Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 1995-02-07TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD FEBRUARY 7, 1995 The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, February 7, 1995, in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York, at 7:30 p.m. PRESENT: Chairperson Stephen Smith, Robert Kenerson, Eva Hoffmann, Gregory Bell, James Ainslie, Herbert Finch, Fred Wilcox, Jonathan Kanter (Town Planner) , George Frantz (Assistant Town Planner), JoAnn Cornish -Epps (Planner II), Daniel Walker (Town Engineer), John Barney (Town Attorney). ALSO PRESENT: Richard Shore, Phyllis Moen, Scott Whitham, John Benson, Peter Trowbridge, Om Gupta, Jagat Sharma. Chairperson Smith declared the meeting duly opened at 7:32 p.m. and accepted for the record the Secretary's Affidavit of Posting and Publication of the Notice of Public Hearings in Town Hall and the Ithaca Journal on January 27, 1995 and February 1, 1995, respectively, together with the Secretary's Affidavit of Service by Mail of said Notice upon the various neighbors of the property under discussion, as appropriate, upon the Clerks of the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Public Works, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Planning, and upon the applicants and /or agents, as appropriate, on February 2, 19950 Chairperson Smith 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. PERSONS TO BE HEARD. There were no persons to be heard. Chairperson Smith closed this segment of the meeting. AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES - January 17, 1995. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by Herbert Finch: RESOLVED, that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board Meeting of January 17, 1995, be and hereby are approved as written. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. Abstain - Ainslie. The MOTION was declared to be carried. F NAL TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD FEBRUARY 7, 1995 The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, February 7, 1995, in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York, at 7:30 p.m. PRESENT: Chairperson Stephen Smith, Robert Kenerson, Eva Hoffmann, Gregory Bell, James Ainslie, Herbert Finch, Fred Wilcox, Jonathan Kanter (Town Planner) , George Frantz (Assistant Town Planner), JoAnn Cornish -Epps (Planner II), Daniel Walker (Town Engineer), John Barney (Town Attorney). ALSO PRESENT: Richard Shore, Phyllis Moen, Scott Whitham, John Benson, Peter Trowbridge, Om Gupta, Jagat Sharma. Chairperson Smith declared the meeting duly opened at 7:32 p.m. and accepted for the record the Secretary's Affidavit of Posting and Publication of the Notice of Public Hearings in Town Hall and the Ithaca Journal on January 27, 1995 and February 1, 1995, respectively, together with the Secretary's Affidavit of Service by Mail of said Notice upon the various neighbors of the property under discussion, as appropriate, upon the Clerks of the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Public Works, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Planning, and upon the applicants and /or agents, as appropriate, on February 2, 19950 Chairperson Smith 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. PERSONS TO BE HEARD. There were no persons to be heard. Chairperson Smith closed this segment of the meeting. AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES - January 17, 1995. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by Herbert Finch: RESOLVED, that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board Meeting of January 17, 1995, be and hereby are approved as written. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. Abstain - Ainslie. The MOTION was declared to be carried. Planning Board Minutes 2 February 7, 1995 PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF PRELIMINARY AND FINAL APPROVAL FOR THE PROPOSED CONSOLIDATION OF TAX PARCELS NO. 60 -1 -4.9 THROUGH 60 -1 -4.19 AND 60 -1 -4.22, A.K.A. PHASES III, IV, V AND VI AS SHOWN ON THE SUBDIVISION PLAT ENTITLED "SUBDIVISION PLAN (SITE PLAN 2 - MODIFIED) FOR BLACK OAK LANE" PREPARED BY GEORGE SCHLECHT, P.E., L.S. AND DATED JUNE 22, 1988, LOCATED BACKLOT OF 925 MITCHELL STREET, RESIDENCE DISTRICT R -15. PHYLLIS MOEN AND RICHARD P. SHORE, OWNERS /APPLICANTS. Chairperson. Smith declared the Public Hearing in the above - noted matter duly opened at 7:35 p.m. and read aloud from the Notice of Public Hearings as posted and published and as noted above. Richard Shore of 925 Mitchell .S Board and stated that he and Ms. Moe from Joseph Ciaschi on December 23, they had no intentions of developing considering donating that land to the would be willing to accept it. Mr. Moen felt that this was a piece of developed but should be set aside as the natural beauty of the land. treet Unit #7, addressed the n had purchased the property 1994. Mr. Shore stated that the land and that they were Town of Ithaca, if the Town Shore stated that he and Ms. property that should not be a nature preserve to retain Mr. Shore stated that the maps for the consolidation were done by Mr. George Schlecht and that he was no longer in business. One of the conditions in the proposed resolution was to have a surveyor's certificate. Mr. Shore stated that a surveyor's certificate was not available and asked the Board if a new survey would need to be done to satisfy the condition. Chairperson Smith noted that this was a Public Hearing and asked if anyone from the public wished to speak. No one spoke. Chairperson Smith closed the Public Hearing and brought the matter back to the Board for discussion. Chairperson Smith asked if the lots were laid out as separate building lots on the property. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter responded, yes, the project was done as a clustered subdivision. Board Member Robert Kenerson asked if the railroad right -of- way was owned by the Town of Ithaca. Assistant Town Planner George Frantz stated that the right -of- way was owned by Cornell University. Planning Board Minutes 3 February 7, 1995 Town Attorney John Barney and Ms. Moen in the purchase Attorney Barney stated that right -of -way out to Mitchell the backlots. stated that he represented Mr. Shore of the property from Mr. Ciaschi. when they acquired it there was a Street for the benefit of access to Board Member Fred Wilcox asked if this was a public road or a private road. Attorney Barney responded that it was a private road. Assistant Town Planner George Frantz stated that the Town has a license from Cornell to use the right -of -way for the East Ithaca Recreation Way. Chairperson Smith asked if the Town would want the property. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated that it was a decision for the Town Board and a separate issue from what is proposed at this meeting. Mr. Kanter stated that it was a nice natural area. Town Engineer Daniel Walker stated that the map needed to be updated to show current.boundary lines. Town Attorney John Barney asked if Mr. Shore could reach Mr. Schlecht and have him put his seal on the map and appropriately date it. Attorney Barney also stated that the access easement would need to be put on the map to show access to the back lot. Chairperson Smith stated that the easement was not shown on the map. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated that it could be referenced as a condition of approval for the project, which. would reiterate the purpose of the easement, which would be filed with revised plat. Town Attorney John Barney stated that the Board could make it a condition that the resolution be filed in Miscellaneous Records simultaneously with the filing of the plat after revisions were made. Attorney Barney stated that the land needed to be consolidated for real estate tax purposes. Town Engineer Daniel Walker stated that the Board could approve the request for consolidation with the final plat to be approved by the Town Engineer. There being no further discussion, Chairperson Smith asked if anyone were prepared to offer a motion. MOTION by Herbert Finch, seconded by Gregory Bell: Planning Board Minutes 4 WHEREAS. February 7, 1995 1. This action is Consideration of Preliminary and Final Approval for the proposed consolidation of through 60 -1 -4.19 and 60 -1 -4.22, a.k.a. VI as shown on the subdivision plat Tax Parcels No. 60 -1 -499 Phases III, IV, V and entitled "Subdivision Plan (Site Plan 2 - Modified) for Black Oak Lane" prepared by George Schlecht, backlot of Phyllis Moen P.E., L.S. 925 Mitchell and Richard and dated June 22, 1988, located Street, Residence District R -15. P. Shore, Owners /Applicants, and 2. This. is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Subdivision Approval, and 39 The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on February 7, 1995, .has reviewed and accepted as adequate the Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I prepared by the applicant, a Part II prepared by the Town Planning staff, a copy of the subdivision plat entitled "Subdivision Plan (Site Plan 2 - Modified) for Black Oak Lane" prepared by George Schlecht, P.E., L.S. and dated June 22, 1988, showing the proposed development as approved by the Town of Ithaca, and a copy with the consolidation of Tax Parcels No. 60- 1 -4,.9 through 60 -1 -4.19 and 60 -1 -4.22, a.k.a. Phases III, IV, V and VI, and other application materials, and 4. The Town planning staff has recommended, a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed action, as proposed; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act for the above referenced action as proposed and, therefore, neither a Long Environmental Assessment Form, nor an Environmental Impact Statement will be required. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Ainslie, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. MOTION by Eva Hoffmann, WHEREAS: seconded by James Ainslie: Planning Board Minutes 5 February 7, 1995 1. This action is Consideration of Preliminary and Final Approval for the proposed consolidation of Tax Parcels No. 60 -1 -4.9 through 60 -1 -4.19 and 60 -1 -4.22, a.k.a. Phases III, IV, V and VI as shown on the subdivision plat entitled "Subdivision Plan (Site Plan 2 - Modified) for Black Oak Lane" prepared by George Schlecht, P.E., L.S. and dated June 22, 1988, located backlot of 925 Mitchell Street, Residence District R -15. Phyllis Moen and Richard P. Shore, owners /Applicants, and 2. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on February 7, 1995, has reviewed and accepted as adequate the Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I prepared by the applicant, a Part II prepared by the Town Planning staff, a copy of the subdivision plat entitled "Subdivision Plan (Site Plan 2 - Modified) for Black Oak Lane" prepared by George Schlecht, P.E., L.S. and dated June 22, 1988, showing the proposed development as approved by the Town of Ithaca, and a copy with the consolidation of Tax Parcels No. 60 -1 -4.9 through 60 -1 -4.19 and 60 -1 -4.22, a.k.a. Phases III, IV, V and VI, and other application materials, and 3. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as lead agency in environmental review with respect to Subdivision Approval, has, on February 7, 1995, made a negative determination of environmental significance. Oak Lane" prepared by George Schlecht, P.E., L.S. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final subdivision Checklist, having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in neither a significant alteration of the purpose of subdivision control nor the policies enunciated or implied by the Town Board. 2. That the Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Approval for the proposed consolidation of Tax Parcels No. 60- 1-4.9 through 60 -1 -4.19 and 60 -1 -4.22, a.k.a. Phases III, IV, V and VI as shown on the subdivision plat entitled "Subdivision Plan (Site Plan 2 - Modified) for Black Oak Lane" prepared by George Schlecht, P.E., L.S. and dated June 22, 1988, subject to the following conditions: a. Submission of an original or mylar copy of a survey satisfactory to the Town Planner, Town Engineer, and Town Planning Board Chairman, showing the consolidation to be recorded and four copies for signature by the Chairman of the Planning Board prior to recording in the Office of the County Clerk. Planning Board Minutes 6 February 7, 1995 b. Recording of notation either on the map or in a separate document to be filed with the plat indicating availability of access for a public road to the property. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Ainslie, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. Chairperson Smith declared the matter of the Shore /Moen Consolidation at 925 Mitchell Street to be duly closed at 8:00 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF PRELIMINARY AND FINAL SITE PLAN APPROVAL, AND RECOMMENDATION TO THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS WITH RESPECT TO A REQUEST FOR SPECIAL APPROVAL FOR THE PROPOSED CONVERSION OF +/ -61100 SQ. FT. OF AN EXISTING +/- 111700 SQ. FT. WAREHOUSE AND GARAGE TO A MAIL PROCESSING FACILITY, SAID FACILITY BEING LOCATED ON TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO. 64 -1 -2 APPROXIMATELY 950 FT. SOUTH OF NYS RTE. 366 AND 2,000 FT. WEST OF GAME FARM ROAD, RESIDENCE DISTRICT R -30. CORNELL UNIVERSITY, OWNER; JOHN R. BENSON, AGENT. Chairperson Smith declared the Public Hearing in the above - noted matter duly opened at 8:01 p.m. and read aloud from the Notice of Public Hearings as posted and published and as noted above. John Benson, Project Manager for Cornell University, addressed the Board and stated that the intent of this project is to improve the east end of the existing building for use as a university mail center. The purpose for undertaking the project is to consolidate a variety of mail operations that are currently in two or three different operational groups, which will improve efficiency on campus. Mr. Benson stated that an additional reason for the project would be to keep the academic core of the university reserved for purposes related to instruction for undergraduate and graduate student activities, and having the service operations of the university at the periphery. The operations to be housed at the proposed location are now located at Maple Avenue. The Cornell Information Technologies group will be moving from the Central Campus location to Maple Avenue. Mr. Benson stated that the site improvements will be to add concrete walks and pads for the most intensively used parking spaces. There will be two (2) handicap parking spaces at the main guest entrance immediately adjacent to the customer service part of the building. There will also be concrete bays added to the building on the north side for trucks, and the rest of the parking would continue to be crushed asphalt which is on the site Planning Board Minutes 7 February 7, 1995 currently. Mr. Benson stated that there added to the building as well as a number lighting for approximately 15 employees building full time. will be three (3) doors of windows to increase that will occupy the Board Member Herbert Finch asked if it would add to the delivery time of Cornell University mail. Mr. Benson responded that he did not believe it would, but that it remains to be seen. Board Member Eva Hoffmann asked if the concrete pads would be level with the ground. Mr. Benson stated that they would be level with the building, although they would slope away for drainage purposes. Mr. Benson stated that having the courier services consolidated to go to one facility would reduce the amount of truck traffic going onto the campus. Chairperson Smith noted that this was a Public Hearing and asked if anyone wished to speak. No one spoke. Chairperson Smith closed the Public Hearing and brought the matter back to the Board for discussion. Attorney Barney stated that Cornell coming in with a site plan modification, tonight, that Cornell forfeits the right pumps without coming back to the Board modified site plan. must understand that by as shown to the Board to build the canopy and and showing a further Mr. Benson Town Engineer Daniel Walker stated that there had been a site plan approved by the Town in 1990 which included a service people at the University. island with a canopy for fuel pumps, and a storage facility. Mr. Walker asked Mr. Whitham if the plan for the canopy had been eliminated. Scott Whitham stated that to the best of his knowledge there were no current plans to build the canopy part of that project. Attorney Barney stated that Cornell coming in with a site plan modification, tonight, that Cornell forfeits the right pumps without coming back to the Board modified site plan. must understand that by as shown to the Board to build the canopy and and showing a further Mr. Benson stated that was acceptable to him and that he could check into that with other people at the University. Mr. Walker stated that there are two loading docks directly adjacent to the fuel facility and if the canopy was constructed at the end of the tank system, it would be in the traffic pattern for trucks entering that area. Planning Board Minutes 8 February 7, 1995 There was some discussion among the Board regarding the approval received for the fuel facility on September 18, 1990 and what the possible conflicts could be. It was determined to make the resolution explicitly state that the approval received at tonight's meeting supersedes the site plan approval of September 1990. Mr. Benson agreed to the restriction in the resolution and stated that if any plans were made with regard to the fuel facility, Cornell would come back to the Board for approval at that time. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated that the Board had received a memo from the Ithaca Fire Department which expressed concern about restricted access for the Fire Department if the fence around the site is secured. Mr. Benson addressed the Board and stated that the entire building would be equipped with sprinklers, which is part of the construction plan. Mr. Benson stated that there was full access to three sides of the building and it would require a change in the fencing to provide access on the fourth side. Also, it was noted that Cornell Safety was very close to this building. Assistant Town Planner George Frantz stated that he had discussed the Fire Department's concerns with Andy Frost, and Mr. Frost stated that the issue could be addressed at the building permit stage of the project. There appearing to be no further discussion, Chairperson Smith asked if anyone were willing to offer a motion. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by Gregory Bell. WHEREAS: 16 This action is the Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval, and further, a Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to a request for Special Approval for the proposed conversion of +/- 6,100 sq. ft. of an existing +/- 11,700 sq. ft, warehouse and garage to a mail processing facility, said facility being located on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 64 -1 -2 approximately 950 ft. south of NYS Rte. 366 and 2,000 ft. west of Game Farm Rd, Residence District R -30. Cornell University, Owner; John R. Benson, Agent, and 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval, and Planning Board Minutes 9 February 7, 1995 3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing on February 7, 1995, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Pt. I submitted by the applicant and a Part II prepared by the Town Planning Department, a site plan entitled "Mail Center" prepared by Cornell University Facilities Engineering, and dated January 24, 1995, and other application materials. 4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed site plan; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act for the above referenced action as proposed and, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be required. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Ainslie, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. MOTION by Eva Hoffmann, seconded by Fred Wilcox: WHEREAS. 1. This action is the Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval, and further, a Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to a request for Special Approval for the proposed conversion of +/- 6,100 sq. ft, of an existing +/- 11,700 sq. ft. warehouse and garage to a mail processing facility, said facility being located on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 64 -1 -2 approximately 950 ft. south of NYS Rte. 366 and 2,000 ft. west of Game Farm Rd, Residence District R -30. Cornell University, Owner, John R. Benson, Agent, and 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as Lead Agency in environmental review, has, on February 7, 1995, made a negative determination of environmental significance with regard to Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval, and 3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing on February 7, 1995, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Pt. I submitted by the applicant and a Part II Planning Board Minutes 10 February 7, 1995 prepared by the Town Planning Department, a site plan entitled "Mail Center" prepared by Cornell University Facilities Engineering, and dated January 24, 1995, and other application materials. 4. The proposed mail facility is consistent with the goals and objectives enunciated in the "Generic Environmental Impact Statement Prepared for Development Program for Possible Future Expansion Southeast of Cornell University's Main Campus." NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Site Plan Checklist, having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in neither a significant alteration of the purpose of site plan control nor the policies enunciated or implied by the Town Board, and 2. That the Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval to the proposed site plan entitled "Mail Center" prepared by Cornell University Facilities Engineering, and dated January 24, 1995, and other application materials, conditioned upon the following: a. submission to the Town Planning Department of an original or mylar copy of the final site plan as approved. 1. That the approval recommended by this resolution supersedes the prior approval of the installation of a fuel dispensing system and related canopy pursuant to a site plan entitled "M &SO Motor Fuel Facility" approved by Philip L. Cox, 7 June 1990, as to the remaining portions of such facility ( including the canopy and related pad) not yet constructed, it being understood that Cornell shall apply for renewed approval of such unconstructed portion of such facility before any further construction occurs. z11 41J z4owaff 10 That the Planning Board, in making recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, determines the following. 6 a. there is a need for the proposed use in the proposed location, as demonstrated by the applicant; Planning Board Minutes 11 February 7, be the existing and probable future character of the neighborhood will not be adversely affected as a result of the proposed project; C* the specific result of proposed change in land the proposed project use is as a in accordance with a comprehensive plan of development for the Town of Ithaca. 1995 2. That the Planning Board reports to the Zoning Board of Appeals its recommendation that the aforementioned request for Special Approval be approved. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye now Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Ainslie, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. Chairperson Smith declared the matter of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and the Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals for the Cornell University Mail Processing Facility duly closed at 8 :29 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF FINAL SITE PLAN APPROVAL FOR THE PROPOSED MODIFIED SITE PLAN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN OFFICE /RETAIL COMPLEX TO CONSIST OF 251000 + /- SQ. FT. OF RETAIL AND OFFICE SPACE (SITE PLAN APPROVAL WAS GRANTED TO THE PREVIOUS OWNER), RENOVATION OF AN EXISTING 5,000 + /- SQ. FT. BUILDING AND AN ADDITIONAL 71500 + /- SQ. FT. FOR THE RELOCATION OF DIGICOMP RESEARCH TO THIS SITE. ASSOCIATED PARKING, LANDSCAPING, LIGHTING AND UTILITIES ARE ALSO INCLUDED. THIS REPRESENTS 121500 + /1- SQ. FT. OF MANUFACTURING /OFFICE SPACE FOR DIGICOMP IN ADDITION TO 25,000+/ - SQ. FT. OF RETAIL /OFFICE SPACE LOCATED AT 930 DANBY ROAD, TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO. 40 -3 -9, 3.87 + /- ACRES TOTAL AREA, INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT, ICS DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS INC., OWNER; DIGICOMP RESEARCH, APPLICANT; TROWBRIDGE & WOLF, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, AGENT. Chairperson noted matter duly Notice of Public above. smith declared the Public Hearing in the above - opened at 8:30 p.m. and read aloud from the Hearinas as posted and published and as noted Peter Trowbridge, Landscape Architect for the South Hill Complex project, addressed the Board and stated that the revised plans address issues raised from the Planning Board and Town staff at the last meeting. Mr. Trowbridge summarized the changes as follows: Planning Board Minutes 12 February 7, 1995 1. The Planning Board requested a specific mix of retail vs. office space as proposed in the plan for the project, 2. The Planning Board asked for a list of chemicals that could be used by DigiComp, which were not shown to be hazardous, 3. Town staff asked for revisions to the drainage plans to show the drainage going west and slightly south, with additional drainage details, 4. The Planning Board stated that the project plans need to be in compliance with stipulations of the Planning Board resolution of June 1992, 5. The Planning Board expressed concern about one of the buildings that was not depicted at the last meeting, which has been included in these plans, 6. A number of site details which had been discussed, such as retaining walls, curbs, sidewalks, signage and lighting, have been addressed in the revised plans. Mr. Trowbridge stated that they were working with the Department of Transportation toward the curb cut permit. The DOT wanted additional traffic surveys along Route 96B specifically relating to the proposed site. Mr. Trowbridge stated that he expected this to be resolved shortly. Chairperson Smith noted that this was a Public Hearing and asked if anyone present wished to speak. No one spoke. Chairperson Smith closed the Public Hearing and brought the matter back to the Board for discussion. Board Member Fred Wilcox asked where access to the development would be if travelling north or south. Mr. Trowbridge stated that if travelling south, one would use either the existing driveway next to the rehabilitated building or the NCR /AT &T driveway. If travelling north, one would have to use the NCR /AT &T driveway. Board Member Eva Hoffmann asked where the retaining walls were located. Mr. Trowbridge stated that one was located along the southern edge of the property line because of a gas line located there, and the second wall was located on the western edge, which would be taller with a rail as required by code. Planning Board Minutes 13 February 7, 1995 Ms. Hoffmann stated that the Environmental Review Committee had submitted a report (ERC Report attached hereto as Exhibit #1) and stated that they had asked to see comparison views of the site from Route 96B with and without the buildings. Ms. Hoffmann stated that the birds eye views are helpful, but ground level views would be from where most people would see the project. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she thought that was what was asked for at the last meeting. The other comments made by the ERC were already addressed and found to be satisfactory to the Board and staff. Jagat Sharma, the architect for the South Hill Complex project, responded to Ms. Hoffmann and stated that he had misunderstood what was wanted at that time. Ms. Hoffmann asked where the proposed signs would be located. Mr. Trowbridge pointed out the location for the proposed signs for the Board, one being just south of the NCR driveway and the second was at the entrance near the existing building. The signs are placed at the proposed location so that drivers could anticipate entry to the development. The Board discussed the fact that the proposed location of one of the signs would be considered an off - premises sign and could require a variance. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter suggested that the Planning Board add, as a condition of approval, that the details of the proposed signs be added to the final site plan and be submitted for approval of the Town Planner, Mr. Kanter stated that if there were any additional problems with the signs, it would be taken to the Zoning Officer. Mr. Kanter stated that if a sign variance was required, it would have to come before this Board again as the Sign Review Board and then to the Zoning Board of Appeals. There being no further discussion, the Chair asked if anyone were prepared to offer a motion. MOTION by Robert Kenerson, seconded by Herbert Finch: 1. This action is the Consideration of Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed modified site plan for construction of an office /retail complex to consist of 25,000 + /- sq. ft. of retail and office space, renovation of an existing 5,000+/,,, sq. ft. building and an additional 7,500 + /- sq. ft. for the relocation of DIGICOMP Research to this site. Associated parking, landscaping, lighting and utilities are also included. This represents 12,500 + /- sq. ft* of manufacturing /office space for DIGICOMP Research and 25,000+/ - sq. ft. of retail /office space located at 930 Danby Road, Town Planning Board Minutes 14 February 7, 1995 of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 40 -3 -9, 3.87 + /- acres total, Industrial District, ICS Development Partners Inc., Owner; DIGICOMP Research, Applicants Trowbridge and Wolf, Landscape Architects, Agent,and 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as Lead Agency in environmental review, has, on December 6, 1994, made a negative determination of environmental significance, and 3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing on December 6, 1994, has reviewed and accepted as adequate the Long Environmental Assessment Form Part I and supplemental information prepared by the applicant, a Part II & III prepared by the Planning staff, and a site plan entitled "South Hill Complex ", dated November 8, 1994, prepared by Trowbridge and Wolf Landscape Architects, and additional application.. materials, and at a Public Hearing on February 7, 1995, has reviewed and accepted as adequate supplemental materials presented in the Final Site Plan Review Application for South Hill Complex dated January 61 1995, prepared by Trowbridge and Wolf, Landscape Architects, and as shown on the "Schematic Utilities and Drainage Plan" dated November 8, 1994 and revised on December 16, 1994 and again on January 5, 1995, as prepared by T.G. Miller P.C. Engineers and Surveyors, and 4. The Tompkins County Department of Planning, in a letter dated December 6, 1994 stated that the project, as proposed, would have no deleterious impacts upon State, County, or intercommunity interests. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 10 That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed construction of a retail /office complex and building renovations, associated parking, landscaping, lighting and utilities as presented in the Site Plan Review Application for South Hill dated November 81 1994 and supplemental materials presented in the Final Site Plan Review Application for South Hill Complex dated January 61 1995 and as shown on the Site Plan entitled "South Hill Complex" dated November 8, 1994, prepared by Trowbridge and Wolf, Landscape Architects, and as shown on the "Schematic Utilities and Drainage Plan" dated November 8, 1994, and revised on December 16, 1994, and again on January 5, 1995, as prepared by T.G. Miller P.C. Engineers and Surveyors, conditioned upon the following: a. Gasoline pumps are not permitted on the parcel, nor are enterprises such as bars that derive 50% or more of their gross revenues from the sale of alcoholic beverages for on -site consumption, and Planning Board Minutes 15 February 7, 1995 b. No more than 37,500 sq. ft. of building floor space is permitted on said parcel with no more than 25,000 sq. ft. of such space to be permitted for use as retail space, and c. Approval by the Town Engineer of the final construction plans, phasing plans specifications for earthwork, water supply and sewer improvements, detailed drainage computations and construction details for the proposed storm sewer system relating both to construction and post- construction run -off prior to the issuance of any building permits, and d. The final architectural renderings substantially conforming to the sketch plans presented at the February 7, 1995'Planning Board meeting, and e. The platted number of parking lighting and landscaping may be j Board pursuant to Section 38 of to the amount normally required in the event that the proposed insufficient, and spaces and associated .ncreased by the Planning the Zoning ordinance up by the Zoning Ordinance 118 spaces prove to be f. Submission of the original or mylar copy of the Final Site Plan to be retained by the Town of Ithaca, and g. Submission of two (2) copies of the herein approved site plan showing the items noted as being required on the Final Site Plan Checklist, and approval of said plan by the Town Engineer and Town Planner, and h. Compliance with all of the other conditions as noted on the Final Site Plan Checklist to include a record of application and the approval status from the New York State Department of Transportation, and i. Details of any signs to be shown on final site plan, to be in accordance with the Town's Sign ordinance or any legally obtained variances therefrom, and, to be approved by the Town Planner before issuance of any building permit. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Hoffmann, Ainslie, Finch, Wilcox, Bell. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. Planning Board Minutes 16 February 7, 1995 Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated, for the record, that in the WHEREAS portion of the resolution, it makes reference to the fact that the Planning Board at the December 6, 1994 meeting issued a negative determination of environmental significance. There being no further discussion, the matter of Final Site Plan Approval duly closed at 9:14 p.m. Chairperson Smith declared for the South Hill Complex AGENDA ITEM: OTHER BUSINESS. Chairperson Smith stated that Ithacare had given an invitation to anyone who would like to visit their facilities to see what their needs are and what their current facilities are like. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter addressed the Board and stated that the special meeting which had been tentatively scheduled for February 14, 1995 to meet with developers regarding the sunset provisions for abandoned subdivisions has been cancelled because there is a Home Builders Association meeting the same night. Mr. Kanter stated that the Board needed to determine a new date for that meeting. The Board decided to try to set up the special meeting for February 28, 19950 The Board discussed the people that they would like to have invitations extended to. Mr. Kanter stated that the proposal for this meeting would be mailed out to those concerned prior to the meeting. There was a suggestion to also publish a press release. Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated that the Wal -Mart EIS would need to be reviewed no later than the March 7, 1995 Planning Board meeting in order to get the comments to the City of Ithaca by their March 10, 1995 deadline. Mr. Kanter stated that the Town Board would like a letter to be sent to the City under the Planning Board Chairman's signature. Mr. Kanter stated that issues that could effect the Town of Ithaca include traffic on Town roads, adjacent park areas (e.g. Black Diamond State Trail), and there could be drainage and infrastructure issues that could effect areas of the Town. Attorney Barney suggested that the staff report on the Wal -Mart EIS could be provided for the February 28th meeting, and could be discussed by the Board at that meeting if time permits. Mr. Kanter stated that The Town Board approved the EcoVillage SLUD at their meeting on January 30, 1995, Mr. Kanter stated that House Craft Builders had made a submittal for Site Plan and Subdivision approvals to come before the Planning Board at the March 7, 1995 meeting. Planning Board Minutes 17 February 7, 1995 ADJOURNMENT Upon MOTION, Chairperson Smith declared the February 7, 1995 meeting of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 9:38 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Starr R. Hays, Recording Secretary, Town of Ithaca Planning Board. 2/9/95. • • t- cav MEMORANDUM T0: Town of Ithaca Planning Board Members January 31, 1995 FROM: Mary Russell, Chair, and Environmental Review Committee Members of the Town of Ithaca Conservation Board RE: South Hill Complex 49411143 The Environmental Review Committee (ERC) appreciates the oppo r- tunity to respond to the additional information supplied by the applicant since we last reviewed this application for preliminary site plan approval on December 6, 19940 1. Although the further information on drainage submitted by the applicant appears satisfactory, construction drawings still need to be submitted prior to final site plan approval. 2. The downcast lighting plan submitted by the applicant seems satisfactory. 3• Tn our December 6, 1994 comments on this application we requested "a comparison of the views from NYS Rt. 96B with and without the buildings". The applicant has produced a new "birds -eye" view containing the three planned buildings as well as photographs of the existing view from Rt. 96B. Although a view of the project from Rt. 96B has not been forthcoming, the submitted information seems to give a good idea of the visual effect. The ERC believes that it would be most helpful in the future if applicants provided ground level views from where most people will see the project. The members of the ERC are grateful for the opportunity to review this application. cc: Dan Walker,.JoAnn Cornish Exhibit #1 2/7/95 PB Minutes