HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-29-2022 Planning Board Public Hearing PacketPlanning Board Members: Chair Mark Baranello, Carole Lathrup, Dale Taylor, Sara
Hollenbeck, Sylvia Cook, Alternate: Karen Cushman
Agenda
1. Public Hearing
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a meeting and public hearing will be held before the
Town of Virgil Planning Board on August 29, 2022, 7 p.m. at the Virgil Town Hall 1176
Church Street, Virgil NY 13045. This Public Hearing is being held to consider proposed
changes to the Town of Virgil’s Comprehensive Plan.
The proposed Changes are available at www.virgilny.org or contact the office of the
Town Clerk at (607) 835-6174, Ext. 2. Persons wishing to speak may do so in person, by
attorney, or by another representative. Communications in writing in relation thereto
may be filed ahead of time with the Board or at such hearing.
Attachments:
Legal Notice Posted in the Cortland Standard (Legal_Notice__PB_08-29-2022.
pdf)
2. Old Business
NONE
3. New Business
Discussion the Proposed changes to the Virgil's Comprehensive Plan
The Virgil Planning Board has been charged with looking at the proposed changes to the
Virgil's Comprehensive Plan and to make a recommendation the Virgil Town Board.
Attachments:
Proposed Changes to the Comprehensive Plan (Comp_Plan_Recommendation
s.pdf)
Town of Virgil's Comprehensive Plan- With Proposed Chnages in Red (Tn-V
irgil-Comp.Pln.03-22-17-With_Updates_in_Red.pdf)
Edited Resolution Sent to the Virgil Town Board dated: 07-05-2022 (Edited
_Resolution_07-05-2022.pdf)
Planning Board Agenda
Monday, August 29, 2022 at 7:00 pm
4. Approve Minutes
Attachments:
Draft of the Planning Board Minutes from 07-25-2022 (2022_PB_Minutes__Dr
aft_3___07-25-2022__1___1__1_.pdf)
5. Adjornment
| Agenda published on 08/18/2022 at 12:03 PM
Page 5
C(4). Encourage the development of small-scale retail and service-oriented business within the hamlet
and near major transportation arterials.
C(7). Encourage the development of diverse housing opportunities within the town to meet the needs of
residents of all age groups.
Page 6
E(1). Add the following language: The town of Virgil recognizes the importance of large- and small-scale
agricultural operations, including but not limited to, commercial dairy and smaller “farm to table”
operations. The town should periodically review the zoning code to ensure that regulations are not
overly restrictive of agricultural land use.
Page 7
E(3). Add the following language: The town has a well-established fire department. Other community
service-oriented amenities which could be established in the future include a medical care facility, a
library, and a community center.
E(4). Add the following language: The town should conduct a review of its zoning to ensure that steep
slopes, wetlands, timberlands, and other ecologically sensitive geographic landscapes are protected.
E(5). Add the following language: The town should encourage the development of recreational
amenities for residents of all ages. With the closure of the Virgil Elementary School, there should be an
emphasis on the development of recreational opportunities for children within the town. The town
should explore parks and recreation funding through the Environmental Protection Fund which is
administered by the New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Page 8
F. Change heading to “Renewable Energy System Regulation.
Add the following language: The town should also consider adopting regulations for other types of
renewable energy such as wind energy and geothermal energy. Regulations should be crafted to ensure
that potential future development of renewable energy infrastructure does not negatively impact the
desired rural character of the Town of Virgil.
Add the following language: The town should encourage the development of residential scale renewable
energy systems, which produce energy for on-site consumption, such as residential solar, wind energy,
and geothermal energy. Local policies and permitting procedures should be reviewed to ensure a
uniform and efficient permitting process.
Page 9
Add #7: The town should encourage commercial, retail, and service-oriented business development in
the hamlet area to prevent further conversion of agricultural lands and simultaneously promote a
vibrant center for the community.
Page 12
Under the heading of “Senior Citizens” add goal #4 “Ensure that local zoning regulations encourage
development that would allow residents to age in place and remain in the community. This could
include zoning provisions for multiple family dwellings, adult community living, and integrated service
and retail offerings.
Page 13
Remove section or Education.
OR
Replace existing language to acknowledge the closing of the school but also present new opportunity for
community development. Language could be the following:
When Virgil Elementary School was closed in 2019, the community lost an anchor institution and center
for community engagement. It is important that the building does not remain vacant. The town should
encourage the adaptive reuse of the school property in a manner that is complimentary to the desired
way of life and existing community characteristics that are cherished by Virgil residents. Goal: The town
should review its existing zoning to ensure that future development in the hamlet, and of the former
Virgil School, does not negatively impact nearby residents, and in general, is in the best interest of the
residents of the Town of Virgil.
Page 13
Medical Centers. Add the following language to the goal: The town should encourage the establishment
of medical care, dental care, and eye care services in or near the hamlet to support the aging population
in Virgil.
Page 16
Residential Objective #1 – Add the following language.
If multiple family dwellings are permitted along or adjacent to the major transportation arterials such as
Route 13 and Route 392, land use regulation processes including site plan review could be utilized to
encourage resident safety and reduce conflicts between neighboring land uses. This type of residential
development is best suited near the hamlet where services and infrastructure can be provided or near
major commuter thoroughfares.
Add a “residential” objective to consider the needs of the aging population:
The town recognizes the need for housing and services to accommodate the aging population.
Currently, the town is mostly comprised of single-family residences, many of which are not conducive to
aging in place. To provide a residential alternative for elderly residents, the town should consider
adopting one of New York State’s model laws for multiple housing for seniors. The Department of
State’s Model Law #2 for senior housing establishes a floating zone for age limited (55 and older)
multiple dwellings and simultaneous provision of integrated service, retail, and community-oriented
operations. As with other types of multiple dwelling, this type of use is also most appropriate near major
transportation arterials and in the hamlet area. The floating zone scheme should take into consideration
the impact of the proposed development on surrounding neighborhoods and the overall benefit to the
community.
Page 18
Consider removing the section on Road Systems and adding it as an appendix to the plan.
Page 23 - Community profile should be updated at some point to provide current data
1
TOWN OF VIRGIL COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
A. PREFACE
This Comprehensive Plan is designed to provide guidance for land use decisions in
the Town of Virgil. This plan and the accompanying map are not intended to define
precise boundaries for proposed land uses. Rather, they are intended to indicate general
areas of land use recommendations. Additionally, certain areas (such as the hamlet which
is shown as residential on the accompanying map) may be appropriate for mixed use
development. The more specific aspects of land use classification are appropriately
handled through existing Town regulations (i. e. zoning and subdivision regulations).
B. OBJECTIVE
The objective of this plan is to preserve and enhance the present desirable features
within the Town while allowing for development by providing guidance for agricultural,
residential, recreational and commercial/industrial growth, yet maintaining a conscientious
concern for the environment.
The Town followed a four-step process to assure that the objective of this plan is
attained:
a. identify the direction in which the residents of the Town desire its future growth
to take place;
b. define the objectives needed to accomplish this growth;
c. identify issues related to the objectives for each land use category
(agricultural, residential, recreational, etc.); and
d. provide guidance for the achievement of these objectives.
C. SUMMARY OF GOALS
Strict adherence to land uses that are compatible with the different environmental
restraints found in Virgil should be followed in order to protect present and future residents.
2
Seven major land use categories are defined in the plan. They are: Recreation,
Conservation, Residential, Community Services, Agricultural and Commercial/Industrial and
the Aquifer Protection Area.
The Plan has established the following goals and guidelines for development within
the Town:
1. Preserve water quality - both groundwater and surface water.
2. Maintain the country setting and rural character of the Town.
3. Encourage agricultural land uses.
4. Determine areas of the Town where development should be encouraged to take
place.
C(4). Encourage the development of small-scale retail and service-oriented business
within the hamlet and near major transportation arterials.
5. Maintain a secure environment.
6. Maintain proper zoning and development controls.
7. Encourage the continuation of the elementary school in Virgil for its
educational and community benefits.
C(7). Encourage the development of diverse housing opportunities within the town to
meet the needs of residents of all age groups.
8. Develop and encourage recreational opportunities and protect existing
ones.
9. Conserve the physical characteristics and uniqueness of the Town.
D. INTRODUCTION
Allowing compatible development, while maintaining the rural character of the Town
of Virgil, along with the protection of its groundwater and other natural resources is the
purpose of this Comprehensive Plan.
The Town's Zoning Law and Subdivision Regulations must be enforced and updated
in order to follow this plan and obtain the goals and objectives set forth. The cooperation of
the Town’s people and outside interests who intend to build homes and businesses within the
3
Town will be needed to follow the Comprehensive Plan and make it effective.
Listed within this Plan are 7 land use categories along with their individual goals and
objectives. They are Agricultural, Commercial/Industrial, Community Services,
Conservation, Recreation, Residential, and the Aquifer Protection Area.
These categories were located on the accompanying Comprehensive Plan Map based
on existing land uses, environmental restraints as well as future projections of growth in any
of these areas.
Protection of the aquifer should be a priority. Its location is shown as an overlay zone
on the Comprehensive Plan Map. Guidelines for of future growth and continuation of
existing homes, farms and businesses over this aquifer should be developed to protect and
preserve this precious natural resource.
E. LAND USE ANALYSIS AND RATIONALE
1. Agriculture Areas
The preservation of agriculture is a key to retaining the Town's present economy and
rural character. Continuing to enhance the agricultural sector will help sustain present
and future investments, expand the economic potential of farming and maintain the
quality of life in Virgil.
The Town desires to discourage large tract residential development in agricultural
areas, since adjoining agricultural operations tend to conflict with residential land-use.
The Town also supports initiatives which would shift agricultural land to more
profitable agricultural uses.
Preservation of Agricultural land-uses supports the protection of the aquifer. The
cumulative effects of development in the aquifer area pose a serious threat to a safe
and adequate water supply serving Virgil and other areas of the County.
E(1). Add the following language: The town of Virgil recognizes the importance of large-
and small-scale agricultural operations, including but not limited to, commercial dairy
and smaller “farm to table” operations. The town should periodically review the
zoning code to ensure that regulations are not overly restrictive of agricultural land
use.
4
2. Commercial/Light Industrial Areas
Commercial and Light Industrial development has had minimal impact on the rural
character of the Town. There are existing viable commercial and
recreational/commercial operations within the Town particularly along NYS Routes
13 and 392. However, secondary commercial/light industrial enterprises can be
spawned from existing operations with low environmental impact through proper
planning. By designating areas for commercial/light industrial uses, such as the
NYS Route 392 corridor between the Virgil Hamlet and Greek Peak, there is
potential for increasing the economic viability of Virgil while protecting against
conflict with the agricultural/residential areas of the Town.
3. Community Services
Community Services are a vital component in maintaining the quality of life of a rural
community. These services and areas of historical significance should be maintained
and enhanced for future generations to enjoy.
E(3). Add the following language: The town has a well-established fire department. Other
community service-oriented amenities which could be established in the future include a
medical care facility, a library, and a community center.
4. Conservation Areas - Uplands, Wetlands, & State Forest Lands
Certain areas of the Town have severe limitations for development due to
environmental restraints such as steep slopes (15+%) or low-lying wetlands.
Preserving these areas helps maintain the Town's ecological balance. The conservation
areas include those critical lands and waters which are vital to the life-giving food
chains providing continuity for relatively wild natural areas. These areas replenish and
provide stability for the aquifer, forests, steep slopes and natural drainage ways that
combine to produce the unique quality and character of the landscape in Virgil. These
conservation areas require careful consideration to prevent permanent damage or loss
to future generations (mudslide in Lafayette Valley (1993) points to steep slope
instability caused by removal of natural cover).
E(4). Add the following language: The town should conduct a review of its zoning to ensure
that steep slopes, wetlands, timberlands, and other ecologically sensitive geographic
landscapes are protected.
5. Recreation Areas
5
Land for organized outdoor recreational activities exists throughout the Town.
Recreational land uses, in some cases, provide a buffer for residential and agricultural
land uses.
A Tioughnioga River Trail is currently in the planning stages which would begin at
Little York Lake in Homer and extend through Virgil to the Village of Marathon. This
trail will provide designated fishing access locations, picnic areas, and recreational
opportunities for walkers, hikers, and non-motorized bikers. This trail will also
provide links between recreational opportunities in the Town of Virgil and a state-
wide and national trail network including the Fingerlakes Trail and the North Country
Trail.
The Town should work to provide accessibility of the existing recreational areas and
the proposed Tioughnioga River Trail by interconnecting trails, as well as providing
long-range financial planning for expansion and acquisition of additional park acreage,
particularly where the potential loss of private recreational land use to development
would threaten environmentally sensitive areas.
E(5). Add the following language: The town should encourage the development of
recreational amenities for residents of all ages. With the closure of the Virgil
Elementary School, there should be an emphasis on the development of recreational
opportunities for children within the town. The town should explore parks and
recreation funding through the Environmental Protection Fund which is administered
by the New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation.
6. Residential Areas
Residential development and farming both require soils of high quality to be
successful. Since prime agricultural lands are to be conserved, new residential
development should be directed to areas that already have some development.
Encouraging infill and fringe residential development is an extension of this policy.
Strip housing development is undesirable because of its creeping destruction of the
community's rural landscape character. Some of this loss of character results from the
incompatibility between farm operations and strip housing.
7. Aquifer Protection Area
Without adequate controls, future development can infringe heavily on the
highly-vulnerable Cortland Valley and Virgil Creek Aquifers. In order to protect the
Town's fragile and unique natural water resources, and ultimately the Aquifer, the
6
concept of an “overlay zone" is developed herein.
F. Solar Energy System Regulations F. Change heading to “Renewable Energy System
Regulation.
There is an increasing demand for solar energy projects. Renewable energy is
considered to be desirable by the state and local governments, as well as the public.
The Town should allow solar energy projects in any zoning district, consistent with
sound land use planning.
Solar energy projects should be subject to site plan review to insure that adequate
setbacks are achieved, glare onto adjoining properties is avoided, and visual impacts
are mitigated. Solar energy projects should not be constructed on prime farmland if
other alternatives are feasible. Removal of trees and other vegetation should be
minimized or offset by other plantings. The solar energy regulations should also
address the decommissioning and removal of the equipment when it is no longer in
operation.
Add the following language: The town should also consider adopting regulations for
other types of renewable energy such as wind energy and geothermal energy.
Regulations should be crafted to ensure that potential future development of renewable
energy infrastructure does not negatively impact the desired rural character of the
Town of Virgil.
Add the following language: The town should encourage the development of
residential scale renewable energy systems, which produce energy for on-site
consumption, such as residential solar, wind energy, and geothermal energy. Local
policies and permitting procedures should be reviewed to ensure a uniform and
efficient permitting process.
G. DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The land use categories discussed above provide a rationale for the arrangement of
land use areas shown on the Comprehensive Plan Map. When developments are
proposed in any of these areas, review by the Planning Board should include reference
to the goals and policies given below prior to taking action.
AGRICULTURAL
The practice of agriculture is vital to the quality of life enjoyed and desired by
residents of the Town of Virgil. As shown on the Town's land use map, agricultural
lands comprise the majority of parcels in the Town.
GOAL: To protect and maintain the rural atmosphere of our community and
economy generated by farming by encouraging agricultural land uses
7
within the Town.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Attempt to preserve agricultural land in the largest tracts possible --
especially prime farmland.
2. Strive to promote land uses that are compatible with agricultural practices in
areas largely devoted to farming or designated as agricultural districts.
3. Promote individual undertakings and private enterprises such as home
businesses. These are low impact activities that can serve to preserve the rural
atmosphere of the Town and bolster the economy without impact on farmland
or farm operations.
4. Discourage strip housing development along roadways because of its
creeping destruction of the Town's rural landscape and open space
character.
5. Careful review of non-agricultural uses for their long term compatibility with
farming.
6. Make use of the Agriculture and Farmland Protection Board, Cortland County
Soil and Water Conservation District, Cortland County Planning Department,
Cortland County Health Department, Cornell Cooperative Extension or any
other agency that can help maintain and preserve agricultural land and promote
agricultural uses in the future for land in the Town of Virgil.
Add #7: The town should encourage commercial, retail, and service-oriented business
development in the hamlet area to prevent further conversion of agricultural
lands and simultaneously promote a vibrant center for the community.
COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL
GOAL: To provide for commercial/industrial areas and uses that maximize
economic benefits while minimizing environmental impact.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Designated commercial/industrial areas should be an expansion of or adjacent to
already existing enterprises and should be in close proximity to State Routes.
2. Commercial/Industrial development should conform to aesthetic
standards established by the Town and should compliment the existing
8
rural character of the Town.
3. Sufficient yards, wooded areas, fences or other buffering should be provided to
separate commercial/industrial or mixed use development from any residential
structure or farming operation.
4. Industrial development proposals for high intensity operations which
obviously conflict with the rural character of the Town will not be
encouraged.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Police (Public Safety)
GOAL: To protect the citizens and enforce the laws governing the people and
their property in the Town of Virgil.
OBJECTIVES: Consideration should be given to:
1. Revitalizing the neighborhood watch program and the Safe Home
Program.
2. The Town having a Town constable and off-duty policeman for
supplemental patrols.
3. The increase in traffic on most roads in the Town needs strict
enforcement of speed limits.
Courts
GOAL: To maintain local jurisdiction and a judication of the laws which govern the
people.
OBJECTIVES:
1. To provide adequate facilities.
2. To provide funding for the local justice system.
Beautification
GOALS: To enhance the beauty and aesthetic quality of the Town.
9
OBJECTIVES:
1. Preservation and maintenance of existing structures.
2. Elimination of illegal junk yards and unsightly clutter.
3. The establishment of a Beautification Committee to promote community
involvement for different types of beautification projects.
Historical
GOAL: To maintain, improve, and protect historic sites and structures as well
as adaptive reuse of structures where appropriate.
OBJECTIVES:
1. To support the Historical Society as an organization for the protection
and enhancement of sites with historical significance within the Town.
2. Continuation of the Historical Marker Program
3. To preserve and maintain the cemeteries of historical significance within the
Town including but not limited to the following:
A. The "Old Cemetery" at 1806 Church St.
B. Seager Cemetery - south side of NYS Route 392 between NYS
Route 215 and Page Green Road
C. Snyder Hill Cemetery - East Virgil - Snyder Hill Road.
D. Virgil Rural Cemetery - NYS Route 392.
4. To preserve and maintain the structures of historical significance within the
Town including but not limited to the following:
A. Old Virgil Hotel - at the four corners - built in 1820
B. Old Wesley Snover residence built in 1808
C. The Robert Jewett Home - corner of NYS Route 392, Kohne Road and
West Meetinghouse Road - built in 1850
D. Nathan Bouton Home - NYS Route 392 (Freedom Trail Home - this
10
home was a station for the underground railroad prior to the Civil War)
E. Virgil Methodist Church
5. The "Greens" at the four corners which includes the school, church, and
surrounding residences should maintain a favorable impression.
Senior Citizens
GOAL: To create an atmosphere compatible with the desires of the senior citizen
population within the community.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Development of programs/activities which meet the needs and interest
of the senior citizens of the Town, including continued support of the
Senior Citizen Club.
2. Recognition of the need for an accessible meeting space.
3. Encourage the provisions for senior citizen services such as meals on
wheels, publications, senior housing, etc.
Under the heading of “Senior Citizens” add goal #4 “Ensure that local zoning regulations
encourage development that would allow residents to age in place and remain in the
community. This could include zoning provisions for multiple family dwellings, adult
community living, and integrated service and retail offerings.
Public Transportation
GOAL: To make available an adequate public transportation system that is
affordable, safe, efficient, and convenient.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Encourage the availability of adequate public transportation.
2. Periodic update of the Town's official highway map.
Youth Commission
GOAL: To provide a wide variety of year round activities for the youth
population under the direction of a volunteer board.
11
OBJECTIVES:
1. Provide week-end activities for youth.
2. Increase the variety of activities offered.
Education: The school serves as a community center and thus provides an essential sense of
community as well as socialization for youth and adults, brings neighbors together, and
provides an excellent education for students.
GOAL: To maintain the elementary school housing grades K through 6 as part
of the Cortland City School District.
OR
Replace existing language to acknowledge the closing of the school but also present new
opportunity for community development. Language could be the following:
When Virgil Elementary School was closed in 2019, the community lost an anchor
institution and center for community engagement. It is important that the building does
not remain vacant. The town should encourage the adaptive reuse of the school
property in a manner that is complimentary to the desired way of life and existing
community characteristics that are cherished by Virgil residents. Goal: The town
should review its existing zoning to ensure that future development in the hamlet, and
of the former Virgil School, does not negatively impact nearby residents, and in
general, is in the best interest of the residents of the Town of Virgil.
Medical Centers: The Town contracts with TLC and Dryden Ambulance for ambulance
service. Cortland Memorial Hospital and Cayuga Medical Center provide medical resources
in close proximity to the Town.
GOAL: To continue to provide emergency medical and rescue services.
Medical Centers. Add the following language to the goal: The town should encourage the
establishment of medical care, dental care, and eye care services in or near the hamlet to
support the aging population in Virgil.
Town Facilities: Town Hall & Justice Court, Code Office & Records Retention, Highway
Department Facilities, Fire Department Facilities, Old Fire Station.
GOAL: To provide an adequate & code compliant space for these Town activities and
functions.
Fire Department
GOAL: To continue to provide fire protection and emergency services by a
dedicated volunteer fire department.
12
OBJECTIVES:
1. Provide adequate facilities and equipment.
2. Encourage active volunteerism.
3. Consider the possibility of on call paid volunteer fire & rescue members.
Transfer Site
GOAL: To continue providing a transfer site for household waste products and to
provide adequate facilities for recycling.
CONSERVATION
As increasing amounts of farmland are being converted to residential use, Virgil must
work to protect the values which have drawn residents to this Town. The rural character of
the Town, combined with access to state forest and other open lands for recreation, is
attractive to many residents. Residents utilize Virgil's open spaces for a variety of outdoor
activities, such as hiking, skiing, bird-watching, and hunting. The value of these activities
remains high only as long as the quality of the resource base remains high.
Areas which are inappropriate for development due to topography, shallow water
table, or other environmental limiting factors need to be identified. Demand for retaining
open space is high among Virgil residents; any areas which are marginal for development
should be maintained as open space. In some cases, improvements in terms of litter control,
etc., may open additional areas for recreational use or scenic enjoyment.
Additionally, it would be valuable to identify areas within wetlands and forest lands
which may harbor endangered species, so that these areas can be protected. Areas set aside
for conservation would benefit local students, hikers, bird watchers, as well as the general
public, in terms of preserving the natural, rural, and scenic values of the Town.
GOAL: To safeguard against the wrongful use and abuse of high-risk ecological areas in
Virgil and to provide for the most appropriate use of land based on its
environmental restraints.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Only appropriately designed residential development should be permitted on
lands with slopes in excess of 15%. Land uses on steep slopes should be those
13
that aid in the control of erosion and floods. Practices compatible with this
function would be primarily forestry and recreation, with only occasional low-
density housing being permitted.
2. Land owners and developers shall bear the responsibility of assuring
proper analysis and planning, in advance of development, for the
adequate control of surface water through the use of storm drains,
ditches, and other means.
3. Development should be discouraged within areas with a high water table, at a
depth of 1 and 1/2 feet or less from the surface. The land use most consistent
with areas of the Town having a water table of 1 and 1/2 feet or less is open
space.
4. Floodways, floodplains and streamways should be preserved in their
natural state or reserved for low-intensity land uses.
5. Proposed extraction of earth materials should be presented with an
accompanying reclamation plan.
RECREATION
GOAL: To provide sufficient space and facilities for leisure pursuits for people of all
ages and for all seasons. These recreational activities may include, but are not
limited to, hunting, camping, fishing, horseback riding, winter sports, active and
passive games and cultural activities.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Recognize and protect areas of land having exceptional recreational,
educational or unique natural value to the public.
2. Work cooperatively with commercial entities to encourage continuing
recreational opportunities for Town residents.
3. Provide recreational information at the Town Clerk's office which outlines
recreational areas and opportunities, both public and private, which exist in the
Town.
4. Promote outside interest in the recreational opportunities available in the Town,
recognizing that it is beneficial for the Town's economy.
5. Consider a policy, which sets aside open space within future subdivisions which
14
shall be designated as "common land" to be preserved for the leisure pursuits of
the residents of the subdivision.
6. Assess and develop plans to create hiking and biking trails which complement
the proposed Tioughnioga River Trail.
7. Pursuit of State, Federal and private funding sources should be considered in
order to meet the above stated objectives.
RESIDENTIAL
GOAL: To recognize and encourage planned growth and development within the Town
of Virgil. Planned growth will help maintain and expand the Town's tax base,
while continuing to support the Town's attractive rural character.
OBJECTIVES:
1. The most dense future residential development should be encouraged along
local roads, feeding off from main arterials and collector roads within the Town.
These main arterials, being mostly state and county maintained, offer the best
access for a growing population of commuting residents.
Residential Objective #1 – Add the following language.
If multiple family dwellings are permitted along or adjacent to the major transportation
arterials such as Route 13 and Route 392, land use regulation processes including site
plan review could be utilized to encourage resident safety and reduce conflicts
between neighboring land uses. This type of residential development is best suited
near the hamlet where services and infrastructure can be provided or near major
commuter thoroughfares.
Add a “residential” objective to consider the needs of the aging population:
The town recognizes the need for housing and services to accommodate the aging
population. Currently, the town is mostly comprised of single-family residences, many
of which are not conducive to aging in place. To provide a residential alternative for
elderly residents, the town should consider adopting one of New York State’s model
laws for multiple housing for seniors. The Department of State’s Model Law #2 for
senior housing establishes a floating zone for age limited (55 and older) multiple
dwellings and simultaneous provision of integrated service, retail, and community-
oriented operations. As with other types of multiple dwelling, this type of use is also
15
most appropriate near major transportation arterials and in the hamlet area. The
floating zone scheme should take into consideration the impact of the proposed
development on surrounding neighborhoods and the overall benefit to the community.
2. Priority shall be given to alternative methods of residential development,
including conservation, cluster type and/or planned unit development.
However, conventional development on larger lots would not be out of
character with the remainder of the Town, especially within the Aquifer
Protection District.
3. Consideration shall be given to the compatibility of development with
existing agricultural and residential use.
4. Residential development shall take into account the fragile environmental
features located within the Town such as wetlands, floodplains, and the sole
source aquifer.
5. Any future manufactured housing within the Town shall be maintained in a
designated area. The locations and restrictions on such an area shall be
incorporated within the Zoning Law.
6. The Planning Board shall consider the use of deed restrictions on the
part of the developer to help determine the overall character of the
development.
7. Sufficient yards, wooded areas, fences or other buffering should be provided to
separate any planned residential or mixed use development from neighboring
farming operations.
AQUIFER PROTECTION
The sand and gravel aquifers in the Town of Virgil provide water to many people in
the Town as well as to many businesses and community services. If this resource were to
become contaminated and no longer potable, securing an alternative source of water for
the people in the populated centers of the Town would be a great financial burden.
GOAL: To protect the various aquifers in the Town from contamination or excessive
withdrawals in order to ensure the availability of this valuable resource for
future generations.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Support efforts to study the aquifers within the Town. Additional
16
hydrogeologic information about the aquifers will enable the Town to better
understand these resources in order to use them and protect them
efficiently and effectively.
2. Initiate public education programs to inform people about the local
aquifers, their importance, and ways to protect them. An informed
educated public will help promote aquifer protection.
3. Adopt an Aquifer Protection District Local Law or Ordinance to:
a. Create an “overlay zone” of the aquifer areas to which aquifer
protection regulations would apply.
b. Prohibit land uses or activities that pose an elevated risk of
contaminating the aquifers such as landfills, mining activities, or
facilities that use, store, process, dispose of, or treat hazardous
materials or waste material.
c. Require additional protective measures to be installed or
constructed to protect the aquifers from potential hazards of
contamination.
d. Require a larger minimum lot size for properties with on-site sewage
treatment (septic) systems within the Aquifer Protection District
overlay zone.
e. Require a permit from the Town for excessive withdrawal of
water from an aquifer.
4. Adopt a Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control
Local Law or Ordinance in order to:
a. Manage stormwater runoff due to development in such a way as to
prevent infiltration of contaminated runoff into the aquifer.
b. Protect surface water quality and prevent increased flooding due to
development in addition to protecting the aquifer.
5. Make a commitment to using the local laws or ordinances to prevent
contamination of the aquifers. Enforcement of local regulations is
critical to efforts to protect the aquifer.
H. ROAD SYSTEM FOR THE TOWN OF VIRGIL
The road system in the Town of Virgil has been vital for the businesses and
17
residences alike for many years. Local land use regulations should recognize the traffic-
carrying functions of major roads and should help to preserve this function in every
practical way. If an efficient, safe and workable road system is to be achieved three goals
should be sought.
1. A highway system in and through the Town will facilitate traffic movement
and minimize points of conflict and delay.
2. A local road network that provides efficient access to all parts of the Town,
and promote convenient vehicular movement from one part of the Town to
another.
3. The establishment of guidelines and standards for a lower cost road for low
volume applications.
TYPES OF ROADS
The following outline of the existing road system is provided as a guideline for
future development.
I. LIMITED ACCESS - Interstate Route 81
II. MAIN ARTERIALS (NYS ROUTES)
There are (4) four main arterials that are primary traffic carriers within and through
the Town. Their main purpose is to carry traffic relatively quick from one destination
in the region to another, plus access to adjacent lands, county and town roads.
NYS Routes 392, 215, 13 and US Route 11 make up the main arteries for the Town.
Traffic movement on main arteries are essential, especially in the winter time.
Consider removing the section on Road Systems and adding it as an appendix to the
plan.
III. COLLECTORS (CORTLAND COUNTY ROADS)
There are (10) ten collectors (county roads) that are secondary traffic carriers within
the Town. Efficient traffic movement and access to adjacent lands & town roads are
equally important functions of the collectors.
18
Page Green Road, Parker Street, South Cortland-Virgil Road, West State Road, Webb
Road, Gee Hill Road, Owego Hill Road, Daisy Hollow Road, Babcock Hollow Road,
and West Meetinghouse Road make up the collectors for the Town. Efficient traffic
movement on the collectors is essential for the commuters as well as the local
residents.
IV. LOCAL ROADS (TOWN ROAD)
There are (56) fifty six local roads whose primary function is to provide access to
adjacent lands, residential, farm and state land. Local roads are not intended for fast,
heavy or through traffic carriers but, none-the-less, traffic movement should be
relatively fluent.
The Town should take into consideration classifying their local roads with fewer than
400 vehicles per day as low-volume rural roads. Set forth by the Guidelines for
Rural Town and County Roads. {Cornell Roads Program}.
These local road classifications are:
1. LOW-VOLUME COLLECTOR
Collects traffic from any of the other classifications and channels it to higher
level roads, such as arterials, Interstate, etc.
2. RESIDENTIAL ACCESS
Provides access to residences. The traffic volume generated depends on the
number of residences. Year around access for fire trucks, ambulances, and
school buses must be provided.
3. ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE ACCESS
Provides access to large tracts of land used primarily for agriculture, recreation,
or logging.
4. MINIMUM MAINTENANCE ROAD
A is a low-volume road or road segment primarily providing agricultural or
recreational land access, having an average traffic volume of 50 or less
vehicles per day, and with no year around residences or businesses. Minimum
maintenance is not "no maintenance," and a road or road segment which has
been so designated shall be maintained at a level which allows the road to
19
remain passable and functional in accordance with the Guidelines for Rural
Town and County Roads. The minimum maintenance road concept provides
an alternative to abandonment or to designation as a seasonal limited - use
road. Abandonment is a difficult process to complete, and a seasonal limited -
use road must be upgraded if and when a year around residence is built along
the road.
ROAD NAMES MILES PROPOSED CLASSIFICATIONS
1 Alberts Road .5 #2, #3
2 Alpha Circle .26 #2
3 Arcadia Road .15 #1
4 Artemis Road .24 #2
5 Baldwin Road 1.15 #2, #4
6 Beta Drive .05 #2
7 Bleck Road 1.45 #2
8 Budzinski Road .57 #2
9 Carson Road 2.25 #1, #3
10 Cherry Lane .13 #2
11 Church Street 1.19 #1, #3
12 Clute Road 3.62 #1, #3
13 Congdon Lane .76 #2
14 Curtis Road .9 #2, #3
15 Darius Drive .13 #2
16 Douglas Road .19 #2
18 Edsall Road .8 #2, #3
18 Francis Road .28 #2, #3
19 Givens Lane .14 #2, #3
20 Hartley Road .07 #2
21 Hauck Hill Road 1.96 #2, #4
22 Holler Road 2.44 #1, #3
23 Jenkins Road .12 #2
24 Kimmich Road .04 #2
25 Kohne Road 2.70 #2, #3
26 Kypriotis Road .35 #2
27 Lash Road 1.29 #2, #3
28 Meadow Park .06 #2
20
29 Muckey Road .55 #2, #3
30 Nye Road 1.08 #2, #3
31 Odell Road 1.20 #2, #4
32 Owego Hill Road .84 #2, #4
33 Palmer Road .67 #2
34 Pine Hill Road .20 #4
35 Puderbaugh Road .30 #2, #3
36 Reagan Road .28 #2, #3
37 Russell Road .52 #4
38 South Hill Road .61 #1
39 Sherman Road 1.54 #2
40 Snow Road .22 #2
41 Stafford Road 1.36 #2
42 Sugarbush Lane .26 #2
43 Sweetland Road .12 #1
44 Snyder Hill Road 5.05 #1, #2, #3, #4
45 Teeter Road .38 #2, #3
46 Thermopalae Road .08 #2
47 Timmerman Hill Road .61 #2, #3
48 Tone Road .87 #2, #3
49 Tower Road 1.33 #2, #3
50 Traverse Road .45 #2
51 VanDonsel Road 2.66 #1, #2, #3, #4
52 Vinnedge Road 1.70 #4
53 Virgil Creek Road .99 #2, #3
54 Walker Road 1.01 #2, #3
55 West River Road 5.50 #2, #3, #4
56 Woodchuck Hill Road .34 #2
TOWN ROADS - 56
TOTAL MILES - 54.51
LOW MAINTENANCE MILES (APPROX.) - 8.33
I. PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD)
Planned Unit Development is a land use design technique which groups or
21
concentrates buildings on lots smaller than permitted by existing land use controls in
order to preserve open space without increasing the allowable density (units per
acre) of development. A PUD may involve a variety of land uses: residential,
commercial and light industrial while the open space provides areas for recreational
opportunities. It usually involves substantial tracts of land and has a mixture of
housing types: single –family dwellings, townhouses, apartments, etc. There is an
existing PUD within Virgil which conforms with the stated goals and objectives of
this Plan.
J. IMPLEMENTATION
The basic objective of this plan is to preserve and enhance the present desirable
features within the Town while allowing for development by providing guidance
for agricultural, residential, recreational, and commercial/industrial growth, yet
maintaining a conscientious concern for the environment. Within this Plan, there
are also goals and objectives for each classification of land use existing in the Town
of Virgil. These goals and objectives can be attained through development and/or
amendment of the following implementation mechanisms.
1. Town Zoning
Zoning carries out the planning program with respect to the use of private
property. With adoption of the Town Comprehensive Plan, attention should
be given to reviewing the relationship of the existing Zoning Law to the Plan.
Such a review will indicate that changes or amendments to the Zoning Law
should be made to bring the zoning into closer alignment with the Adopted
Comprehensive Plan and Map. These changes/amendment to the Zoning
Law/Map should include the following:
a. Stricter penalties for violation of the Zoning Law.
b. Revision of guidelines for site plan review, particularly for areas of
conflicting land use.
c. Revision of existing guidelines for special permits to include additional
requirements for certain commercial and industrial uses which may be
of concern to the Town but are not currently listed within the Zoning
Law.
d. An Aquifer Protection District to:
1. Create an "overlay zone" of the aquifer areas to which
aquifer protection regulations would apply.
22
2. Prohibit land uses or activities that pose an elevated risk
of contaminating the aquifers such as landfills, mining
activities, or facilities that use, store, process, dispose of,
or treat hazardous or waste material.
3. Require additional protective measures to be installed or
constructed to protect the aquifers from potential hazards of
contamination.
4. Require a larger minimum lot size for properties with on- site
sewage treatment (septic) systems within the Aquifer Protection
District overlay zone.
5. Require a permit from the Town for excessive withdrawal of
water from an aquifer.
e. Guidelines for Stormwater Management and Erosion and
Sediment Control in order to:
1. Manage stormwater runoff due to development in such a
way as to prevent infiltration of contaminated runoff into
the aquifer.
2. Protect surface water quality and prevent increased flooding due
to development, in addition to protecting the aquifer.
f. Revision of the Town of Virgil Zoning Map to reflect areas
designated as certain land use categories on the Comprehensive
Plan Map.
2. Subdivision Regulations
Virgil can be expected to develop slowly, for example by one subdivision at
a time. Unless each major subdivision is planned to fit into a satisfactory
pattern of streets and related facilities, the Town can become an unattractive
collection of poorly designed housing developments with associated traffic,
drainage and sanitation problems.
In 1972, the Town Board approved the establishment of subdivision
regulations which were authorized by Town Law. These regulations
set the standards and requirements that must be followed in creating
new land subdivision and related road and street access. As provided
by the Town Law, the regulations are administered by the Town
Planning Board. Each new land subdivision must be approved by the
Planning Board before the subdivision may be advertised for sale or
23
recorded in the County Land Records and before any development
may proceed.
The subdivision regulations of the Town are as important to the development
of Virgil as is the Zoning Law. While zoning regulates the use of land, the
subdivision regulations control the layout and design of streets and roads and
establish the improvements required in all new land developments. For
example, this plan discourages strip housing development along roadways.
The subdivision regulations can combat the development of strip housing by
specifying a maximum depth to width ratio for all newly created lots.
4. Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan
In addition to the Right to Farm Law adopted by the Town of Virgil in 1995,
the Town should consider additional legislation to preserve and protect this
valuable resource. One way to accomplish this is through development of an
Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan. The purpose of an Agriculture and
Farmland Protection Plan is to develop programs using local initiatives that are
intended to maintain the economic viability of the Town's agricultural industry
and its supporting land base and to protect the environmental and landscape
preservation values associated with agriculture.
4. Recreational Plan
Recreational opportunities and access to recreational facilities will increase
significantly with the development of the Tioughnioga River Trail project. The
Town should consider the impacts of this project on recreation in the Town
through the development of a Recreation Plan. This plan would look into
recreational opportunities compatible with the River Trail project, such as the
possible development of a Town recreation area/park easily accessible from the
Tioughnioga River Trail.
24
Community profile should be updated at some point to provide current data Profile of the Town of Virgil
Revised March 22, 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE #
History 24
25
Population 25
Population Density 26
Land Development 26
Aquifers in the Town of Virgil 26
Soil Survey 27
Topography 27
Lordstown-Volusia-Mardin (LVM) 27
Valois-Howard-Langford (VHL) 27
Erie-Volusia-Langford (EVL) 27
Volusia-Mardin-Lordstown (VML) 37
Housing 28
Virgil Housing Summary 2000 28
Specified Value 28
Owner Occupied Units 28
Units in Structure 28
Year Structure Built 28
Housing Heating Fuel 28
Employment 29
Employed Civilian Population 16+ 29
Persons Employed by Industry 29
Occupation 30
Economic 30
Education 30
School Enrollment and Type of School 30
Education Attainment by Persons 25+ 31
Agriculture 31
Maps 35 (Didn’t Get this Section?)
Town of Virgil Population Trend 35
Population Breakdown 36
Land Use 37
Agricultural Statistics 38
1997 Economic Job Breakdown 39
HISTORY
Virgil, named in honor of the Roman poet, was part of the Military Tract in
Central New York State. Lots in the Tract were granted to the Revolutionary War soldiers
in payment for their services.
To open up this wildness area to the soldiers and other settlers, Joseph Chaplin, a
surveyor was hired to cut a road connecting Oxford with Cayuga Lake. Passing through
26
Virgil from east to west, this was the first State road built in what became Cortland
County. Chaplin built a cabin in the part of the town known later as Messengerville. He
was the first settler and was followed by John M. Frank, John Gee and John E. Roe
between 1794-1797. Settlement was rapid from that time into the 1800's.
In 1805, having been part of Homer, Virgil set up its own government. Postal
service, mills, schools, stores and other conveniences soon became numerous, with a
growing population, recorded in 1840 as 4502. However, between 1840 and 1850, the
Towns of Harford and Lapeer were formed from the southern half of Virgil. This caused a
large decrease in the population to 2410 in 1850. Improved roads and the automobile led
people to distant places for more opportunities as the population continued to decease
through the early 1900's to a low of 1,069 in 1920. Today, settlement is rising, due to the
desire for quiet living and recreational advantages. The 2000 census lists a figure of 2287.
The main occupation for much of the 19th century and early 20th was agriculture.
Railroad service, started in 1854, was discontinued in 1929. This, plus the loss of three
post offices by 1934, and the "lure of the big city" brought about the decline of agriculture
and other means of livelihood. There are very few farms in existence today.
In recent years, Cortland factories and other businesses shut their doors causing
many town residents employed there to go into business for themselves. Welding
operations, auto sales and repair shops, horse farms, Bed and Breakfasts, and an auction
barn are a few resident-owned ventures. Hollenbeck's Cider mill, in existence for over 70
years, still produces good cider. A bakery has been added to the operation.
The success of a single ski trail at Snow Crest on Page Green Road led the owners
to develop a multi-trail operation on Rt. 392 at Virgil mountain, the highest elevation in
Cortland County. Opened in 1958, the Greek Peak Ski Resort has expanded further with
town houses, condominiums, A-Frames and other structures. Expansions plans to develop
a Four Seasons Restaurant, Greek Peak include a hotel/convention center, indoor
waterpark, and 18 hole golf course overlooking the recently developed man-made Hope
Lake and Town of Virgil Recreational Area.
The first schools started in 1799, followed by twenty-two one-room district schools.
A central school erected at the Four Corners in 1930 brought in these schools and served
grades K-12 until 1965. A merger with Cortland City School system at the time resulted
in grades 7-12 transported to Cortland Jr.-Sr. High School and K-6 remaining in Virgil.
An 1885 picture shows three church steeples: Congregational, Baptist, and
Methodist. Due to waning membership and support, only the Methodist has survived. To
date, this church shows a strong membership and program.
In 1805, the first town officers were elected. They included supervisor, town clerk,
highway commissioner, collector, as today. Over the years, poor-masters and fence
viewers have been eliminated. Appointed positions today are attorney, historian, justice
27
court officer and vital statistics officer. Various community boards work in cooperation
with the Town Board.
Following a disastrous fire at the "Four Corners" in 1926, fire department was
organized and one fire truck was housed in the present historical building. The old Grange
Hall was renovated in 1960 to provide larger space for better equipment. Now in its 76th
year, emergency medical service is offered, also.
Virgil celebrated its history at its Bicentennial Celebration in 1992, marking events
from settlement days of 1792 through 200 years.
POPULATION
Population analysis can be used to build a portrait of a community. Census data can
explain a great deal about the local area. The community can use this information for
planning and projective growth development.
Population trends are determined and can effect the decision-making process that is
concerned with the overall growth of a community. The population trends for Virgil are
relatively similar to the patterns of other communities in Central New York.
In 1810, the first reported census of Virgil was 913 people, which was
approximately 10.4 percent of the county's total population of 8,793. The most recent
census (2000) population count for Virgil was reported at 2,287 which has dropped to
approximately 4.7 percent of the county's total population of 48,599. From 1810 to
present day, there was a net gain of 1374 people. In 1810, the population density was
slightly higher than the county's population density.
POPULATION DENSITY
Area 1810 1990 2000
Sq.mi. Person/Sq.mi. Person/Sq.mi. Person/Sq.
Virgil 47.1 19.4 46.1 48.6
Cortland 502.5 17.5 97.4 96.7
Along with a general population shift from rural to urban area, the Population Trend
chart reflects the population shift in Virgil. There was a sharp decline in population
between 1840 and 1850 as the Towns of Harford and Lapeer were created from the
28
southern half of Virgil. From the period between 1850 to 1920, Virgil's population had
declined steadily. Beginning 1930 to 2000, Virgil's population has gradually increased
except between 1940 to 1950 where the numbers remained the same. Cortland County and
the Town of Virgil populations have a similar the pattern (See Population Breakdown
Chart).
LAND DEVELOPMENT
The Town of Virgil is located in the southern portion of Cortland County. Farmland
and residential land surround Virgil. This area has an agricultural atmosphere, however,
there are few operating farms left in the township. In recent years, there has been a
noticeable shift in patterns of land use from farming to residential purposes.
Agriculture is a major use of land with 42.7% in the Town of Virgil. There are 61
farms in the Town of Virgil encompassing a total of 13,123 acres. Residential,
State/Park/Forest and Vacant Land being the next highest, respectively. Commercial only
makes up .23%, while Industrial makes up .01% (See Land Use Chart).
AQUIFERS IN THE TOWN OF VIRGIL
There are four distinctly different aquifer areas in the Town of Virgil. The area
located in the northwestern part of the Town is part of the Principal Aquifer Area of the
Dry/Otter Creek Aquifer of Cortland. The water in this area flows to the north. The
aquifer area along the eastern edge of the Town follows the Tioughnioga River Valley,
flowing toward the River and in the southerly direction. The Gridley Creek Aquifer and
the Virgil Creek Aquifer, although connected, are located along a major river basin divide.
Groundwater in the Virgil Creek Aquifer flows toward Virgil Creek, which drains to
Cayuga Lake and eventually to Lake Ontario. Groundwater in the Gridley Creek Aquifer
flows toward Gridley Creek, which drains into the Tioughnioga River, and eventually to
the Chesapeake Bay. The groundwater divide is located between the two
creeks near the area of highest elevation, just west of Holler Road. The glacial geology of
these two aquifers is very different. A portion of the Virgil Creek Aquifer was once a
preglacial lake and therefore more silt and clay may be found in those areas. The Gridley
Creek Aquifer consists of a more permeable glacial outwash material. During the late
1970's, the USGS studied the Gridley Creek Aquifer. Limited information is available
about the Virgil Creek Aquifer.
29
Soil Survey
This section is designed to give an overall layout of the soil in Virgil. The
information it provides will assist in planning general or broad programs of agriculture and
determining locations for roads and structural development.
A general soil area, called a soil association, consists of the soils that occur in a
characteristic pattern on the landscape. Commonly, a general area is made up mainly of
the soils of two or three series. Virgil consists of four soil associations with Lordstown-
Volusia-Mardin (LVM) occupies a larger portion of Virgil.
Topography Physical Characteristics:
Elevation - 2132 feet. Virgil Mountain is located in the south central area of Virgil. Soil
Description - Cortland County is in the northern part of the Appalachian Plateau Province,
known in New York State as the Allegheny Plateau. The plateau consists of layers of acid
sandstone, siltstone, and coarse-textured shale. Most of Virgil's bedrock consists of Ithaca
formations: mostly tough, coarse, blocky shale and thin-bedded, flaggy sandstone; olive to
dark olive gray color. The four soil associations found in Virgil are:
Lordstown-Volusia-Mardin (LVM) occupies a good portion of the eastern area of
Virgil. It is make up mostly of shallow or moderately deep soils over bedrock and
somewhat poorly drained to moderately well drained, gently sloping. A typical landscape
consists of a series of ridges partly dissected by tributary drainage ways.
Valois-Howard-Langford (VHL) is seen in only 2% of the county; the Village of
Virgil is in the portion. This is very well drained soil and very deep soil.
Erie-Volusia-Langford (EVL) is located in the area of western Virgil and is only
5% of the county's soil. This particular type of soil is a somewhat poorly drained soil, but
is slightly better for agriculture than LVM. Erie/Langford contains more lime and most of
the soils in this area are used for dairy farming.
Volusia-Mardin-Lordstown (VML) is a sloping, strongly acid and low in fertility
soil. Volusia soils are poorly drained, Mardin soils are moderately well drained, and
Lordstown soils are shallow, moderately deep, and well drained.
HOUSING
From 1970 to present day, there has been a dramatic increase with the number of
structures built in the township of Virgil (see page 6). There was a surge in the number of
homes built in the Town between 1970 and 1980 as 275 new homes were built during this
period. The number of new homes built in the Town has decreased slightly over the next
two decades as 185 were built between 1980 and 1990 and 176 were built between 1990
and 2000. There were 681 single family detached homes, 29 single attached homes, 41
structures with two families, 111 structures with 3 or more families, and 119 mobile homes
30
in the Town of Virgil in 2000.
As Shown on the Virgil house status chart, approximately 84 percent of housing
units are owner occupied. The number of structures renter occupied has decreased over
the past ten years as has the number of structures categorized as occasional use (seasonal).
This data is a good indicator of the strengthening of the community’s tax base.
Virgil Housing Summary 2000
Specified Value Owner-Occupied Units Units in Structure
Less than $50,000 65 1, Detached 681
$ 50,000 to $ 99,999 206 1, Attached 29
$100,000 to $149,999 94 2 41
$150,000 to $199,999 7 3 or 4 59
$200,000 to $299,999 4 5 to 9 20
$300,000 or more 0 10 to 19 32
MEDIAN $74,600 20 or more 0
Mobile Homes
or Trailers 119
Boat, RV, Van, etc. 4
Year Structure Built House Heating Fuel
1990 to March 2000 46 Utility Gas 11
1995 to 1998 64 Bottled, Tank or LP Gas 178
1990 to 1994 66 Electricity 71
1980 to 1989 145 Fuel Oil, Kerosene 441
1970 to 1979 253 Coal or Coke 16
1960 to 1969 92 Wood 108
1940 to 1959 60 Solar Energy 0
1939 or Earlier 259 Other Fuel 8
No Fuel Used 0
EMPLOYMENT
Between 1990 and 2000 there was an increase of 46 percent in the number of
managerial and professional positions and a 63 percent jump in service occupations.
Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations in Virgil had declined by 63 percent in the same
period of time. The largest percentage drop in persons employed by industry occurred in
finance, insurance and real estate. However, this was more than offset by the increase in
persons employed by the arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food service
industries. The number of persons employed in these areas decreased by 63 percent and
31
increased by 101 percent respectively. Overall, the town had 10 percent more employed
individuals in 2000 than in 1990.
In addition, some major businesses and employers in the town are:
Greek Peak - ski resort
Empire Welding - metal fabricating
Agriculture - dairy
Skyline Raceway - recreation
Town of Virgil - town services
Elm Tree Golf Course - recreation
Hollenbeck Cider Mill - food service
Virgil Elementary School – education
Employed Civilian
Population 16+ 1990 2000 % Change
1,096 1,203 9.8
Persons Employed by Industry
1990 2000 % Change
Agriculture, forestry,
fishing, hunting, & mining 67 59 -11.9
Construction 66 88 33.3
Manufacturing 283 179 -36.7
Wholesale Trade 23 40 73.9
Retail Trade 147 122 -17.0
Transportation, warehousing,
and utilities 55 39 -29.1
Finance, Insurance, and
Real Estate 45 17 -62.2
Public Administration 52 44 -15.4
Education, Health, and
Social Services 231 365 58.0
Professional, Scientific,
Management, Administrative,
And Waste Management
Services 57 34 -40.4
Arts, Entertainment, Recreation,
Accommodation and
Food Services 70 141 101.4
Occupation
1990 2000 % Change
Management, professional, and
32
Related occupations 325 474 45.8
Service 102 166 62.7
Sales and office occupations 270 266 - 1.5
Farming, fishing, and forestry 68 25 -63.
Construction, extraction, and
Maintenance occupations 151 117 -22.5
Production, transportation, and
Material moving occupations 180 155 -13.9
ECONOMIC (Cortland County)
In 1997, there were 711 business establishments in the County. Manufacturing had
the highest number of paid employees, 36.5% with retail trade in second with 21.5%.
There were 200 businesses listed as Retail Trade, including 23 gas stations, 17 automobile
dealers, and 26 food and beverage establishments. There were 82 healthcare facilities,
which included eight nursing homes. There were 42 wholesale trade companies, with 11
being machinery, equipment, and supply wholesalers. There were 70 manufacturing
enterprises, including 12 that were listed as fabricated metal product manufacturing (See
1997 Economic Job Breakdown Chart).
EDUCATION
In the last decade, educational attainment among residents in the Town of Virgil has
increased. There was a 45 percent increase over the decade of persons who have some
college education. The percentage of Virgil residents over 25 years of age with a college
degree is approximately 37 percent. This indicates an increased emphasis on higher
education among Town residents. Across the board, more people are seeking or require a
higher level of education in the 1990's than in the 1980's.
School Enrollment and Type of School (Persons 3+)
1990 2000
Enrolled in Preprimary School 29 34
Enrolled in Elementary or High School 482 476
Enrolled in College 87 72
Educational Attainment
by Persons 25+ 2000
Elementary (0 to 8 years) 49
33
High School (1 to 4 years)
No Diploma 164
High School Diploma 410
Some College, No Degree 332
Associate Degree 182
Bachelors Degree 216
Graduate or Professional Degree 160
AGRICULTURE (Cortland County)
According to the 1997 Agricultural Census, there were 452 farms in Cortland
County, with at total acreage of 120,838. The average size of a farm was 267 acres,
slightly larger than the average New York State (NYS) farm of just 228 acres. The
estimated market value of land and buildings per acre in 1997 was $977, while the market
value of agricultural products sold was $82,848 per farm. Twenty-six percent of farms in
Cortland County have less than $2,500 in sales, while the upper 26% have over $100,000
in sales. The total farm production expenses for Cortland County per farm, $65,235, was
lower than NYS, $68,906.
There were 242 farms with over $10,000 in sales; the average size of these farms
was 407 acres. The estimated market value of land and buildings was $966 for these
farms. The average age of an operator of these farms was 53 years old, with 23 years
spent on their present farm.
In 1992, the Agricultural Census painted a slightly different picture. There were
478 farms in Cortland County, with an average size of 290 acres. NYS had an average
farm size of 231 acres. The 478 farms had a total acreage of 138, 620. The estimated
value of land and buildings was $999 per acre. The market value of agricultural products
sold for Cortland County was $90,386 per farm, while NYS was $81, 161. In 1992, 23%
of farms had a value of sales of less than $2,500 per farm; while 31% had a value of sales
in excess $100,000. Total farm production costs, per farm, was $74,441, while NYS’s
total farm production costs were $66,294 (See Agricultural Statistics – page 13).
Virgil Town Planning
Board
07/05/2022
To: Virgil Town Board
From: Virgil Town Planning Board
Re: Changes in Master Plan, Virgil School Project
Late in 2021, The Virgil Town Planning Board (PB) adopted a brief resolution (#21‐056) stating our opinion that the local
law modification relating to the then current offer on the Virgil School was too narrow in scope and that, while updating
the Master Plan, a broader view of the future of the hamlet should be taken. In consideration of the new and more
expansive offer on the school and ongoing updating of the Master Plan, at the meeting of 06/27/2022, the PB decided to
issue this memorandum in an effort to expand on our earlier opinion.
The PB considers the Master Plan to be a tool that provides a general direction, a vision with approximate guidelines and
limitations that defines what the community wants to preserve and what future developments it considers most
beneficial. It provides a framework for the solicitation and evaluation of proposed projects on a macro scale, leaving the
more specific considerations to individual local authorities.
The proposed Virgil School project reflects a potentially major change in both the use of the building and the character
of the hamlet. Additionally, the hamlet has always been a collection of longstanding diverse uses and it makes sense
now to consider expressing preferences and planning for future diverse uses that could not be evaluated under the
current NR zoning.
The PB favors redefining the NR district within the hamlet to the designation 'mixed use residential'. Permitted by right
uses and, more importantly, uses by conditional permit can be expanded as the Town Board sees fit. Possibilities are
athletic facilities, performance venues, small retail, multiple residences, community gardens, hospitality, public laundry,
etc. It is no coincidence that many of the suggested uses are included in the proposal for the school. The PB also prefers
that new development be encouraged along main roadways, discouraging (or avoiding) development along smaller town
roads.
What's important here is that the town already has an established legal framework for the evaluation of proposed uses
by conditional permit. The Planning Board is in the regular business of doing this work and is already bound by sections
1304 and 1403 of the zoning regulations calling for the Board to consider a wide range of specific project characteristics
along with conformance to the Master Plan. Therefore, the community can keep a firm hand on the evaluation,
potential permitting and future re‐evaluation of a proposed project while providing the developer with a clear set of
guidelines and a time limited procedure. It also ensures that the PB can be wary of spot zoning issues and make sure
that community benefit facets of the project are safeguarded.
This summarizes our position on updating the Master Plan as regards the hamlet. Thank you for your attention.
Virgil Planning Board Meeting July 25, 2022
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TOWN OF VIRGIL PLANNING BOARD MEETING
July 25, 2022, 7:00 PM
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Planning Board Chair Mark Baranello, Board Members Dale Taylor, Sylvia Cook and Carole Lathrop
OTHERS PRESENT: Alane Van Donsel Secretary, Daniel Ellis II Town Attorney
APPLICANTS & PUBLIC PRESENT: Scott Smith, applicant, Peter Coppola, David Kupur representing Peter Coppola & Colleen
Buchannan, Wes Kryger and Karen Cushman
7:00 PM THE PLANNING BOARD CHAIR MARK BARANELLO CALLED THE PLANNING BOARD TO ORDER
DISCUSSION ON THE APPLICATION FROM SCOTT SMITH FOR A CONDITIONAL PERMIT: This item was tabled from last month in order
to give Planning Board members a chance to look at the proposed project for themselves. The members of the Planning Board had a
lengthy discussion. A recoding of such discussion is available on Laserfiche available on the Town of Virgil’s Website.
RESOLUTION #22-024 APPROVAL OF A NEGATIVE DECLARAION UNDER THE NYS SEQR ACT FOR THE PROPETY LOCATED AT 1795
TRAVERSE ROAD: Member Lathrop made a motion to declare a negative declaration based on the information and supporting
documentation that the proposed action will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts which includes the Condition
that the operation will cease and desist as of September 15, 2022. Member Baranello seconded the motion. Vote: Ayes Lathrop,
Baranello, Taylor, Hollenbeck & Cook. Nays: None Motion Carried
RESOLUTION #22-25 APPROVAL OF THE CONDITIONAL PERMIT FOR THE CHUCKER/QUAIL OPERATION LOCATED AT 1795 TRAVERSE
ROAD: Member Dale Taylor approved the conditional for the Chucker Quail Operation located at 1795 Traverse Road provided that
the operation will cease and desist no later than Sept. 15, 2022. The motion was seconded by Member Sylvia Cook. Vote: Ayes Lathrop,
Baranello, Taylor & Cook. Nays: Hollenbeck Motion Carried
DISCUSSION ON GREEK PEAKS SITE PLAN CHANGE: There have been some revisions to the Greek Peak campground’s site plan. Wes
Kryger handed out the plans. The board agreed that the new plan looked like an improvement.
RESOLUTION #22-26 APPROVAL OF CHANGES MADE TO THE GREEK PEAK CAMPGROUND’S SITE PLAN: Member Taylor made a
motion to approve the changes to the Greek Peak Campgrounds site plan changes as presented. Member Baranello seconded the
motion. Vote: Ayes Lathrop, Baranello, Taylor & Cook. Nays: Hollenbeck Motion Carried
RESOLUTION #22-27 PLANNING BOARD MINUTES FROM JUNE 27, 2022: Member Dale Taylor made a motion to approve the Planning
Board minutes from June 27,2022. Member Sylvia Cook seconded the motion. Vote: Ayes Baranello, Taylor, Hollenbeck and Cook
Nays: None
DISCUSSION: Chair Mark Baranello discussed a letter that he wrote to the Planning Board and Town Board regarding the revisions to
the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. Taylor and Hollenbeck who are both on the committee stated that they had not met again since the
last meeting. Baranello stated that he is in favor of getting the Comprehensive Plan Updated as soon as possible.
Wes Kryger asked the board if there were any restrictions on winter camping? It was stated that the law was recently changed
restricting camping to no more than 180 days. It was stated that it shouldn’t be a problem for a week or two weeks in the winter.
Attorney Dan Ellis stated that there is an exception within a campground of no more than 30days. Kryger stated that the original plan
was for the warmer season, but people are asking for winter camping. There was some further discussion on the campground sign.
Kryger said it was temporary and he is looking to get a larger sign.
With no further business to discuss, Chairman Baranello asked for a motion adjourn the meeting at 8:29 PM. Member Dale Taylor
motioned to adjourn. Member Sylvia Cook seconded the motion. Vote: Ayes Chairman Baranello, Members Cook, Lathrop, Hollenbeck
and Taylor. Nays: None Motion Carried
Respectfully Submitted by,
Alane Van Donsel
For Alane Van Donsel
Planning Board Secretary
• Draft of these minutes were attached to the upcoming planning board meetings agenda for 08/29/2022 and sent to the
Planning Board Members, Town Attorney and CEO on Aug. 18, 2022