HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-06-30-STB-FINAL-minutes-w-apps SPECIAL TOWN BOARD MEETINGS
Town of Ulysses
June 30, 2026
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
CALL TO ORDER:
Ms. Olson called the Special Town Board Meeting to order at 6:08pm.
ATTENDANCE:
TOWN OFFICIALS:
In person-
Supervisor- Katelin Olson
Board members- Steve Manley, Liz Weatherby, Michael Boggs (arrived 7:08pm)
Town Clerk- Carissa Parlato
OTHERS:
In person-
Rich Goldman, Sarah Adams, Roxanne Marino, Bob Howarth, Helen McLallen
Via Zoom-
Shirley
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Ms. Weatherby moved to approve the agenda as presented. This was seconded by Mr. Manley and
passed unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING- COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2045:
Ms. Olson noted that this hearing was first opened in May. She asked if the board was amenable to
giving each person 5 minutes rather than the usual 3 minutes. The board agreed.
Mr. Manley moved to un-table the Public Hearing on the 2045 Comprehensive Plan. This was
seconded by Ms. Weatherby and passed unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Rich Goldman expressed concern about adopting the Comp Plan this evening as the board will not
have time to incorporate tonight's feedback from the public hearing. He is frustrated that the board is
not engaging with or taking into consideration the feedback from world experts that live locally.
He read excerpts from Tompkins County's 239 review and said the comments are the same as many
members of the public have expressed and asked the board to explain their reasoning.
Sarah Adams shared comments- see attached.
Bob Howarth- SEE ATTACHED? Feels that the board has ignored substantial public input (as well as
from former Town & Planning Board members and local experts, including himself) as he has not seen
any public discussion. The board owes it to the community to respond formally to those who have
1
shared information. He believes that the Ag & Markets would be very critical of this plan with regards
to water in agricultural districts. Lack of transparency and not utilizing the best information puts the
town at risk for an Article 78. He doesn't agree that the SEAR would result in a negative declaration.
He asked that the board slow down and do it right.
Roxanne Marino shared comments- see attached.
Shirley Brown read comments from Sue Ritter, former director of Planning for Town of Ithaca (see
attached). She also added that if the board does not listen to experts, it may further divide the
community between those who want building and those who are pro-environment.
Rich Goldman spoke again and said that to pass a 20 year plan without a full board present is a PR
and democratic mistake.
Hearing no further comments, Mr. Manley moved to close the hearing. This was seconded by Ms.
Weatherby and passed unanimously.
BOARD DISCUSSION OF PUBLIC HEARING COMMENTS:
Ms. Olson shared the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) that was sent to the county in Feb. Based on the
soft comments that were received, the Comp Plan Steering Committee made changes to the map and
the plan with regards to environmentally-sensitive areas and those with public water. She then
shared the most current version of the map to highlight the changes that have been made, including:
• Medium Density Residential and Rural Residential near Indian Fort Rd has been changed to
Resource Conservation
• Where public water exists in the town and how Medium Density Residential follows these
lines for the most part
She noted that a meeting was held with Tompkins County Planning to help them understand that
Medium Density Residential areas do follow public water.
The group continued discussion of the FLUM, including the need for housing, bubble vs. parcel maps,
and legacy businesses.
Ms. Olson clarified that when a comp plan is adopted, the zoning does not automatically change.
OLD BUSINESS:
AMENDMENTS TO THE DRAFT 2025-2045 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Per meeting with Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability on 6/29/26.
RESOLUTION #121 OF 2026: ADDITIONAL AMENDMENTS TO THE COMP PLAN
RESOLVED, in the draft 2025-2045 Comprehensive Plan, to replace the low-density stock
photo on page 57 with a photo of Waterburg to be provided to MRB Group by the Town
Planner.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Boggs
Olson aye
2
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
RESOLVED, in the draft 2025-2045 Comprehensive Plan, add "Jacksonville Heights on Route
96" to the "Example Areas" section under "Medium Density Residential" on page 58.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Manley
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
RESOLVED, in the draft 2025-2045 Comprehensive Plan, replace medium density stock photo
on page 58 with a photo of Jacksonville Heights, to be provided to MRB Group by the Town
Planner.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Boggs
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
RESOLVED, amend the draft Future Land Use Map to change the Hinging Post neighborhood
from low density to medium density, to better reflect existing land uses.
The board discussed the definition of medium density on page 58. Hinging Post seems to meet
this definition although it does not have public water.
Moved: Manley Seconded: Boggs
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
3
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
DISCUSSION OF COMMENTS FROM AG & MARKETS AND DEC
Ms. Weatherby and Ms. Olson noted that the draft plan was submitted to both agencies and soft
comments were received from the DEC. Neither is required to comment.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2025-2045: ACCEPTANCE OF MEMO(S); FEAF; AND ADOPTION
Mr. Horn led the board through the FEAF Part 2, Narrative, and Part 3, confirming or amending
answers. He premised the conversation by saying that policies (like the Comp Plan) generally do not
produce environmental changes/action; the adoption of a policy will not have a direct impact.
RESOLUTION #122 OF 2026: DETERMINING THE ENVIRONMENTAL SIGNIFICANCE OF
ADOPTING THE ULYSSES 2045 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
WHEREAS THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF ULYSSES FINDS THE FOLLOWING:
1. The intent of the New York State legislature under the Consolidated Laws of New York
(CLNY) Chapter 62 Article 16 Section 272-A encourages, but does not require, the
preparation and adoption of a comprehensive plan (Comp Plan) for the purpose of
protecting the public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizens; and
2. The Town of Ulysses completed its last periodic update to the Comp Plan in 2009 but
did not conduct any annual update or any other update since its adoption; and
3. The Ulysses Town Board created a Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee (CPSC)
and charged it with the preparation of a draft Comp Plan and related public
engagement with the assistance of a Planning Consultant (Consultant); and
4. The CPSC in coordination with Town Staff directed the development and release of a
Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a Consultant; and
5. The CPSC conducted interviews for Consultants on April 18, 2024; deliberated on the
qualifications and proposals of the applicants during their May 9, 2024 and June 5,
2024 meetings; and indicated a majority preference for MRB Group (MRB) to be the
Consultant at the June 5, 2024 meeting; and
6. The Town Board resolved to select MRB as the Consultant during their June 25, 2024
meeting and the Town subsequently entered into a contract with MRB to act as the
Consultant to facilitate the development of the draft Comp Plan and to assist in public
engagement; and
7. The CPSC in coordination with the Consultant led the public review and development
of the draft Comp Plan, including 40 meetings and workshops, five public pop-up
events, three public open houses, and 12 public hearings; and
8. The Town Board approved a Public Involvement Plan (PIP) on September 24, 2024
developed by the CPSC that identified stakeholders and outlined a broad process to
engage members of the public in the development of the Comp Plan; and
4
9. Early and continuous public participation was encouraged throughout the periodic
update process following the PIP; and
10. The Consultant led a series of targeted focus groups to identify strengths, weaknesses,
challenges, and opportunities related to planned specific elements of the Comp Plan
with noted stakeholders identified in the PIP and with members of the public; and
11. The first focus group was held on October 24, 2024 to discuss economic development,
housing, and historic preservation and the built environment, and the CPSC reviewed
the result of stakeholder input during their November 6, 2024 meeting; and
12. The Consultant conducted a series of interviews with professional staff and elected
officials on October 24, 2024 to identify strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and
opportunities for the town, and the CPSC reviewed the result of that input during their
November 6, 2024 meeting; and
13. The second focus group was held on November 15, 2024 to discuss environment and
natural resources, and climate change and resilience, and the CPSC reviewed the result
of stakeholder input during their December 4, 2024 meeting; and
14. The third focus group was held on December 13, 2024 to discuss capital facilities,
community well-being, and transportation, and the CPSC reviewed the result of
stakeholder input during their January 8, 2025 meeting; and
15. The fourth focus group was held on March 13, 2025 to discuss agriculture and land
use, and the CPSC reviewed the result of stakeholder input during their April 2, 2025
meeting; and
16. The Consultant, under direction of the CPSC, developed a community-wide survey that
was released to members of the public on December 7, 2024 and was available for
input through March 2025, and the CPSC reviewed the results of the survey during
their April 2, 2025 and May 7, 2025 meetings; and
17. The CPSC in coordination with the Consultant conducted the first joint session with
Town Board members on January 8, 2025 to develop a Vision Statement; reviewed
drafts of the vision statement during their February 5, 2025 and March 5, 2025
meetings; conducted a second joint session with Town Board members during their
April 2, 2025 meeting; reviewed revised drafts of the vision statement during their
May 7, 2025 meeting; and discussed the majority preferred Vision Statement during
their June 4, 2025 meeting; and
18. The CPSC in coordination with the Consultant conducted the first public open house on
March 19, 2025 which presented the preliminary draft Vision Statement and solicited
input to identify the strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities related to
the Economic Development, Housing, Built Environment, Environment & Natural
Resources, Climate Change & Resilience, Capital Facilities, Community Well-Being,
Transportation, Agriculture and Land Use elements of the Comp Plan, and the CPSC
reviewed the result of the open house input during their April 2, 2025 meeting; and
19. Development of the draft elements of the comp plan was conducted in a phased
process; the CPSC reviewed initial drafts of the Husing and Built Environment elements
during their May 7, 2025 meeting; reviewed initial drafts of the Economic
5
Development, Environment & Natural Resources, and Climate Change & Resilience
elements during their June 4, 2025 meeting; reviewed initial drafts of the
Transportation and Community Well-Being elements during their July 2, 2025 meeting;
reviewed an initial draft of the Capital Facilities element during their August 6, 2025
meeting; reviewed an initial draft of the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) during the
September 3, 2025 meeting; and reviewed initial drafts of the Land Use element and
Introduction chapter during the September 24, 2025 meeting; and
20. The CPSC directed the release of initial drafts of the Comp Plan elements for public
dissemination in a phased process; the Housing, Built Environment, Economic
Development, Environment & Natural Resources, and Climate Change & Resilience
elements were available to the public after their July 2, 2025 meeting; and the Capital
Facilities, Community Well-Being, Transportation, Agriculture and Land Use elements
were available to the public on October 6, 2025; and
21. The CPSC was required under CLNY 62.16.272-A.6.b to hold a public hearing on the
proposed Comp Plan; and
22. Notice of the public hearing was published in the Ithaca Journal, was posted on the
Town's Public Legal Notice Board, was posted on the Town's webpage, and was mailed
to over 2,400 known property owners, stakeholders, and interested agencies; and
23. The CPSC conducted public hearings on the first drafts of the Comp Plan in a phased
process starting on September 3, 2025 to receive public input on the Housing,
Economic Development, and Built Environment elements; continued their public
hearing on September 24, 2025 for public input on the Environment & Natural
Resources, Climate Change & Resiliency, and Built Environment elements, continued
their public hearing on October 8, 2025 for public input on the Community Well-Being
and Capital Facilities elements, continued their public hearing on October 22, 2025 on
the Transportation and Land Use elements, and continued their public hearings on
November 5, 2025, December 10, 2025, January 14, 2026, and January 28, 2026 for
public input on the full draft Comp Plan; and
24. The CPSC in coordination with the Consultant conducted a second public open house
on October 6, 2025 which presented the draft plan and solicited input, and the CPSC
reviewed the result of the open house input during their October 8, 2025 meeting; and
25. The CPSC in coordination with the Consultant conducted a third public open house on
November 19, 2025 to solicit additional public input, and the CPSC reviewed results
during their December 10, 2025 meeting; and
26. A revised second draft of the Comp Plan was released February 2, 2026 that
incorporated amendments made by the CPSC in response to public input; and
27. The CPSC continued their public hearings on February 11, 2026, February 25, 2026,
and March 11, 2026 for additional public input on the draft Comp Plan; and
28. The CPSC in coordination with the Consultant conducted a targeted four-hour
workshop on March 7, 2026 to make amendments to the draft FLUM in response to
public input; and
6
29. A revised third draft of the Comp Plan was released on March 18, 2026 that
incorporated amendments made by the CPSC in response to public input; and
30. The CPSC conducted their last public hearing on March 25, 2026 where it reviewed the
revised draft and received public input; and
31. The CPSC, by resolution at its meeting on March 25, 2026 recommended that the
Town Board adopt the Ulysses 2045 Comprehensive Plan as presented in Attachment
A to that resolution, as modified at that meeting; and
32. Based upon their experience with conducting similar environmental reviews and the
Comp Plan as actually recommended by the CPSC, the Consultant has recommended
classification of the Proposed Action as a Type I Action pursuant to the New York State
Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), Article 8 of the Environmental
Conservation Law, and its implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617; and
33. The Town Board declared its intent to be lead agency for purposes of environmental
review regarding its adoption of the Comp Plan at its meeting on April 14, 2026, and
schedule a public hearing on its adoption for May 12, 2026; and
34. The Town Clerk published notice of the public hearing in the Town's official newspaper
on April 20, 2026; and
35. The Consultant circulated to all involved and interested agencies the Town Board's
intent to act as lead agency, and no objections to the Town Board so acting were
received by the thirtieth day after such circulation; and
36. The Comp Plan was referred, pursuant to General Municipal Law Section 239, to the
Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability for review and comment,
which comments were received on June 25, 2026; and
37. The Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability provided no
comments regarding the environmental significance of its adoption; and
38. All other involved and interested agencies also provided no comments regarding the
environmental significance of the Comp Plan's adoption; and
39. The Town Board requested discretionary comments from the Departments of
Environmental Conservation and Agriculture and Markets by June 22, 2026 and none
were provided; and
40. The Town Board opened the public hearing at its meeting on May 12, 2026, and
continued it on May 26, 2026 and June 30, 2026; and
41. During the course of said public hearing and at its regular meetings on June 9 and June
23, 2026, the Town Board discussed and authorized various non-material revisions to
the Comp Plan as outlined in memos from the Consultant dated May 26 and June 18,
2026, along with a memo from Councilperson Weatherby dated June 9, 2026 with
additional revisions also reflected in the Town Board's meeting minutes; and
42. The Consultant has incorporated all such revisions to the Comp Plan and presented the
final draft to the Town on June 26, 2026; and
7
43. The Consultant has prepared a draft Full Environmental Assessment Form Part 2
concerning adoption of the Comp Plan along with an analysis of its potential
environmental impacts, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibit A; and
44. On June 30, 2026, the Town Board approved the following revisions:
a. replaced the low-density stock photo on page 57 with a photo of Waterburg to
be provided to MRB Group by the Town Planner.
b. added "Jacksonville Heights on Route 96" to the "Example Areas" section under
"Medium Density Residential" on page 58.
c. replaced medium density stock photo on page 58 with a photo of Jacksonville
Heights, to be provided to MRB Group by the Town Planner.
d. amended the draft Future Land Use Map to change the Hinging Post
neighborhood from low density to medium density, to better reflect existing
land uses.
45. The Town Board has evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the Proposed
Action as recommended by the Consultant, using the criteria set forth in Part 2 of the
FEAF, expressly concurs with and adopts the Consultant's analysis, and determined
that each question should be answered no or small impact;
46. On June 30, 2026, the Town Board approved the following changes to the FEAF Part 3
Narrative by MRB:
a. Changed "patterns" to "projects" on page 13
b. Specified the correct name of the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan
c. Removed the word "element" after "The plan also includes a section on climate
change and resiliency" on page 15
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor or their designee is authorized
to make minor corrections for formatting/typographical/scrivener errors to the Narrative
provided by MRB and FEAF Parts 2 and 3; and
RESOLVED that the Narrative, page 15 "Additional development" be changed to "The
proposed action"; and
RESOLVED that the Town Board approved the following changes to the FEAF Part 3, "Reasons
for Supporting This Determination" paragraph:
• Strike "wildlife" &traffic"; and
• Include all the "Impacts" (#1-20) in Part 2
RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses, based upon the review and findings
above, hereby determines that adoption of the Comp Plan is a Type I Action and will not result
in any significant adverse environmental impacts, and a Negative Declaration of
Environmental Significance is hereby issued in accordance with Article 8 of the Environmental
Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 617; and be it further
8
RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor or their designee is hereby authorized and directed to
sign the SEQRA Negative Declaration and to take all steps necessary to file and distribute this
determination as required by law; and be it further
RESOLVED, that this resolution shall take effect immediately.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Manley
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
RESOLUTION # 123 OF 2026: ADOPTING THE ULYSSES 2045 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
WHEREAS THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF ULYSSES FINDS THE FOLLOWING:
All findings as set forth in Resolution # 122 of 2026 are adopted and incorporated as if fully set
forth herein;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses adopts the
Ulysses 2045 Comprehensive Plan, as presented at its meeting on June 30, 2026 and attached
hereto, with the following amendments:
• replace the low-density stock photo on page 57 with a photo of Waterburg to
be provided to MRB Group by the Town Planner
• add "Jacksonville Heights on Route 96" to the "Example Areas" section under
"Medium Density Residential" on page 58
• replace medium density stock photo on page 58 with a photo of Jacksonville
Heights, to be provided to MRB Group by the Town Planner
• amend the draft Future Land Use Map to change the Hinging Post
neighborhood from low density to medium density, to better reflect existing
land uses
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor or their designee is hereby
authorized and directed to implement the foregoing changes and finalize the Ulysses 2045
Comprehensive Plan without further approval of the Town Board; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Town Supervisor or their designee is authorized to make minor
corrections for formatting/typographical/scrivener errors in the Ulysses 2045 Comprehensive
Plan as the same are identified from time to time, provided that when so doing they include
an appendix to the Ulysses 2045 Comprehensive Plan specifying all such changes and when
they took effect; and
RESOLVED, that all Town officials are hereby directed to undertake any actions required by
local and state law necessary to otherwise effectuate the Town Board's approval of the
Ulysses 2045 Comprehensive Plan; and be it further
9
RESOLVED that this resolution shall take effect immediately.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Boggs
Ms. Olson thanked all those who participated in the process, including committee members,
the public, Town Planner, and MRB.
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
NEW BUSINESS:
A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 200 OF THE TOWN CODE: INTRODUCTION AND SCHEDULING A
PUBLIC HEARING
Ms. Olson gave some background.
RESOLUTION #124 OF 2026: INTRODUCING A PROPOSED LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER
200 OF THE TOWN CODE, SCHEDULING A PUBLIC HEARING AND ADDRESSING RELATED
MATTERS
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses has caused to be prepared a proposed local
law titled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 200 OF THE TOWN CODE" (the "Proposed Local
Law"); and
WHEREAS, the Town Board desires to introduce the Proposed Local Law and to commence the
required review processes prior to taking further action thereon; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board determines that adoption of the Proposed Local Law constitutes a
Type II Action under the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act and its
implementing regulations at 6 NYCRR Part 617; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses hereby
introduces the Proposed Local Law titled "A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 200 OF THE
TOWN CODE"; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Town Board hereby classifies adoption of the Proposed Local Law as a
Type II Action pursuant to SEQRA and 6 NYCRR Part 617.5(c)(26) and (33); and be it further
RESOLVED, that a public hearing on the question of adopting the Proposed Local Law is hereby
scheduled for July 28, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Clerk, and Town Attorney are hereby authorized and
directed to take such additional steps as may be necessary or appropriate to carry out the
intent of this Resolution.
Moved: Weatherby Seconded: Boggs
SM- link to original law section
10
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
CLIMATE SMART ZONING APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 CONSOLIDATED FUNDING APPLICATION
Ms. Olson shared noted that these grants take a long time to get approved and implemented.
RESOLUTION #125 of 2026: SUPPORT&AUTHORIZATION FOR THE TOWN OF ULYSSES
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF STATE OFFICE OF PLANNING, DEVELOPMENT &
COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FUND SMART GROWTH
PROGRAM 2026 COMMUNITY PLANNING PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Town of Ulysses, Tompkins County, supports the submission of a 2026 Smart
Growth Community Planning grant on behalf of the Town for funding an update to the Town's
Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, the New York State Department of State Office of Planning, Development &
Community Infrastructure Smart Growth Community Planning and Zoning Grant Program is
designed to provide municipalities across NY with funding to prepare and adopt a
comprehensive plan, zoning regulations, or area plan; and
WHEREAS, the Town's planning documents recognize the importance of zoning and land use
regulations as a tool in implementing the goals of the Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
2045 adopted June 30, 2026; and
WHEREAS, a zoning regulation update funded through this program must incorporate Smart
Growth principles to make the most efficient use of community resources, affirmatively
provide access to housing across all income levels, reduce the property tax burden, promote
sustainable economic development, and enhance equity and quality of life for people and
households of all incomes, backgrounds, ages and abilities; and
WHEREAS, these same principles are articulated in the Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
2045; and
WHEREAS, this zoning regulation update will encourage flexibility in zoning districts, improve
access to housing, streamline the development review process, and alleviate the negative
impacts of the current outdated zoning code; and
NOW,THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Town Board on behalf of the Town of Ulysses, New
York authorizes the Town Supervisor to submit a NYS DOS Office of Planning, Development &
Community Infrastructure Environmental Protection Fund Smart Growth Program grant
application for an update to the Town's Zoning Code and be considered the authorized
representative for the project, able to execute all necessary documents relative to this
project; and
11
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Town Board understands that by accepting such a grant, the
Town would be obligated to provide matching local 15% funds that would be appropriated
from the B Fund Budget; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town of Ulysses recognizes and fully supports the
submission of this 2026 Smart Growth Community Planning and Zoning Grant Program
application to fund an updated set of zoning regulations for the Town.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Boggs
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
RESOLUTION #126 OF 2026: LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR SMART GROWTH ZONING
APPLICATION FOR CONSOLIDATED FUNDING APPLICATION
RESOLVED, the Ulysses Town Board authorizes the Town Supervisor to sign a letter of support
for the Smart Growth Zoning Application to be prepared by the MRB Group as part of the
2026 Consolidated Funding Application progress.
Moved: Olson Seconded: Boggs
Olson aye
Boggs aye
Manley aye
Weatherby aye
Vote: 4-0
Date adopted 6/30/26
UPCOMING EVENTS
July 3 —Town Buildings closed for July 4th holiday
July 3 &4: 1776 Performances, Encore Performers @ TCFA
July 6—Special Meeting of the Town Board, 12pm
July 14— Regular Meeting of the Town Board, CANCELLED
July 28— Regular Meeting of the Town Board, 7pm
July 28— Public Hearings (Town Board Applicants and Smith Woods CEA Designation)
BOARD NOTIFICATIONS:
none
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR (3-min limit per person)
none
ADJOURN:
12
Mr. Manley made a motion to adjourn at 9:50pm. This was seconded by Boggs and passed
unanimously.
Respectfully submitted by Carissa Parlato, Town Clerk, 7113126
13
APPENDIX:
Included:
Comments from:
Sarah Adams
Roxanne Marino
Sue Ritter
FEAF Narrative, Part 2 & Part 3
Local Law to Amend water?
14
06/30/26
Public Hearing Comments submitted by
Sarah Adams, 4 Falls St.
Over the past year local residents have attendeed meetings and submitted written
and oral comments, expressing support and concerns about specifice proposals in
the Draft 2025-2045 Comp Plan.
While the CP committee responded positively to some of these constretive
suggestions, the Draft Plan still proposes Medium Density residential housing in
areas that are NYS designated Ag districts, Natrual Areas, and on land that does
not have municipal water & sewer,
The recent reponse by the County in their 239 review also made this observation
and expressed some concerns.
"We do, however, have the following comments on the proposed action: The
Town's draft Future Land Use Map identifies large expanses of"Medium
Density Residential." We encourage the Town Board to consider a nodal
development approach. The County supports nodal development patterns for
many reasons: to direct investment of limited public resources (such as public
water, sewer and transit routes) where it can have the most impact, to support
walkable compact development patterns, and to help protect the rural
character of communities throughout the County by limiting sprawl.
For more details, please see the County Comprehensive Plan's section on
development patterns found here: development-patterns.pdf
The large expanses of"Medium Density Residential" identified on the draft
Future Land Use Map do not appear to be focused enough to support many of
the reasons for nodal development identified above. We suggest the Town
Board consider reducing the extent of the Medium Density Residential to
areas with access to public water and areas that are walkable to amenities.
The Town Board could also consider what types of lands they would like the
Medium Density Residential area to avoid. We suggest that the Town Board
consider avoiding rural areas with natural features, such as wetlands, Unique
Natural Areas, and stream buffers, as well as properties in the agricultural
district and agricultural parcels with prime soils."
The public has asked multiple times that the process of adopting the current
plan be slowed down to give time to conduct the recommended Housing
Study.
The resolution for the Support and Authorization to apply for the Smart
Growth Planning program takes us towards another step in rezoning w/out
even knowing what Medium Density Residential zoning might look like or a
definition of the multiple Legacy districts that are scattered througout the
Town.
The resolution calls for providing access to housng across "all incomes,
reduce tax burdens, promote sustainable economic development and enhance
quality of life"! In my opinion the Draft Comp plan has placed much of t'6
efforts on housing, ignoring some of these other goals.
Show me a community in upstate NY that has accomplished all of these goals
and I suggest we just copy what they have done.
The resolution claims that the zoning process needs to be "streamlined".
Where is an analysis of our current zoning? Lets make this a priority along
with the Housing study.
Smart Growth planning has many good aspects for specific types of
communities. We need to have a conversation as a community as to whether
this is what our Town wants. The recent election shows that this conversation
is very much needed!
We should not rush for funding for a program that sets the wheels moving in
a very specicific zoning direction before the existing residents have time to
understand the implications.
I respectfully request that the Town Board publically respond to the the
written and oral commkps that have been made, to both the CP committee
and the Board as a way to get this process started.
R. Marino statement submitted to Town Board Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing 6-30-26 1
Over the months since the FLUM was first released to the steering committee and the
public in September 2025 many commentors have regularly spoken to and submitted
documented concerns in writing to both the Steering Committee and the Town Board
regarding the proposed emphasis on increased housing density(MDR area of orange on
map) relative to the area in the 2009 Plan and our current Residential zone.
Additionally, Tompkins County, Planning and Sustainability in both an informal review of the
early March 2026 draft Plan and their 239-I, -m, and -n review of the current draft Plan
received 6-25-26 (TC 239) raised many of the same points and suggested considerations
for change to the FLUM as the public.
Yet, the Board has not yet substantially discussed in any public meeting the numerous
significant concerns raised by the residents, including members of the community
with specific expertise(planners, environmental scientists, former municipal officials
either elected or on planning, zoning and other, advisory boards), or given any clear
consideration to changing the areas targeted for either medium or low-density
residential development in sensitive environments along natural feature areas.
Below I outline some of the major consensus concerns that have been voiced and
documented with supporting information. I respectfully urge the Board to address these
in public discussion, before continuing forward further with SEQR and adoption of the
current draft plan and Future Land Use Map and designations. Example submitted
written comments to the CPSC and included in the Plan Appendix or to the Town Board that
are particularly applicable are referenced.
Out of respect for the public input, true transparency in process, and forthe long-term
success of the Plan towards achieving the vision of the community, these issues should be
thoroughly analyzed by the Board and FLUM land use character area designations carefully
considered for revision in accordance with best planning practices and community
expertise and concerns.
o Replacement of significant portions of prime agricultural lands (and in NYS
agricultural districts) as 1) a direct threat to important agricultural soils and 2) a
contradiction to the overwhelming public view of these as key important
aspects of Ulysses (both 1999 and current CP surveys; Ulysses Ag& Farmland
Protection Plan).
o Potential adverse environmental impacts due to more intensive types of
residential development in the sensitive areas of Taughannock and Bolter
R. Marino statement submitted to Town Board Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing 6-30-26 2
Creeks, with steep slopes, wetland soils, and significant risk of flooding that
will increase with climate change.
■ Refs: G. R. Frantz letter of 3-23-26 (Appendix); R. Marino multiple
submissions to CPSC and to Town Board PH's 5-26-26, 6-9-26; R. Howarth
(Appendix, and 5-26-26); R. Schneider 5-26-26; APA Best Practices for Coma
Plans in Document Library, Ulysses United webpage and particularly
relevant actions appended here; TC Planning&Sustainability 239 6-25-26.
o Lack of adherence to Smart Growth and Best Practice planning principles
for limiting sprawl and appropriately focusing higher density development.
■ Ref:TC Comp Plan and Housing Strategy as referenced in TC 239 memo;
APA Best Practices for Comp Plans; G.R.Frantz letter 3-23-26; S. Ritter,
Appendix)
o Need for more focused targeting of highest density land use area
designations on Future Land Use Map (MDR), to areas where investment of
limited public resources to develop water AND wastewater(including) sewer
infrastructure and transit route connectivity are most likely to be physically and
financially feasible and as such effective in achieving the housing affordability
and "missing middle housing"goals.
■ Ref: TC 239; G.R. Frantz letter 3-23-26; R. Howarth,Appendix and 5-
26-26; R. Marino multiple submissions; S. Ritter,Appendix;APA Best
Practices document)
o Need for a substantial public discussion and consideration to changing the
areas targeted for either medium or low-density residential development
(sensitive environments)to a less intensive land use (such as Rural
Residential), for example areas in the W part of Cold Springs Rd, and Podunk
before S street joins, along Agard Rd N, and in the area along Taughannock
Creek Natural Features Focus area and flood plain zone (perhaps even to
Resource Conservation here).
■ Ref: TC 239; G.R. Frantz letter 3-23-26; R. Schneider 5-26-26; R.
Marino multiple submissions; S. Ritter,Appendix)
o The Plan has insufficient or non-existent explicit strategies and guidance
recommendations to ensure protection of natural resources (including
R. Marino statement submitted to Town Board Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing 6-30-26 3
agricultural land) as key components of economic viability as well as water,
habitat, and scenic quality.
■ Ref: R. Schneider 5-25-26, CSAC member comments to CPSC
o Additions to the Facilities chapter should be made to recognize the state
regulations on limitations with future feasibility of sewer service and on lot
size minimums for non-sewered areas both with and without municipal
water. Implications of NY State mandated phosphorus reductions from the
Cayuga Lake watershed (TMDL) are financial and logistic constraints that
should be recognized.
■ Ref: R. Howarth Appendix, and 5-26-26; R. Marino multiple
statements during CPSC process
Regarding the items specifically on the agenda for tonight's meeting, I urge the Board
to explicitly consider the following:
• A full SEQR analysis with a positive declaration of potential adverse
environmental impacts and preparation of a full EIS should be done to include
the growth inducing impacts of such a large increase in emphasis and area
designated for denser housing (-2300 acres as per G. Frantz 3-23 letter) in the
Plan and including concerns that have been raised for environmentally
sensitive and hazard prone areas.
■ Refs: S. Ritter, Appendix and 6-30-26 comments; R. Schneider 5-26-
26).
o A much more thorough study of how much housing is needed AND where it is
best located is necessary to protect ag lands as well as floodplain and other
sensitive environmental regions is a critical first step before considering any re-
zoning actions after Plan adoption. The current projected population growth
analysis (near 0 in next 5 yrs and a need of 8 new housing units per year) in the draft
Plan does not support the large expanse of highest density residential (MDR). As
such the Board is urged not to submit the CFA application to update the zoning until
this work is done as a top priority for funding and using staff and volunteer effort.
■ Ref: R. Schneider 5-26-26; G.R.Frantz 3-23-36; R. Marino 6-9-2026...
and many oral comments by residents during CPSC and TB hearings.
R. Marino statement submitted to Town Board Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing 6-30-26 4
Excerpts from "Best Practices for Comprehensive Plans", American Planning Association
Provided to CPSC at the start of their work,and posted on the Ulysses United website, under Document
Library—Committee Working Documents
"This appendix provides definitions of the best practices for the principles, processes, and attributes that
comprise the comprehensive plan standards framework for sustaining places(see Chapter 2).These
definitions are intended as a resource for communities seeking to understand the framework and how its
individual components apply to their circumstances...Comprehensive plans for sustaining places should
endeavor to incorporate the full slate of best practices while allowing for each community's unique context,
environment, and issues. By addressing and implementing all possible best practices,a community can set
a path towards a high level of sustainability."
While the draft Plan incorporates many of the ideas recommended in this detailed
document, and some others are not applicable for Towns of our size, the following are
examples of Plan Principles our current draft does not adhere to, and that align with the
comments and suggestions of the TC Dept of Planning&Sustainability(239 Review), and
numerous written and oral comments to the CPSC and the Town Board submitted by
citizens of the Town:
1.2 Plan for transit-oriented development.
Transit-oriented development (TOD) is characterized by a concentration of higher-density
mixed use development around transit stations and along transit lines, such that the
location and the design of the development encourage transit use and pedestrian activity.
TOD allows communities to focus new residential and commercial development in areas
that are well connected to public transit.This enables residents to more easilv use transit
service,_which can reduce Vehicle-miles traveled and fossil fuels consumed and
associated pollution and reenhousegas emissions.
1.11 Discourage development in hazard zones. A_hazard zone is an area with a high
potential for natural events, such as floods high winds, landslides, earthquakes, and
wildfires. Plans should discourage development in hazard zones, including any
construction or site disturbance within an area of high risk relative
to other areas within a jurisdiction. Discouraging development in hazard zones protects the
natural environment, people, and property.
2.1 Restore, connect, and protect natural habitats and sensitive lands. Natural
habitats are areas or landscapes—such as wetlands, riparian corridors, and woodlands—
inhabited by a species or community of species and can include those designated as rare
and endangered. Sensitive lands, including steep slopes and geographically unstable
areas, contain natural features that are environmentally significant and easily disturbed by
human activity.
R. Marino statement submitted to Town Board Comprehensive Plan Public Hearing 6-30-26 5
2.3 Encourage development that respects natural topography. Sensitive natural
topography includes features such as hillsides, ridges, steep slopes, or low-
lands that can pose challenges to development.Taking these features into account in
planning for private development and public infrastructure can reduce construction costs
minimize natural hazard risks from flooding or landslides, and mitigate the impacts
of construction on natural resources, including soils, vegetation, and water systems.
2.10 Protect and manage streams,watersheds, and floodplains. A stream is a body of
water flowing over the ground in a channel.A watershed is an area of land drained by a
river, river system, or other body of water. A floodplain is an area of low-lying ground
adjacent to a body of water that is susceptible to inundation.These resources have
typically been extensively altered in urban environments—for example by replacing
streams with underground culverts or constructing buildings in the floodplain—negatively
affecting the natural and beneficial functions they provide. Watershed management is
important to protecting water supply, water quality, drainage, storm-
water runoff and other functions at a watershed scale.
6.4 Delineate designated growth areas that are served by transit. A designated growth
area is an area delineated in an officially adopted local or regional comprehensive plan
where higher density development is permitted or encouraged and urban services—
including public transportation (where feasible)—are (or are scheduled to be) available.
The purpose of a designated growth area is to accommodate and focus projected future
growth (typ.ccally over a 2Q::�year tim_eframe)within a municipality_, count[, or region through
a compact, resource-efficient pattern of development. Ensuring that new growth areas are
served by transit improves residents' access and mobility and helps reduce dependence
on personal automobiles for travel
throughout the region.
10.2 Integrate the plan with other local plans and programs. An integrated plan includes
recommendations from related functional plans and programs (e.g., hazard mitigation,
climate adaptation, housing, transportation).
COMMENTS FROM SUE RITTER:
The Town of Ulysses Comprehensive plan should limit dense development to areas closest to
Trumansburg and Jacksonville. This is an opportunity to ensure that land in our town is used most
efficiently, with development that is thoughtfully considered, and with an emphasis on creating
intentional neighborhoods that make it economically efficient use of municipal utilities and services.
But unfortunately, the plan proposes to rezone rural areas of the town to same higher density
proposed for land adjacent to the village.
These are rural areas that will be expensive to retrofit with sewer and water, in some cases, utilities,
where sidewalks would be prohibitively expensive, and where residents will always be dependent on
their cars. This will only degrade our community by exacerbating sprawl with the loss of viable
agricultural lands and open space.
The projected population growth for Ulysses does not necessitate this amount of potential
development growth, and will only lead to disconnected spots of development here and there that
will diminish our rural landscape and leave the new residents isolated and car-dependent.
The major employers and economic engines of the county are not here in the town of Ulysses, and
the push to encourage substantial growth into the rural parts of our town is unwarranted and
unnecessary.
The major employers are the City of Ithaca, the towns in Ithaca... the towns of Ithaca, Dryden, and
Lansing, where municipal water and sewer exist along with substantial bus service and commercial
services, making them attractive and capable locations for handling new, denser housing.
The town of Ulysses does not need to become a major housing contributor to the greater Ithaca
community, instead encouraging a natural and thoughtful progression of growth near and adjacent to
our existing growth hubs, Trumansburg and Jacksonville, makes the most sense for maintaining the
quality of life that residents value about living in Ulysses and creating connected and sustainable
new neighborhoods for future residents of the town to enjoy.
The future land map inaccurately portrays all 118 acres of the parcel owned by Cayuga Compost and
P&S Excavating as being a legacy business. But the business facility itself occupies only approximately
15 acres of the property. Approximately 100 acres is currently in active field crops and woods.
Identifying this entire parcel as being a legacy business is wrong, and suggests that some future
business or commercial use would be appropriate for all 118 acres. This is a serious flaw and should
be corrected.
15
Agency Use Only[If applicable]
Full Environmental Assessment Form Project: 2045 Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Part 2-Identification of Potential Project Impacts Date: June 30,2026
Part 2 is to be completed by the lead agency. Part 2 is designed to help the lead agency inventory all potential resources that could
be affected by a proposed project or action. We recognize that the lead agency:s reviewer(s)will not necessarily be environmental
professionals. So,the questions are designed to walk a reviewer through the assessment process by providing a series of questions that
can be answered using the information found in Part 1.To further assist the lead agency in completing Part 2,the form identifies the
most relevant questions in Part 1 that will provide the information needed to answer the Part 2 question.When Part 2 is completed,the
lead agency will have identified the relevant environmental areas that may be impacted by the proposed activity.
If the lead agency is a state agency and the action is in any Coastal Area,complete the Coastal Assessment Form before proceeding
with this assessment.
Tips for completing Part 2:
• Review all of the information provided in Part 1.
• Review any application,maps,supporting materials and the Full EAF Workbook.
• Answer each of the 18 questions in Part 2.
• If you answer"Yes"to a numbered question,please complete all the questions that follow in that section.
• If you answer"No"to a numbered question,move on to the next numbered question.
• Check appropriate column to indicate the anticipated size of the impact.
• Proposed projects that would exceed a numeric threshold contained in a question should result in the reviewing agency
checking the box"Moderate to large impact may occur."
• The reviewer is not expected to be an expert in environmental analysis.
• If you are not sure or undecided about the size of an impact,it may help to review the sub-questions for the general
question and consult the workbook.
• When answering a question consider all components of the proposed activity,that is,the whole action.
• Consider the possibility for long-term and cumulative impacts as well as direct impacts.
• Answer the question in a reasonable manner considering the scale and context of the project.
1. Impact on Land
Proposed action may involve construction on, or physical alteration of, ■❑NO ❑YES
the land surface of the proposed site. (See Part 1.D.1)
If"Yes", answer questions a-j. If"No", move on to Section 2.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may involve construction on land where depth to water table is E2d ❑ ❑
less than 3 feet.
b.The proposed action may involve construction on slopes of 15%or greater. E2f ❑ ❑
c.The proposed action may involve construction on land where bedrock is exposed,or E2a ❑ ❑
generally within 5 feet of existing ground surface.
d.The proposed action may involve the excavation and removal of more than 1,000 tons 132a ❑ ❑
of natural material.
e.The proposed action may involve construction that continues for more than one year Dle ❑ El
in multiple phases.
£ The proposed action may result in increased erosion,whether from physical 132e,D2q ❑ ❑
disturbance or vegetation removal(including from treatment by herbicides).
g.The proposed action is,or may be,located within a Coastal Erosion hazard area. B 1 i ❑ ❑
h.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 1 of 13 FEAF 2026
2. Impact on Geological Features
The proposed action may result in the modification or destruction of, or inhibit
access to, any unique or unusual land forms on the site(e.g., cliffs,dunes, ✓❑ NO ❑YES
minerals, fossils, caves). (See Part 1. E.2.g)
If"Yes", answer questions a-c. If"No", move on to Section 3.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.Identify the specific land form(s)attached: Egg ❑ ❑
b.The proposed action may affect or is adjacent to a geological feature listed as a E3c ❑ ❑
registered National Natural Landmark.
Specific feature:
c. Other impacts: ❑ ❑
3. Impacts on Surface Water
The proposed action may affect one or more wetlands or other surface water 0 NO ❑YES
bodies(e.g., streams,rivers,ponds or lakes). (See Part 1. D.2,E.21)
If"Yes", answer questions a- 1. If"No", move on to Section 4.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may create a new water body. D2b,Dlh ❑ ❑
b.The proposed action may result in an increase or decrease of over 10%or more than a D2b ❑ ❑
10 acre increase or decrease in the surface area of any body of water.
c.The proposed action may involve dredging more than 100 cubic yards of material D2a ❑ ❑
from a wetland or water body.
d.The proposed action may involve construction within or adjoining a freshwater or E2h ❑ ❑
tidal wetland,or in the bed or banks of any other water body.
e.The proposed action may create turbidity in a waterbody,either from upland erosion, D2a, D2h ❑ ❑
runoff or by disturbing bottom sediments.
f.The proposed action may include construction of one or more intake(s)for withdrawal D2c ❑ ❑
of water from surface water.
g.The proposed action may include construction of one or more outfall(s)for discharge D2d ❑ ❑
of wastewater to surface water(s).
h.The proposed action may cause soil erosion,or otherwise create a source of D2e ❑ ❑
stormwater discharge that may lead to siltation or other degradation of receiving
water bodies.
i.The proposed action may affect the water quality of any water bodies within or E2h ❑ ❑
downstream of the site of the proposed action.
j.The proposed action may involve the application of pesticides or herbicides in or D2q,E2h ❑ ❑
around any water body.
k.The proposed action may require the construction of new,or expansion of existing, Dla,D2d ❑ ❑
wastewater treatment facilities.
Page 2 of 13 FEAF 2026
1.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
4. Impact on groundwater
The proposed action may result in new or additional use of ground water, or ❑✓ NO ❑YES
may have the potential to introduce contaminants to ground water or an aquifer.
(See Part 1. D.2.a, D.2.c,D.2.d,D.2.p,D.2.q,D.2.t)
If"Yes", answer questions a -h. If"No", move on to Section 5.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may require new water supply wells,or create additional demand D2c ❑ ❑
on supplies from existing water supply wells.
b.Water supply demand from the proposed action may exceed safe and sustainable 132c ❑ ❑
withdrawal capacity rate of the local supply or aquifer.
Cite Source:
c.The proposed action may allow or result in residential uses in areas without water and D 1 a,132c ❑ ❑
sewer services.
d.The proposed action may include or require wastewater discharged to groundwater. D2d,E21 ❑ ❑
e.The proposed action may result in the construction of water supply wells in locations 132c,Elf, ❑ ❑
where groundwater is,or is suspected to be,contaminated. Elg,Elh
f. The proposed action may require the bulk storage of petroleum or chemical products D2p,E21 ❑ ❑
over ground water or an aquifer.
g.The proposed action may involve the commercial application of pesticides within 100 E2h,D2q, ❑ ❑
feet of potable drinking water or irrigation sources. E21,132c
h. Other impacts: ❑ ❑
5. Impact on Flooding
The proposed action may result in development on lands subject to flooding. ❑✓ NO ❑YES
(See Part 1.E.2)
I "Yes", answer questions a -g. I "No", move on to Section 6.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may result in development in a designated floodwa . E2i ❑ ❑
b.The proposed action may result in development within a 100-year or a 500-year E2j,E5a, ❑ ❑
flood lain. E5b
c.The proposed action may result in development in an area potentially affected by sea E2k,E5c ❑ ❑
level rise.
d.The proposed action may result in,or require,modification of existing drainage D2b,D2e ❑ ❑
patterns.
e.The proposed action may change flood water flows that contribute to flooding. D2b,E2i, ❑ ❑
E2',E2k
f.If there is a dam located on the site of the proposed action,is the dam in need of repair, Ele ❑ ❑
or upgrade?
Page 3 of 13 FEAF 2026
g.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
6. Impacts on Air and Climate
The proposed action may include a state regulated air emission source. ZNO ❑YES
(See Part 1. D.2.£,D.21,D.2.g)or generate greenhouse gas emissions
over 10,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents (See Part 1.
D.2.h)
I "Yes", answer questions a-i. I "No", move on to Section 7.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact
may
may occur
occur
a.If the proposed action requires federal or state air emission permits,the action mayalso
have the potential to emit one or more regulated air contaminants at or above the ❑ ❑
following levels: D2g
i. More than 100 short tons/year of carbon monoxide(CO) D2g ❑ ❑
ii. More than 100 short tons/year of oxides of nitrogen(NO,,)outside the NYC
Metropolitan Area or Long Island OR 25 short tons/year within the NYC ❑ ❑
Metropolitan Area or Long Island D2g
iii.More than 100 short tons/year of particulate matter(PM-10,PM-2.5) D2g ❑ ❑
iv.More than 50 short tons/year of volatile organic compounds(VOC)outside the NYC
Metropolitan Area or Long Island OR 25 short tons/year within the NYC ❑ ❑
Metropolitan Area or Long Island D2g
v. More than 100 short tons/year of sulfur dioxide SOz
b.The proposed action has the potential to emit 10 short tons/year or more of any one D2g El ❑
designated hazardous air pollutant,or 25 short tons/year or more of any combination of
such hazardous air pollutants.
c.The proposed action may include a heat source capable of producing more than 20 D2f,D2g El ❑
million BTUs per hour.
d.The proposed action may exceed 50%of any of the thresholds in"a"or"b", D2g ❑ ❑
above.
e.The proposed action may result in the combustion or thermal treatment of solid, D2f,D2s ❑ ❑
hazardous,or hospital/medical/infectious waste.
£ The proposed action is subject to the Nonattainment New Source Review or Prevention D2g ❑ ❑
of Significant Deterioration requirements discussed in 6 NYCRR Part 231.
g.The proposed action will emit more than 10,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalents per D211 ❑ ❑
year.
h.A municipality adopted comprehensive or individual plan addressing climate change C2d ❑ El
to the proposed action and the proposed action would materially conflict with
the achievement of one or more goals of the plan related to climate change.
i.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 4 of 13 FEAF 2026
7. Impact on Plants and Animals
The proposed action may result in a loss of flora or fauna. (See Part 1.E.2.m.-q.) ❑✓ NO ❑YES
If"Yes", answer questions a-j. If"No", move on to Section 8.
Relevant No, or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may cause reduction in population or loss of individuals of any E2o ❑ ❑
threatened or endangered species,as listed by New York State or the Federal
government,that use the site,or are found on,over,or near the site.
b.The proposed action may result in a reduction or degradation of any habitat used by E2o
any rare,threatened or endangered species,as listed by New York State or the federal ❑ ❑
government.
c. The proposed action may cause reduction in population,or loss of individuals,of any E2p ❑ ❑
species of special concern or conservation need,as listed by New York State or the
Federal government,that use the site,or are found on,over,or near the site.
d.The proposed action may result in a reduction or degradation of any habitat used by E2p ❑ ❑
any species of special concern and conservation need,as listed by New York State or
the Federal government.
Page 5 of 13 FEAF 2026
e. The proposed action may diminish the capacity of a registered National Natural ER ❑ ❑
Landmark to support the biological community it was established to protect.
f.The proposed action may result in the removal of,or ground disturbance in,any E2n ❑
portion of a designated significant natural community.
Source:
g.The proposed action may substantially interfere with nesting/breeding,foraging,or E2m ❑ ❑
over-wintering habitat for the predominant species that occupy or use the project site.
h.The proposed action requires the conversion of more than 10 acres of forest, Elb ❑ ❑
grassland or any other regionally or locally important habitat.
Habitat type&information source:
i.Proposed action(commercial,industrial or recreational projects,only)involves use of D2q ❑
herbicides or pesticides.
j.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
8. Impact on Agricultural Resources
The proposed action may impact agricultural resources. (See Part 1. E.3.a. and b.) NO ❑✓ YES
If"Yes", answer questions a-h. If"No", move on to Section 9.
Relevant No, or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may impact soil classified within soil group 1 through 4 of the E2c,E3b ❑
NYS Land Classification System.
b. The proposed action may sever,cross or otherwise limit access to agricultural land Ela, Elb ❑ ❑
(includes cropland,hayfields,pasture,vineyard,orchard,etc).
c.The proposed action may result in the excavation or compaction of the soil profile of E3b ❑ ❑
active agricultural land.
d.The proposed action may irreversibly convert agricultural land to non-agricultural Elb,E3a ❑ ❑
uses,either more than 2.5 acres if located in an Agricultural District,or more than 10
acres if not within an Agricultural District.
e. The proposed action may disrupt or prevent installation of an agricultural land El a,Elb ❑ ❑
management system.
f. The proposed action may result,directly or indirectly,in increased development C2c,C3, ❑ ❑
potential or pressure on farmland. D2c,D2d
g.The proposed project is not consistent with the adopted municipal Farmland C2c ❑
Protection Plan.
h.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 6 of 13 FEAF 2026
9. Impact on Aesthetic Resources
The land use of the proposed action is obviously different from,or are in �✓ NO ❑YES
sharp contrast to, current land use patterns between the proposed project and
a scenic or aesthetic resource. (Part 1. E.l.a,E.l.b,E.31.)
If"Yes", answer questions a-g. If"No", go to Section 10.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.Proposed action may be visible from any officially designated federal,state,or local E3h ❑
scenic or aesthetic resource.
b.The proposed action may result in the obstruction,elimination or significant E3h,C2b
screening of one or more officially designated scenic views.
c.The proposed action may be visible from publicly accessible vantage points: E3h
i. Seasonally(e.g.,screened by summer foliage,but visible during other seasons) 0
ii. Year round 0 0
d. The situation or activity in which viewers are engaged while viewing the proposed E3h
action is:
E2q,
i. Routine travel by residents,including travel to and from work 0
ii.Recreational or tourism-based activities Elc E
e. The proposed action may cause a diminishment of the public enjoyment and E3h ❑
appreciation of the designated aesthetic resource.
f.There are similar projects visible within the following distance of the proposed D 1 a,E 1 a, ❑ ❑
project: Dlf,Dlg
0-1/2 mile
%z-3 mile
3-5 mile
5+ mile
g.Other impacts:
10. Impact on Historic and Archeological Resources
The proposed action may occur in or adjacent to a historic or archaeological [Z]NO ❑YES
resource. (Part 1.E.3.e, f and g.)
If"Yes", answer questions a-e. If`No'; go to Section 11.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a. The proposed action may occur wholly or partially within,or substantially contiguous
to,any buildings,archaeological site or district which is listed on the National or Me
State Register of Historical Places,or that has been determined by the Commissioner
of the NYS Office of Parks,Recreation and Historic Preservation to be eligible for
listing on the State Register of Historic Places.
b.The proposed action may occur wholly or partially within,or substantially contiguous E3f El 1:1
to,an area designated as sensitive for archaeological sites on the NY State Historic
Preservation Office(SHPO)archaeological site inventory.
c. The proposed action may occur wholly or partially within,or substantially contiguous E39
to,an archaeological site not included on the NY SHPO inventory.
Source:
Page 7 of 13 FEAF 2026
d.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
If any of the above(a-d)are answered"Moderate to large impact may
e. occur",continue with the following questions to help support conclusions in Part 3:
i. The proposed action may result in the destruction or alteration of all or part E3e,E3g, ❑ ❑
of the site or property. E3f
ii. The proposed action may result in the alteration of the property's setting or E3e,E3f, ❑ ❑
integrity. E3g,E 1 a,
Elb
iii. The proposed action may result in the introduction of visual elements which E3e,E3f, ❑ ❑
are out of character with the site or property,or that may alter its setting. E3g,E3h,
C2,C3
11. Impact on Open Space and Recreation
The proposed action may result in a loss of recreational opportunities or a FV1 NO ❑YES
reduction of an open space resource as designated in any adopted
municipal open space plan.
(See Part 1. C.2.c,E.l.c_,E.2.q.)
If"Yes", answer questions a-e. If"No", go to Section 12.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may result in an impairment of natural functions,or"ecosystem D2e,Elb
services",provided by an undeveloped area,including but not limited to stormwater E2h,
storage,nutrient cycling,wildlife habitat. Elm,Ego,
E2n,E2p
b.The proposed action may result in the loss of a current or future recreational resource. C2a,Elc, ❑ ❑
C2c,E2q
c. The proposed action may eliminate open space or recreational resource in an area C2a,C2c ❑ ❑
with few such resources. Elc,E2q
d.The proposed action may result in loss of an area now used informally by the C2c,Elc ❑ ❑
community as an open space resource.
e. Other impacts: ❑ ❑
12. Impact on Critical Environmental Areas
The proposed action may be located within or adjacent to a critical A YES
environmental area(CEA). (See Part 1. E.3.d)
If"Yes", answer questions a-c. If"No", go to Section 13.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may result in a reduction in the quantity of the resource or E3d ❑
characteristic which was the basis for designation of the CEA.
b.The proposed action may result in a reduction in the quality of the resource or E3d ❑ ❑
characteristic which was the basis for designation of the CEA.
c.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 8 of 13 FEAF 2026
13. Impact on Transportation
The proposed action may result in a change to existing transportation systems. ❑NO FEW YES
(See Part 1. D.2.j)
If"Yes", answer questions a-f. If"No", go to Section 14.
Relevant No, or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.Projected traffic increase may exceed capacity of existing road network. D2j IZI ❑
b.The proposed action may result in the construction of paved parking area for 500 or D2j ❑✓ ❑
more vehicles.
c.The proposed action will degrade existing transit access. D2j ❑✓ ❑
d.The proposed action will degrade existing pedestrian or bicycle accommodations. D2j ❑✓ ❑
e.The proposed action may alter the present pattern of movement of people or goods. D2j ❑✓ ❑
EOther impacts: ❑ ❑
14. Impact on Energy
The proposed action may cause an increase in the use of any form of energy. FilNO ❑YES
(See Part 1. D.21)
If"Yes", answer questions a-e. If"No", go to Section 15.
Relevant No, or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action will require a new,or an upgrade to an existing,substation. D2k ❑ ❑
b.The proposed action will require the creation or extension of an energy transmission DI f, ❑ ❑
or supply system to serve more than 50 single or two-family residences or to serve a Dlq,D2k
commercial or industrial use.
c.The proposed action may utilize more than 2,500 MWhrs per year of electricity. D2k ❑ ❑
d.The proposed action may involve heating and/or cooling of more than 100,000 square D 1 g ❑ ❑
feet of building area when completed.
e.Other Impacts: ❑ ❑
15. Impact on Noise,Odor,and Light
The proposed action may result in an increase in noise, odors,or outdoor lighting. ❑■ NO ❑YES
(See Part 1.D.2.m.,n., and o.)
If"Yes", answer questions a-f. If"No", go to Section 16.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may produce sound above noise levels established by local D2m ❑ ❑
regulation.
b.The proposed action may result in blasting within 1,500 feet of any residence, D2m,Eld ❑ ❑
hospital,school,licensed day care center,or nursing home.
c.The proposed action may result in routine odors for more than one hour per day. D2o ❑ ❑
Page 9 of 13 FEAF 2026
d.The proposed action may result in light shining onto adjoining properties. D2n ❑ ❑
e.The proposed action may result in lighting creating sky-glow brighter than existing D2n,Ela ❑ ❑
area conditions.
f Other impacts: ❑ ❑
16. Impact on Human Health
The proposed action may have an impact on human health from exposure Q NO ❑YES
to new or existing sources of contaminants. (See Part LD.2.q.,E.1. d. f. g. and h.)
If"Yes", answer questions a-m. If"No", go to Section 17.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action is located within 1500 feet of a school,hospital,licensed day Eld ❑ ❑
care center,group home,nursing home or retirement community.
b.The site of the proposed action is currently undergoing remediation. Elg,Elh ❑ ❑
c.There is a completed emergency spill remediation,or a completed environmental site Elg,E l h ❑ ❑
remediation on,or adjacent to,the site of the proposed action.
d.The site of the action is subject to an institutional control limiting the use of the Elg,Elh ❑ ❑
property(e.g.,easement or deed restriction).
e.The proposed action may affect institutional control measures that were put in place Elg,Elh ❑ ❑
to ensure that the site remains protective of the environment and human health.
f.The proposed action has adequate control measures in place to ensure that future D2t ❑ ❑
generation,treatment and/or disposal of hazardous wastes will be protective of the
environment and human health.
g.The proposed action involves construction or modification of a solid waste D2q,Elf ❑ ❑
management facility.
h.The proposed action may result in the unearthing of solid or hazardous waste. D2q,Elf ❑ ❑
i.The proposed action may result in an increase in the rate of disposal,or processing,of D2r,D2s ❑ ❑
solid waste.
j. The proposed action may result in excavation or other disturbance within 2000 feet of Elf,Elg ❑ ❑
a site used for the disposal of solid or hazardous waste. Elh
k.The proposed action may result in the migration of explosive gases from a landfill Elf,Elg ❑ ❑
site to adjacent off-site structures.
1. The proposed action may result in the release of contaminated leachate from the D2s,Elf, ❑ ❑
project site. D2r
in.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 10 of 13 FEAF 2026
17. Consistency with Community Plans
The proposed action is not consistent with adopted land use plans. WINO ❑YES
(See Part 1. C.1, C.2. and C.3.)
If"Yes", answer questions a-h. If`No", go to Section 18.
Relevant No, or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a. The proposed action's land use components may be different from,or in sharp C2,C3,Dla ❑
El
contrast to,current surrounding land use pattern(s). Ela,Elb
b.The proposed action will cause the permanent population of the city,town or village C2
in which the project is located to grow by more than 5%.
c.The proposed action is inconsistent with local land use plans or zoning regulations. C2,C2,C3
d.The proposed action is inconsistent with any County plans,or other regional land use C2,C2 F I ❑
plans.
e.The proposed action may cause a change in the density of development that is not C3,Dlc, El ❑
supported by existing infrastructure or is distant from existing infrastructure. D 1 d,D 1 f,
Dld,Elb
f. The proposed action is in an area characterized by low density developmentthat C4,132c,D2d ❑ El
will require new or expanded public infrastructure. D2j
g.The proposed action may induce secondary development impacts(e.g.,residential or C2a ❑ ❑
commercial development not included in the proposed action)
h.Other: ❑
El
18. Consistency with Community Character
The proposed project is inconsistent with the existing community character. �✓ NO YES
(See Part 1. C.2, C.3,D.2,E.3)
If"Yes", answer questions a-g. If"No",proceed to Part 3.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action may replace or eliminate existing facilities,structures,or areas E3e,E3f,E3g ❑
El
of historic importance to the community.
b.The proposed action may create a demand for additional community services(e.g. C4 ❑ El
schools,police and fire)
c.The proposed action may displace affordable or low-income housing in an area where C2,C3,Dlf ❑ ❑
there is a shortage of such housing. D 1 g,E t a
d.The proposed action may interfere with the use or enjoyment of officially recognized C2,E3 ❑ ❑
or designated public resources.
e.The proposed action is inconsistent with the predominant architectural scale and C2,C3 ❑ ❑
character.
f.Proposed action is inconsistent with the character of the existing natural landscape. C2,C3 ❑ ❑
Ela,Elb
E2 ,E2h
g.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 11 of 13 FEAF 2026
19. Impact on Disadvantaged Communities
The proposed project may impact a disadvantaged community. ❑✓ NO ❑YES
(See Part 1. EA)
I "Yes", answer questions a-g. I "No",proceed to Part 3.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a. Is the potentially affected disadvantaged community identified as having EAc ❑ ❑
comparatively higher burdens or vulnerabilities by the Disadvantaged
Community Assessment Tool?
b.The proposed action may create new air emissions or increase existing air emissions D.2.f-i,EA ❑ ❑
within a disadvantaged community.
c.The proposed action may create new wastewater treatment or discharges,or expand D.2.d ❑ ❑
existing wastewater treatment or discharges,within a disadvantaged community.
d.The proposed action creates or expands a solid or hazardous waste management D.2.r,D.2.s, ❑ ❑
facility,or involves the generation of solid or hazardous waste,within or near a D.2.t,E.11,
disadvantaged community. E.Lg
e.The proposed action may increase traffic within a disadvantaged community. D.2.j ❑ ❑
f. The proposed action affects or involves one or more of the following facility C.3.c,D.La, ❑ ❑
types: D.Lg,D.2.a,
i. landfill; D.2.d,D.2.f, ❑ ❑
ii. other industrial,manufacturing,or mining land uses; E.La,E.l.b. ❑ ❑
E.Lh,E.IN,
iii. major oil or chemical bulk storage facility; EA ❑ ❑
iv. municipal waste combustor; ❑ ❑
v. power generation facility;
vi. risk management plan site; ❑ ❑
vii. remediation site;or ❑ ❑
viii. scrap metal processor. ❑ ❑
g.Other impacts: ❑ ❑
Page 12 of 13 FEAF 2026
20. Future Physical Climate Risks
The proposed project may be vulnerable to future physical climate risks or increase the vulnerabilit of human or ecological
communities to future physical climate risks. P1 NO YES
(See Part 1. E.5)
f"Yes", answer questions a-e. If"No",proceed to Part 3.
Relevant No,or Moderate
Part I small to large
Question(s) impact impact may
may occur occur
a.The proposed action is vulnerable to damage from a projected 100-year flood. E2j,E5a
b.The proposed action is vulnerable to damage from a 500-year flood. E2k,E5b ❑ ❑
c. The proposed action is in an area potentially affected by sea level rise. E5c ❑ ❑
d.The proposed action may increase the vulnerability of human or ecological E5d ❑ ❑
communities to the following:
i. drought ❑
ii.temperature extremes(hot or cold)
iii. extreme storms,including high winds ❑ ❑
iv.landslides
v.coastal erosion
vi. stormwater flooding
vii.other climate or weather hazards? If yes,describe: El E-1
e.Other impacts: El
Page 13 of 13 FEAF 2026
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
The Ulysses Town Board has reviewed and accepted Part 1 of the Full Environmental Assessment
Form (EAF) for this action. The Town Board completed a coordinated review under the State
Environmental Quality Review(SEAR) Regulations and received no objections to being designated
Lead Agency. The Town Board designated itself as the lead agency and, under the provisions of
Part 617 of the SEAR Regulations, has given a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the
impacts likely to result from the proposed Action.
The proposed action being considered, adoption of the Comprehensive Plan as a policy document
which does not include physical development. Development patterns reflected in the future land
use plan and throughout the document do not occur suddenly and may not occur at all. Future
actions will occur independently of this plan and each other, are under varied ownership, occur
in an uncommon location, are not induced by the current action, and future actions do not share
common impacts.
As a result, an analysis of the Plan's physical impacts on development patterns is considered
speculative. The State Environmental Quality Review Process will occur as future actions are
applied for or seeking approvals. Analyzing and reviewing physical projects result in a more
accurate environmental review process and these reviews will be no less protective of the
environment.
The following analysis identifies the expected impacts that the Plan will have on the community
based upon the criteria in the FEAF part 2 and the supporting reasoning.
1
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
1. Impact on Land
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no impact on land.
Future development will be required to meet all Town and NYS standards for
development.The Comprehensive Plan includes policy guidance that development should
not jeopardize environmentally sensitive landscapes (e.g. Steep Slopes).
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and numerous
others and received no comments about impacts on land.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
2. Impact on Geological Features
There are no known unique or unusual land forms in the Town.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
3. Impacts on Surface Water
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no impact on surface water.
Future development will be required to meet all Town and NYS standards for development
including preparation of a stormwater pollution protection plan (SWPPP) or securing
wetland permits, if applicable. The Comprehensive Plan includes a goal to proactively
preserve and protect the natural and environmental resources in Ulysses (e.g. Wetlands,
Woodlands, Lakeshore, etc.).
2
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and numerous
others and received no comments about impacts on surface water.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
4. Impact on Groundwater
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no impact on groundwater.
The future land use of this plan does envision some residential uses in areas currently
without water and sewer services,therefore necessitating the use of private wells and on-
site wastewater treatment systems. This is similar to existing development patterns and
the existing, adopted comprehensive plan, and does not represent a policy change.
However, the draft 2045 Comprehensive Plan also envisions the extension of water and
sewer services in some areas to reduce demand for on-site water/sewer services. It
further intends to focus residential development,on areas with services existing or
planned, thereby minimizing groundwater usage.
Future development will be required to meet all Town and NYS standards for development
including subdivision and/or site plan approval from the Town Planning Board which will
consider the availability and impact of services.
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as the Town
Planning Board, Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation, and numerous others. The Town received no comments about impacts on
groundwater.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
5. Impact on Flooding
3
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no impact on flooding.
Future development will be required to meet all Town and NYS standards for development
including securing floodplain development permits, where applicable. The
Comprehensive Plan includes an objective, and associated policies, to reduce impacts of
flooding throughout Ulysses, and it includes a separate policy to identify lands subject to
flooding and restrict housing development within those areas.
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and numerous
others, and received no comments about impacts on flooding.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
6. Impacts on Air and Climate
Because this action involves no state regulated air emissions, there will be no impact on
air. Further, the plan includes a climate change chapter that addresses policies to prepare
for climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
7. Impact on Plants and Animals
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no impact on plants and animals.
Future development will be required to meet all Town, NYS, and Federal standards for
development including permits for impacts to endangered, threatened, or protected
species and their habitats. Development will also utilize the IPac tool for evaluating future
impacts. The Comprehensive Plan noted that there are threatened and endangered flora
and fauna in the Town. As a result, it includes a policy to Work with the U.S. Fish and
4
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
Wildlife Service to learn about threatened and endangered species and to share resources
and measures that can be taken to protect these species during future development.
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and numerous
others, and received no comments about impacts on plants and animals.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no"
8. Impact on Agricultural Resources
The proposed action, adoption of a municipal plan may impact agricultural resources
through policies related to agricultural operations and land management.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "yes."
a. The proposed action may impact soil classified within soil group 1 through 4 of the NYS
Land Classification System.
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on agricultural soils.
Most of the Town of Ulysses consists of Prime Farmland in soil groups 1 through 4. Within
the Future Land Use section of the Plan, the majority of the Town is within the Agricultural
& Natural Resources Lands, Resource Conservation, Low-Density Residential, or Rural
Residential future land use category. These categories are intended to protect and
conserve agricultural uses or minimize impacts.
The Comprehensive Plan states that "The Town is committed to preserving and enhancing
the agricultural land base, promoting economic activities, and marketing support for a
strong agricultural industry." Further, the Plan includes an objective to keep farmland
active and productive.Where future development is proposed,the zoning and subdivision
codes include protections to minimize impacts to agricultural lands. The Planning Board
5
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
will review for these impacts, where applicable. The Plan also includes a policy to allow
conservation subdivisions as a way to preserve farmland.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and
numerous others, and received no comments about impacts on agricultural soils.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
b. The proposed action may sever, cross, or otherwise limit access to agricultural land
(includes cropland, hayfields, pasture, vineyard, orchard, etc).
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on agricultural access.
The Comprehensive Plan states that "The Town is committed to preserving and enhancing
the agricultural land base, promoting economic activities, and marketing support for a
strong agricultural industry." Further, the Plan includes an objective to keep farmland
active and productive. Where future development is proposed on these lands, the zoning
and subdivision codes include protections to minimize impacts to these Iands.The
Planning Board will review for these impacts, where applicable.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and
numerous others, and received no comments about impacts on agricultural soils.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
c. The proposed action may result in the excavation or compaction of the soil profile of
active agricultural land.
6
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a
policy document, there will be no direct impact on excavation or compaction of
agricultural soils.
The Comprehensive Plan states that "The Town is committed to preserving and
enhancing the agricultural land base, promoting economic activities, and marketing
support for a strong agricultural industry." Further, the Plan includes an objective to keep
farmland active and productive. Where future development is proposed on these lands,
the zoning and subdivision codes include protections to minimize impacts to these lands.
The Planning Board will review for these impacts, where applicable.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and
numerous others and received no comments about impacts on agricultural soils.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
d. The proposed action may irreversibly convert agricultural land to non-agricultural
uses, either more than 2.5 acres if located in an Agricultural District, or more than 10
acres if not within an Agricultural District.
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a
policy document, there will be no direct conversion of agricultural lands as a result of
this action.
Within the Future Land Use section of the Plan, the majority of the Town is within the
Agricultural & Natural Resources Lands, Resource Conservation, Low-Density Residential,
or Rural Residential future land use category. These categories are intended to protect
and conserve agricultural uses or minimize impacts. The Comprehensive Plan states that
"The Town is committed to preserving and enhancing the agricultural land base,
promoting economic activities, and marketing support for a strong agricultural industry."
It further states "the Town should apply strict regulatory measures for the conversion of
these Agricultural and Natural Resource Designated lands away from agriculture and
7
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
natural resource uses."Additionally, the Plan includes an objective to keep farmland
active and productive.
Where future development is proposed on these lands, the zoning and subdivision codes
include protections to minimize impacts to these lands. The Planning Board will review
for these impacts, where applicable. The Plan also includes a policy to allow
conservation subdivisions to preserve farmland. Further, the plan directs future
development to currently developed nodes and corridors within the Town, such as the
Hamlet of Jacksonville and th Route 96 Corridor to minimize the conversion of
agricultural lands
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and
numerous others and received no comments about impacts on agricultural land
conversion.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
e. The proposed action may disrupt or prevent installation of an agricultural land
management system
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a
policy document, there will be no direct impact on agricultural land management
systems.
The Comprehensive Plan states that "The Town is committed to preserving and
enhancing the agricultural land base, promoting economic activities, and marketing
support for a strong agricultural industry." Further, the Plan includes an objective to keep
farmland active and productive. Where future development is proposed on these lands,
the zoning and subdivision codes include protections to minimize impacts to these lands.
The Planning Board will review for these impacts, where applicable.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and
8
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
numerous others, and received no comments about impacts on agricultural land
management systems.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
f. The proposed action may result, directly or indirectly, in increased development
potential or pressure on farmland.
Because this action involves no changes to development regulations and includes only the
adoption of a policy document, there will be no direct increase in development potential
on farmland as a result of this action.
Within the Future Land Use section of the Plan, the majority of the Town is within the
Agricultural & Natural Resources Lands, Resource Conservation, Low-Density Residential,
or Rural Residential future land use category. These categories are intended to protect
and conserve agricultural uses or minimize impacts. Many low-density and rural
residential parcels already exist on the ground and are reflected on the Future Land Use
Map. Future development, like medium-density residential, is concentrated along State
Route 96, on Cold Springs Road, and around the Village.This development pattern follows
existing water infrastructure. Organizing development along this corridor prevents
housing from sprawling/developing onto productive agricultural lands. Additionally, by
concentrating development potential in these areas, it will relieve development pressure
on farmland.
The Comprehensive Plan states that "The Town is committed to preserving and
enhancing the agricultural land base, promoting economic activities, and marketing
support for a strong agricultural industry." It further states, "the Town should apply strict
regulatory measures for the conversion of these Agricultural and Natural Resource
Designated lands away from agriculture and natural resource uses."Additionally, the
Plan includes an objective to keep farmland active and productive. Where future
development is proposed, the zoning and subdivision codes include protections to
minimize impacts to these Iands.The Planning Board will review for these impacts, where
applicable. The Plan also includes a policy to allow conservation subdivisions as a way to
preserve farmland. Further, the plan directs future development to currently developed
9
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
nodes and corridors within the Town, such as the Hamlet of Jacksonville and the Route
96 Corridor to minimize the conversion of agricultural lands
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and
numerous others, and received no comments about impacts on agricultural land
conversion.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact"
g. The proposed project is not consistent with the adopted municipal Farmland Protection
Plan.
The Farmland Protection Plan recognizes that development is occurring within the Route
96 Corridor South, Lakefront, Village Edge, Agricultural core, and Hamlet areas. The
Farmland Protection Plan suggests development to occur around the Village Edge and
Hamlet. The Lakefront continues to develop while remaining limited between Dubois
Road and Route 89. Many parcels within the Route 96 corridor are already developed and
may not be in the Agricultural District.
The Comprehensive Plan provides goals and objectives supporting the preservation of
farmland through land use policies and education. Both plans support and discuss policies
relating to the right to farm law and cluster or conservation subdivision policies.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
9. Impact on Aesthetic Resources
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on aesthetic resources. The future land use plan
designates areas around scenic or aesthetic resources as Parks and Open Space, which is
intended to preserve them.
10
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Office of
Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation,the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor,
and nearby municipalities and received no comments about impacts on aesthetic
resources.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no"
10. Impact on Historic and Archaeological Resources
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on Historic and Archaeological Resources.
The plan includes a section, Built Environment, with numerous goals and policies relating
to the preservation of historic resources.
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Office of
Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation,the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor,
and nearby municipalities and received no comments about impacts on aesthetic
resources.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no"
11. Impact on Open Space and Recreation
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct loss on Open Space and Recreation resources.
The plan includes an element, Community Well-Being, with numerous goals, objectives,
and policies relating to the increase and enhancement of recreation and open space
resources.
11
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
The Town coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as Tompkins
County, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, NYS Office of
Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation,the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor,
and nearby municipalities and received no comments about impacts on aesthetic
resources.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no"
12. Impact on Critical Environmental Areas
Based on the NYS DEC Info Locator, there are no Critical Environmental Areas in the Town
of Ulysses.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
13. Impact on Transportation.
The proposed action,the adoption of a municipal plan may impact transportation systems
through policies related to land use and transportation networks.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "yes."
a. Projected traffic increase may exceed capacity of existing road network.
As part of this action, there are no projected traffic increases. Future development
patterns are required to create traffic impact analysis, where appropriate. Where future
development is proposed, the zoning and subdivision codes include protections to
minimize impacts to road networks, and the Planning Board will review for these impacts,
where applicable.
Based on medium-density housing development patterns and uses (single-family, two-
family, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units), the project may add some additional
12
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
vehicles to the road network. However, the plan includes alternate transportation options
such as walking, biking, and transit to reduce vehicle miles traveled per household.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Transportation, and numerous
others and received no comments about transportation impacts.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
b. The proposed action may result in the construction of paved parking area for 500 or
more vehicles.
Because this action involves no changes to development regulations and includes only
the adoption of a policy document, it will not result in the construction of a paved
parking area. Future development is not envisioned to create large-scale housing or
commercial development resulting in a parking area of 500 or more.
The Comprehensive Plan states that the Town should encourage shared parking. The
Town also does not have minimum parking requirements, which results in excessive
parking.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Transportation, and numerous
others, and received no comments about impacts on transportation.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
c. The proposed action will degrade existing transit access.
Existing transit service, such as TCAT, is limited in Ulysses. Development patterns will not
degrade existing access to established roads or bus services. Future land use envisions
development nearby existing TCAT routes and stops to increase transit access.
13
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Transportation, and numerous
others, and received no comments about impacts on transportation.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact"
d. The proposed action will degrade existing pedestrian or bicycle accommodations.
The Comprehensive Plan identified ways to improve pedestrian and bicycle
accommodations and road safety. Transportation objective T-0-1.1 states, "Support and
provide additional opportunities for people to utilize alternative modes of transportation,
including public transit, bicycles, and walking.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Transportation, and numerous
others ,and received no comments about impacts on transportation.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
e. The proposed action may alter the present pattern of movement of people or goods.
Additional development will not change how people and goods travel through the area.
New development isn't expected to change the road network. Likewise, there are no
significant commercial or industrial developments.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with interested agencies such as
Tompkins County, the New York State Department of Transportation, and numerous
others, and received no comments about impacts on transportation.
Therefore, the Town Board determines there will be "no to small impact."
14. Impact on Energy
14
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a
policy document, there will be no direct impact on energy usage.
Impacts on energy will be evaluated on a project by project basis in the future and will be
subject to SEAR as necessary. These projects will also be reviewed by the local utility
agency for impacts and required investments in the energy infrastructure.
The Comprehensive Plan includes a policy to improve energy efficiency in existing
residences and commercial buildings. The Plan also includes a climate change and
resiliency element with an objective related to sustainable development practices, such
as recycling strategies (CR-0-3.2). A number of policies are directed towards energy
efficiency and renewable energy. Additionally, by encouraging infill development or
development around existing developed areas, there will be less energy consumed and
less need to expand infrastructure. There is further no proposed large energy users in the
Plan.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no"
15. Impact on Noise, Odor, and Light.
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on noise, odor, and light. Generally, noise, odor,
and light levels will not change from current levels.
The Comprehensive Plan does not contemplate major industrial or commercial users and
potential impacts from them. Blasting is not foreseen or included in the Comprehensive
Plan. Future impacts on noise, odor, and light will be evaluated on a project by project
basis in the future and will be subject to SEAR as necessary. They will further be subject
to Town regulations such as zoning which provides standards for outdoor lighting to
reduce glare and light trespass. The Environmental and Natural Resource policy, EN-P-
1.1.7, recommends adopting design standards for commercial and residential properties
to preserve dark skies. Also zoning requires Planning Board review in certain instances
which would evaluate impacts to noise, odor and lighting.
15
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
16. Impact on Human Health.
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on human health from exposure to sources of
contaminants. Additionally, there are no known remediation sites in the Town.
Future development will be subject to compliance with applicable SEAR regulations
including consideration of chemical applications and subject to necessary environmental
permits.
Therefore, the Town Board has checked "no."
17. Consistency with Community Plans.
The proposed action is the adoption of a new land use plan. This new plan's future land
use components are generally consistent with the currently adopted future land use
plan, and it is in line with existing land use patterns. Upon assessment of the existing
Ulysses Land Use and Land Cover map (Figure LR-2), State Route 96 and Cold Springs
Road are occupied by residential housing. This indicates that housing patterns exist at
these locations and are not unrealistic to current land use conditions or the Future Land
Use Map. The lakeshore and conservation areas are recognized in this Comprehensive
Plan and continue to preserve low-density housing, agriculture, or environmental
conservation. Parkland is also recognized and protected. Agriculture continues to be
preserved throughout the Town.
According to the Comprehensive Plan, the 2024 Ulysses Population was 4,894. A 5%
increase results in 245 additional people.The Comprehensive Plan does will not cause the
population to grow by more than 5%as much of this growth is baked into regional demand
for housing. The Comprehensive Plan attempts to accommodate existing demand for
housing and shifts development patterns to minimize impacts from new population. It
does this by favoring new housing in locations with existing infrastructure to minimize the
need to extend infrastructure into new land.
16
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
An analysis was done by the Town Planner comparing the existing zoning uses with the
uses included in the future land use plan. There were no new uses that did not fit into
the existing zoning code. The development patterns in the adopted 2009 and proposed
2045 Future Land Use Plans are generally similar. The Lakeshore and Conservation
categories have stayed relatively the same when comparing on the map. The
Conservation Character Area is also recognized on both maps in the north-western
section of Ulysses. Parkland continues to be protected. Similar to the 2009 Future Land
Use Plan, housing is focused around the Village of Trumansburg and the Hamlet of
Jacksonville. Although housing isn't an obvious use in the 2009 Future Land Use Plan,
the Agricultural land use allows single-family and cluster residential development as
appropriate.
In developing the Comprehensive Plan, the Town considered adopted local, county, and
regional land use plans and attempted to incorporate them into the Comprehensive Plan
to ensure consistency. The County Plan encourages nodal development to avoid housing
sprawl. The Town's Comprehensive Plan encourages nodal development particularly
around the hamlet of Jacksonville.
This action, adopting the Comprehensive Plan, will not cause secondary development
impacts because there are no first order development impacts.
Therefore, the Town board has checked "no."
18. Consistency with Community Character.
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on community character.
Existing facilities, structures, and areas of historic importance will not be replaced or
eliminated because the Plan recognizes hamlets and historically sensitive sites in the
Future Land Use Plan. Additionally, a plan chapter is dedicated to the built environment
and historic preservation.
17
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYREVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
The development patterns envisioned in the Comprehensive Plan would reduce the
demand for community service all else equal by minimizing service area expansion for
police, fire, and school bussing. The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with
interested agencies such as Tompkins County, Trumansburg and Ithaca School Districts,
and numerous others and received no comments about impacts on community services.
The Housing chapter thoroughly discusses the importance of affordable housing. It
provides many housing goals and objectives related to affordable housing. For example,
H-G-1 includes making sure housing opportunities are accessible, attractive, and
affordable for all income levels.
The Comprehensive Plan will not interfere with the use and enjoyment of public
resources because the Plan envisions the protection, enhancement, and expansion of
these resources.
The Comprehensive plan is consistent with the architectural scale and character of the
Jacksonville and Waterburg hamlets. It further preserves the existing natural landscape
as much as possible.
Therefore, the Town board has checked "no."
19. Impacts on Disadvantaged Communities
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a policy
document, there will be no direct impact on disadvantaged communities. According to
the NY State Disadvantaged Community Assessment Tool, there are no disadvantaged
communities in Ulysses.
The plan includes a section, Housing, which discusses accessible, affordable, and inclusive
housing for all demographics. It also discusses engaging historically underrepresented
communities when implementing land use and housing policies. There are numerous
Housing goals, objectives, and policies that discuss housing for various demographics and
fair and equal housing for all.
18
TOWN OF ULYSSES TOWN BOARD
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW(SEQR)FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM(EAF)PART 3
EVALUATION OF THE MAGNITUDEAND IMPORTANCE OF THE PROJECT IMPACTS AND DETERMINATION OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan Impact on Community Review
June 30, 2026
Therefore, the Town board has checked "no."
20. Future Physical Climate Risk
Because this action involves no physical changes and includes only the adoption of a
policy document, there will be no direct impact on human or ecological communities.
Based on FEMA flood mapping, the plan will not impact 100-year or 500-year
floodplains. Additionally, the Plan addresses reducing flood impacts through plan policy.
The plan includes a section, Climate and Resiliency, which discusses climate change and
its respective impacts on natural resources and the broader community.The plan includes
policies to prepare for climate change, identify vulnerable ecological and social
populations, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The Town received a NY Department of Environmental Conservation Climate Smart
Communities Grant and dedicated an entire comprehensive plan chapter to climate
change. Throughout the plan, sustainability policies are incorporated.
The Town Board coordinated a review of this draft with the Department of Environmental
Conservation, which was identified as a potential lead agency. The Board did not receive
comments about climate change from the Department of Environmental Conservation.
Therefore, the Town board has checked "no."
19
Agency Use Only [IfApplicablel
Project
Date:
Full Environmental Assessment Form
Part 3 -Evaluation of the Magnitude and Importance of Project Impacts
and
Determination of Significance
Part 3 provides the reasons in support of the determination of significance. The lead agency must complete Part 3 for every question
in Part 2 where the impact has been identified as potentially moderate to large or where there is a need to explain why a particular
element of the proposed action will not,or may,result in a significant adverse environmental impact.
Based on the analysis in Part 3,the lead agency must decide whether to require an environmental impact statement to further assess
the proposed action or whether available information is sufficient for the lead agency to conclude the proposed action will not have
a significant adverse environmental impact. By completing the certification on the next page,the lead agency can complete its
determination of significance.
Reasons Supporting This Determination:
To complete this section:
• Identify the impact based on the Part 2 responses and describe its magnitude. Magnitude considers factors such as severity,
size,or extent of an impact.
• Assess the importance of the impact. Importance relates to the geographic scope,duration,probability of the impact
occurring,number of people affected by the impact,and any additional environmental consequences if the impact were to
occur.
• The assessment should take into consideration any design element or project changes.
• Repeat this process for each Part 2 question where the impact has been identified as potentially moderate to large or where
there is a need to explain why a particular element of the proposed action will not,or may,result in a significant adverse
environmental impact.
• Provide the reason(s)why the impact may,or will not,result in a significant adverse environmental impact.
• For Conditional Negative Declarations identify the specific condition(s)imposed that will modify the proposed action so that
no significant adverse environmental impacts will result.
• Attach additional sheets,as needed.
The Town of Ulysses Town Board has reviewed and accepted Part 1 of the Full Environmental
Assessment Form (EAF) for this action. The Town Board completed a coordinated review under the
State Environmental Quality Review (SEAR) Regulations and received no objections to being
designated Lead Agency. The Town Board in a separate resolution designated themselves as Lead
Agency, and as Lead Agency for this Action under the provisions of Part 617 of the SEQR Regulations
has given a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the impacts likely to result from the proposed
Action. Based upon this evaluation and the Town Board's review of the Full EAF Part 2 and Part 3, the
Town Board in a separate resolution adopted a determination that the proposed 2045 Town of Ulysses
Comprehensive Plan Adoption WILL NOT have a significant adverse impact on the surrounding lands,
surface water, traffic, energy use, wildlife, aesthetic resources, natural resources, flooding or
drainage, or human health and that a Negative Declaration is issued. Please see the attached
documentation supporting the Full EAF in support of this decision.
Determination of Significance - Type 1 and Unlisted Actions
SEQR Status: El Type 1 ❑ Unlisted
Identify portions of EAF completed for this Project: I] Part 1 I] Part 2 I] Part 3
FEAF 2026
Upon review of the information recorded on this EAF,as noted,plus this additional support information
FEAF Part 1, 2, and 3; the draft Comprehensive Plan; comments from interested and involved agencies; and,
comments from the public hearings.
and considering both the magnitude and importance of each identified potential impact,it is the conclusion of the
Town of Ulysses Town Board as lead agency that:
❑J A. This project will result in no significant adverse impacts on the environment,and,therefore,an environmental impact
statement need not be prepared. Accordingly,this negative declaration is issued.
❑ B. Although this project could have a significant adverse impact on the environment,that impact will be avoided or
substantially mitigated because of the following conditions that will be required by the lead agency:
There will,therefore,be no significant adverse impacts from the project as conditioned,and,therefore,this conditioned negative
declaration is issued. A conditioned negative declaration may be used only for UNLISTED actions(see 6 NYCRR 617.7(d)).
❑ C. This Project may result in one or more significant adverse impacts on the environment and an environmental impact
statement must be prepared to further assess the impact(s)and possible mitigation and to explore alternatives to avoid or reduce those
impacts. Accordingly,this positive declaration is issued.
Name of Action: 2045 Town of Ulysses Comprehensive Plan
Name of Lead Agency: Town of Ulysses Town Board
Name of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency: Katelln Olson
Title of Responsible Officer: Town Supervisor
Signature of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency: Date:
Signature of Preparer(if different from Responsible Officer) Eric Cooper, MRB Group Date: ,June 9,2026
For Further Information:
Contact Person: Carissa Parlato,Town of Ulysses Town Clerk
Address: 10 Elm Street,Trumansburg,NY 14886
Telephone Number: (607)387-5767 ext.22
E-mail: clerk@townofulyssesny.gov
For Type 1 Actions and Conditioned Negative Declarations,a copy of this Notice is sent to:
Chief Executive Officer of the political subdivision in which the action will be principally located(e.g.,Town/City/Village of)
Other involved agencies(if any)
Applicant(if any)
Environmental Notice Bulletin: http://www.dec.ny.gov/enb/enb.html
Page 2 of 2 FEAF 2026
TOWN OF ULYSSES
LOCAL LAW NO. FOR THE YEAR 2026
A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 200 OF THE TOWN CODE
Be it enacted by the Town Board of the Town of Ulysses as follows:
Section 1. Statutory Authority
The Town has authority to adopt this Local Law pursuant to Article IX, § 2(c) of the New York
State Constitution; Municipal Home Rule Law § 10, including but not limited to Municipal Home
Rule Law § I0(1)(i) and § 10(1)(ii)(a); and the Town Law of the State of New York, including but
not limited to Town Law §198.
Section 2.Amendment of Section 200-4(M)
Section 200-4(M) is amended by replacing said section entirely with the following:
Master meter required. When multiple living units exist on a single parcel, a single master meter
shall be installed measuring all water consumed on the parcel. Upon application by the owner(s)
of a parcel,the Town Board may, in its reasonable discretion and subject to approval by the Water
District Operator,authorize at the sole cost and expense of the owner(s)installation of water meters
for each separate living unit in addition to the master meter. In such event, the owner(s) shall
remain directly responsible for payment of all water user fees,rates,rents and charges as measured
by the master meter, even when the Town of Ulysses sends a bill to the person(s) occupying such
living units.
Section 3.Amendment of Section 200-10(A)
Section 200-10(A) is amended by replacing said section entirely with the following:
User fees. User fees shall be assessed to each property within the service area for the purposes of
retiring debt and operation and maintenance. User fees and formulas for determining user fees
shall be established in accordance with New York State Town Law and may be modified from time
to time by resolution of the Town Board after following all procedures required by New York State
Town Law. User fees may be included on the tax bills for each property within the service area,
and payment for same shall be made at the same time and at the same place as specified for other
Town charges.
Section 4.Amendment of Section 200-10(C)(1)
Section 200-10(C)(1) is amended by replacing said section entirely with the following:
If there shall be any payments which are due to the Town of Ulysses,or any Department or District
thereof, pursuant to any section of this article, which shall remain due and unpaid, in whole or in
part, for a period of 30 calendar days from the date of payment due to the Town of Ulysses, the
same shall constitute a default, and there shall be added to the entire amount of the original bill, a
penalty equal as set forth from time to time by resolution of the Town Board.
Section 5. Remainder
Except as hereinabove amended, the remainder of the Code of the Town of Ulysses shall remain
in full force and effect.
Section 6. Effective Date
This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing with the New York Secretary of State in
accordance with Section 27 of the Municipal Home Rule Law.