-P-2.1.6 Minimize flooding hazards and poor stormwater management by
;,l Rtif ying T,,vm Reads ; Reed of impFeverneRt expanding the culvert assessment and improvement
mapping and strategy the Town has started on.
Moore asked that DWSP2 is spelled out in the comp plan.
Marino pulled amendments 1 and 2 for discussion.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve amendments 3,4, and 5 as presented; Moore seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Discussion of amendments 1 and 2 on Page 9 ensued.
Motion: Olson motioned to use the wording from CU-P-1.1.6 "Adopt the Town of Ulysses Drinking
Water Source Protection Plan and proactively implement the strategies identified"for CU-P-1.1.4 and
remove CU-P-1.1.6 and CU-P-1.1.7 as stated in amendment 2; Klein seconded. Passed unanimously.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 9 of 20
March 25, 2026
Page 10
1. 1 make a motion to amend Objective CU-0-3.1 in the Capital Facilities, Services and Utilities
element as follows:
CU-0-3.1 Preserve and protect the Town's treasured characteristics wh4e by making well considered
investments and improvements to services that will enhance quality of life while protecting valued
natural resources."
2. To merge EN-P-3.1.3 and EN-P-3.1.4 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number EN-P-3.1.3 in the Environment and Natural
Resources element as follows:
"EN-P-3.1.3 Promote educational opportunities related to biodiversity, habitats, and environmental
stewardship through partnerships with organizations such as the Cayuga Nature Center, Cornell
Cooperative Extension, and similar institutions."
3. Based on the above revision to policy number EN-P-3.1.3:
I make a motion to remove policy number EN-P-3.1.4 in the Environment and Natural Resources
element.
EN P 3W 'Promote Ca"ga Nature (center's Pal-ente1egioeal Research Institution resources
the pubhe On binedinveni-ty beaA haWQtq HABq and t-he impact of dimate change On natural resources.
Enconage in pesen vinsi-ts to the Cayuga Nature Center to CORReet SY411 the natural enviren
EN P 3.1.4 Share nseuses such as CeFn&Vs Forest Connect to educate the public On eeelegi�&4
funedens and sust-akab-le pneluctien practices Of private woodlands.
4. 1 make a motion to remove objective EN-0-3.2 and the two policies under it, EN-P-3.2.1 and EN-
P-3.2.2 in the Environmental and Natural Resources element plus Goal LR-G-3, Objective LR-0-
3.1 and Policy LR-P-3.1.1 in the land Use and Rural Issues element because they are already
covered under EN-G-1 and EN-0-1.1.
ResourcesEN Q 9.2 Continue to protect Open space and agheAtual And F
EN P 3.2.1 EXPand OR the 2018 NRI aRayses to develop and implement an Open Space Plan and Scenic
I n n+^
EN P 3.2.2 WeRtify potential areas that MR be dejgRa&d as a CAW! I!RWreRnneRt Area, espe?aky to
protect areas Of
I D_!__2 The Ulysses comn r +.,.., II h^ Kkk steward of r I I r l
Qbjeai-ve: IA 0 34 The Town-w—nake dear is desires for open space and he
A P 3.11 Create an Open space pl-an that A! def-ine Open space, rural and suburban land and make
clear hew the TOWR can preserve and enhance eQt-iRg open space now and
Olson and Marino pulled amendments 2, 3 and 4 for discussion.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve amendment 1 as presented; Klein seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion: Olson motioned to revise amendment 2 as follows:
To merge EN-P-3.1.3 and EN-P-3.1.4 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number EN-P-3.1.3 in the Environment and Natural
Resources element as follows:
"EN-P-3.1.3 Promote educational opportunities related to biodiversity, habitats, and environmental
stewardship through partnerships with local organizations. such as the r-,,,uga Nature r^r,+^r C FRedl
r,,,,r,eyt-ive EXORSIR and W ,.,.,;I-,r IY\f '; Klein seconded. Passed unanimously.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 10 of 20
March 2V 2026
Motion: Klein motioned to approve amendment 3 as presented; Olson seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion:Weatherby motioned to approve amendment 4 as presented; Weaver seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Page 11
1. To consolidate all 3 public communication policies, CR-P-2.1.1, CR-P-2.1.3 and CR-P-2.1.5 into a
single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number CR-P-2.1.1 in the Climate Change and Resiliency
element as follows:
CR-P-2.1.1 Communicate with residents about climate change preparedness, sustainability initiatives
and the work of Town committees and regional partners."
2. Based on the above revision to policy number CR-P-2.1.1:
I make a motion to remove policy numbers CR-P-2.1.3 and CR-P-2.1.5 in the Climate Change and
Resiliency element.
CR P 2.1.3 CeRt"RUe W GeMMUROGate With the public-- the -henefits A-f being a Climate Smart
3. 1 make a motion to amend policy number CR-P-2.1.7 in the Climate Change and Resiliency
element as follows:
CR-P-2.1.7 Work with the Village of Trumansburg on developing a-R a coordinated,Town wide
emergency preparedness plan that incorporates hazard mitigation efforts.
Motion: Klein motioned to approve the 3 amendments on Page 11 as presented; Klankowski seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Page 12
Brief discussion on terms local and regional used in the policies.
1. 1 make a motion to add a new policy in the Climate Change and Resiliency element, number
2.1.X that states:
"CR-P-2.1.X Support public education initiatives related to agriculture, environmental stewardship,
transportation safety, and climate resilience through partnerships with local institutions, community
organizations, and regional agencies."
2. Based on the above new policy number CR-P-2.1.X:
I make a motion to remove policy number LR-P-2.3.2 in the Land Use and Rural Issues element and
policy number T-P-3.1.8 in the Transportation element.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 11 of 20
March 25, 2026
-
equipment, safe speeds, u de-s .-.f+hn Fead and n Fatinn
3. 1 make a motion to remove policy number CR-P-3.2.1 in the Climate Change and Resiliency
element. It was the same as policy number BE-P-3.1.2 in the Built Environment element.
shah-ili+-,+inn n Ets and- n SAFue+inn n EV
4. To merge CR-P-3.2.7 and CR-P-1.1.3 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number CR-P-3.2.7 in the Climate Change and Resiliency
element as follows:
CR-P-3.2.7 Promote renewable energy development including community solar, rooftop solar, battery
storage, distributed energy resources, and other local clean energy opportunities.
5. Based on the above revision to policy number CR-P-3.2.7:
I make a motion to remove policy number CR-P-1.1.3 in the Climate Change and Resiliency element.
CR P 3.2.7 Explere the feasibility and inte.re-st A-f devel9piRg a community seIaF project that ca.n reduce
r-aFben depende
nneFgy seurcesn.J +n.-hnnln
Motion: Olson motioned to approve the 5 amendments on Page 12 as presented; Klankowski seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Page 13
1. 1 make a motion to remove policy number CR-P-4.1.2 in the Climate Change and Resiliency
element as this is repeated or implied in other policies
2. To combine the following structurally identical policy numbers CW-P-4.1.1, CW-P-4.1.6, LR-P-
2.3.3 and BE-P-2.1.5:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number CW-P-4.1.1 in the Community Well-Being element
as follows:
CW-P-4.1.1 Establish advisory committees, as needed,to support implementation of plan priorities such
as housing, agriculture, historic preservation, and community programming."
3. Based on the above revision to policy number CW-P-4.1.1:
I make a motion to remove the following policy numbers: CW-P-4.1.6 in the Community Well-Being
element, LR-P-2.3.3 in the Land use and Rural Issues element and BE-P-2.1.5 in the Built Environment
element.
,
and spread awaFeRess Fel@tmRg te these activities, while -;;"-;A- With resideRtS -and- stakehaiders to
,,In.,nlnn that n I(eep the e nl+y G ne+n.J
ln-,deFshin+r-,fnin,.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 12 of 20
March 25, 2026
•
4. 1 make a motion to amend objective CW-0-2.1 in the Community Well-Being element to make it
distinct from objective T-0-1.1 in the Transportation element.
CW-0-2.1 cess to community
multi-modal traveling options for residents.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve the 4 amendments on Page 13 as presented; Klein seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Page 14
1. 1 make a motion to relocate policy numbers CW-P-2.1.1 and CW-P-2.1.2 in the Community Well-
Being element to T-0-1.1 in the Transportation element.
C`^^i1..1 T-P-1.1.X Advocate for expanded TCAT service to address service gaps in rural areas of
Ulysses.
C`^ P1z T-P-1.1.Y Conduct a sidewalk inventory, improve and expand sidewalks throughout Ulysses
where appropriate.
2. To combine BE-P-2.1.3, BE-P-2.1.8 and BE-P-2.1.9 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number BE-P-2.1.3 in the Built Environment element as
follows:
BE-P-2.1.3 Identify, document and protect historic resources through tools such as historic districts, a
local historic register and preservation planning efforts.
3. Based on the above revision to BE-P-2.1.3:
I make a motion to remove policy numbers BE-P-2.1.8 and BE-P-2.1.9 in the Built Environment element.
+hed-r-to r .,teet and Rh@RP_,the hi_r+r,r0-f-,hr! -of Ulysses.
BE P 2.1.9 Explere the E nitiatiA-A. A-f-A lecal Ulysses register of histerie places te officially register compiled
bUildiRgS, structures, sites, objects, and distri.eas identified by the cemmittee/cernmission as having
histeric significance vVe-Fthy of recognitieR by the Tev.fn. This vVill provide encouragement by ewRers and
BE P 2.1.9 Develop a Town Histeric PreseRiat-A-.n. PlaA..t-A- bi_- iA..C--A-rpe rated as a sub plan to th--
Cemprehensive Plan.
Meador pulled amendment 1 for discussion.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve amendments 2 and 3 as presented; Weatherby seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Discussion on amendment 1 regarding ensued.
Motion: Olson motioned to revise amendment 1 as follows:
I make a motion to relocate policy numbers CW-P-2.1.1 and CW-P-2.1.2 in the Community Well-Being
element to T-0-1.1 in the Transportation element.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 13 of 20
March 25, 2026
C`^'� P 2.1..1 T-P-1.1.X Advocate for expanded TCAT service to address service gaps in rural areas e#Town
of Ulysses.
C`^'�i T-P-1.1.Y Conduct a sidewalk inventory, improve and expand sidewalks throughout Ulysses
where appropriate.; Klein seconded. Passed unanimously.
Page 15
1. To merge BE-2.1.4 and BE-2.1.6 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number BE-P-2.1.4 in the Built Environment element as
follows:
BE-P-2.1.4 Support educational programs,tours and events that highlight the Town's historic,
agricultural and natural heritage.
2. Based on the above revision to policy number BE-P-2.1.4:
I make a motion to remove policy number BE-P-2.1.6 in the Built Environment element.
BE P 2.1.4 C--AellabhAerate�.A.44 le-cal farmers and the Ulysses Histerical Society to develop a velunteeF gFeup
f,.. .s te,teur greups. Tours LI he .,rdi.nated ..,i+h 'A- -a.l he l�
neeessaFy.
3. To combine BE-P-2.1.7 and BE-P-2.1.14 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number BE-P-2.1.7 in the Built Environment element as
follows:
"BE-P-2.1.7 Install wayfinding and interpretive signage to historic sites, cultural resources and
community landmarks."
4. Based on the above revision to BE-P-2.1.7:
I make a motion to remove policy number BE-P-2.1.14 in the Built Environment element.
.
Motion: Klein motioned to approve the 4 amendments on Page 15; Meador seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Page 16
1. To merge BE-P-2.1.11 and BE-P-2.1.12 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number BE-P-2.1.11 in the Built Environment element as
follows:
BE-P-2.1.11 Ensure that new development and building alterations near or to historic structures are
compatible with the scale, massing and design character of historic resources.
2. Based on the revision to BE-P-2.1.11:
I make a motion to remove policy number BE-P-2.1.12 in the Built Environment element.
Ear,p S IemeR the Tg �� ��aI hi1diRg de �gR, Ee rex r d I Rd
rtarite -a ,Tssa{ rg-
seRS
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 14 of 20
March 25, 2026
3. 1 make a motion to remove policy number BE-P-3.1.2 in the Built Environment element because
it is already covered in CR-P-3.2.7.
4. 1 make a motion to remove policy BE-P-3.1.7 in the Built Environment element, it is already
covered in BE-3.1.1.
designed sites syeh as suFfar=e paFl(iRg 'EAS, Fe9#GPS, and readside edges with Rew developmeRt.
5. To merge BE-P-4.1.2 and BE-P-2.1.13 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise BE-P-4.1.2 in the Built Environment element as follows:
BE-P-4.1.2 Encourage rehabilitation of historic structures by promoting available incentives, including
tax credits,grants and other financial assistance programs.
6. Based on the above revision to BE-P-4.1.2:
I make a motion to remove policy number BE-P-2.1.13 in the Built Environment element.
t-Alx r--Fed-45; they may be eligible fer when cempleting substantial
rph-.h'14Atin +c
the I-I'Se A—f e is+iRg i .,+iVeS, c Gh aS tax r eedi+c -,. d c al . al atieR Olson and Meador pulled amendments 1 and 2 for discussion.
Motion: Olson motioned to approve amendments 3,4, 5, and 6 as presented; Klankowski seconded.
Passed unanimously.
Discussion on amendments 1 and 2 ensued and agreement on revision to amendment 1 as follows:
To merge BE-P-2.1.11 and BE-P-2.1.12 into a single policy:
I make a motion to completely revise policy number BE-P-2.1.11 in the Built Environment element as
follows:
BE-P-2.1.11 Ensure that new development and building alterations near er to designated historic
structures are compatible with the scale, massing and design character of historic resources.
Motion:Weatherby motioned to approve amendment 1 as revised and amendment 2 as presented;
Weaver seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion: Klein motioned to strike the phrase "drive-thru restaurants"from the document. Specifically on
Page 66, but MRB will do a full search to remove any reference; Weatherby seconded. Passed
unanimously.
Discussion by the committee at 7:15pm about whether to continue the meeting with extended time
tonight or set up another meeting. Horn shared MRB would have a draft in 10 business days and that at
that point the committee would need time to review the draft.There were mixed opinions due to
upcoming schedule changes and not having a document to review with the changes made tonight.
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 15 of 20
March 25, 2026
It was decided that they would proceed for 30 more minutes to review the 4 additional comments that
came up earlier in the meeting and the suggested changes from Marino.
Motion: Meador motioned to add a new policy to the Transportation section regarding safety of
ditches. "Expansion of transportation and other infrastructure shall strongly consider protection of non-
invasive plants, habitat, and natural resources." MRB will refine the wording of the policy as needed;
Marino seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion: Olson motioned to strike policy"H-P-1.2.1 Create an education program for new Town staff,
including all Boards, about their legal responsibilities under the Fair Housing."from the plan; Marino
seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion: Moore motioned to strike policy"ED-P-1.2.3 Provide support for new, local businesses of all
kinds — including retail, services, creative industries, and professional trades — that appeal to both
tourists and year-round residents to access funding such as grants or financing." from the plan; Weaver
seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion: Meador motioned to change CW-0-5.1 to "Integrate the "Blue Zone Power of 9" principles into
Ulysses."to "Integrate healthy living principles (e.g. Blue Zone principles, etc.) into Town of Ulysses."
and CW-P-5.1.2 "Based on Town leadership interest, create a working group of leaders and community
members that will inform the community on the benefits of the °1i H^'^^^ healthy living principles.",-
Moore seconded. Passed unanimously.
The committee discussed the suggested changes from Marino.They agreed to vote on the changes,
except the last comment which required discussion.
Executive Summary
1) 1 make a motion to amend the text under Phase 6: in the Executive Summary dated 2.2.26 to
read as follows: "The Plan will be reviewed by the Town Board and County Department of
Planning and Sustainability and sent to NYS Agriculture and Markets with a request for
discretionary review. An additional public hearing will be held. The State Environmental Quality
Review Act—Type 1 review will be conducted prior to adoption."
2) 1 move to amend the text in the Capital Facilities section of the Executive Summary,first
bulleted Objective,to read as follows: "Work with Town leadership, key stakeholders, and
residents to explore options for expanding municipal water service in areas of the Town that are
appropriate for increased residential or business development."
3) 1 move to amend the text in the second and third sentences of the opening paragraph of the
Climate& Resiliency section of the Executive Summary, and in the Introduction and Background
Information Section (A) of Chapter 8 : to read as follows: "Climate change
refers to long-term shifts in regional temperature and weather patterns. While these can be
naturally occurring, human activities associated energy and land use that increase greenhouse
gas emissions are primarily driving changes over the past 200 years. Consequences of climate
change particularly relevant to Ulysses include increased droughts,fires,flooding, and
catastrophic storms, which affect can affect our health, agricultural productivity, housing and
safety."
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 16 of 20
March 25, 2026
4) 1 move to strike the 5th bullet under Objectives in the Community Well Being section of the
Executive Summary("Integrate the Blue Zone Power of 9 Principles into Ulysses").
5) 1 move to strike the 7th bullet under Objectives in the Built Environment section of the Executive
summary("Create better pedestrian, bicycle, and transit linkages...) as it is a repeat of an
objective listed (and better highlighted) in Transportation.
6) 1 move to strike the 8th bullet under Objectives in the Built Environment section of the Executive
summary("Promote infill development ...") and to amend the 9th bullet to read as follows:
"Encourage redevelopment and infill in appropriate future land use character areas,to
incorporate a mix of uses, support pedestrian activity and transit services, support appropriately
scaled economic activity, and exhibit a distinctive design character."
Draft Comprehensive Plan 2045:
Chapter 2—Land Use and Rural Issues
1) 1 move to add a map of Tompkins County Agricultural District 2 to section 11. Rural Issues, in
Chapter 2, as the full text of the first paragraph of that section describes its importance.
2) 1 move to eliminate Figure LR-2 Town of Ulysses Property Classification, and to move Figure LR-4
"Ulysses Land Use and Land Cover" up from its current placement after the FLUM and out of
context there to replace it.
The text in the legend below it regarding the Land Use and Land Cover project does not
agree with the data in the table preceding the map and so is confusing. This map with
2024 data source on property classifications seems to show something different than
the Land Use and Land Cover project mapping described in the paragraph above both
("Ill. Existing Land Use")that indicates we need to use the most recent land use and land
cover data are from 2015. And, we further note it is not "100%accurate". Nothing is,
but this map does not add any coherence.
Chapter 4 Economic Development
1) 1 move to delete the following maps to promote readability, as they don't add to the text and
are in the Appendix:
a. Figure on the bottom of p. 114(not numbered),following the paragraph "Market Area"
b. Figure ED-1 which shows daily commuting patterns for the entire upstate NY region into
Tompkins County,with no demarcation of or specificity to Ulysses. Legend is barely
readable. It can be referred to in the Appendix.
2) 1 move to delete Objective ED-P-2.1.5 "Consider identifying a potential industrial area or
investing in an industrial park...". The committee voted to eliminate an Industrial FLU character
area, and industrial activities are not supported by the public based on the survey and other
comments and input.
Chapter 5 Transportation
1) 1 move to delete the 2024 Bike Suitability map Figure T-5 and just leave it in the Appendix. It
suggests many roads have excellent biking suitability but in practice do not so more explanation
is required as to how the County came up with them. Making a good biking and pedestrian map
is an Objective in this chapter, indicating we think there is a need. It also does not agree with
Comprehe isive a-ian sieei Ong �-ornn,,ALee iviliw cs i-age li of 20
March 25, 2026
2023 Transportation Snapshot map in Appendix C, showing only one small stretch near the
Village as "most suitable for biking" (on 96!).
2) Comment—many of the maps in this Chapter are also in the Appendix C. Perhaps the relevant
information they show can be concisely described in the text and the referred to the full map in
Appendix C,to increase readability.
Chapter 6 Capital Facilities,Services, and Utilities
1) 1 move to correct Figure CU-1, "Water Districts" and the associated text in the paragraph
starting "The Town is served by four water districts..." on the bottom of p. 183,to accurately
reflect the information the committee has been given in the past, as follows:
a. Change the title to "Municipal Water Service areas"
b. Add in the missing lines in Water District 3 (as per the FLUM we received with those
designated, in February)
c. Label the lines serviced the Village (red) as Permissive Service Areas "XX"
d. Label the Town water districts (blue) as "Water District XX"
2) 1 move to delete the following sentence, in the paragraph at the top of p. 185 that begins with
"Conversations around the Town's water district...": "Access to these systems [referring to
wastewater treatment plant] depends on a resident's location—those in more densely
populated areas tend to have access to water and sewer, while more rural residents have
private wells and septic systems". No one in the Town of Ulysses has access to sewer, and this
sentence is as such confusing.
3) 1 move to add/amend the text in the first paragraph on p. 189, under challenges, as follows:
a. Add a boldface sub-heading "Wastewater Management Issues"just before the
paragraph that starts "Many community survey respondents..." -
b. Amend sentence 3 to read "Installing sewer infrastructure can be quite costly, and
options for shared septic for onsite waste management have regulatory requirements
that can be costly at all but small scales.The community might be less supportive of
municipal water investments if not paired with feasible sewer or onsite wastewater
treatment options.The ability to increase residential development density in areas
served by municipal water is also constrained by the need for adequate wastewater
management systems."
Chapter 7 Environment and Natural Resources
1) 1 move to add a map of the soil types in Ulysses, as a figure under the "Soils" section.
2) 1 move to add a topographic map of Ulysses, as a figure under the "Topography" section.
3) 1 move to amend the text under"Floodplains"to
a. Add "Frontenac Creek"to the list in the second sentence.
b. Delete the last sentence and replace it with "Many of these areas lie in "100-year"
flood-risk zones,This risk is defined by FEMA as 1% chance of a flood in any given year.
The entire shoreline of Cayuga Lake in the Town of Ulysses is also classified as
vulnerable to "100-year"floods.The frequency of flood events is likely to be higher in
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 18 of 20
March 25, 2026
these hazard areas with climate change, as FEMA estimates rely on long-term data
without any weighting for increased flood occurrence in more recent years."
4) 1 move to add a map showing the Tompkins County Natural Features in Ulysses,that includes
the overlays for Unique Natural areas,Agricultural Resources Focus area,Taughannock Creek
Focus focus area, 100 yr flood zones, Open Space, and NYS DEC wetlands. [I have made this
map using the TC natural features mapping tool and can provide it.]
a. Change the heading from Unique Natural Areas to "Natural Features Areas" and put the
suggested map here.
5) 1 move to add an Example Threat to Natural Resources to the figure on p. 206 (not numbered)-
"Development patterns that increase impervious surfaces and fragment landscapes", picture
should be easy to find.
Chapter 8 Climate Change and Resiliency
1) Same suggested amendment to lines 2 and 3, in Section 1, A. as made for the Executive
Summary Climate & Resiliency section. The boldface text on p. 216 follows directly with the
suggested change in wording.
2) 1 move to amend the boldface paragraph at the top of page 218 that starts "These climate
change impacts..."to read: "Climate change impacts will affect all Ulysses residents but can be
unevenly distributed due to social and economic factors and thus disproportionally affect
residents with fewer resources or support systems."
a. Further move to amend the sentence that follows to replace "low income" with "some"
households...
b. Move to delete the sentence "They may also lack health insurance..."
c. Move to amend the sentence starting with "They may struggle"to read: "Evacuation in
an extreme event may be more difficult due to transportation and lodging costs and
rebuilding afterwards may be more difficult."
3) 1 move to delete figure CR-3, as it is nearly unreadable and does not clearly delineate Ulysses.
Instead, add a line or two of text that describes the social vulnerability to Ulysses that can be
gleaned from it, and leave it in the Appendix with a reference.
4) Comment (can't craft a specific amendment on this time frame)—I would like to see a callout to
highlight the things the Town has done to date to advance greenhouse gas and energy use
reductions with our facilities. I can provide a list.
a. Didn't check in Objectives (ran out of time) but we can as example policies work on a
community GHG inventory, explore CCA and DER programs working with Ithaca and
other municipalities to assist the community with energy cost and use reductions
Motion: Olson motioned to make all changes suggested in the document except the last comment
(Chapter 8 Climate Change and Resiliency#4); Klein seconded. Passed unanimously.
Motion: Olson motioned to include Marino's suggestion to include a callout box to highlight the things
the Town has done to date to advance reduce greenhouse gas and energy use reductions with Town
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 19 of 20
March 25, 2026
facilities. Marino will work with Jess from MRB to put that together; Weaver seconded. Passed
unanimously.
The committee discussed how the public comments will be included in the comprehensive plan. Horn
stated that all public comments will be part of the appendix. Weatherby stated that all the public
comments provided to date will be included and confidential information will be struck out.The
committee won't be able to realistically respond to all the comments or indicate how they were
resolved, but all of them were taken into consideration during discussions and deliberations and the
committee is grateful for those comments received. Moore suggested including that statement in the
appendix.
RECOMMENDATION TO TOWN BOARD
Discussion regarding proceeding with reading the draft resolution and making a motion.
Tygesen said, per Town Legal,there are two options (1) read the resolution through verbatim with each
change stated (-16 pages) or(2) make the motion approving the resolution as amended as presented.
Marino would like to schedule one more meeting in April after MRB incorporates the changes made
tonight.
Before any additional meetings could be scheduled the committee would need to take a vote to extend
the contract with MRB to provide the committee with another draft.The current contract allows for the
next draft as the town board referral draft, but not an additional draft for the comprehensive plan
steering committee to review.
Motion: Klein motioned to adopt the resolution recommending the adoption of comprehensive plan as
amended, as presented; Weaver seconded.
Marino firmly objectives to the resolution and the committee voting on the resolution without seeing
the amended draft plan.
Olson stated that the next draft will not be the final draft of the document.There will be another public
hearing, SEAR review, county review, etc. However,the contract has ended for the comp plan steering
committee to work with MRB.
Vote: Weatherby, aye; Marino, nay, strongly opposed; Klankowski, aye; Klein, aye; Moore, aye; Olson,
aye; Weaver, aye; Meador, aye.
Weatherby spoke to the committee and thanked them for their time and work over the last 3 years.
Motion: Klein motioned to adjourn; Meador seconded. Passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM.
Respectfully submitted by Lori Asperschlager, Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Secretary
April 16, 2026
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Meeting Minutes Page 20 of 20
March 25, 2026
From:
Sent: Monday, March 16, 2026 4:21 PM
To: cpcchair@townofulyssesny.gov; Comp Plan Steering Committee
Subject: comprehensive plan comment preserve agricultural land
Hello,
I am very concerned to learn the committee voted to approve maps of"potential" medium density housing over existing
agricultural lands. In my view, this is a short-sighted decision that has the potential to further degrade Town of Ulysses
environment in a chase for housing that is typically American: too much,too big, sited in the wrong place, and
completely oblivious to its environmental cost.
The Town Supervisor is quoted in local papers as saying that housing and agriculture are in conflict. What facts support
this statement?Why is US Soil and Conservation's highest rated agricultural land appropriate for removal from
agriculture?On what documentation did the supervisor conclude that agriculture and housing cannot co-exist and
mutually support each other in the Town of Ulysses?On what basis did she conclude that a total LOSS in population in
the last decade requires MORE housing rather than DIFFERENT HOUSING TYPES?
Climate change and current non-regenerative agriculture practices are putting food security at risk.Tariffs and
immigration are not helping.
Residents of the USA average 4000sgft of interior space per capita and replace native plants or even invasive plants, but
some kind of habitat,with dead zones of lawn and non native species. Compare to 1000sgft for residents of other
countries.
Town of Ulysses has US Soil and Conservation best grade for agriculture.
These soil types are not an option for housing, whether the Town of Ulysses has put or proposes water districts there or
not.
I strongly encourage the committee to provide in the completed plan 1. A commitment to the stated desires of
community members (p. 26), 2. Maps:
1) USDA soil types in the Town and Village,with highest graded for agriculture clearly marked 2) 2026 existing condition
of"medium density housing" 3) proposed "medium density housing" with mitigation strategies for loss of land.
I also strongly encourage the committee to STATE AS A GOAL that Town of Ulysses will require all new housing to
landscape with NATIVE PLANTS APPROVED BY DEC FOR THIS REGION ONLY to support native pollinators, bird species,
and wildlife webs.
I also strongly encourage the committee to PRIORITIZE economic development that focuses entirely on food resiliency
through farm support. Not only does it have great farm land and great organic farmers, it also has the Trumansburg
Fairgrounds owned and operated since 1873 by the Horticultural and Agricultural Society of Covert, Hector and Ulysses.
It hosted 4-H classes for the consciously sited adjacent TCSD through the 1960s. It has infrastructure for cooperation with
the schools, as does the Cayuga Nature Center. Frankly, that is the ideal experiment and education center for youth
agricultural training,yet its only function in this Town is as a site of an annual overblown noise fest that has zero to do
with agriculture and its own fair that hides agriculture around the edges of side shows and demo derbies.
Competition for annual youth prizes for animals,garden crops,technical drawings and other agricultural-related youth
work at the annual fair is woefully inadequate.
1
Climate change isn't only solved by more culverts, less vehicle traffic, building with "smart"technology, or putting in
solar. It is also about loving the Earth back to life through slowing down water,growing more native ground cover, and
protecting Smith Woods, Cayuga Nature Center, and Habitat Preserve from human overuse.
Experts say we are in a 6th mass extinction event and advise turning over half of all human occupied land to nature to
regeneration rather than expanding extraction as this administration is doing while rolling back 50+years of
environmental protections.We are the only ones left to take care of our lands so they can take care of us. If the
committee is serious about the Town of Ulysses weathering climate change, it must stop planning for more overuse of
the natural environment and plan instead for building the natural environment up.That does NOT mean blasting
amplified music every week from an outdoor"farm" bar after installing blue lighting that adversely affects insect
reproduction.
Please map animal collisions and deaths and have as a goal to REDUCE them. Speed is not efficiency.
Please foster agricultural festivals that include dancing, music, and boasting about and thanking for harvests were the
norm until gas powered tractors. Maybe its time to rethink'entertainment' into celebration of the living earth.
And please provide some historical data for tree cover for Town of Ulysses,as well as agricultural production data.They
are sorely missing from local knowledge and local lore.
In case it's not clear, I fear that an agricultural collapse,climate collapse, and cultural collapse will not be addressed by
more more more demands from Town of Ulysses humans.This is a chance to turn US all around. Please take it.
Please look at this from a master gardener and UPenn teacher of regenerative agriculture at
UPenn: We face a "looming food crisis" as agriculture faces "collapse."
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1424361955764395
And this about means to avert it: We can grow food without synthetic fertilizers and insecticides.
https://www.facebook.com/reeI/1259901409436114
And this about means to avert climate change from the Netherlands:
energy generation without stealing farmland
https://www.facebook.com/reel/835497162855964
Very best wishes and thank you for your consideration of this citizen input.
Sincerely,
Vivien E. Rose
P.O. Box 23
Trumansburg, NY 14886
2
From:
Sent: Friday, March 20, 2026 3:11 PM
To: Katelin Olson; Michael Boggs; Steven Manley; Elizabeth Weatherby; Ann DiPetta; Comp
Plan Steering Committee
Cc: Niels Tygesen; Carissa Parlato
Subject: Extend Public Comment Period on Comp Plan 2025-45 to 30 days 4/18/2026
Hello,
I have been following the work of the committee but all public meetings have been held when I had prior commitments.
In addition, I have sent comments twice. I have checked drafts and followed public meeting notices.
The final draft released 3/18/2026 is 500+ pages long.The public notice says the 3/25 30 minute public hearing 5 days
from now is the last opportunity to comment before recommendation to the Town Board.
The Town Board, now down to 4 members, must be assured that Town voters and taxpayers had adequate time to digest
and meaningfully comment on the proposed plan BEFORE it takes it up.
5 days and 30 minutes is inadequate review and comment time for a product that has been funded by public dollars,
taken 2 years, and will guide decision-making for the next 20.
1 see that the Town Board has cancelled its meeting 3/23,the only time when it could vote to extend the comment
period to a reasonable minimum
30 days.
I am requesting that the CPSC include a resolution to extend review time to 4/18/2026 in its 3/25/2026 meeting agenda.
With no offense intended,the committee contains only 3 members of the public who are not Town board or volunteer
board members.This is a not the wide, deep public participation touted in the executive summary.
In addition,the ground under which the plan was conceived has shifted.
In a period of government retrenchment, active interference in state government, and increasing climate crisis, a plan
focusing Town resources on preserving Town land and environmental wealth is wise.
Extending the comment period on the 3/18/2026 final draft to 4/18/2026 would be a strong sign of Committee and Town
Board intention to truly allow for comment on this important product.
Thank you for your consideration.
Vivien Rose
P.O. Box 23
Trumansburg, NY 14886
1
From:
Sent: Friday, March 20, 2026 4:24 PM
To: Katelin Olson; Michael Boggs; Steven Manley; Elizabeth Weatherby;
cpcchair@townofulyssesny.gov; Comp Plan Steering Committee
Cc: Niels Tygesen; Carissa Parlato
Subject: apology and request to please extend final comprehensive plan draft comment period
thru 4/18/2026
Hello,
I see that I mixed up the Town Board meeting 3/24 with the Village of Trumansburg cancelled meeting 3/23.
My apologies.
My request remains. Please allow adequate time for a meaningful review and comment on the final draft comprehensive
plan 2045.
It really is too much and too big to think a week is enough.
Please extend the comment deadline to 4/18/2026 and push information about that extension to website and more.
Thank you again for your work.
Vivien Rose
1
�1 George R. Frantz & Associates
Land Use & Environmental Planning
. Ithaca, New York
Town of Ulysses
Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
10 Elm Street
Trumansburg, NY 14886
To the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee:
I am writing as a long-time professional land use and environmental planner who has practiced
here in Tompkins County and throughout Upstate New York in the areas of land use planning,
zoning, agricultural ecologically important lands protection, and environmental impact review.
impact review. As consultant to the Town of Ulysses in 2006-2007 1 wrote the Town of Ulysses
Zoning Law adopted in December 2007.
As a long-time practitioner in the field of urban and regional planning, and one with an intimate
knowledge of the land and its ecological resources, and the history of development in the Town
or Ulysses, I find the proposed Future Land Use Map (3/18/2026 version) quite troubling.
Of specific concern is the overwhelming amount of land being designated for Medium Density
Residential development, a land use designation which is proposed to "...accommodate
housing at a medium density scale, including missing middle housing, [in areas] currently
served, or anticipated to be served by, public water and/or sewer facilities."
Despite the reality of low-growth in the Town, and the projected decrease in population and
"Over the next five years, the number of households is expected to remain relatively stable or
increase slightly..."(p.33), the proposed Future Land Use Map has designated some 2,300 acres
of land for Medium Density Residential development. Even at the current Agricultural Rural
zone density of 1 dwelling per 2 acres, that represents around 1,250 new dwellings.
According to the data from a development trends analysis for the Town of Ulysses that I have
completed, in the past 30 years (1994-2025) there has only been 243 new residential structures
built in the Town of Ulysses outside Trumansburg, or an average of 8.1 dwelling units per year.
The average for the two decades between 1994 and 2015 however was 9.7 dwellings per year,
while the annual average for the past 10 years has only been 4.9 dwellings.
The amount of and locations of the proposed Medium Density Residential development shown
on the Future Land Use Map makes no planning sense at all, especially the lands along Cold
Springs road and in close proximity to Taughannock Creek and its tributaries above NYS Rte. 96.
Because the draft Comp Plan anticipates these areas being serve by public water and sewer,
Town taxpayers would also be looking at millions of unnecessary costs in terms of water, sewer,
and road infrastructure. Extending public sewer service to the area alone would likely cost
between $1.5 and $2 million to serve the anticipated development in the Cold Springs Road.
George R. Frantz&Associates 604 Cliff Street Ithaca New York 14850;tel.607-227-4652;email
geoplan57@gmail.com
George R. Frantz & Associates
Land Use & Environmental Planning
. Ithaca, New York
This does not include the multi-million dollar cost of a wastewater treatment plant Ulysses
would have to build and maintain.
There is the potential for very significant adverse impacts to Village of Trumansburg residents
and their quality of life, as the shortest distance between this proposed area of suburban-level
development and downtown Trumansburg will be via Pennsylvania Ave. and South St. Neither
these village streets nor the roads within the Town are designed for this level of traffic.
There is the potential for significant adverse environmental impacts due to the more intense
types of residential development being proposed for this area. The environmental significance
and sensitivity of Taughannock Creek and its tributaries certainly do not end at the western
boundary of Taughannock Falls State Park. Both Taughannock Creek and Bolter Creek are
bounded by steep slopes, and much of their valley floors are covered with wetland soils. These
constraints were clearly recognized in the 2009 Comprehensive Plan and its Future land Use
Map with the Environmental Protection Area and Natural Area/Parkland designations.
In so many ways, the proposed Future Land Use Map contradicts the Comprehensive Plan goals
to:
• Provide sufficient, sustainable housing opportunities to meet the needs of present and
future residents of Ulysses that are safe, environmentally friendly, accessible, attractive,
and affordable for all income levels.
• Create a multitude of safe and efficient transportation options throughout the Town for
all users and reduce the environmental impacts of the transportation sector [and]
reduce negative transportation externalities and environmental impacts.
• Continue to proactively preserve and protect the natural and environmental resources
in Ulysses, protect Water Resources in the Town of Ulysses [and] promote Natural
Resources within the Town of Ulysses.
It is not promoting sustainable, environmentally friendly, housing for future residents. It is not
promoting creation of a multitude of safe and efficient transportation options or the reduction
of negative transportation externalities and environmental impacts. It is not proactive in
preserving and protecting the natural and environmental resources of the Town of Ulysses.
Sincerely,
George R. Frantz, AICP, ASLA
George R. Frantz&Associates 604 Cliff Street Ithaca New York 14850;tel.607-227-4652;email
geoplan57@gmail.com
Bob Howarth
4124 Reynolds Road, Town of Ulysses
Statement to Ulysses' Comprehensive Plan Committee
March 25, 2026
1 have spent some considerable time over the past week reviewing the new draft Comprehensive Plan,
and have these comments.
First, I had no involvement in writing the last Comprehensive Plan, from 2009. But over the
years, I frequently considered its guidance as a member of and chair of the Ulysses BZA as we reviewed
requests for variances. The Comp Plan provided the logic behind the zoning from which applicants were
requesting relief. I note that training for BZA members provided by NY State agencies encourages the
BZA to be guided, in part, by Comprehensive Plans in this way. In my opinion,the updated draft plan is
not as readable and will prove less useful as a guidance document. It is longer and has many
inconsistent parts, as well as a great deal of redundancy. The major take-home points harder to discern.
Second, at least some of the data presented in the draft plan is incorrect. For example, Figure
LR-1 on page 41 purports to show "Agriculture and Forest Subtypes," but it severely under-states the
extent of both ag lands and forest lands in our Town. Much of the map simply shows large spaces
without any land classification, large stretches of just white. This includes our farm, which shows no use
as ag and no forest. In fact, we have over 60 acres of actively farmed land and over 18 acres of managed
forest land, and our land has been continuously farmed since well before the Civil War, at least 200
years. In the almost 40 years that we have owned it,we have regularly received an ag exemption on our
taxes, and we are listed with Tompkins County and the USDA as active farmers. It really should not be
difficult for the Committee to confirm this. Please note that I have pointed out this error twice before in
hearings before the Committee, yet the problem has not been addressed in this most recent draft of the
report. I strongly suspect that much of other unclassified land area shown in Figure LR-1 is in fact
actively farmed land. Similarly Figure LR-2 on page 46 shows our 93-acre parcel as "residential." It is
not. As I have pointed out before to the Committee,there is only one house on this lot, and it was built
in the 1870s. Figure LR-4 on page 63 better captures the extent of agricultural land in Ulysses, but it is
tacked on at the end of the section,without any discussion.
My major concern with the draft Plan,though, is with how it handles climate change and future
climate disruption. Simply stated,the Plan lacks urgency in discussing climate issues. And although some
information on climate change is included in the text,the information fails to inform the document as a
whole. In the Executive Summary on page 17,the Plan states: "Climate change refers to a change in
average weather conditions and/or the variability in climate in a region that persists for an extended
period of time. While they may be naturally occurring, anthropogenic (human-made) activities have also
contributed to climate change." A similar statement is made on page 213. The fact is that the Earth is
warming faster than ever before,the planet is now hotter than any time in the past 100,000 years, and
this warming is driven overwhelmingly by consumption of fossil fuels. Most of this warming has
happened since I started teaching about climate change in 1980, and the growing threat to society is
immense. In the Executive Summary from the latest synthesis report from the UN's Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change (IPCC 2022),they conclude in their final sentences: "The scientific evidence is
unequivocal:climate change is a threat to human well-being and the health of the planet. Any further
delay in concerted global action will miss a brief and rapidly closing window to secure a liveable
future."
Let me give two examples of how the draft Comprehensive Plan fails to adequately consider
climate issues. First, on pages 148 and 149,the Plan refers to the Final Scoping Plan of the New York
Climate Action Council in the context of how Ulysses considers future transportation issues, and provides
a table from the Climate Action Council. Please note that the Climate Action Council is the group
charged by law to development the blueprint for implementing the State's climate law (the CLCPA of
2019), and I am one of the members of the Council and one of the authors of Final Scoping Plan.That
Plan strongly urges local communities to focus future development so as to provide "walkable"
communities so as to reduce the need for commuting by cars. The Ulysses draft plan is encouraging
development in ways that are inconsistent with this guidance.
The other example is how the draft Comprehensive Plan addresses flood risks. The Plan
correctly notes that climate change will likely result in "more frequent and intense rainstorms" (page
216) and that changing weather patterns mean more of this precipitation will fall in heavy bursts, leading
to flash flooding" (page 217). But flood risks overall are severely downplayed in the draft Plan. On page
201,the Plan notes that flood
Great flood of July 1935 maps for the area have recently
been updated, but then simply
states "Most of the Town is
outside of the 500-year
floodplain, but there are a few
special flood hazard areas
surrounding Trumansburg Creek,
Taughannock Creek, and Bolter
f Creek. Many properties along
VIP
Cayuga Lake are also at risk of
'1
_ flooding and can experience at
least a 1%chance of flooding
annually."
—" In fact, parts of the Town of
Ulysses are quite vulnerable to
Intersection M 96(Main St.)and Union St in Trurnansburg covered in flood flooding, and in fact one of the
water-Image Source worst natural tragedies in the
Town's history was the flood of 1935,which killed 5 individuals and did $700,000 (over$16 million in
2026 dollars) worth of property damage in the Town, including extensive damage in down-town
Trumansburg (https://nyheritage.org/collections/tompkins-county-flood-photographs). See picture
above. In examining the new flood maps available from Tompkins County, one sees that significant
portions of the Town lie in "100-year"flood-risk zones, including portions of the watersheds for
Trumansburg Creek, Frontenac Creek,Taughannock Creek, and their tributaries. The entire shoreline of
Cayuga Lake in the Town of Ulysses is also classified as vulnerable to "100-year"floods.This "100-year"
risk is defined by FEMA as 1% risk of a flood in any given year, but this is misleading, and flood risk is far
higher than the statistic might suggest.
Increasingly, it has been recognized that FEMA systematically underestimates flood risks
(see https://www.nrdc.org/bio/rob-moore/accurate-flood-maps-are-essential-climate-
adaptation and https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/interactive/2022/fema-
flood-risk-maps-failures/). In part, this is because FEMA does not explicitly consider the effects
of climate change on flooding, and relies on long-term data sets without any weighting for
increased flooding in recent years. Climate change increases flood risks, for several reasons,
including these: i) a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, which can result in more intense
rainfall; ii) warmer ocean and lake temperatures provide more moisture to the atmosphere;
and iii) changes in atmospheric circulation lead to slower moving fronts, with stalled storms
greatly intensifying precipitation. In New York State, climate-driven disasters per year for the
period 2022-2024 are ten times greater than in 1980 to 1989
(https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/state-summary/NY). Flash floods in New York have
been increased 4.6-fold over the past 3 decades, with an acceleration in this trend in recent
years (https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/reports/pdf/severe-weather-events-and-resiliency-in-ny-
state.pdf). In the northeastern US, some models predict that floods that historically occurred
only once every 500 years (0.2% risk per year) may become annual events by 2010, with 100-
year floods occurring repeatedly each year (https://www.livescience.com/pla net-ea rth/climate-
change/once-in-a-century-floods-set-to-become-annual-events-in-northeastern-us-in-the-next-
75-years-study-finds).
To protect against increased flood risks,the Town should consider future development for
housing and commercial use throughout the Town, and not just in the flood-prone areas, since increased
impermeable surfaces (roof tops, paved driveways and parking lots) increase downstream flooding.This
concept is absent from the current draft of the Comprehensive Plan.
01/06/2026
Revised and Submitted by
Sarah Adams, 4 Falls St., Trumansburg, NY
03/25/2026
The Draft of the Ulysses Comp Plan 2025 Vision statement contains significant
conflicting and contradictory goals.
While proclaiming that it wants to protect our small town character, natural
and agricultural resources it also wants to provide housing for "everyone",
expand services and provide climate change preparedness.
The demographics show a decline in population while the Draft Plan's main
emphasis is on expanding housing. Housing development will not "protect
our small town character" nor is there any guarantee that new housing will be
"affordable" or for seniors who want to downsize. Providing Senior housing
might actally free up existing homes for young families.
Without significant Economic Development plans, additional market-based
housing in the Town of Ulysses will most likely be suburban developments
very similar to those found in Lansing, These are not conducive to any of the
goals of the Vision statement except to "expand services".
The Draft plan recognizes that Agriculture is the Town's largest type of land
use but it is not included as a singular "element" in the Draft Land Use plan.
Instead its combined with "Rural Issues"! Most of the Town of Ulysses is
located in an Agricultural district!
There is also no reference to the goals of the "Tompkins County Agricultural
Resource Focus Area", specificallythe Northwest ARFA. This document has
many informative maps and goals addressing issues for our local farmers that
should be incorporated into any final Comp Plan.
Additionally the Draft Plan proposes "Medium Density residential"
developement in agricultural areas where there is no existing municipal water
or sewer. This is not environmentally sustainable nor should it be promoted.
The decision to define Medium Density Residential as 8 units per acre is also
very contradictory to maintaining rural character and this kind of
development will also have negative impacts on climate change issues such
as increase in impervious surfaces, removal of trees and soils, additional
paving and more groundwater run- off. While I know that this definition for
RMD has been modified I that concentrating it in areas closet to mumcpal
services, schools and transportation will ensure that it is not built in locations
that may have conflicting land use goas such as agriculture and low density
residentital.
Another confusing aspect of the Draft plan is the use of property lines to
define new land use areas such as Medium Density Residential areas while at
the same time stating that
"The land use recommendations in this document are intended to serve as a
conceptual guide for realizing the Town's broad land-use priorities. These
recommendations are not intended to provide an exhaustive list of areas
primed for development or create regulation of specific parcels; this
document merely intends to guide future land use decisions."
Using lot lines and proposing specific densities goes way beyond a
"conceptual guide". Why was a proposed density of 8 units per acre for
Medium Density residential even defined in the Draft plan and is this level of
detail appropriate to include in a Comp Plan?
The current Draft Comp Plan should make reference to and build upon the
previous 2009 Comp Plan. In my opinion the 2009 Vision Statement and
Land Use map is much more concise and reflective of the Town of Ulysses
concerns, combining the preservation of rural character, natural and
agricultural resources and sustainable growth than the 2025 Draft plan.
I am appreciative of the Committee's response to Public Comment and re-
instating the Conservation Zone along the lake, removing the Industrial
designation on Agard Rd., removing the Indian Fort site for MRD
development as well as the agricultural fields on the Rt 227. I think that with
a bit more time some additional improvements could be made.
The still included MRD at the end of South st, Ext, Podunk Rd. and Cold
Springs Rd. still needs to be modifed and reconsidered since there are no
municipal services in this area and the demand for this much housing has not
been demonstrated. Lastly I would still like to see more focus on protecting
our agricultural Land Use and suggest that it be givien its own Chapter in the
Plan.
While I appreciate all of the time and effort that has gone into producing the
2025 Draft plan I respectfully ask the additional time is given to address
these concerns.
I believe that as a creative and caring community we are capable of finding
solutions to issues such as affordable housing in more creative ways than
building townhouses on the edge of our agricultural fields, requiring cars to
get to centers of employment.
From: Elizabeth Weatherby
Sent: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 4:39 PM
To: Ann DiPetta;Ann DiPetta; roxanne.m.marino; Tai Basilius; alisonbecker006; klankowskik;
Bry, Kim, Keegan & Kai Moore; moxie; Karen Meador; Katelin Olson
Cc: Niels Tygesen; Horn, Matt; Geary,Jessica
Subject: Fw: To the Comprehensive plan committee
Please see below public comments that I just received for your review and records.
See you shortly!
From: Sammy
Sent: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 4:23 PM
To: Elizabeth Weatherby
Subject: To the Comprehensive plan committee
To the Comprehensive Plan Committee,
I want to say that I support the draft Comprehensive Plan. I think it's a step in the right direction for
people like me who want to stay in this town long-term.
I'm a general contractor/handyman, so I see firsthand how expensive it's gotten to build anything.
Materials cost more, finding good labor is harder, and all of that gets passed on to whoever's trying to
buy or build a home. For my generation, buying a house here feels pretty much out of reach right
now. There's not much available and houses sell quickly. I'm glad the plan is trying to create a variety
of housing options —that matters a lot to me and a lot of people I know.
I also appreciate the focus on recreation. Right now I have to drive to Ithaca or Lansing just to find a
place to play soccer. It would be great to have those kinds of options here in Ulysses.
I know not everyone agrees on how much the town should change, and I get that. But I think this plan
does a good job of balancing new opportunities with keeping what makes Ulysses a great place to
live. I hope the committee moves it forward.
Thanks for your time and your work on the committee.
Samuel Bobertz, 4 Sunrise Terrace, Trumansburg
i
Label the photographs. "Place=making"absent actual places is not a strategy for preserving what is.
Watching decades of building more housing in Ithaca demonstrates the simple fact that building more
housing does not make it either more accessible or more affordable.There is no reason to give up good
agricultural land to housing before addressing the systemic issues that keep Ulysses mostly segregated
and mostly unaffordable for first time home buyers. Richard Rothstein UNDER COLOR OF LAW and R.
and Leah Rothstein JUST ACTION should be consulted before, not after consideration of location of
housing.
p. 10 zones businesses that are no longer there as "legacy businesses".These zoning carve outs should
be terminated.
p. 12 senior housing assumes the continuation of medicare and Medicaid insurance.This may not
continue.
p. 14 what do ducks in a stream have to do with transportation?
p. 15 the definition of"capital facilities" is too broad.
p. 17 climate change and resiliency is too weak
p. 18 community building is also too weak
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