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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-04-07 Town Board Meeting MinutesTown of Danby Town Board Regular Meeting Minutes Held Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, at the Danby Town Hall F i k N 1> .` Board Members Present: Joel Gagnon, Town Supervisor Leslie Connors Mariah Dillon Zachary Larkins Mark Pruce Town Staff and Officials: Blake Savoy, Town Clerk Greg Hutnik, Town Planner Laura Shawley, Town Bookkeeper Ted Jones, Town Bookkeeper Gary Huddle, Town Justice Theresa Klinger, Town Justice Other Attendees: Ronda Roaring Ted Crane Jim Holahan Toby Dean Captain Charles Tilton Pat Woodworth Susan Perri Cynthia Coleman Kyle Pluckrose Jennifer Gabriel Charles Ackerman Mack Rovenault HG Joel Lamson Katharine Hunter Erin Caruth Alexander Capalongo Eric Banford Jonathan Petronzio Ashley J Angelo Peters Sara Pruce Cindy Katz Simeon Jake Mark Karlsen Kartik Sribarra Tom Janda Steve Selin Laura Vineyard Brian VanderVen Anthony Wells Dale Lewis Billington Betsy Keokosky H Coffey Scott Davis Meeting Called to Order at 6:01Pm Zoning Amendments Public Hearing As was publicized in the Ithaca Journal, a public hearing was held for the Zoning Amendments Local Law. Steve Selin stated his opposition to a section prohibiting the on -premises sale of alcohol by clubhouses, halls, and temples within the Hamlet Center zoning district. Planner Hutnik stated he would respond later in the meeting but noted that the section he referenced was not new and that he himself had questions about that passage. Ted Crane stated his opposition to "close and tall' urban areas in Danby, noting that the draft allows structures to be closer together. The Public Hearine was closed at 6:08nm and the regular meeting continued. Additions/Deletions to the Agenda -Request for Funding to Accomplish EV Charging Station at Town Hall- Jim Holahan -Court Audit Privilege of the Floor Ted Crane announced a Danby Road Clean-up on Saturday, April 181h and directed any who were interested in participating to contact him. He opined that the EV charger(s) at Town Hall should be free for public use. He expressed favor towards codifying the prevention of data centers in Danby. On the topic of the Tompkins County Ethics Advisory Board's findings regarding a potential conflict of interest in the Supervisor's hiring of a tenant, he opined that even the appearance of a conflict of interest should be avoided. He noted that the correspondences on the agenda were not linked. He opined that FLOCK cameras would not be effective in Danby and that they're not needed. Finally, he opined that a statement in the previous meeting's minutes should be under announcements, not correspondence. ClerkSavo responded regarding the correspondence, expressing concerns for residents' safety and stating that those interested in seeing the correspondence can reach out to him for a copy. Steve Selin opined that FLOCK cameras disconcerted him. He expressed an appreciation for democracy. He opined that the draft of the Special Events Law should have been posted sooner, which would have allowed the public more opportunity to digest the content and form opinions ahead of the meeting, and expressed that the process isn't working. Planner Hutnik explained the process of creating drafts and then adding updated versions to the website or to the meeting's agenda. He noted that this circumstance was an unfortunate "poor judgement call" wherein the intent to present a more complete draft led to the draft being posted on the day of the meeting. Katharine Hunter stated that these laws impact all people in Danby, not just one. She suggested labeling drafts as something else to prevent confusion with a more formal proposal. Tom Janda agreed with Steve Selin about the draft. He opined that the Special Events Law would impact any businesses that would potentially come to Danby, not just the existing ones. Steve Selin suggested there be more discussion of the draft, and potentially the creation of a special working group. Tom Janda asked how different the two drafted versions of the Special Events Law were. Ted Crane commented on the momentum generated by discussion of a topic. Correspondence • Email from Betsy Keokosky "Danby resolution supporting State Moratorium on Data Centers" • Email from Jim Davis "Peter Rd" • Email from Katharine Hunter about Taps Across America • Email from Betsy Keokosky "Danby Data Center Moratorium Resolution April 2026 - a more formal version" • Email from Julie Clougherty "Input about the proposed Special Events law" • Email from Scott Davis "Wasn't alarmist" • Email from Jennifer Tiffany "Support for moratorium resolution and zoning amendments regarding data centers, data mining, and cryptocurrency" • Email from Susan Perri "Draft Special Events Law" • Email from Katharine Hunter "One more opinion from Katharine" Announcements No announcements were made. 2 1 P a ge Reports and Presentations • Town Clerk's Monthly Report FLOCK camera update o Supervisor Gagnon provided an update that FLOCK cameras had not been put up in Danby and that the Tompkins County Legislature was considering cancelling the contract with FLOCK. Sheriff Derek Osbourne, who was invited to speak at this meeting, would be attending that meeting instead. It is unclear whether cancellation of the FLOCK contract would mean that no other kind of license plate readers would be installed. • Supervisor's Account Analyses Minutes Resolution 122 of 2026 to Approve the March 17th, 2026 Meeting Minutes Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Gagnon Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 122 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Credit Card Bill Bookkeeper Shawley noted the Board could approve payment ahead of their audit, given that the bill would be due before the next regular meeting on April 21st. The Board discussed whether to hold a special meeting or approve the payment of the credit card at the current meeting. Resolution 123 of 2026 to Hold a Special Meeting to Approve the Credit Card Bill on Thursday, April 16th at 4pm Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Pruce Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon No Resolution 123 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 After the vote, Bookkeeper Shawley noted this as an example of compliance with the OSC auditor's recommendations. Warrant Abstract 7 of 2026 Resolution 124 of 2026 to Approve General Fund Vouchers # 115-138 for $25,927.48 Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Dillon Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes 3 1 P a g e Gagnon Yes Resolution 124 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Resolution 125 of 2026 to Approve Highway Fund Vouchers #49-61 for $29,971.84 Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Dillon Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 125 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Business Consideration Enacting Zoning Amendments. Local Law # 1 of 2026 Planner Hutnik reviewed the current draft of the Zoning Amendments Local Law with the Board, including the State Environmental Quality Review application. Resolution 126 of 2026- Determination of Environmental Significance for Adopting Local Law No. 1 of 2026, Amendments to the Zoning Law, Local Law No. 1 of 2022 Whereas the Town of Danby Town Board desires to amend Sections 401, 501, 604, 605, 705, Appendix I, and Appendix II of the Zoning Law, Local Law No. 1 of 2022 ("Local Law No. 1 of 2026"); and Whereas Section 1200 of the Zoning Law authorizes the Town Board to amend its regulations from time to time; and Whereas adoption of Local Law No. 1 of 2026 is a Type 1 action per 6 CRR-NY 617.4.b.2: "the adoption of changes in the allowable uses within any zoning district, affecting 25 or more acres of the district"; and Whereas the Town Board accepts as adequate Parts 1, 2, and 3 of the Full Environmental Assessment Form, prepared by the Town Planner; Now therefore be it Resolved that the Town Board of the Town of Danby, after careful consideration of the potential environmental impacts of adopting Local Law No. 1 of 2026, finds that the adoption of the law will not have an adverse effect on the environment and issues a Negative Determination for purposes of State Environmental Quality Review. Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Pruce Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Abstain Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 126 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 The Board and Planner Hutnik continued their review of the draft, specifically the sections regarding data centers. Planner Hutnik reported that the Planning Board submitted comments regarding the definitions of "accessory data centers", with concerns that it could potentially impact operations that would not otherwise qualify as data centers. To clarify this, Planner Hutnik introduced the option of adding a sentence to the definition of "accessory data center" to include "[A]n accessory data center is one that will use 500 kilowatt-hours (0.5 MWh) of electricity or more per day". He explained that adding this sentence would need to be its own resolution, but that it would not be a substantive change requiring renotification or another public hearing. Steve Selin asked if the prospective clause would then require entities to show their usage, such as through power bills. Planner Hutnik affirmed that this would be the case. Ted Crane commented that the term should be megawatt hours and that half a megawatt -hour is too high as technological advancements potentially continue to decrease the energy needed in data- processing and computing. Resolution 127 of 2026 to Amend the Definition of "Accessory Data Center" to add "An accessory data center is one that will use 500 kilowatt-hours (0.5 MWh) of electricity or more per day" Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Connors Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 127 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Resolution 128 of 2026 — Adoption of Local Law No. 1 of 2026, Amendments to the Zoning Law, Local Law No. 1 of 2022 Whereas the Town of Danby Town Board, based on recommendations from the Town's Regulatory Review Committee and Planning Board, wishes to amend Sections 401, 501, 604, 605, 705, Appendix I, and Appendix II of the Zoning Law, Local Law No. 1 of 2022 ("Local Law No. 1 of 2026"); and Whereas Section 1200 of the Zoning Law authorizes the Town Board to amend its regulations from time to time; and Whereas adoption of Local Law No. 1 of 2026 is a Type 1 action per 6 CRR-NY 617.4.b.2: "the adoption of changes in the allowable uses within any zoning district, affecting 25 or more acres of the district"; and Whereas the Town Board issued a Negative Determination of environmental significance pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act on April 7, 2026; and Whereas a public hearing was held at the Danby Town Hall, 1830 Danby Road, Ithaca, NY, 14850 at 6:00 PM on April 7, 2026, after notice was duly given in the paper of general circulation in the town at least ten (10) days in advance of such hearing; and Whereas pursuant to Section 1200 of the Zoning Law, a written notice of the proposed amendments affecting property within 500 feet of the boundaries of any state park or parkway was given to the regional State Park Commission having jurisdiction over such park or parkway at least ten (10) days prior to the date of such public hearing; and Whereas Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability pursuant to §239 -1, -m and -n of the New York State General Municipal Law determined that the proposed amendments to the Zoning Law will not have significant county -wide or inter -community impacts; 5 1 P a g e Now therefore be it Resolved that the Town Board of the Town of Danby adopts Local Law No. 1 of 2026 on April 7, 2026; and Resolved Further that the Town Clerk shall file Local Law No. 1 of 2026 with the Department of State. Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Dillon Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 128 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Special Events Law Discussion The Board, Planner Hutnik, and several residents commented on the current draft of the Special Events Law. Residents expressed frustration about two drafts of the law being circulated for discussion, noting that one was only publicly shared that morning. Several Board Members acknowledged the frustration and noted the challenges of these kinds of working documents regarding publication, including last minute changes ahead of a meeting or having several drafts in active circulation for consideration. Steve Selin commented that he would like to see more input from audio consultants regarding the noise -related portions of the draft and suggested removing the description of professional sound equipment. Ted Crane gave examples of potential loopholes that could be problematic, such as charging for food in lieu of an entrance fee. He suggested a change from descriptions based on sound equipment to one based on anticipated noise. Angelo Peters asked whether any audio professionals have been consulted and opined that the 60dB drafted was too restrictive. Planner Hutnik responded that one had been consulted. Ted Crane opined that 65dB maybe better and suggested a two-part measurement to account for the exponential decrease in decibel measurement, such as an audio measurement taken at the property line and another a fixed distance within the neighboring property. The Board and residents continued to discuss the drafts presented. The draft was tabled pending further revision. No voting actions were taken. Resolution 129 of 2026 to Extend the Meeting by 30 minutes Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Pruce Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 129 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Design Plans for the Skate Park The Board discussed the proposed skate park at the site of the old Highway Department barn on Bald Hill Road, as well as the potential to designate it as a park. Board Member Larkins presented the most recent plans, including the scope of the project and potential for community -built additions such as a playground later down the line. He stated the next step would be to have the Planning Board review the site plan. Supervisor Gagnon noted that though the Board had expressed support for the project, they had yet to authorize the removal of any structures on the property. Resolution 130 of 2026-Authorizing Payment for a Survey of the Property with Funds from the Community Development Fund, Taldng Down the Old Highway Barn, and Sending the Site Plan to the Planning Board for Review Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Connors Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Abstain Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 130 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Considerations for Annlvine for Grant Funding for the Development of the Spencer (Formerly Dobson) Property The Board and Planner Hutnik discussed seeking grant funding for a feasibility study on the development of Shane Spencer's property on Danby Road. They noted that the property is within the Hamlet zone and noted a push for denser development in that zone to accommodate growth while disincentivizing development in more rural areas of Town, consistent with the Town's existing zoning laws and Comprehensive Plan. Points of discussion included the potential for creating a precedent, specifically towards the use of taxpayer money to facilitate development of private property. Planner Hutnik stated that the first step would be to seek funding, possibly through a County grant, to conduct a feasibility study. In tandem, the Board could issue an RFP for quotes and compare any funding awarded through the grant to quotes received and decide whether they would want to contribute Town funding towards the project. Supervisor Gagnon noted that the Board would first need to discuss the scope of the project before an RFP could be advertised. No action was taken and the item was set to be discussed at the next meeting. Resolution 131 of 2026 to Extend the Meeting by 30 minutes until 9:05pm Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Connors Vote: Connors Yes Dillon No Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 131 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 EV Charger Funding 7 1 P a g e Jim Holahan reported a shortage of funding to complete the project to install electric vehicle charger at Town Hall due to funding for a federal grant being revoked. He asked that the Town put $2,280 into the completion of the project. Resolution 132 of 2026 to Authorize $2,280 to Complete the EV Charger Project with Funding from the Contingent Fund Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Connors Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 132 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 NYS Data Center Moratorium Bills Resolution 133 of 2026 — Supporting New York State Data Center Moratorium Bills A10141/ S9144 Whereas, up to and including March 2026, NY state has experienced a large surge in electric demand, particularly for artificial intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency -focused, "energy -intensive" projects being added to the power grid queue, with more than half of these being data centers, and Whereas this surge is being driven by the technology companies and what seems to be a bubble of enthusiastic investors, and Whereas there is no oversight at the national level on either the technology of Artificial Intelligence or the environmental impact of data centers needed for its use, leaving it up to the State and Local Municipalities to understand wherein their interests lie and not to sit by passively, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town of Danby Town Board supports New York State Data Center Moratorium Bills A10141 / S9144 and directs that copies of this resolution be sent to our NY Assembly member. Anna Kelles, Chair, Rural Resources Committee <kellesaLa�L_ tnbi y> and our NY Senator Lea Webb, Chair of Women's Issues Committee < lcawcbb<a>nv enatc, v>. Additional copies to the following: • Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie < csiker.@n ass -L1 o =ov> • Gary Pretlow, Chair, Ways & Means < rctl. 2 asscm r,. ( V • Deborah Glick, Chair, Environmental Conservation < liek> • Didi Barrett, Chair, Energy <i)rrettµ> • Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart -Cousins < scousins i n sei-ate. ov> • Liz Krueger, Chair, Senate Finance (prime bill sponsor) < 1:trz?tt.g> • Pete Harckham, Chair, Senate Environmental Conservation < harckhrrtL<,Lny • Kevin Parker, Chair, Senate Energy & Telecommunications < arker.(-n sg at:c. ov> • Governor Kathy Hochul < ggvernonny. ov gi terit overrior-contact-forni> Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Connors Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 133 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Consideration of Authorizing Board Member Pruce to Attend a NYAOT Training Resolution 134 of 2026 to Authorize Mark Pruce to go to the Training Conference in Canandaigua Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Larkins Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 134 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 After the vote, Clerk Savoy asked if there was any particular reason the request was brought before the Board, noting that he would be attending training later in the month. Supervisor Gagnon responded that there is some precedent for asking, especially in the event of expensive trainings, but that there was no official policy and the Board has previously supported the continuing education of staff and officials. Court Audit Board Members Connors and Pruce reported that the required annual audit of the Town Court was completed but noted resistance from the Court Clerk regarding access to materials that they were required to see in order to conduct the audit. Resolution 135 of 2026- Acknowledgment that the Required Examination was Conducted of the Justice Department's Accounting Records Resolved, that the Town Board of the Town of Danby acknowledges that the required examination has been conducted of the Justice Department's accounting records by the Audit Committee appointed by the Danby Town Board. The records have been found to be accurate and up-to-date and the proper examination has been done to accurately answer all questions presented by the State of New York. Vote Moved by Connors Seconded by Gagnon Vote: Connors Yes Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 135 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Unfinished Business Resolution 136 of 2026 to Add the Agenda Items "Revisit Hiring Process for Bookkeeper" and "Code Enforcement Discussion, Possibly in Executive Session" to the Agenda for the Special Meeting on April 16th at 4pm Vote Moved by Gagnon Seconded by Pruce Vote: Connors No Dillon Yes Larkins Yes Pruce Yes Gagnon Yes Resolution 136 of 2026 passed on April 7th, 2026 Due to the meeting already running late, the next meeting's agenda was not discussed. The meeting was adjourned at 8:51 PM.