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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 1991-03-19• 0 CI TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD MARCH 19, 1991 r The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, March x= 1991,, in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York, at 7:30 p.m. • 0 CI TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD MARCH 19, 1991 r The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, March 19, 1991,, in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York, at 7:30 p.m. PRESENT: Chairperson Carolyn Grigorov, Robert Kenerson, William Lesser, Stephen Smith, Eva Hoffmann, Judith Aronson, George Frantz (Acting Town Planner), Dan Walker (Town Engineer), John C. Barney (Town Attorney). ALSO PRESENT: Sandy Tallant, Larry Fabbroni, Charles Jankey, Paul Sarokwash, D.B. Brittain, Bruce Brittain, Albert L. Wright, Don McPherson,,Geoff Hamburg, Shirley K. Egan, John Whitcomb, Nancy M. Fuller. Chairperson Grigorov declared the meeting duly opened at 7:39 P.M., and accepted for the record the Clerk's Affidacit of Posting and Publication of the Notice of Public Hearings in Town Hall and the Ithaca Journal on March 11, 1991, and March 14, 1991, respectively, together with the Secretary's Affidavit of Service by Mail of said Notice upon the various neighbors of each of the properties under -discussion, as appropriate, upon the Clerk of the City of Ithaca, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Planning, and upon the applicants and /or agetns, as appropriate, on March 11, 19916 Chairperson Grigorov read the Fire Exit .Regulations to those assembled, as required by the New York State Department of State, Office of Fire Prevention and Control. AGENDA ITEM `PRESENTATION OF CORNELL UNIVERSITY DRAFT SCOPE G /EIS BY REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CORNELL PLANNING DEPARTMENT. ,Sandy Tallant, of the Cornell Campus Planning Office, approached the Board and stated that she was serving as Project Manager on the G /EIS. At this point, Ms. the Proposed Draft Scope, Tallant said that the rezoning of the area that Rte. 366, and Game Farm as Exhibit #1) Tallant distributed to members of the Board along with a map showing the area. Mse action associated with this request is for is north of Cascadilla Creek, bounded by Road. (Proposed Draft, Scope attached hereto Ms. Tallant offered that the Consultants retained by Cornell to work on the project are: Rist -Frost Associates Consulting Engineers, the L.A. Group which are Landscape Architects and Engineers, as well as Travers Associates who are Traffic Planners and Engineers. Ms. Tallant said that the major Cornell' team is Paul Griffen, Vice President of Facilities Planning Construction and Statutory Planning Board (2) March 19, 1991 • Facilities, John Gutenberger, Assistant Director of Community Relations, Bill Gurowitz, Director'; of Environmental Health and Safety, Lew Roscoe, Director of CampuspPlanning, Judy Jones, who is with the College of Agriculture LifeV :,Science in the Research Office, Bob Bland and Lawrence Fabbroni, with Facilities Engineering, Ms. Tallant went over the proposedjl'Ischedule for the G /EIS, which is attached hereto as Exhibit #2. Board Member Lesser wondered why Cornell was requesting a Special Land Use District. Acting Town Planner George Frantz responded that Ir there were a number of reasons to benefit both Cornell and the Town. Mr. ;Frantz said that the zoning district, such as the proposed Special Land Use District, would take into consideration the height of Cornell buildings which generally rise beyond the 30' limitation, lay out standards for parking andilthe like more appropriate for a University, setbacks, and also, of course, the varying uses that a University has, all of which are ,not really compatible with the existing R -30. Town Engineer Dan Walker said thatllthe rezoning is an action that Cornell project, order is requesting, and, basically, adding that that is the basis, for to justify and evaluate the effects that is the center of preparing the G /EIS that that action will the in have on the environment. . Chairperson Grigorov asked if anyone had any further questions. Stephen Smith wondered if Special Land Use Districts were still done, or whether they were on hold. ('Attorney Barney replied that he thought the reason for the Special Land Use District request is that, at present, it is all the Town has inithe Zoning Ordinance. Attorney Barney stated that it might be more appropriate for the University to consider the creation of a brand new zone, such as: Public Institution Zone, University Zone, or something of that nature. Attorney Barney said that would bejsomething to be explored as the Board goes through the process. Attorney Barney stated that the University felt they needed some formal request for some kind of rezoning as the underpinning for goinglinto the environmental impact materials. Mr. Frantz stated that Stuart Brown Associates, in their report, recommended that the Town institute some kind of institution type district -- not just for Cornell but for Ithaca College. There appearing to be no further questions or comments, Chairperson Grigorov closed the Cornell University Draft Scope G /EIS discussion at 7:44 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERAT FOR THE PROPOSED EXPANSION AND CORNELL UNIVERSITY, LOCATED TAX PARCELS NO. 6- 67 -1 -2.1 • DISTRICT. CORNELL UNIVERSITY, ION OF 'PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN APPROVAL RENOVATION OF HASBROUCK APARTMENTS, ON PLEASANT GROVE ROAD, TOWN OF ITHACA AND 6 =,168 -1 -10.1, MULTIPLE RESIDENCE OWNER, ALBERT WRIGHT, AGENT. ir Planning Board (3) March 19, 1991 chairperson Grigorov declared the Public Hearing in the above -noted matter duly opened at 7:45;p.m. and read aloud from the Notice of Public Hearings as posted and published and as noted above. Mr. Albert Wright approached thenBoard and stated that he was an Architect and Project Manager for the University in the Architectural Services Department. Mr. Wright noted that the proposal is for renovations and additions to the Hasbrouck Apartments. Mr. Wright stated that the Architects for the project are Einhorn, Yaffe, Prescott Associates& from Albany, New York, adding that Geoff Hamburg would be representing them at tonight's meeting. Mr. Wright offered that the Landscape Architects are the L.A. Group, from Saratoga Springs, New York. Mr. Wright said that Don McPherson is representing the L.A. Group at tonight's meeting. Maps were appended to the bulletinV�;board. Mr. McPherson said that the general intent of the project is to improve the quality of life on the entire parcel, both interior and exterior. Mr. McPherson said that the project would also entail the addition of 92 units,'those taking the',form of 3rd floor additions to the existing buildings. Mr. McPherson noted that the buildings in the "darker gray" are buildings that would be receiving the 3rd floor • addition and the "beige" remaining buildings would be remaining two story, but they would all get a pitched roof as opposed to the existing flat roof. Mr. McPherson said that the overall project network would stay very much the same - vehicular access on the main horseshoe road, but obviously withi "Ithe additional units as per the Town's code, a lot more parking had toibe added in "these" two areas as well as on the outside corners. Mr. McPherson said that building No. 40 would be completely redesigned into a community center; currently it houses staff offices, and a large laundry facility. Mr. McPherson said that some of the uses will still stay, but, in addition, some computer rooms will" be added, plus a large meeting space. Mr. McPherson said that the overall site, as one can see on the map, will be improved substantially. Mr. McPherson mentioned improvement of the pedestrian network such as adding a lot of interior walks, and much improved crosswalks at the major crossing points. Mr. McPherson also mentioned !,improvements to the interior courtyards. Mr. McPherson said that' there would be renovations and improvements to the existing play equipment. Mr. McPherson stated that the overal planting scheme would be much improved than what is presently there, adding, as many as possible of the existing trees will be preserved as well as trans planting those which will be relocated by some of the parking. Chairperson Grigorov noted, for the record, that Eva Hoffmann, • Robert Kenerson, Judith Aronson, and herself, visited the site. Planning Board (4) March 19, 1991 • Geoff Hamburg, of Einhorn, Yaffee, Prescott Associates, addressed the Board and stated that part of their task is to improve the quality of life, and in terms of family housing, make it look residential. Mr. Hamburg, indicating on the map, stated that "this" portion would be a new 3rd floor corridor, and "these" would be new stair towers that are on the ends of existing buildings. Mr. Hamburg commented that new roofs would be put on the buildings, adding that it is a radical transformation of the image of what Hasbrouck is now. Mr. Hamburg stated that the courtyards are interior yards and would look more residential with the addition of a trellis and storage units. Mr. Hamburg said that the pitched roofs have a lot to do with cluing one into a more residential atmosphere. Mr. Hamburg displayed elevation drawings. Mr. Wright spoke from the floor and stated that, in addition to adding the 3rd floor and roofs, the existing units of the interiors will be renovated. Mr. Wright said that all of the buildings will be sprinklered, along with a centralized heating system, and new windows which will be more energy efficient, adding, this will bring the existing units up to present day standards. Chairperson Grigorov noted that this was a Public Hearing and asked if there were anyone from the, public who had any comments or questions. Doug Brittain, of 135 Warren Road,, spoke from the floor and asked • how tall the proposed building would be. Mr. McPherson answered that it would be 371. Mr. Brittain commented that Town Law stipulates 30' height. Acting Town Planner George Frantz responded that the Zoning Ordinance does stipulate 30' height, and noted that it does require a variance. Mr. Brittain commented that it was his understanding that if the IL Planning Board makes a recommendation for a variance for the height limit that it is up to the applicant to prove that there is an unnecessary hardship, or at least an `unreasonable hardship, which would be imposed upon them if they were to meet the law as it stands. Mr. Brittain said that any hardship, a mere hardship, is not enough; an economic hardship is not enough; it has to be an unreasonable hardship. Mr. Brittain said that the hardship also has to be particular and unique to the property involved; it is not, so the applicant would have to show this piece of land as somehow different from all the other pieces of land in the Town of Ithaca that also have a 30' height limit. Mr. Brittain stated that it is possible to build a three -story building with a flat roof and not have the roofing problems that Cornell has had. Mr. Brittain said that there is room to have a pitched roof if Cornell would have a different drainage program than exists now. Mr. Brittain pointed out that when Hasbrouck was built one thing that was trendy at the time was the glazed tile on the outside of the buildings. Mr. Brittain felt that the only reason Cornell needs a variance is for aesthetic • purposes; there are no functional purposes. • • • \ l Planning Board (5) March 19, 1991 Mr. Hamburg stated that there is nothing "trendy" about a pitched roof; it is probably the most original roof that one can know. Bruce Brittain, of 135 Warren Rd., appeared before the Board and read aloud a letter, dated March 19, 1991, from Wm. Goldsmith, President of the Forest Home Improvement Association. (Letter attached as Exhibit #3) Mr. Brittain said that living where he does on Warren Road he is concerned about the view to the west of West Hill. Mr. Brittain said that if the height of those buildings doubles it will, essentially, eliminate his beautiful view of the sunsets on West Hill. Mr. Brittain stated that he realizes that is a very private concern, but nevertheless it is a concern of his. Attorney Barney stated that the application for a variance would be made through the Zoning Board of Appeals. Attorney Barney noted that the Planning Board's role is'more in terms of the site plan, adding that the ZBA has the responsiblility to determine the criteria for granting a variance. Mr. Frantz wondered about an area variance as opposed to a use variance. Attorney Barney stated that, generally speaking, a use variance is more difficult to get, and, in effect, the proposed is for an area variance. Attorney Barney noted that there are economic concerns that have to be established. Attorney Barney stated that one of the elements for an area variance is whether the injury to the community, is greater than the benefit to the party requesting the variance. There appearing to be no one else from the public who wished to speak to this matter, Chairperson Gri„gorov closed the Public Hearing at 8:11 p.m. and brought the matter back to the Board for discussion. Chairperson Grigorov stated that she felt Hasbrouck could use some renovation. Judith Aronson mentioned the feeling of density just as it is laid out now -- the amount of paved area for parking compared with the green space seems awfully small; there is a feeling of high density there. Ms. Aronson commented that the proposed landscaping looks very attractive and would be an' improvement, but it is cutting off more of the green space and green areas for children to play in. Ms. Aronson stated that she is concerned about the density, adding that she also did an informal "census" in the number of parking places that were not occupied. This was done in the middle of the afternoon. Ms. Aronson offered that in the horseshoe area there were 86 empty spaces, and in the existing back areas there were 71. Ms. Aronson stated that she did not think there was any traffic data on how many of the students use their automobiles during the day, and how many use campus transportation. Ms. Aronson stated that she thought that kind of data would be very helpful. Mr. Wright talked about parking permits that have been issued. Mr. Wright offered that there are 149 residents at Hasbrouck that have parking permits. Mr. Wright said that there are 246 units. 1 1 Planning Board (6) I March 19, 1991 • Attorney Barney wondered, in order to park a car at Hasbrouck, is it necessary to have a parking permit? Mr. Wright replied, that's right. Mr. Wright said that there are11293 parking spaces available -- 246 existing living units, but only 144 residents own cars. Mr. Wright stated that there are nine other persons, presumably staff people, that have parking permits for that area. Mr. Wright said that there are 153 cars that have permits to park at Hasbrouck, which is 520 of the spaces available. Attorney Barney wondered if it was the present policy for the University to limit permits to park at Hasbrouck to only the Hasbrouck residents. Mr. Wright answered, yes.' Mr. Frantz stated that the Town zoning would prohibit use of that parking for anything other than Hasbrouck residents. Mr. Charles Janke, Associate Director of Residence Life at Cornell, stated that a parking permit sticker is required to park at Hasbrouck. Robert Kenerson noted that the Board's notes indicate that if the same formula is applied to the additions, then there will be more parking spaces than is needed, therefore, parking should be cut back. Mr. Wright responded, yes, cutting back would contribute to more green space. Mr. Wright noted" that the reduced number of parking spaces will work. Mr. Wright offered that the present parking does not meet the current Zoning Ordinance; they do not have 1.34 spaces per living unit. Mr. McPherson placed an overlay on the site plan to illustrate one way in which it might be possible to reduce the total number of cars by about 60. Mr. Kenerson stated • that he gathered the present usage was'Ijless than the spaces that are available. Mr. Wright responded, yes,ll it is only about 50% use. Mr. McPherson stated that the majority of t'he reduction would be where Cornell is adding the most new spaces;,, those would be in the northern periphery -near the areas in "purple ", where there was paving and now would become green space. Mr. McPherson indicated on the map where the new parking lot would be. Eva Hoffmann commented that it looks like a very minimal reduction, and wondered if those areas could represent all the cars that Mr. McPherson mentioned. Mr. McPherson answered, yes, he believed the number of spaces was in the 501s, adding that the "purple" on the map cuts out 60 parking spaces. Eva Hoffmann wondered about the' walkways. Mr. McPherson responded that the current walkways;; would remain. Ms. Hoffmann wondered about the 30% coverage of the lot as noted in the Environmental Assessment Form, Ms.l Hoffmann wondered what was included in the 30 %. Mr. McPherson responded that it was building coverage only. Mr. Wright said that for roads, buildings, and other paved surfaces, it is about 7.4 acres. Ms. Hoffmann said that it would be more like 37 %, and the 63% is lawn and trees. William Lesser wondered if the landscaping plan as shown was the final plan. Mr. McPherson answered, yes, the proposed plantings are within the budget realms. • Eva Hoffmann commented that there was some question about whether the two extra (study houses) buildings can be built. Mr. McPherson indicated that the location for those would be "here" and "here ". , r r 1 1 Planning Board (6) I March 19, 1991 • Attorney Barney wondered, in order to park a car at Hasbrouck, is it necessary to have a parking permit? Mr. Wright replied, that's right. Mr. Wright said that there are11293 parking spaces available -- 246 existing living units, but only 144 residents own cars. Mr. Wright stated that there are nine other persons, presumably staff people, that have parking permits for that area. Mr. Wright said that there are 153 cars that have permits to park at Hasbrouck, which is 520 of the spaces available. Attorney Barney wondered if it was the present policy for the University to limit permits to park at Hasbrouck to only the Hasbrouck residents. Mr. Wright answered, yes.' Mr. Frantz stated that the Town zoning would prohibit use of that parking for anything other than Hasbrouck residents. Mr. Charles Janke, Associate Director of Residence Life at Cornell, stated that a parking permit sticker is required to park at Hasbrouck. Robert Kenerson noted that the Board's notes indicate that if the same formula is applied to the additions, then there will be more parking spaces than is needed, therefore, parking should be cut back. Mr. Wright responded, yes, cutting back would contribute to more green space. Mr. Wright noted" that the reduced number of parking spaces will work. Mr. Wright offered that the present parking does not meet the current Zoning Ordinance; they do not have 1.34 spaces per living unit. Mr. McPherson placed an overlay on the site plan to illustrate one way in which it might be possible to reduce the total number of cars by about 60. Mr. Kenerson stated • that he gathered the present usage was'Ijless than the spaces that are available. Mr. Wright responded, yes,ll it is only about 50% use. Mr. McPherson stated that the majority of t'he reduction would be where Cornell is adding the most new spaces;,, those would be in the northern periphery -near the areas in "purple ", where there was paving and now would become green space. Mr. McPherson indicated on the map where the new parking lot would be. Eva Hoffmann commented that it looks like a very minimal reduction, and wondered if those areas could represent all the cars that Mr. McPherson mentioned. Mr. McPherson answered, yes, he believed the number of spaces was in the 501s, adding that the "purple" on the map cuts out 60 parking spaces. Eva Hoffmann wondered about the' walkways. Mr. McPherson responded that the current walkways;; would remain. Ms. Hoffmann wondered about the 30% coverage of the lot as noted in the Environmental Assessment Form, Ms.l Hoffmann wondered what was included in the 30 %. Mr. McPherson responded that it was building coverage only. Mr. Wright said that for roads, buildings, and other paved surfaces, it is about 7.4 acres. Ms. Hoffmann said that it would be more like 37 %, and the 63% is lawn and trees. William Lesser wondered if the landscaping plan as shown was the final plan. Mr. McPherson answered, yes, the proposed plantings are within the budget realms. • Eva Hoffmann commented that there was some question about whether the two extra (study houses) buildings can be built. Mr. McPherson indicated that the location for those would be "here" and "here ". Planning Board (7) March 19, 1991 • Mr. McPherson said that they are not in the base package of the project; they are something to be considered in the future. Mr. Kenerson wondered if Cornell was asking that they be a part of the approval standpoint even if they do not get built. Mr. Wright answered, yes. Mr. Wright said that if Cornell can afford to build them that is where they would like to build them, commenting that they would like the consideration. Mr. Wright said that they are being designed and will be bid as alternatives. Mr. Kenerson said that if the Board does not approve the two buildings as part of the site plan approval, then Cornell has to come back before the Board. Mr. Frantz stated that it was his understanding that, essentially, the two buildings are not being considered tonight as they are being put out to bid as alternatives, and if they do come within budget, then Cornell can come back for a modification of site plan approval to include the two buildings. Mr. Wright responded with, okay, whatever is the proper or easier procedure for the Town. Mr. Frantz asked about the size of the footprint. Mr. Wright responded that it is about 251X 351 0 Eva Hoffmann, pointing to the iimap,, asked about the little building at the lower right. Mr. Wright replied that that is an existing community building that will remain at that location. William Lesser wondered if the• exterior appearance was fairly well set if the project is approved, or is it just conceptualization. Mr. McPherson responded that it is fairly well • set. Mr. McPherson said that the extra 6' in height is very important. Eva Hoffmann noted that she thought flat roofs can be designed to be just as attractive as the proposed roof. Mr. McPherson responded that he agreed, but they are trying to be a "good neighbor "; most of the residences in the Town of Ithaca have relatively steeply pitched roofs, andiCornell is trying to make that the image rather than making do with something else. Chairperson Grigorov said that it is a concern ifGit blocks the view, adding, if it requires a variance and is blocking the view that makes it more difficult. Mr. Janke stated that he finds it difficult to believe that it would block the view because Warren Road in that area seemed to him to be significantly higher in elevation; the ground from Hasbrouck back toward Warren Road rises some. Mr. Janke said that the closest house to this development is probably 301; it is a Greek Revival house right across the street. At this point, Chairperson Grigorov, referring to the EAF, Part I, went through the comments from the Environmental Review Committee. (ERC comments attached hereto as Exhibit #4). Responses follow. A2 - Acting Town Planner George Frantz noted that the additional • acre can be seen at the top of "the site plan before the Board. Mr. Frantz said that the additional acre is a storage building area marked "J ". • • • Planning Board (8) March 19, 1991 A3 - Town Engineer Dan Walker stated that there can be well- drained material with a shallow water table. Mr. Walker said that, generally, in a silty clay, he would not consider them extremely well - drained unless they are on a fairly good slope. Mr. Walker stated that, currently, as the facility stands, -there is no major drainage problem on the site. Mr. Walker said that one has to look at slope, soil cover, and the use. Board member Eva Hoffmann wondered if there was enough of a slope on the land for the drainage. Mr. Walker responded that the interior site area has storm drainage in it, which provides the adequate drainage. Mr. Walker stated that the main issue he would be looking at is to make sure that any building drainage' does not go into the sanitary sewer system. B1e- Mr. Wright responded that it is a little addition to Building #40, the boiler room; and the stair towers which is the building footprint. Blg- Mr. Frantz stated that he did',not calculate the number of trips per hour, but had focused on the impact of the expansion. Mr. Frantz noted that in his memo to the Board he had estimated about 400 trips per day as being a reasonable estimate of what can be expected from the expansion itself. Mr. Frantz said that based on the additional 400 trips per day for the additional 92 units the existing might be producing'in the range of 1000 -1100 trips per day, adding, it could be 1400 -1600 trips per day upon completion of the project. B16- The location of the T.C. landfill is in Spencer. B18- Mr. Hamburg said that something like "Round -up" would be used to control weeds in the lawn. Mr. Hamburg, referring to the interior of the buildings, stated that Cornell does have a pest control program, adding that the residents are notified when this will take place. Eva Hoffmann noted that it was said that there is no weed control program at Hasbrouck, and wondered if there was a plan in operation for this. Mr. Hamburg responded that he was not the one to speak to that, but he would assume that some of the new plantings might require some ''control. Mr. Hamburg said that Cornell is very conscious of the children at Hasbrouck. B19- Mr. Frantz stated that he had'',Mr. Wright change the "no" to "yes" 21- Mr. Wright stated that the building walls will be insulated. There will be newt l thermal windows. The roof will be insulated. Mr. Wright stated that it will all meet the requirements of the New York State .Energy Code. Mr. Janke stated that the residents currently pay their own utilities. Mr. Janke stated that they have not considered solar panels, adding that everyone must know that there is Planning Board (9) March 19, 1991 only one area in the whole country that is worse than the Ithaca area for solar energy, and that is Seattle, Washington. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she understood solar panels can still be used to heat hot water. Mr. Frantz said that the buildings are not properly oriented for solar energy. If B23- Mr. Walker said that his estimate would be about 200 gallons. C3- Mr. Wright said that 30% is what the present zoning would allow. Mr. Wright said that there will be additional drainage areas provided. C12- Mr. Wright stated that they were attempting to be conservative and err on the side of what would apt to be less questioned. Mr. Wright said that if they had said no, he was sure that everyone would think they were trying to put something over on the'i Board. Mr. Wright stated that there will be an increase in traffic, but was not sure it would be significant, commenting, how does one define significant; that is very difficult to say. Mr. Wright noted that they did get some traffic information along Pleasant Grove Road from the County Planning Department, and they had indicated there has not been any complaints with the adequacy of the road. • Eva Hoffmann stated that any traffic going south would most likely go through Forest Home. Mr. Janke responded that he was not so sure about that. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she felt the Forest Home area is very congested and felt it was important to address the traffic situation. Chairperson Grigorov, referring to Exhibit #3, paragraph 4, second sentence, "We hope that Cornell will continue with its plan to eliminate the access road from this area to Pleasant Grove Road, routing access instead through the North Campus area toward Jessup Road ". fMr. Frantz asked Bruce Brittain to clarify that. Doug Brittain responded that he had attended the public information meeting. Mr. Brittain stated that whoever made the presentation said that, yes, it will not have access to Pleasant Grove Road; it would have access to campus. Mr. Jenke interjected that he was at that meeting, and spoke at that meeting, and it was not a promise what they said was that it would make sense that that road be routed over to Jessup Road or perhaps down through Sisson Place, but that needs to be studied, in fact, the Pleasant Grove project is now on hold, and will probably remain on hold for at least two to three years. Mr. Walker said that from the standpoint of Pleasant Grove Road being a County Road, if a new dormitory complex was developed on the Pleasant Grove Apartments Pside of the road, it would • probably mean a new location for a driveway entrance or curb cut. „ Planning Board (10) March 19, 1991 • Bob Kenerson wondered when Hasbrouck was constructed. Mr. Wright responded, 1961, adding that it was designed for family housing and has been used as such for 30 years. Mr. Janke stated that Hasbrouck will continue to be used as family housing. Mr. Kenerson stated that he has heard that there were concerns about the moisture, bugs, and vermin, at Hasbrouck. Mr. Kenerson wondered if the renovations would take care of the concerns, with Mr. Janke answering, yes. Attorney Barney noted that the proposal, under the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, maximizes the numberof units Cornell can have on the site. Attorney Barney said that there is a limitation of 2500 sq. ft. per dwelling unit, and Cornell'jhas 2565 sq. ft. Mr. Wright stayed that he was thinking in terms of height rather than the density. Attorney Barney said that was about 17 units per acre. ir There appearing to be no further discussion or comments from the Board, Chairperson Grigorov asked iflanyone were prepared to offer a motion. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by William Lesser: WHEREAS: 1. This action is the consideration of Preliminary Site Plan • Approval for the proposed expansion and renovation of Hasbrouck Apartments, Cornell University, located on Pleassnt Grove Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcels Noy 6- 67 -1 -2.1 and 6 -68 -1 -10.1, Multiple Residence District, said expansion is proposed to consist of the addition of 92 living units to the site by the addition of a third floor to ,several existing buildings, additional parking spaces, and landscape improvements. 2. This is a Type I action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board has been legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review for site plan considerations. The Zoning Board of Appeals has been legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review 'for any variances which this action may be contingent upon. 3. The Planning Board, at Public Hearing on March 19, 1991, has reviewed the Long Environmental Assessment Form, an environmental assessment prepared by the Town Planning Department, the comments of the Environmental Review Committee of the Town of Ithaca Conservation Advisory Council, a site plan entitled "Hasbrouck Apartments, Cornell University'!, prepared by the LA Group Landscape Architecture and Engineering, P.C. and Einhorn Yaffee Prescott Architecture and Engineering, P.C., dated February 28, 1991, and other application materials for this submission. • 4. The Town Planning Department has recommended that a negative determination of environmental significance be made for this action. Planning Board (11) March 19, 1991 • THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED: That the Planning Board make and i,hereby does make a negative determination of environmental significance for this action as proposed. There being no further discussion,the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Grigorov, Keneron, Lesser, Smith; Hoffmann, Aronson. Nay None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. At this time, William Lesser asked Mr. Frantz what his recommendation was on the height variance. Mr. Frantz responded that it is an area variance and he looked into whether or not the strict application of the Zoning Ordinance serves a public purpose that, in a sense, outweighs the reference he was using would cause injury to the property owner. Mr. Frantz said that from a design standpoint the pitched roofs are more in character with the surrounding development than the flat roofs. Mr.,,,Frantz noted that the magnitude of the variance is approximately 6- 1 /21feet. Mr. Frantz said that another issue he looked at was -- if Cornell were not to build the additional stories on the 14 buildings; what else could they do they could build additional buildings and cover more land with developed properties. Mr. Frantz noted that land surrounding the University is becoming a premium, and the Town has to ask themselves if they want to spread out farther and'i; farther or maybe start going up to three -story buildings -- going an additional 6 -1/2' to allow the proposed design. Mr. Frantz stated that he felt the height variance in this case would be an appropriate one. Eva Hoffmann stated that one of the reasons she is worried about making a recommendation to the ZBA that they allow this variance is that the Planning Board, in other cases recently discussed such as Rogan's Corner and Stellar Stereo, hasl',been looking at such things more strictly and feeling that that kind of area variance is not compatible with the general goals of the Town. Mr. Frantz said that in both the case of Rogan's Corners and Stellar Stereo there was obvious opportunity for them to redesign the project to meet the zoning requirements, adding that Cornell is more constrained in the options that they could excerise in order to bring this project into conformance with the requirements of the zoning; it may not be as attractive to the Town in terms of land use. Ms. Hoffmann said that there also is the question of sewer and water pressure problems. Ms. Hoffmann wondered if it would be a good idea to adjourn the matter until more is known about the water /sewer. Mr. Walker said that, basically, there is a problem with sewer capacity, but it will be evaluated. Mr. Walker commented that he has questions as to whether there is adequate water capacity • and pressure to serve those buildings,! and if they comply with State Code's for fire control, and for health. Mr. Lesser offered that it would be 2 -1/2 years before the buildings were fully occupied. Mr. Planning Board (12) March 19, 1991 • Walker stated that the main concern he has is that this is an expansion in the use of public utilities, adding, the Town is responsible to maintain that public utility system, and under the Site Plan Review one of the things looked at is whether or not the public utilities are adequate for the proposed plan. Mr. Walker stated that he has not gotten enough documentation together to convince him that the Town will not be accepting a liability with the site plan approval. Mr. Walker stated that he does not want to recommend to the Planning Board that they accept something that is going to cost the Town a major liability and put the Town in a situation whereby they are forced into doing something they cannot afford to do right now jV%sey+ poevair6.ph Yo v,ft N-1e Judith Aronson, directing her question to Mr. Frantz, asked what the advantage was to having preliminary approval. Mr. Frantz responded that the whole idea behind any preliminary approval, even for subdivisions, is that most of ''the project details have been worked out, and the Board is comfortable enough with the project that at some point in the future they can grant final site plan approval contingent upon meeting a specific list of conditions. • Lawrence Fabbroni, of Cornell Unive "rsity, spoke from the floor and stated that there is the capacity to treat sewage at the new sewer treatment plant. The problem that the Health Department has cited before has been known to the Town for over four years. Mr. Fabbroni said that from the standpoint of any applicant, including Cornell's point of view, they are strictly users out in the Town as a Townwide Sewer District -- Cornell pays' their fair sewer rate, and improvements in the system, aside from the Intermunicipal Agreement, Cornell is just like any other user inithe Town. Mr. Fabbroni stated that it has been studied, it has been engineered; it needs to be designed and built. Attorney Barney noted that the problem right now is that Cornell is throwing 92 more units on what is already an overburdened system. Mr. Fabbroni stated that Cornell, in good faith, let 90 units of the Town's come through their system and go to the plant. Mr. Walker said that all he is asking for is the numbers and the design report on flows, peaks and usage; something hard and fast that he can take to the Health Department. There appearing to be no further discussion or comments from the Board, Chairperson Grigorov asked if anyone were prepared to offer a motion. MOTION by Eva Hoffmann, seconded by William Lesser. RESOLVED, by the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, that the Public Hearing in the matter of the proposed expansion and renovation of Hasbrouck Apartments, Cornell University, located on Pleasant Grove Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcels No. 6- 67 -1 -2.1 and 6 -68 -1 -10.1, Multiple Residence District, be and hereby is adjourned, without formal date, until such time as the Town Engineer has received an Engineering Report that includes sanitary sewage flow estimates for Planning Board (13) March 19, 1991 • the completed project, including the impact of phased construction on sewage generation, and water pressure and flow information for the proposed water supply. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Grigorov, Kenerson, Lesser, Smith, Hoffmann, Aronson. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. Chairperson Grigorov declared the matter of Consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval for the proposed expansion and renovation of Hasbrouck Apartments duly'adjourned A TEMPORARY PARKING LOT AT THE at 9:52 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION TO THE ZONING in the WITH RESPECT TO A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL APPROVAL FOR BOARD OF APPEALS THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A TEMPORARY PARKING LOT AT THE SITE OF THE FORMER OXLEY ARENA, LOCATED OFF NYS" RTE. 366 (DRYDEN ROAD), TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO. 6- 63- 1 -8.2, RESIDENCE DISTRICT R -30. CORNELL UNIVERSITY, OWNER: HARRY MACPHERSON, AGENT. Chairperson Grigorov declared the Public Hearing in the above -noted matter duly Notice of Public Hearings opened at as posted 9.53 p.m. and and published read aloud and as noted from the above. Board Member William Lesser wondered if the Board could agree not to accept any further requests for consideration for plans that drain through this system. Town Engineer Dan Walker responded that if someone comes in with a project proposal the Board should look at it, adding that infrastructure improvements are very often made a Mo�� condition of the approval. 40 P 14L appended plans to the wall notin University, approached the Board Lawrence Fabbroni of Cornell U and a noting !that Mr. McPherson was unable p�, to attend. Mr. Fabbroni, indicating on the appended maps, described the project. Mr. Fabbroni noted that the Special Approval request to the Zoning Board of Appeals basically asks to develop a temporary parking lot that would strictly be a gravel lot, and it would have approximately 134 spaces. Mr. Fabbroni, referring to a construction trailer on the site, stated that Cornell would move the trailer off the site. Mr. Fabbroni offered that the trailer was originally placed on the site for the construction of the Theory Center. Mr. Fabbroni said that the access would be just inside the City. Mr. Fabbroni said that the border along Cascadilla Creek would be landscaped and the long -term plan is for Cornell Plantations to develop more and more native specimens along the Creek and develop • walking trails and such along the Creek. Planning Board • Board Member retaining wall that Fabbroni responded (14) March 19, 1991 Judith Aronson commented that there is an old is crumbling on the Dryden Road side. Mr. that the wall will be left in its same location. At this time, Eva Hoffmann stated that she was a little confused about the proposal because in some of the papers it says that this is a temporary parking lot and a temporary trailer, and, after that the land will be returned to a more natural state. Ms. Hoffmann commented that on the Special Approval Appeal it does not say temporary parking, it says "expand parking lot from 70 to 134 spaces ", then farther down it says "as "part of a stage plan this site is proposed to be increased from 70 spaces prior to Oxley demolition to 134 spaces in a gravel parking lot. The proposed construction trailer and parking will be utilized for construction projects on campus until 1996. After this time, parking will support area access along Cascadilla Creek Corridor beautified to fulfill campus planning of this open space." Ms. Hoffmann stated that it does not say that the parking would be reduced. Mr. Fabbroni responded that he does not have a specific number, but the order of magnitude would be somewhere between 20 and 40 spaces, as opposed to the 134 spaces, would be needed for that open space "plan. Mr. Fabbroni stated that it is temporary. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she wants to be sure the ZBA knows that it is temporary. Sandy Tallant, of Cornell University, stated that William Wendt "s office does issue parking permits for construction workers so it !ids controlled. • Stephen Smith, referring to the parking lot run -off, asked how the site would be drained. Mr. Fabbroni responded that it has always been a gravel lot. Town Engineer „Dan Walker said that the lot is well- drained. Mr. Smith wondered about run -off into the stream. Mr. Walker replied that there is about ''a 20 -30' wide vegetative buffer strip around the lot, and that should, be adequate. Ms. Hoffmann expressed a concern about the filtering out of oil and gasoline. Mr. Walker noted that there is not going to be any major storage there. Robert Kenerson asked about the plantings. Mr. Fabbroni said that he does not have the details on those plans tonight. Eva Hoffmann commented that it looks like there is a fairly large area which is covered with gravel -like material that extends east of where the building is located. Mr. Fabbroni responded that is what Mr. Kenerson was referring to. Mr. Fabbroni said that after talking with Nancy Ostman, of Cornell Plantations, he expects that they would begin to establish plantings along the Creek and not wait six years. Ms. Hoffmann asked about the rest of the gravel area which is south toward Rte. 366, Mr. Fabbroni said that there is no intention of extending the parking beyond the 134 spaces. Mr. Fabbroni made it clear that an improved parking lot has not been built yet; what one sees today is the demolition of the Oxley lot. Mr. Fabbroni said that the finished parking area with the limestone on it has not been built. Attorney Barney noted that the plan shows a fence; no one will be able to park there. • Mr. Walker asked about reclamation plans for 1996. Mr. Fabbroni suggested putting something in the, resolution to that effect. Planning Board (15) March 19, 1991 Attorney Barney said that it cuts off December 31, 1996 and at that • point Cornell blockades it and landscapes the area to prevent any parking at all, unless Cornell comes "back with a plan that has been approved through the process. Mr. Fabbroni offered that there is an existing shed on the site that is used for storage. • u Chairperson Grigorov noted, for the record, that Eva Hoffmann, Bob Kenerson, Stephen Smith, and herself, viewed the site. There appearing to be no further discussion or comments from the Board, Chairperson Grigorov asked if anyone were prepared to offer a motion. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by William Lesser. WHEREAS: 1. This action is the Consideration of' a Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to a request for Special Approval, pursuant to Article V. Section 18, Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed construction of a temporary parking lot at the site o,f the former Oxley Arena, to be located off NYS Rte. 366 (Dryden Road), Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6- 63- 1 -8.2, Residence District R -30, said project to consist of the reconfiguration „and expansion of an existing parking lot from 70 spaces to 134 spaces until December 31, 1996, at which time the space would revert to only open space unless a different or new plan is then approved. 2. This is a Type I action for which the Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals is legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency for environmental review. The Town of Ithaca Planning Board is an involved agency in coordinated review. 3. The Planning Board, at Public Hearing on March 19, 1991, has reviewed the proposed site plan and other drawings submitted by Cornell University, Parts 1 and 2 of the Long Environmental Assessment Form, and other submissions related to this proposal. 4. The Town Planning Department has recommended that a negative determination of environmental significance be made for this action. THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED: 1. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals that a negative determination of environmental significance be made;for this action. 2. That the Planning Board, in making'recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, determine and hereby does determine the following: r Planning Board (16) March 19, 1991 • a. There is a need for location. b. The existing and neighborhood will not c. The proposed change is plan of development of the proposed use in the proposed probable future character of the be adversely affected, in accordance with a comprehensive the Town. 3. That the Planning Board report !and hereby does report to the Zoning Board of Appeals its recommendation that the request for Special Approval for the proposed construction of a temporary parking lot at the site of the former Oxley Arena, to be located off NYS Rte. 366 (Dryden Road)., Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6- 63- 1 -8.2, be approved, subject to the following conditions. a. The parking area and temporary placing of a construction trailer shall cease on January 1, 1997 unless a new plan and new special approval of such new plan has been approved by the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals by such date. Upon such termination the land area shall no longer be used for parking or construction trailer siting but shall be landscaped and blockaded, by Cornell University in a manner satisfactory to the Town of Ithaca Engineer so as to create open space not available for parking. • b. Aside from one construction trailer, the area during the period of this special approval shall be used only for parking vehicles (cars and possibly light trucks) used by construction workers commuting to construction projects on the Cornell campus. c. Except as set forth below, the parking area shall be constructed as shown on the "plan entitled "Oxley Arena Site Improvements and Temporary Parking ", dated September 24, 1990, including five drawings. d. The landscape plan shall be modified in a manner acceptable to the Town Engineer and Town Planner to permit adequate sight distances for exiting the parking area. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Grigorov, Kenerson, Lesser, Smith, Hoffmann, Aronson. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. Chairperson Grigorov declared the matter of the Oxley Arena Temporary Parking Lot -- Cornell University duly closed at 10:30 p.m. • APPROVAL OF MINUTES was August 7, 1990 The vote for approval of the Minutes was as follows. • • • Planning Board (17) Aye - Grigorov, Kenerson, Lesser, Smith. Nay - None. Abstain - Hoffmann, Aronson. The requirement is that any action municipal board, requires a vote of five Chairperson Grigorov stated that be brought up again at the next Planning APPROVAL OF MINUTES - October 2, 1990 March 19, 1991 by this Board, or by any to approve the minutes. the matter is tabled and would Board meeting. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by William Lesser: RESOLVED, that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board Meeting of October 2, 1990, be and hereby are approved as presented. Eva Hoffmann stated that as she read the Minutes she noted there was a problem that she had noticed before. Ms. Hoffmann stated that the Minutes do not include all the discussion, adding, a lot of the discussion is not necessary, but it seemed to her that more of it would be desirable. Ms. Hoffmann' proposed that either the Board makes certain the tapes that are made are part of the record or if that is not possible or legal, then the Minutes be more expanded. Ms. Hoffmann stated that the reason it came up was because when she looked at the discussion concerning Ithaca College Road Relocation and Science Building she saw there was 'mention of the presentation, there was mention of the comments by Town Planner Susan Beeners, Town Engineer Dan Walker, and the only other mention of anything that anybody said was her (Eva's) comment that she thought the presentation was well done and that was absolutely the last thing she expected to be quoted as relevant to the discussion. Ms. Hoffmann stated that it disturbs her because she knows that there was discussion by board members on the matter. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she is really bothered that the record`does not show what was said because, if somebody comes 20 years from now to look at what happened at the meeting, it looks as if the Board just sat and did not say anything -- we listened to what the staff said and then just voted - that bothered her. Ms. Hoffmann stated she thought the discussion should be there -- the important parts of the discussion should be there for the record, and very often she knows that she asks questions about things of the applicant, for instance, and the answer is very important, and she wants that to be part of the record because very often the applicant says something that is not there in the drawings or in the applications, etc., but she would like to have as part of the record because if he does not live up to it the Board at least has the Minutes that say that he said he was going to do something or other. Attorney the Minutes ar usually shows questions and call; we are Barney stated that he thought that the e fairly sophisticated to that type of up in the Minutes e.g. the Ivar Jonson answers not IF did show up in the Minutes; it is providing verbatim transcripts people that do issue and it matter - the a judgement here. Chairperson is • Planning Board (18) March 19, 1991 Grigorov stated that it should indicate that there was discussion. Attorney Barney agreed with Chairperson Grigorov. Attorney Barney stated that he has not read the Minutes so he does not know in this particular circumstance whether there may have been something less than is normally provided, but on the other hand some board's minutes are. so and so presented an application; application was approved; then on to the next matter for a five hour meeting which is confined to two paragraphs on one sheet of'' paper; we do not want it that limited of course, but on the other hand where does one draw the line the other way; if one tries to put everybody's comment in every time they speak.. Ms. Hoffmann responded that she was not asking for that; that would be unnecessary, obviously, but it seemed to her that Ithaca College was a big project; it was a major thing -- the big Science Building and the big Road Relocation and all the parking, and there were a number of questions that were made and she thought it looked bad if it doesn't appear that the Board members made comments and asked questions. Chairperson Grigo,rov noted that it was pretty full on the end. Attorney Barney stated that he thought the answer to that is when the Board members receive the minutes and feel there has been a significant omission, then listen to the tapes and make suggestions as to what should have been included. Attorney Barney stated that he agreed that Nancy and Mary are pretty competent in what they do and how they handle these things. Ms. Hoffmann said, yes, she knows they are. Attorney Barney stated that Nancy and Mary do make judgement calls and it may have been there was not all that much discussion from the Board -- he really does not remember. Ms. Hoffmann said it is five months and it is hard to remember, but she knows there was some discussion. Attorney Barney stated that the second possibility is that maybe the tape machine goes up in smoke and a gap is missing, then it has to be reconstructed from memory and notes, which may or may not be as complete as the tape would be. Again, Attorney Barney commented that if anyone feels there were significant omissions then the thing to do, probably, is to take a few minutes and stop at Town Hall, listen to the tape and point out what is omitted. Attorney Barney stated that he has listened to the tapes a couple of times, for example when there is a litigation matter such as McDonald's and he reviews the minutes pretty intensively before the Board even gets them to make sure that everything is in there that he thinks needs to be there to protect the Town from a lawsuit. Attorney Barney stated that other matters he, obviously, does not take the time at the Town's expense to review because he does not think it is his role to do that. Attorney Barney stated that the tapes are kept forever. Eva Hoffmann stated that if she felt the tapes are kept and part of the record, then she has no problem. Attorney Barney stated that he does not want to guarantee that 20 years from now tapes are going to be kept from 1990, adding that a storage capacity is reached and there are some other limitations and it may be that some things may be discarded that are more than five years old. Ms. Hoffmann stated that in the heat of discussion she does not always take notes on what she says. Attorney Barney responded that he does not think one needs to take notes because of the tape situation. Attorney Barney stated that, just by looking at the minutes and one feels there was a lot of discussion that simply just is not reflected at all in the minutes, then it is Planning Board (19) March 19, 1991 . just as easy to come in the office and listen to the tape and say to Mary we really ought to put in A,B,C, or F, comments. Attorney Barney stated that even after the minutes are approved, one can go in and amend the minutes. George Frantz noted that he had one comment because he was not at the meeting. Mr. Frantz stated that he,was not involved with the IC Science Building or Loop Road. Mr. Frantz stated that he does understand that the written Environmental Assessment for the meeting was not complete in that Susan Beeners had given an oral assessment for that project. Ms. Hoffmann responded that that sounds very complete to her. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Grigorov, Kenerson, Lesser, Smith, Hoffmann. Nay - None. Abstain - Aronson. The MOTION was declared to be carried. At this point, Nancy Fuller asked about the format of future minutes. Chairperson Grigorov stated that the idea is that if someone has a concern they will come and listen to the tape and see if there is anything they want added. 1, Chairperson Grigorov stated • that if someone has a problem after reading the minutes then listen to the tapes. OTHER BUSINESS: At this time, Chairperson Grigorov 'referred to a resolution from the Town Board concerning individual notification of landowners. (Resolution attached as Exhibit #5.) Nancy Fuller, Secretary to the Planning Board, stated that this has been a longstanding hope by staff that has particularly been moved along by the cost of stamps, paper, etc. Mr. Frantz stated that Town Board member Karl Niklas presented this at the Town Board meeting. Attorney Barney said that the sense now is that staff notifies three adjacent neighbors to the site being developed. Attorney Barney stated that the Codes and Ordinance Committee is looking at requiring posting of a sign on property where a variance or development proposal is in process. Attorney Barney stated that there is an application fee that is supposed to cover the cost of publication of the notice and a little bit toward the rest; whether, in fact, it does, depends a little bit on the length of the notice and what the Ithaca Journal rates are. Attorney Barney noted that, originally, it was thought that the developer could send the material out instead of the Town but, after further discussion it was determined that the Town would have to check to make sure it went out • to the right people anyway. Nancy Fuller stated that a policy would be nice. , m Planning Board (19) March 19, 1991 . just as easy to come in the office and listen to the tape and say to Mary we really ought to put in A,B,C, or F, comments. Attorney Barney stated that even after the minutes are approved, one can go in and amend the minutes. George Frantz noted that he had one comment because he was not at the meeting. Mr. Frantz stated that he,was not involved with the IC Science Building or Loop Road. Mr. Frantz stated that he does understand that the written Environmental Assessment for the meeting was not complete in that Susan Beeners had given an oral assessment for that project. Ms. Hoffmann responded that that sounds very complete to her. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Grigorov, Kenerson, Lesser, Smith, Hoffmann. Nay - None. Abstain - Aronson. The MOTION was declared to be carried. At this point, Nancy Fuller asked about the format of future minutes. Chairperson Grigorov stated that the idea is that if someone has a concern they will come and listen to the tape and see if there is anything they want added. 1, Chairperson Grigorov stated • that if someone has a problem after reading the minutes then listen to the tapes. OTHER BUSINESS: At this time, Chairperson Grigorov 'referred to a resolution from the Town Board concerning individual notification of landowners. (Resolution attached as Exhibit #5.) Nancy Fuller, Secretary to the Planning Board, stated that this has been a longstanding hope by staff that has particularly been moved along by the cost of stamps, paper, etc. Mr. Frantz stated that Town Board member Karl Niklas presented this at the Town Board meeting. Attorney Barney said that the sense now is that staff notifies three adjacent neighbors to the site being developed. Attorney Barney stated that the Codes and Ordinance Committee is looking at requiring posting of a sign on property where a variance or development proposal is in process. Attorney Barney stated that there is an application fee that is supposed to cover the cost of publication of the notice and a little bit toward the rest; whether, in fact, it does, depends a little bit on the length of the notice and what the Ithaca Journal rates are. Attorney Barney noted that, originally, it was thought that the developer could send the material out instead of the Town but, after further discussion it was determined that the Town would have to check to make sure it went out • to the right people anyway. Nancy Fuller stated that a policy would be nice. Planning Board (20) March 19, 1991 • Eva Hoffmann wondered why there was no mention about the fact that, in addition to writing to the adjacent landowners, the applicant be required to post a sign. Attorney Barney responded that that is a separate issue and that is coming up; the COC is going to do that. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she thought they go together; when the numbers of letters sent out are decreased or the number of adjacent property owners notified is less, and unless there is extra notification via a sign, then it is really going back. Attorney Barney, commenting on the sign, stated that it might be better to wait and see what the COC comes back with as a recommendation. Ms. Fuller stated that this should be a policy for staff, the other is legislation requiring a developer's affidavit. William Lesser wondered if there was the same problem there with insuring that, indeed, it has been carried out. Attorney Barney mentioned requiring an affidavit from the developer. Chairperson Grigorov wondered if it would be best to discuss the matter at 'a later date. Attorney Barney agreed with Chairperson Grigorov. 'William Lesser stated that it would be useful to see what has been proposed concerning posting. George Frantz, referring to pending reviews, stated that he started to post it last week. Mr. Frantz explained that the pending reviews is a list of proposals for which the Town has received applications. Ms. Fuller offered that the pending reviews is in response to a request from the Conservation Advisory Council, adding that the list will be hung on the downstairs bulletin board at Town • Hall. Chairperson Grigorov announced that there will be a meeting tomorrow night, March 20, 1991, at'7:00 p.m. Chairperson Grigorov said that the "HOST" meeting for elderly housing will be held at the Co -op Ext. building. Chairperson Grigorov said that it has to do with the temporary installation of a cottage for an elderly parent. The cottage shares utilities with a house and the cottage does not stay there unless there is a family member there. Chairperson Grigorov stated that she happens to be on the panel commenting or asking questions so if anyone has any questions she would appreciate its George Frantz pointed out that the Town of Ithaca, unlike many municipalities, already allows that second unit as part of a main house. Attorney Barney interjected, unless one already has a two - family house. Chairperson Grigorov asked for comments from individuals for the Goals and Objectives Subcommittee to review. Eva Hoffmann stated that she thought it was the whole Ccommittee that was asking for comments. Mr. Frantz stated that it was his understanding that the whole Comprehensive Planning committee "also decided that the Goals and Objectives Subcommittee would review. ADJOURNMENT Upon Motion, Chairperson Grigorov declared the March 19, 1991, • meeting of the Town of Ithaca Planningi,Board duly adjourned at 11:00 p.m. Planning Board • • • (21) March 19, 1991 Respectfully submitted, Mary Bryant, Recording Secretary, Nancy M. Fuller, Secretary, Town of Ithaca Planning Board. • • a Proposed Scope of Issues and Outline for the Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement Cornell University, Ithaca, New York The purpose of this proposed Scope is to provide a guide to the information and level of detail to be included in the Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement ( DGEIS) for certain lands of Cornell University. These lands are the area known as The Orchards bounded by Route 366, Game Farm Road and Cascadilla Creek, and other University owned lands to the south bounded by Cascadilla Creek, the Town of Dryden Town Line, Snyder Hill Road, Pine Tree Road, Slaterville Road, The City of Ithaca line, Ellis Hollow Road and Judd Falls Road as illustrated on the attached figure. The purpose of the DGEIS is to present a plan for the development of The Orchards over a 20 year time frame and, to the extent possible, provide information on proposed development for the lands south of The Orchards. Portions of these lands are subject to use by New York State. Planning and development of statutory facilities is governed in part by the State of New York. As part of this process, Cornell will supply to the best of its ability, available information on state projects that fall within the area covered by the GEIS. The level of detail of analysis will be greater on The Orchards parcel, about which more specific plans are known, than on the lands to the south which will be used by New York State. The following information shall be included in the Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement. I. COVER SHEET The cover sheet shall include: 0 1 A statement that Statement. it is a Draft Generic Environmental Impact The name of the project. -1- 4Y/ /- 7; t March 19, 1991 • is Co The location of the project. D. The name and address of the lead agency and the name and telephone number of a contact person at the lead agency. E. The name and address of the preparers of the document and the name and telephone number of a contact. F. The date of acceptance of the DGEIS. G. The deadline date by which comments are due. II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND TABLE OF CONTENTS The cover sheet shall be followed by an Executive Summary providing the following: A. A brief description of the action. B. A listing of significant beneficial and adverse impacts and specification of controversial issues. Co A listing of proposed mitigation measures. D. A discussion of the alternatives'!considered. E. A listing of the matters to be decided including required permits and approvals and funding. The Table of Contents shall follow the Executive Summary. III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION This section of the DGEIS will provide a generic description of the development program planned for The Orchards. It will be as specific as possible given that -2- )e�yy v4� / • the building mix will evolve within the development program. A description will also be provided of known or anticipated development plans for lands within the project boundaries south of The Orchards. Specifically provided will be: A. Project Purpose, Need and Benefits 10 Background and historical growth trends at Cornell will be discussed. 2. The need for The Orchards project within the context of historic trends will be' presented. The need for other projects south of The Orchards will be discussed as appropri- ate. 3. The objectives of The Orchards development will be discussed. • The objectives of other development south of The Orchards will be discussed as appropriate. 4. The social economic, educational and other benefits of the proposed action will be presented as appropriate. Be Location 1. The geographic boundaries of the project utilizing appropriate maps will be presented. More detailed mapping may be avail- able for The Orchards than for areas to the south. 2. A description of existing access to various parts of the project will be provided.' 3. A description of existing zoning of the project will be provided. • -3- JE� # • • C. Design and Layout The final design and layout of The Orchards area may not be available for many years. The GEIS will present square footage, types of use and will describe development program guidelines or criteria for design and layout of ,the Orchards. Information for the area south of The Orchards will be provided to the extent that it is available. 10 Total Site Area a. A general estimate of proposed impervious area will be provided. b. An estimate of the amount of land to be cleared will be provided. c. An estimate of the amount of open space will be provided. 2. Structures a. Gross floor area and type of use of structures will be provided, for projects that have been developed to this level of detail such as the proposed tennis facility. b. Schematic layout and massing of buildings will be provided, for projects that have been developed.to this level of detail such as the proposed tennis facility. c. Conceptual utility plans will be provided. 3. Parking a. Conceptual relationship building uses and areas. -4- �EXy #f of parking requirements to • • • D. Construction and Operation 10 Construction a. An estimate of the total construction period will be given and an estimate of construction phasing provided. b. Potential development on adjoining properties will be discussed. 2. Operation a. A general discussion of the operation of each type of facility under consideration will be provided. E. Approvals 16 A discussion of zoning and other regulatory approvals required to construct the various project elements will be provided. IV. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING This section of the DGEIS will provide a baseline description of the environment in order that an assessment of potential project impacts can be made. A. Geology, Soils and Topography 1. Based on published surveys and reports, this section will discuss the depth to and type of bedrock material. Any limitations to development or opportunities for use will be noted. 2. Based on published surveys and reports, a discussion of soil types, physical properties, engineering properties and agricultural properties will be presented. A map of soil -5- • • • types will be prepared. Suitability for use and potential limitations to development will be discussed. 39 Impact on soil from past agricultural management practices, including pesticide application, will be investigated and analyzed. Suitability for proposed uses and potential limitations to development will be discussed. 4. A description of topography will be provided. Detailed topography at 2' contour intervals will be presented for The Orchards. USGS topography will be presented for the remainder of the project. A slope map will be made for The Orchards. Significant topographic features will be described. Potential limits to development will be noted. The topography of the surrounding area will be described. B. Water Resources 1. Groundwater a. The location and description of any aquifers or recharge areas under or nearby the project area will be noted. Depth to water tables and limitations as it may impact retention ponds will be discussed from published sources. 29 Surface Water a. Users and levels of use of relevant surface waters will be provided utilizing published data. b. Drainage characteristics of the project area watershed will be modelled using the US Soil Conservation Service TR -20 model. 5, 109 25, 50 and 100 -year return storms -6- 51\1Y '# / • will be modelled to provide baseline information for management of storm water runoff. Drainage patterns and channels will be described. C* Water quality issues'of the poultry wastewater disposal lagoon will be discussed and analyzed. Sediment at the bottom of this lagoon will also be analyzed. Limitations to development and alternatives will be discussed. d. Floodplains and floodways will be illustrated utilizing Federal Emergency Management Agency Mapping. Co Air Resources 1. Climate a. A discussion of climatic factors including wind, temperature, precipitation and humidity will be provided. 2. Air Quality a. National and state air quality standards for the project area will be listed' and the existing levels, based on available data, and compliance status for each pollutant noted. Existing pollutant sources and sensitive receptors will be noted. D. Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology 10 Vegetation a. Vegetation types in the project area will be listed by • species and mapped 'based on field investigation. Site -7- e • • vegetation will be characterized by species presence and abundance, age, size, "distribution, dominance, community types, value as wild life habitat and productivity. Any unique, rare, threatened or endangered species will be noted. 20 Fish and Wildlife a. Fish and wildlife species in the project area will be listed based on field investigation. Species presence and abundance, distribution, dominance and productivity will be discussed. Any unique, rare, threatened or endangered species will be noted. 39 Wetlands a. Wetland areas will be delineated and mapped utilizing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers criteria. Wetlands meeting criteria for regulation by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation will also be delineated and mapped. Wetland characteristics including acreage, vegetative cover, classification and benefits will be discussed. E. Agricultural Resources 1. 2. Soils a. Soils will be listed by .name, slope and soil group ranking within the N.YS Land Classification System. The number of acres within each group and the location on a map will be provided. Agricultural Land Management System -8- )Evy� # / LJ a. An inventory of existing erosion control and drainage systems will be provided and any existing soil and water conservation plans will be discussed. 30 Operations a. The number and types of farm and associated operations on and adjacent to the site will be listed. b. Research and educational programs will be listed. c. The type and proximity of agricultural facilities such as storage sheds, barns, sorting and packing houses will be listed. F. Transportation 10 Transportation Services a. A complete description of existing facilities will be provided. The description will include size, capacity and condition of the facility. Descriptions of road- ways, highways, traffic controls, site ingress and egress and parking will be included. b. The current level of facility use will be fully de- scribed. The existing AM and PM peak hour traffic volumes will be counted at key intersections, the vehicle mix will be reported and current problems identified and described. The following intersections will be included. • Caldwell Road ,and NYS Route 366 • Tower Road and NYS Route 366 • Tower Road and Judd Falls Road -9- WF�Y^ # 4t / ! 1 U is • Judd Falls Road (north) and NYS Route 366 • Judd Falls Road (south) and NYS Route 366 • Judd Falls Road and Ellis Hollow Road • Ellis Hollow Road and Pine Tree Road • Dryden Avenue, Maple Avenue, Ithaca Road and Oak Avenue (Six Corners) c. The trip generat ion „of the proposed project will be determined and added to the projection of future background traffic. The future traffic conditions with and without the project will be examined to determine the traffic impacts associated with the proposed project. 29 Public Transportation a. The existing components of the public transportation system will be fully described. b. Services currently available within the study area will be defined and measures of current usage will be reported. 30 Pedestrian Environment a. Existing pedestrian activities will be described in the context of overall transportation. b. Future pedestrian activities generated by the proposed development will bei described in the context of the overall transportation system. 4. Bicycle Facilities a. Existing bicycle facilities will be described. 10 - Y171 z • b. Future bicycle facilities will be discussed. G. Land Use and Zoning 1. Existing Land Use a. A description and map of existing land uses on and within 1/2 mile of the project area will be provided. b. A description of existing zoning n and within 1 2 mile ii 9 / of the project area will be provided. c. The existing Town of Ithaca land use plan will be discussed. The on- goling plan update will be discussed as it affects the project. d. Past waste disposal practices on the site by Cornell will be investigatedll, and discussed. Limitations to development and alternatives will be discussed. H. Communit y Services This section will present a discussion of existing levels of usage and projected future needs. 1. Police and security services as provided by the Town, State, County and Cornell University will be discussed. Manpower and equipment levels and adequacy will be discussed. 20 Fire protection manpower and, equipment levels will be invento- ried. The existing and future adequacy of fire protection services will be discussed.. 3. Health care manpower and facilities provided by the Town and Cornell University will be inventoried and assessed. Me 11 - i • �J 4. Recreational facilities provided by the Town and Cornell will be inventoried and assessed. 5. Social Services provided by the Town will be inventories and assessed. 69 Primary and secondary schools serving the area will be inventoried and assessed.' 7. Utility services provided by Cornell and regulated public utility companies including electric power, natural gas and telephone service will be inventoried and assessed. 80 Potable and fire protection water supply provided by municipal systems and private (Cornell University) system will be inventoried and assessed. 90 Sewage disposal options including privately owned "on- site" systems will be inventoried and assessed. 10. Sol id waste disposal facil ities provided by the County will be discussed. Collection and recycling programs by Cornell will be discussed. I. Demography 10 Population characteristics ' including household size composi- tion and age will be discussed using the most recent available census data. 2. Population projections will be presented using published data. J. Cultural Resources 19 Visual Character 12 - 1 • 1 IY! a. The visual character of the project area including Cascadilla Creek wil'll be discussed and illustrated with photographs. Surrounding roads from within the project area which are visible will be noted. A zone of visibility map will1'be prepared. 2. Historic and Archaeological Resources a. Historic areas and (structures listed on the State or National Register and those structures with the poten- tial for such el igiblil ity will be located and described. Local registers of historic places and structures will be consulted. VII b. A Phase lA Cultural iIResources Survey will be conducted to determine the potential for presence of archaeologi- cal resources and th,e_ need to conduct field surveys as construction progresses. 3. Noise a. Existing noise sources in and nearby the project.area will be described and subjectively evaluated. Any nearby sensitive receptors will be located and described. V. SIGNIFICANT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND�MITIGATING MEASURES This section will describe the potential impacts of the project as described in Section III and on the environment as described in Section IV. Impacts and mitigating measures will be discussed for both construction and operation phases. Mitigating measures will be presented for ea ?ch significant impact identified. The DGEIS will take a threshold approach' to many potential impacts. For - 13 _ MAE 0 11 example, traffic impacts will be spaced out over occurs. The DGEIS will recommend the specific ti mitigate impacts as certain thresholds are particularly those related to construction, applicable throughout the life of the project w VI. ALTERNATIVES a number of years as development naffic improvements necessary to reached. For other impacts, generic mitigation measures ill be proposed. This section of the DGEIS will present alternatives at a level of detail sufficient to permit a comparative assessmentlof costs, benefits and environmen- tal risks for each alternative. The level of detail of the discussion will be greater for The Orchards. The following alternatives will be considered: A. Alternative Design and _Technologies 10 Land Use Plan and Development Program • Potential alternative land' use plans and development programs will be examined. Be Alternative Sites 1 9 Alternative sites which could meet the project objectives w i l l be discussed. Factors considered will include the availabili- ty of land, suitability of; alternative site(s) to accommodate design requirements, availability of utilities, compatibility with zoning and land use „plans, compatibility with natural resource considerations and accessibility. Co Alternative Size 1. An increase or decrease in project size will be considered and discussed. • D. Alternate Scheduling 14 - �ExN 4 i • • 1. Alternate construction and operations phasing will be dis- cussed. E. Alternate Land Use 19 Use of the project area for other uses will be considered. F. No Action 1. The no- action alternative will be considered, including its effect on Cornell University's needs and possible displacement of impacts. VII. IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENT OF RESOURCES This section will identify those natural resources identified in Section IV that will be consumed, converted or made unavailable for future use. This section will also present a summary of unavoidable adverse impacts. VIII. GROWTH INDUCING ASPECTS This section will describe potential growth inducing aspects, including potential increases in development pressure on other lands and various secondary impacts. Specifically considered will be the following. A. Population 1. Potential increases in population due to job creation and consequent need for housing, education, commercial and other support facilities. B. Development Potential 19 Potential new development caused by expanded infrastructure - 15 - F_vy 4 / • • such as road improvements or utilities. IX. EFFECTS ON THE USE AND CONSERVATION OF ENERGY RESOURCES A. Use 1. This section will estimate will the direct and indirect use of energy attributable to the proposed development. B. Conservation 19 This section will describe the energy conservation opportuni- ties available for the proposed development. X. APPENDICES The following technical appendices will be included. Additional appendices may be prepared as necessary. A. References, Including Published Materials and Person Consulted B. Relevant Correspondence Co Traffic Study D. Storm Water Management Calculations E. Util ities F. Wetlands Reports G. Cultural Resources Report - 16 - I u L� Proposed Schedule for Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS) Cornell University Campus - Southeast Sector, Located in the Town of Ithaca March 19, 1991 Feb. 28: Suggested Draft Scope for GEIS delivered to the Town Staff •The suggested scope will be reviewed by the Town planning staff with comments made to the Campus Planning Office. March 6. Re- zoning Application submitted to the Town EAF for Precinct 7 submitted to the Town March 19: Distribution of Suggested Draft Scope to Town Planning Board. • Presentation by Cornell • No more than 5 minute presentation April 16: Formal Presentation to Planning Board of Revised Draft Scope and working session. • Consultants will be in town April 17: Public Information Meeting • Consultants will be in town April 18: Public Information Meeting • Consultants will be in town • Public information meetings will be held to inform the public of the GEIS. These meetings are an opportunity to understand the concerns of the community and prepare in advance of the public scoping session. Following is a list of the communities that will be presented to: Forest Home Ellis Hollow Cornell Heights Pine Tree Cayuga Heights Belle Sherman - Bryant Park • Ll May 7: May 21: May thru August: Formal Scoping Session • Consultants will be in town Anticipated Formal Acceptance of GEIS Scope Preparation of Draft GEIS September: Submission of Draft GEIS to the Town: October: • 30 day review period after submission • Notice of completion issued by the Town e Consultants will be in town Public Hearing: • 45 Day review period includes 10 days of public comment • Consultants will be in town November: Cornell Completes Final GEIS December: Submit Submission of Final GEIS to.the Town: *Notice of completion issued by Town I �XH�� • r] n FHUForest Home Improvement Association 19 March 1991 Statement on the Cornell University Proposal to Expand and Renovate Hasbrouck Apartments for the Planning Board Town of Ithaca The Forest Home Improvement Association wishes to express its concern that this project may increase traffic on Forest Home Drive, Judd Falls Road and other streets in Forest Home. In the Full Environmental Assessment (FEA), Cornell answers , "Yes," to the question, "Will the proposed action result in traffic significantly above present levels." The FEA asserts that road capacity is sufficient to handle the increase. The FEA does not indicate where the increase in traffic will occur. Unfortunately, none of this information was available at earlier meetings, when we might have raised our concerns. We wish to point out that Forest Home streets do not have unused capacity. Indeed, because the streets are now overused in ways that are dangerous and damaging, it is our goal to reduce traffic in Forest Home, not simply to prevent its increase. We understand, from an informal meeting held at Cornell's North Campus some weeks ago, that the Hasbrouck modifications are part of a larger project, involving the elimination of married- student housing at Pleasant Grove and its replacement by a large number of undergraduate dormitory rooms. This will result in a sizeable increase of residents in the area, which will in turn increase traffic. Therefore, questions about the appropriateness, conception and design of the dormitory project (at Pleasant Grove) ''are also of great concern to us. We hope that Cornell will continue with its plan to eliminate the access road from this area to Pleasant Grove Road, routing access instead through the North Campus area toward Jessup Road. Additional steps to limit traffic will be necessary. We have been very pleased at the information and cooperation offered by Cornell as these projects have been thought through. We hope we can continue in this spirit and meet our mutual goals. • (P Cr, 6%A� Copohee 4.,e ?I. 5 March 1991 To: George Frantz From: Dooley Kiefer 3/,q1it Subject: ER Committee comments on development applications from our 3/4 meeting — "i s Lvv. "( std 5, 404-sae4 Cornell's Hasbrouck apts. -- long EAF, Part I A:. Site description 20 "Presently" adds up to 19.0 A B.l.b. says "19 A" and "20 A" "After construction" = 20.0 A Where does the extra 1 A come from? 3. Is silty clay well drained? How does this fit in with the answer to Be, water table: 0 -517. (doesn't sound welldrained to us) Be Project description 1. e. 50 of what? no. of people? sq. ft.? acreage? g. What is the present no. of trips /hr? % increase? (54.C,4UV CXL 16. c. -- Is T.C, landfill in Spencer? 18. Pesticide usage: details? runoff to Fall Creek? Notification to residents? 19. Odors: change "no' to "yes" -- there are routine noticeable cooking odors now'. 21. Energy use -- Although this project will increase energy use by Cornell and hence in the Town, it will be balanced by a decrease in the City (Collegetown), etc., if students choose to relocate onto campus, and thus there will probably be no change in TC as a whole. What energy conservation does CU plan? Will the-new/rebuilt roofs utilize solar panels? (This location has excellent solar access!) If not, why not? (Isn't it likely the new comp. plan will move in this direction? 23. Water use -- How does this amount .compare with present usage? How does it compare with the T. Engineer's rule of thumb of average water use per unit? C. zoning and Planning information 3. 30% of what? buildings? paved areas? Do all Hasbrouck families have cars? (esp. foreign students ?) .Do cars simply need to be stored? Must parking ares be paved with impervious asphalt? What about drainage? 12. Traffic - What is the basis for saying the road network is "adequate "? Does the Forest Home community concur? How will CU ensure that the additional traffic will not worsen the situation in Forest Home? cX1/#y � � r RESOLUTION: WHEREAS, the CAC has recommended that the COC consider a means whereby neighboring landowners may be individually notified of impending development projects on adjacent lands, and WHEREAS, there is no official written policy concerning said notification, and WHEREAS, the COC has communicated to the Town Board its feeling that the Town of Ithaca should provide said individual notification along the same lines as it has albeit 'unofficially, in the past, and WHEREAS, the Town Board of Ithaca finds it desirable to have an official written policy concerning individual notification procedures, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of Ithaca requests that the Town Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals consider adopting an official written policy concerning the individual notification of landowners.. It is suggested that said notification shall include as a minimum notice to those owners of properties whose property lines are immediately adjacent to and • immediately across any private or public thoroughfare from a prospective development -site. STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF TOMPKINS SS: TOWN OF ITHACA I, Jean H. Swartwood, Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca, New York, do hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is a true and exact copy of a resolution duly adopted by the u, of said Town of Ithaca at a �tt....� «� meeting held on the // � day of resolution. < < /" L 19'71, and that the same is a complete copy of the whole of such IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and the Corporate seal of the Town of Ithaca, New York this / day of)�t 19 WILLIAMSON LAW BOOK CO., ROCHESTER, NY 14609 Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca