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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 1995-02-28TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
FEBRUARY 28, 1995
FILED
370w,N OF ITH
The
Town of
Ithaca
Planning Board met in regular session on
Tuesday,
Ithaca,
February
New York,
28, 1995,
at 7:30
in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street,
p.m.
PRESENT. Chairperson Stephen Smith, Robert Kenerson, Candace
Cornell, Eva Hoffmann, James Ainslie, Herbert Finch, Fred
Wilcox, Gregory Bell, Jonathan Kanter (Town Planner) ,
Daniel Walker (Town Engineer), George Frantz (Assistant
Town Planner) , JoAnn Cornish -Epps (Planner II) , John
Barney (Town Attorney).
ALSO PRESENT: Bill Hilker, Steve Lucente, Ed Hallberg, Jerry &
Claudia Weisburd, Kermit Cutter, Joe Quigley.
Chairperson Smith declared the meting duly opened at 7 :34 p.m.
and 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. CONTINUATION OF DISCUSSION OF A PROPOSED RESOLUTION
AMENDING THE TOWN OF ITHACA SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS TO PROVIDE FOR
EXTINGUISHMENT OF SUBDIVISION APPROVALS OF ABANDONED SUBDIVISIONS
BY ADDING A NEW ARTICLE VII. SECTION 39.
Chairperson Smith declared the above -noted matter duly opened
and read aloud from the Planning Board Agenda.
Town Attorney John Barney addressed the Board and members of
the public and stated that the amendment basically sets up a time
that if a subdivision is not worked on after it is granted, it
reverts to its prior condition. There are several subdivisions in
the Town of Ithaca that date back, one is from the 1890s and the
other is in the Coy Glen area which has effectively been an
approved subdivision for 30 or 40 years. The object of this
proposal is to allow those subdivisions not to continue to have an
approval if nothing is happening on them after a period of time has
passed. Attorney Barney stated that the present draft suggests a
subdivision be terminated at the end of three years, and that there
was some discussion as to whether or not three years was the
appropriate number at the last meeting. (Draft of Resolution
Amending the Subdivision Regulations to Provide for Extinguishment
of Subdivision Approval of Abandoned Subdivisions, dated November
41 1994, is attached as Exhibit #1)
Planning Board Minutes
Chairperson Smith asked
present who wished to speak.
N
February 28, 1995
if there was anyone from the public
Ed Hallberg addressed
the
Board and
asked what the problem was
with the two subdivisions
that
Attorney
Barney referred to.
Attorney Barney responded that a subdivision should be
approved roughly at a time when consistent with the technology and
information and ability to govern them, but once granted should not
get a life of their own that goes on forever regardless of what
advances in terms of environmental concerns or other concerns that
a municipality may have. Subdivisions were approved when wetlands
were not as important an issue as they are now, and those
subdivisions once approved continue on. Now the Town has more
information about the importance of wetlands and handles
subdivision approval differently. The fact that something was
approved 10 or more years ago should not give it a better position
than something being proposed at the current time.
Mr.
subdivision
Hallberg stated
from the late
that
1800s
his
has
understanding was that
10 or 15 foot wide lots
the
and
that no
one
could get
a Building
Permit for those lots due to
the
updates
subdivision
in
the fire
approval,
codes,
they
so even
could not
if someone had received
meet the 30 -foot setbacks.
the
Attorney Barney stated that there have been houses built up
there with the 50 -foot lots.
Mr. Hallberg stated, on a philosophical basis, there were a
lot of questions at the last meeting about how the amendment
affected the economic value of a piece of land. The window of
opportunity in terms of long range planning for developers becomes
much more uncertain, due to changes in interest rates and the
market. The necessity to sit the fence has become much more
prevalent then it was 20 years ago. A three year window is not a
window that any of us can control. Once a subdivision map is filed
the taxes triple or more on that piece of land. The economic value
has increased by subdividing the land. Mr. Hallberg continued and
stated that with this law in place with a three year opportunity to
sell, every day that goes by is a decline in the value of that
piece of property because of the time limit to get it completed.
Chairperson Smith asked Mr. Hallberg if he was opposed to the
concept of the amendment or if he was opposed to the three year
time frame.
Mr. Hallberg responded, "I am absolutely against the concept,
and altering or offering an alteration of the time frame would only
be embracing the concept." Mr. Hallberg stated that the amendment
says to the people that we (the Town) do not want any more growth,
so we are declaring a moratorium and nobody can build anything any
more. Mr. Hallberg stated that over the last couple of years he
Planning Board Minutes 3 February 28, 1995
has seen EPODs, scenic views, erosion control, and changes in
Zoning, all that is happening is the building of more and more
steps and more and more pit falls along the way, and if it is done
at the right speed you have accomplished the lack of ability with
the lack of desire to develop in the Town of Ithaca. Mr. Hallberg
stated that if he were looking for a piece of land and knew that
this amendment was on the books in the Town of Ithaca, it would
effect the viability and the desirability of that piece of land in
the Town of Ithaca versus a piece of land in the Town of Lansing
without this regulation.
Board
Member Candace Cornell stated
that
this type
of
legislation
is something that many municipalities
something must be done.
are looking
at.
Mr.
Hallberg
stated
that on a housekeeping basis to handle a
100 year
old
subdivision,
something must be done.
Chairperson Smith stated that it was not just a housekeeping
method. Chairperson Smith stated that the Planning Board is
supposed to accurately review the possible impact of a new
subdivision based on the surrounding area and the proposed
subdivision. How was the Board supposed to do that with the
impacts of a 20 year old subdivision with a density that would not
be considered today, is sitting next to the proposed subdivision.
The new subdivision may not receive approval because of the
possible impact of the old subdivision that may never happen even
though it has received approval.
Mr.
Hallberg
stated that his fears would
be to have his
subdivision
pulled from him because of the three
year .limitation.
Mr. Hallberg
asked if the Town had the right
to rescind the
increase
in
economic value of the land from the
person that had
received
the
subdivision
approval.
Attorney Barney stated that New York State Law allows that to
happen now, but the Town of Ithaca is more concerned with the
environmental and other concerns that were not known about when the
subdivisions were approved in the past.
Ms. Cornell stated that the developer or subdivider need only
show an intent to complete the subdivision within the time frame
dictated by this amendment. Ms. Cornell stated that she understood
the developers' point of view, but that she believed that the Town
of Ithaca needed this amendment. Ms. Cornell stated that she was
looking for a compromise in the period of time that would not
effect the developers' business. Ms. Cornell asked what the
longest time frame was that would work for the developers business
and also allow the Board to keep up with advances in technology and
wisdom.
Mr.
Hallberg stated that the problem
with that question
was
that he
is opposed to the concept. Mr.
Hallberg stated
that
he
Planning Board Minutes 4 February 28, 1995
felt that 50 years was a reasonable amount of time.
Attorney Barney stated that the Health Department limits
subdivision approval to 10 years in those areas where an on -site
septic system was needed.
Mr.
Hallberg
stated that
if you
would
need
to
go
back to the
Health
Department
in 10
years
anyway,
then
make
it
20
years.
Jerry Weisburd addressed the Board and stated that he was
affected by the amendment, indirectly by two subdivisions that he
was involved with. Mr. Weisburd stated that one is a 3 -lot
subdivision in Inlet Valley and another one is a 3 -lot subdivision
on the lake. Both would be effected. At Inlet Valley the
residents did the subdivision and they do not wish to sell the lots
at this point, so that would revert. On the lake, one of the lots
was built upon by one of the associates that did the subdivision,
but since it was not sold, it would also be effected by this
amendment, and the land and the house would revert back. Mr.
Weisburd stated that the amendment read that you would have to sell
to a third party. Mr. Weisburd stated that he did not think that
the problem was now a question of how much time, he felt that the
problem was using the wrong standard. Mr. Weisburd stated that the
Town has a situation where there are some regulations that were in
effect 10 years ago and are now outdated, maybe they present an
environmental, health or safety problem; then address those
problems directly instead of a time frame. Mr. Weisburd stated
that the amendment was not in fit within the Town of Ithaca
Comprehensive Plan but it goes against it. Mr. Weisburd stated
that the amendment encourages subdividers and developers not to
consider clustered housing and that affordable housing would be at
risk as well because the time limit would drive up the cost.
Attorney Barney stated that the issues could not be addressed
once the subdivision was approved without coming back to the Board
for further review. Attorney Barney stated that he did not feel
that Mr. Weisburd would have a problem with either of the
subdivisions he referred to earlier because in the subdivision on
the lake, there is a structure on the property, which means the
developer has materially commenced, so it would not be effected by
the amendment. On the Inlet Valley subdivision, there are
structures built, so it would not be effected either.
Ms. Cornell asked Mr. Weisburd what he thought would be the
appropriate threshold.
Attorney Barney stated that
a subdivision, with no time limit
for the Town to go back in as
if there was no building done on
on the approval, there is no way
a Town and say that we are now
Planning Board Minutes
GV
February 28, 1995
concerned
with wetlands
over two acres or drainage issues or
whatever
the concern
may
be.
Mr. Weisburd stated that what he would do as the developer
would be to go out and as quickly as possible sell one lot and then
the Town would have no recourse at all. Mr. Weisburd stated that
the control feature should be tied into the problem and /or the
permitting process.
Attorney Barney asked if Mr. Weisburd was suggesting a full
scale environmental review every time someone comes in for a
building permit.
Mr. Weisburd responded that he was not suggesting a full scale
review, just look at the issues that are present.
Claudia Weisburd addressed the Board and stated that there may
be some combination of time and the permitting process. Ms.
Weisburd suggested that there be some kind of checklist which would
specifically target items that would be of concern. At the point
that the developer or subdivider goes for a Building Permit, the
checklist could be reviewed prior to issuance of any permits. Ms.
Weisburd stated that based on a time frame, such as 10 years, and
if after that amount of time a person comes in for a Building
Permit, Town staff can review the checklist with that person to see
if the subdivision is still valid under the current system, then
issue a Building Permit, or, do not issue a Building Permit and
tell that person which issues must be addressed before obtaining a
Building Permit.
Ms. Weisburd stated that she felt that rather than have every
subdivision revert automatically after a specific amount of time,
make an issue out of the subdivisions where there are identified
problems. Ms. Weisburd stated that the amendment states that every
subdivision must be reviewed regardless if there have been any
problems identified or not. Ms. Weisburd stated that her
suggestion was an attempt to narrow down the number of subdivisions
that would revert.
Board Member Candace Cornell asked Ms. Weisburd if she was
asking for a 10 year time limit and for the Town to develop a
checklist, which would have engineering and environmental
standards, etc, and then if no development has gone on it in 10
years and the developer then comes in and wants a permit, the Town
staff goes through the checklist with that person to determine if
there are any problems, then come to the Board for new subdivision
review.
Attorney Barney stated that the Town is only interested in
pursuing subdivisions that have not been actively developed, and
that the number of subdivisions that would be effected by this
Planning Board Minutes 6 February 28, 1995
amendment would be approximately 1 out of 20.
Chairperson Smith asked how the Board was supposed to judge
the impact of a non - active old subdivision where a developer could
at any time start the subdivision and could in turn inundate the
Town with massive amounts of new development in one area. The area
may not be able to handle all of the impacts of many subdivisions.
A new subdivision may not get approval because the Board would have
to consider the possibility of impacts from an old subdivision that
has been dormant since approval 15 years ago.
Ms. Weisburd stated that the system proposed tonight is that
the subdivider just sells a lot and then they can sit there for the
next 50 years and there is nothing that the Town can do. The
problem is not solved.
Attorney Barney stated that most of the circumstances are
situations where the subdivision approval is received and for one
reason or another they forget about it, those are the subdivisions
the Town wants to terminate.
Ms. Weisburd read Section 2(b) which states, "...the
subdivision approval (both final and preliminary) shall expire and
the permissible uses and construction on the property shall revert
to those in effect prior to the granting of any subdivision
approval. ", and asked if that meant that the 1800 subdivision is
going to revert to the old subdivision regulations. Ms. Weisburd
stated that the language was confusing.
Attorney Barney stated that it makes sense in the context of
a three year period, and that it should be changed if using a term
of more than 3 years, because it really should revert to whatever
regulations that are applicable at that time.
Board Member James Ainslie asked if it were logical for a
developer to hold onto a subdivision for 10 years, it seemed to him
that dollars and cents would force them to move.
Joe Quigley of Southwoods Associates, which is a 50 acre piece
of property on East King Road, which used to be the old Desch /May
property, that he started developing there in 1988, bought the land
for $140,000.00 and put an additional $77,000.00 into getting
through the approval process with the Town of Ithaca, which took
1 -1/2 years to do. Mr. Quigley stated that he has been paying the
taxes on the individual lots since he received approval 8 years
ago, but there are no buyers for the lots out there. Mr. Quigley
stated that he would love to start development on the lots he
received subdivision approval for, but it is not economically
feasible in the Town of Ithaca with the inventory that is on the
market now. No amount of pressure from the Planning Board is going
to move the process along, it is going to depend on the economy.
Mr. Quigley stated that the flow of economy happens approximately
Planning Board Minutes 7 February 28, 1995
every 7 years around Ithaca. Mr. Quigley stated that he did not
see the need for this amendment. Mr. Quigley stated that if his
subdivision plan was causing a problem, address the problem at that
time.
Mr.
Quigley
stated,
"We're
these decisions.
his
We play
by the
difficult
as
for us
than it
is."
the people. We're impacted by
rules. Don't make life any more
Board Member Eva Hoffmann stated that in a case like Mr.
Quigley's, he could come to the Planning Board for an extension
based on an economic hardship.
Mr. Quigley stated that he should not have to come back to the
Planning Board because he had already followed the rules and paid
the cost of receiving the subdivision approval and his taxes as
necessary.
Attorney Barney asked Mr. Quigley how long he should be
allowed to have his subdivision and not comply with the Town's
increasingly demanding standards in terms of subdivisions.
Mr.
Quigley responded
that
he should
be allowed to have
his
subdivision
or to come before
the
as
long as
he is
not
creating a
public
nuisance
by
its
Attorney Barney
stated
that the amendment
is
asking for the
developer to either
develop
or to come before
the
Planning Board
and explain why you
are not
developing and ask
for
an extension.
Board Member Candace Cornell asked how hard a process it was
to get the subdivision extended.
Attorney Barney responded, one appearance before the Planning
Board.
Ms. Weisburd asked what if the environment was very hostile to
development and the whole Planning Board is sitting there saying
let's not extend it, you haven't convinced us that there is a
hardship.
Ms. Cornell stated that the Planning Board has to follow the
rules, not political whims.
Ms.
Weisburd
asked where are
the rules
for the
terms of what
an extension
would
be granted on,
other than
"undue
hardship ".
Board Member Fred Wilcox stated that the Planning Board would
need to make written findings and if a court decides that it was
not justified then our findings would be over ruled.
Mr. Quigley stated that what the Planning Board cannot do is
Planning Board Minutes
February 28, 1995
take his subdivision away from him after he had paid his fees for
the subdivision, paid his higher taxes for 8 years because that is
a taking. Mr. Quigley stated that is taking his hard earned
economic value, when you take his subdivision approval away.
Attorney Barney stated that Mr. Quigley's subdivision is
exactly the type of subdivision the Town is trying to get at with
this amendment.
Town Planner Jonathan Kanter suggested that the Board could
add wording which would state that the applicant could either prove
a hardship or demonstrate that the subdivision still meets with the
Town of Ithaca current standards for environmental review, safety,
etc. Mr. Kanter stated this would make it the applicants' burden to
either prove hardship or prove that the subdivision approved in the
past still meets Town standards.
Ms. Cornell stated that she felt that there needed to be some
standard to judge this decision on and it should be getting at the
problem. Ms. Cornell stated that Mr. Kanter's statement is
appropriate. Ms. Cornell stated that the subdivider would not have
to go through the entire process again, just request the extension
and give the reason it is needed. Ms. Cornell stated that if a
project is not violating any rules, the Planning Board has no
choice but to approve it, even if personally the project is not
liked.
Stephen Lucente addressed the Board and stated that the
Briarwood Subdivision was not only controversial because of the
wetlands, the Lucente's were co- plaintiffs with the Town of Ithaca,
in a case that was resolved nearly two years ago on the sewer
moratorium. Mr. Lucente stated that they received approval in 1987
and before they could get development started, the moratorium
brought the project to a stand still. Mr. Lucente then asked what
the guarantee would be that the Board would not require more of the
developer due to the delays which are not his own fault.
Attorney Barney responded that there was no guarantee, but the
Briarwood subdivision would be a very clear hardship for the
extension.
Mr. Lucente stated, to give a brief history of the Briarwood
Subdivision, that they were stopped by the sewer moratorium and the
wetland issue ran concurrently with the moratorium, after that
there was death in the family which really shook things up. Mr.
Lucente stated that they were 8 years into the subdivision now and
are just
putting
the first house on.
Mr.
Lucente stated that they
Planning Board Minutes 9 February 28, 1995
built two houses on the subdivision before the sewer moratorium
went into effect.
Town Engineer Daniel Walker stated that the road was
substantially built as well, because the sub -base was there and the
drainage was constructed. Mr. Walker stated that the Briarwood
subdivision would not be effected by the proposal because the
intent is there.
Mr. Lucente stated that he felt that the subdivisions should
be considered on an individual basis instead of using the shotgun
approach on every subdivision. Mr. Lucente stated that he felt
that the approach should be changed to a less confrontational
approach. Mr. Lucente stated that the amendment seems to be
divisive and that he did not see a need for it. Mr. Lucente stated
that he felt that 10 years would make it less divisive but he feels
that this type of approach should be changed.
Attorney Barney stated that the Town has to have a standard in
order to treat everyone equally and fairly.
Bill Hilker addressed the Board and stated that any lot that
is pre- existing has to meet current building permit regulations, so
the lots on the Klondike Subdivision, which is the 1890
subdivision, can be built on as long as they meet the current
zoning regulations. Mr. Hilker stated that the changes should be
put in the Zoning Ordinance and from that point on the existing
lots have to meet those zoning requirements. Mr. Hilker asked why
address the entire subdivision when you are already addressing each
individual lot as a separate entity, whether it is developed or on
paper. Mr. Hilker stated that the proposed is a law for which
there is already something in place to handle it, and all it would
accomplish would be to place additional burden on the developers
which places the same burden, indirectly, back on to the residents
of the Town who are the buyers as additional cost. Mr. Hilker
stated that the Seneca Army Depot is in the process of closing and
everyone expected a terrible depression in market value, but they
have increased. Mr. Hilker stated that the reason for the increase
is because Tompkins County residents are moving to Seneca County.
Mr. Hilker stated that when a piece of property is subdivided, the
taxes go up and it is assessed at full market value. Mr. Hilker
stated that there are fewer and fewer developers willing to build
in the Town of Ithaca.
There was some discussion regarding the time frame for
approval process for a subdivision that comes before the Town of
Ithaca Planning Board, start to finish.
Kermit Cutter
addressed the Board and
stated that three
years
does not seem like
a long enough period of
time. Mr. Cutter
asked
how often
the
Town
changed
the
regulations
for the
subdivisions.
Planning Board Minutes 10 February 28, 1995
Attorney Barney stated that it has probably been 1968 since
there were any significant changes to the Town of Ithaca Zoning
Ordinance.
Mr. Cutter stated that after 10 or 15
in and say that they were unable to
subdivision and ask for an extension, is
look at the changes since the Board
subdivision.
years someone could come
do anything with the
there any reason not to
gave this person the
Mr. Weisburd stated that there were mechanisms in place in the
form of the Zoning Ordinance, the permitting procedure, and the
Subdivision Regulations that protect the Town, so why would this
amendment be needed. What does the amendment accomplish, that is
not accomplished now specifically.
Attorney Barney stated that
at the time a number of the
older
subdivisions were approved in
the Town
did not even consider
yet individually.
wetlands under 12.4 acres. Now
the Town
is concerned about
them,
is it fair that an old subdivision
go on
without consideration
of
the wetland, whereby a new subdivision
would have to possibly
redesign the subdivision around
the wetland to protect it.
Ms.
Cornell
stated that the
Town needs the context to treat
everyone
the same,
yet individually.
Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated that Section 560 of the
Real Property Tax Law allows the owner of a subdivision to abandon
the subdivision after 5 years. Sometimes people do reconsolidate
for tax purposes. And the only requirement is to file a written
notice with the County Clerk's office and the Town Clerk.
Town Attorney John Barney asked the Board to give him some
direction with regard to changing the amendment. Attorney Barney
asked if the Board wanted to continue with the concept of the
amendment, change the time frame, or add an explanation of what
"undue hardship" would mean.
Chairperson Smith asked if anyone on the Board was opposed to
the concept of the amendment. No one on the Board was opposed to
the concept of the amendment.
Ms. Cornell stated that the Board would be interested in
receiving concrete suggestions in the form of written comments from
the public prior to the next meeting, and stated that the amendment
would need to work for everyone.
The Board Members discussed the different time frames to
consider which would be best for the proposed amendment, as well as
the proposal itself. After some discussion the Chair called for a
straw vote on the length of time, with the following results.
Planning Board Minutes
Those
in
favor
of
3
years
Those
in
favor
of
5
years
Those
in
favor
of
10
years
11 February 28, 1995
NONE.
Cornell, Hoffmann, Wilcox.
Smith, Kenerson, Ainslie, Finch,
Bell.
Town Attorney John Barney stated that he would make the
necessary changes and provide the Board with a revised draft of the
amendment with a 10 year limitation period, where specific criteria
to determine hardship, and provision for the applicant to
demonstrate that the subdivision is consistent with current Town
standards regarding safety, environment, etc.
There being no further discussion, the Chair declared the
matter duly closed at 9:41 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM: CONSIDERATION OF COMMENTS TO BE SENT TO THE CITY OF
ITHACA ON THE WAL -MART DEPARTMENT STORE DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
STATEMENT (DEIS - RESUBMITTED NOVEMBER 22, 1994). COMMENTS ON THE
DEIS ARE DUE BACK TO THE CITY BY MARCH 10, 1995. THE PROPOSED WAL-
MART DEPARTMENT STORE WOULD BE LOCATED AT 398 - 400 ELMIRA ROAD IN
THE CITY OF ITHACA, NEW YORK.
Chairperson Smith declared the above -noted matter duly opened
and read aloud from the Planning Board agenda.
Town Planner Jonathan Kanter addressed the Board and stated
that staff had prepared a revised draft of the letter for the Board
to review and consider for submittal to the City of Ithaca
regarding the Wal -Mart Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The
revised letter better addressed the parking issues that were of
particular concern to the Town of Ithaca. (Copy of the Proposed
letter to Mr. David Kay of the Planning and Development Board of
the City of Ithaca, dated February 28, 1995, is attached hereto as
Exhibit #2)
Board Member Eva Hoffmann stated that the park and ride spaces
delineated on the site will not help the traffic concerns in the
Town of Ithaca.
Board Member Candace Cornell addressed the Board and stated
that she felt that the DEIS was very poorly done and that there
were several issues which were not addressed as they should have
been. Ms. Cornell stated the hard look was not taken and that the
impact on Negundo Woods was not addressed at all. on Page 65 of
the DEIS it states that 14.5 acres of wildlife would be taken away
by the development of the Wal -Mart Store, then several sentences
later it states that there will be no impacts.
Assistant Town Planner George Frantz stated that urban runoff
pollutants were not addressed in the DEIS. Mr. Frantz then asked
if the Board felt that it would be appropriate for the Planning
Board to insert an additional paragraph to the letter commenting
Planning Board - Minutes 12 February 28, 1995
that it is the opinion of the Board that the DEIS does not
adequately address potential problems with urban runoff pollutants.
The Board concurred with Mr. Frantz's statement.
Ms. Cornell stated that flooding was a problem as well. Ms.
Cornell stated that she would like to have a general statement
about the environment and the wildlife, including plants and
animals, added to the letter.
Chairperson Smith stated that there will be impact on the
aquatic and terrestrial ecology.
Ms. Cornell stated that Appendix F describes numerous traffic
improvements described and recommended by Wal -Mart, but it makes no
mention of who will make those traffic improvements referenced in
the DEIS.
Assistant Town Planner George Frantz stated that the bulk of
the improvements are currently scheduled to be completed in the
near future. Mr. Frantz stated that the Town of Ithaca hopes that
the City of Ithaca will identify the potential impacts within the
Town of Ithaca in the Statement of Findings for this project. Mr.
Frantz suggested adding the following statement, or something
similar, to the letter.
"The Planning Board notes that Wal -Mart is suggesting a number
of improvements to the road network within the City and the
Town of Ithaca hopes that the City of Ithaca would require
these improvements to the streets as mitigation measures."
Planner II JoAnn Cornish addressed
the Visual Impacts were addressed only
view and that the entire DEIS review sto
Board Member Eva Hoffmann stated
Planning Board to have a voice in the
building itself.
the Board and stated that
from the City's point of
)pped at the City line.
that she would like the
color and design of the
The Board continued discussion of the Wal -Mart Draft
Environmental Impact Statement and the Town of Ithaca's desire to
review the project at the Site Plan stage as well. The Board
discussed the intermunicipal cooperation that should exist between
the City of Ithaca and the Town of Ithaca when working on projects
within 500 feet of the City /Town Line, The Board concurred to have
the following issues identified in the letter to the City of Ithaca
regarding the Wal -Mart Department Store Draft Environmental Impact
Statement: Urban Runoff Pollutants from the parking lot, Impact on
the Aquatic & Terrestrial Environment behind the proposed store and
in a regional context, Visual Impacts, Looking at Town of Ithaca
Land Uses, and Traffic Impacts and recommended improvements be
included and required as mitigating measures.
Planning Board Minutes 13 February 28, 1995
There being no further discussion, the Chair asked if anyone
were prepared to offer a motion regarding the letter to the City of
Ithaca.
MOTION by Fred Wilcox, seconded by Candace Cornell.
The Planning Board hereby authorized the Chairperson Stephen
Smith to sign the letter on behalf of the Planning Board provided
that the changes discussed have been added to the letter to the
City of Ithaca regarding the Wal -Mart Department Store Draft
Environmental Impact Statement.
There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a
vote.
Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Cornell, Ainslie, Finch, Hoffmann, Wilcox,
Bell.
Nay - None.
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously.,
Chairperson Smith declared the matter of the discussion of the
Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed Wal -Mart
Department Store within the City of Ithaca to be duly closed at
10 :30 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES - February 7, 1995.
MOTION by Herbert Finch, seconded by James Ainslie.
RESOLVED, that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning
Board Meeting of February 7, 1995, be and hereby are approved with
the following correction:
That on Page 10, Paragraph 6, which read: "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,...."
This has been changed to read: "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,...."
There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a
vote.
Aye - Smith, Kenerson, Ainslie, Finch, Hoffmann, Wilcox, Bell.
Nay - None.
Abstain - Cornell.
The MOTION was declared to be carried.
Planning Board Minutes 14 February 28, 1995
AGENDA ITEM: OTHER BUSINESS.
1. Planning Board Packets - The Packets for the Planning
Board meeting which will be held on March 7, 1995 were distributed
to each Board Member at this meeting.
2. Eco Village - Town Planner Jonathan Kanter stated that
the Eco Village project would be appearing at the March 7, 1995
Planning Board meeting to discuss Preliminary Site Plan and
Preliminary Subdivision Approval.
3. Town Laws Pertaining to revocation of Approvals - Town
Planner Jonathan Kanter distributed copies of various sections of
Town Law that pertain to the revocation of approval of previously
granted subdivisions. (The following are attached hereto as
Exhibits. Town Law Section 276(5)(h) as Exhibit #3, Section
276(7)(c) as Exhibit #4, and, Section 265 -a as Exhibit #5; as
distributed by Mr. Kanter.)
The Board discussed the Laws received by Mr. Kanter and how
they would apply to specific subdivisions within the Town of
Ithaca.
4. Association of Towns Meeting - The Board discussed a
Memorandum which summarized interesting points that were picked up
by Board Member Fred Wilcox as he attended the Association of Towns
Meeting. (Copy of Mr. Wilcox's Memorandum, dated, February 27,
1995, is attached hereto as Exhibit #6)
There being
no further business for the
Board to discuss at
this meeting
the
Chair
closed this
segment of
the
meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Upon MOTION, Chairperson Smith declared the February 28, 1995
meeting of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at
10:46 p.m.
3/2/95.
Respectfully submitted,
StarrRae Hays,
Recording Secretary,
Town of Ithaca Planning Board.
•
•
r�
U
TOWN OF ITHACA
RESOLUTION .- MENDING TFIE SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS
TO PROVIDE FOR EXTINGUISF '.MENI' OF SUBDIVISION APPROVALS OF
ABANMONED SUBDIVISIONS
BE IT RESOLVED that the Subdivision Regulations for the Town or Ithaca as adopted by the
Town Planning Board on :March 24, 19.6 and approved by the Town Board on March 21 1956,
as amended by the Planning Board on several subsecuent occasions, the most recent being _
1993, as approved by the Town Board on
1993, he lltrher amended by adding a new A Jcle VII, Section
39, reading as follows:
".A RTTCLE VTT
EXPTRATTON OF SUBDIVTSTON APPROVAL
Section 39. Expiration of Subdivision Approval.
1. In addition to any other provisions of law governing expiration or subdivision approvals,
including those provisions which provide the subdivision approval expires if the approved
subdivision map is not tiled with the Tompkins County Clerk within a specified time of approval,
a subdivision approval will also terminate under the circumstances set forth below.
2. If the proposed subdivision requires construction of any facilities such as roads, drainage courses,
water or sewer lines, or other similar facilities, unless within thirty -six months of the date the
Plannin; Board gave Final subdivision approval
(a) work has materially commenced on such facilities in accordance with the Finally approved
subdivision plat, or
(b) one or more lots have been transferred from the developer and the deeds for same duly
recorded in the Tompkins County Clerk's Office,
the subdivision approval (both
construction on the property sh
approval. Notwithstanding the
19, 1994? the time for work to
19, 1997,
final and F
all revert to
fore(Toing,
materially
3. For the purposes of this Section 39
reliminary) shall expire and
those in effect prior to the
if final subdivision approval
commence or lots to be sold
the permissible uses and
-anting of any subdivision
was ;ranted prior to July
shall be extended to July
(a) work will not have "materially commenced" unless, at a minimum, 0) a building permit,
if required, has been obtained for at least one structure in the subdivision; and (ii)
construction equipment and tools consistent with the size of the proposed work have been
brought to and been used on the site; and (iii) significant construction of roads or
utilities, or significant framing, erection, or construction of a material structure, has been
Exhibit #1
2./28/95 9 Board Minutes
is
subreg. amd, wp. 11rh /locallaw. '1,'04194 4: 0',nm
stared and is being diligently pursued: and
(b) a lot will not have been "transferred" unless convened by a deed. July execu ted and
recorded in :he Tompkins County Clerk's Office, to (1) a person unrelated to the
subdivider in a bona tide transaction "or value, or (ii) a person related to the subdivider
or for less than reasonahly value in accordance �.vith circumstances related to he P!arning
Board as par, of the subdivision .: nppoval (e.g. a subdivision where the intention is to
convey a lot :o a relative or to convey a let to an adjacent landowrer ror less . an full
value).
4. If the proposed subdivision
approval (both final and prel
consequences set tor? abov
unless at least one lot of the
does not require the construction of any tacd ;cits, the subdivision
iminarv) shall expire within the time limits set tcrh above with the
and subje t to the ability to obtain extensions as set for.vi below,
subdivision has been transferred.
5. In addition to the r�,oina. a subdivision approval for a subdivision re
fo quiring constrc :ion of
facilities shall likewise terminate as to any untransferred lots in the event that the facilities are
not substantially completed within Live vears of the date of final subdivision approval.
6. The Planning Board, upon request of the subdivider, after a public hearing, and upon a �tnding
that the imposition of the time limits set forth above in paragraphs 2, 4 and 5 would create an
undue hardship on the subdivider, may extend the time limits for such additional periods as the
Planning Board may reasonably determine. An application for such extension may be made at
the time of filing of the original application or at any time thereafter up to, but no later than, six
months after the expiration of the time limits set forth above.
7. In the event of any termination of subdivision approval pursuant to these provisions, the Planning
Board or Town Planner shall cause a notice of such termination to be delivered personally to the
subdivider, or forwarded by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the subdivider at the last
address for the subdivider on file at the Town of Ithaca Planning Department and shall cause a
copy of such notice, together with an affidavit of service (personally or by mail) to be recorded
in the Tompkins County Clerk's Office in Miscellaneous Records or other appropriate location.
8. Any subdivider who believes the termination of approval pursuant to this section is not warranted
may file an application for a hearing before the Planning Board. Such application shall be filed
within 30 days of the delivery of the notice referred to above (for this purpose "delivery" shall
be deemed to occur on the date the notice is personally delivered or the day it is delivered to the
postal service for mailing). The Planning Board shall hold a public hearing on such application
on at least five days prior notice given in the same manner as required for public hearings on
subdivision approvals. within 60 days of receipt such application. The burden of establishing that
the approval should not be terminated shall rest upon the applicant. If the Planning Board
determines that the approval was improperly terminated, it shall render a decision so stating and
shall cause a notice to that effect to be forwarded to the Tompkins County Clerk's Office for
2
•
s
subreg. atnd, wpSl ithllocallaw, 11104194 ,t: 07pm
recording in the same location
determination of the Planning Boa
brought pursuant to Article 78 of
commenced no lacer than :0 days
Board with the appropriate Town
as the notice previously effecting such termination. Anv
rd regarding such te.^nination may be reviewed by a proceeding
the Civil Procedure Law and Rules. Such proceeding shall be
after the decision bring reviewed has been filed by the Planning
Clerk.
9. Nochin; in this se.: ;on 39 is intended to alter the effe %:t of Town Law Se::tion 265-a on lots in
a subdivision when zoning is changed to inc: easy lot sizes or other re Iuiremeacs cherebv
rendering an existing subdivision's lots non- conforming
.
ANT BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this amendment to the Subdivision Regulations take
effect upon approval of same by the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca.
3
*CWN CLERK 273 -1; 2t
TOWN OF ITHACA
125 EAST SENECA STREET, ITHACA, N.Y. 14850
HIGHWAY 273 -1656 PARKS 273-3035 ENGINEERING 273 -7717 PLANNING 273 -1717 ZCNING 273 -7783
FAX ;607) 273 -7701
Mr. David Kav
Planning and Development Board
City of Ithaca
108 East Green Street
Ithaca, New York 148.450
February 28. 1.995
RE: Wal -Mart Draft Environmental Impact Statement - REVISED DRAFT
(Note: Revisions are in Bold)
Dear Mr. Kay:
The Town of Ithaca Planning Board, at a meeting on February 28, 1995. heard a staff report,
which was done in conjunction with members of the Town of Ithaca Environmental Review
Committee, on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement currently under review by the
Planning and Development Board. Comments on the DEIS are limited to those issues which.
Oin the Planning Board's opinion, will have an impact on the Town of Ithaca.
Consideration of the Town of Ithaca's Comprehensive Plan was not addressed in the DEIS.
The Town would like to see this included in Section 1.2, Location and Character of Project
Area. This issue is of concern since the Project Limit Line is very near the Town Line on
three sides and will be visible from Town land on the surrounding hills. The project site is
also located at a primary entrance of the Town and thus should give some consideration to
this function. An increase in the planting area along Elmira Road would help to mitigate the
feeling of commercialism as vehicles enter /exit the Town/City at this point.
In the Town of Ithaca's Comprehensive Plan, the lands surrounding the project site are
designated conservation/open space, recreational land and land zoned Resident District R -30.
Additionally, in the Town of Ithaca's 1984 Update of their Comprehensive Parks and Open
Space Plan, a 20 +/- acre park is proposed for the land north of the project site on the west
bank of the Inlet. Views of the project site from the surrounding Town lands were assessed.
Given the magnitude of this project, this view assessment, in conjunction with Figure 15 of
the DEIS labeled Landscaping and Lighting Plan, raised concerns about the minimal amount
of landscaping that is proposed throughout the project site.
From the Landscaping Plan it appears that 25 Thuga Occidentalis (American Arborvitae) and
11 Populus Alba (White Poplar) are proposed to form a buffer between the project area and
the proposed park lands to the north. Virtually no planting is proposed on the western edge
0 because the paving extends to the required setback line. There is existing vegetation which
Exhibit #2
2/28/95
:.•.. • u -• - 0
Mr. David Kay
Re: Wal -Mart DEIS
• Pa °e 2
will aid in the creation of a buffer but. in the Town's opinion, additional plantings using
species indigenous to this area, (as indicated in the DEIS) possibly in combination with berms
or other landscape elements, should be considered to the north and west so that effective
visual buffers will be created. This may also help to mitigate noise from the proposed project
to surrounding areas.
Regarding the issue of parking, it is the Town Planning Board's opinion that an
excessive amount of parking and resulting paved area is being proposed by Wal -Mart.
In accordance with the City of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, Municipal Code 30.37, No. 4,
Parking Space Requirements for a Retail Store, Neighborhood Commercial Facility, 1
parking space is required for 500 gross square feet of floor area. According to the
DEIS, the proposed building, including the expansion, totals 155,966 square feet. Given
the City requirements, a minimum of 312 parking spaces is required as opposed to the
890 spaces proposed. This is a difference of -37,830 +/- sq. ft. of asphalt or 1.1 acres, not
including the subsequent reduction in maneuvering space and interior roadway. Using a
more conservative standard, such as 4 parking spaces per 1,000 sq. ft. of gross useable
area, (or 1 parking space per 250 sq. ft. GLA), which is recommended by the Urban
Land Institute for Neighborhood or Community Shopping Centers, would result in a
significantly lower number of parking spaces. In the case of WaWtvlart, such a standard
would result in approximately 624 parking spaces. Reduction in the amount of
pavement will, among other things, reduce costs, lessen the number of lighting fixtures
needed, reduce the visual impact, allow more area for buffering and reduce the amount
of storm water runoff.
The Town of Ithaca Planning Board would like to suggest that the initial number of
parking spaces be more in keeping with local and suggested standards to meet the
market demand for parking but not pave excessive areas if the demand does not exist.
To this end, the adequacy of the parking could be monitored, and if additional parking
is required, it could be added at a future time. (Areas for future parking should be
shown on the Site Plan should this approach be taken by the City.)
Additionally, the Town of Ithaca Planning Board would like to see a greater density of
interior plantings throughout the parking lot. From Figure 15, Landscaping and Lighting
Plan, it appears that for a parking lot that is able to park 831 cars, with associated paved
roads and maneuvering space, (approximately 11 acres of pavement) 13 trees are proposed for
the interior of the lot. The view of this large expanse of asphalt can be greatly improved
with the addition of plant materials. Thirteen trees, having a crown coverage at maturity of
approximately 50 square feet each, will not, in the Town's opinion, have a sufficient effect
on softening the view of this lot from the surrounding hillsides.
r-I
U
Mr. David Kav
Re: Wal -dart DEIS
• Page 3
The Town appreciates the consideration given to the lighting fixtures. Cutoff fixtures, as
proposed, are preferred for controlling light trespass onto adjacent properties and for viewing
from surrounding fixture . lands. Nonetheless. the "standard fix mountin height of 42 ft." as
proposed in .appendix I of the DEIS, seems excessive and out of character with other light
mounting heights in this area. The Planning Board is aware of the cost savings to the
developer by having high mounted lights so that fewer lights are needed. However, lowering
the height of the fixtures is recommended to bring the parking lot down to a more human
scale and to lessen the impact of the lights on the surrounding areas.
In reviewing. traffic information submitted in the DEIS, we note that there is no mention of
the effects of the proposed project at the intersections of Seven l�iile Drive and Elmira Road,
and Sandbank Road and Elmira Road. Drivers attempting left turns onto Elmira Road from
either of these two roads consistently experience unsatisfactory delays. A traffic study
conducted in 1991 determined that the service level for traffic exiting Seven Vlile Drive was
at an unsatisfactory level of service. This intersection currently serves the Town of Ithaca
Highway Department headquarters.
While normally a low- volume road, Sandbank Road is the access for the playing field at
Buttermilk Falls State Park. Traffic generated by these playing fields during the summer
• already experiences unsatisfactory delays in existing onto Elmira Road, and can be expected
to see further delays as a result of the proposed store. The Town would like to see this issue,
and the potential impact of the project on the Seven Mile Drive intersection addressed.
According to information from the New York State Department of Transportation, the
intersection of Five Mile Drive and Elmira Road will be signalized as part of the Alt. 1 -A
Rte. 13 Bridge Replacement Project.
The proposed project, as stated in the DEIS, is located in a floodplain that crosses the
City/Town line. There is concern by the Town that filling in the floodplain as proposed
(60,000 Cubic Yards of Fill will be imported for the building pad) will cause some flooding to
occur upstream in the Town. The Town is aware that this issue has been addressed in the
DEIS and that the design is in accordance with FEMA guidelines and would like to be
notified if this information is changed in any way.
Finally, in the Stage 1 Cultural Resource Survey Report (Appendix G) the Wal -Mart site is
described as being located in the Town of Ithaca, "... just south of the City of Ithaca limits."
This minor typographical error should be corrected.
On behalf of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, I would like to thank you for the
opportunity to comment on the DEIS for the Wal -Mart Department Store. The Town of
Ithaca Planning Board would appreciate the opportunity to review and comment on the
• Wal -Mart site design as the Site Plan Review process progresses.
Mr. David Kay
Re: Wal -Mart DEIS
is Page 4
Very truly yours,
Stephen D. Smith, Chair
Town of Ithaca Planning Board
•
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•
U
FEB 27 '95 10 :20AM
MEN10
T0: John Whitcomb, Town Supervisor
CC: Steve Smith, Chair = Town of Ithaca Planning Board
Jon Kanter, Town Planner
FROM: Fred Wilcox F=T— Z
SUBJECT: Association of Towns meeting
DATE: Febn.:ary 27, 1995
Here are some (mostly relevant) notes and comments on the recent meeting of the
Association of Towns of the State of New York which I was privileged to attend.
Richard Boos (Principal Planner) and Harry Willis (Local Government Counsel) of the
Department of State presented very informative training sessions for both Planning and
Zoning officials. Highlights were:
Pae.
• State law has been changed as to the number of members on the Planning Board.
Instead of five (5) or seven (7) plus the agricultural member, the law now states that
the Planning Board will consist of five (5) or seven (7) members including the
agricultural member. Towns can adopt a local law to alter the number of members.
• New regulations can make it more difficult for Planning Boards to require the set aside
of recreational land (or money in lieu of land) for subdivision approval, Now, some
sort of recreational needs analysis of the community should be performed first. This
assessment of recreational needs must make findings to justify the requirement for land
set asides (or money). In addition, Planning Boards must establish the need for
additional recreational facilities caused the proposed development.
The most anticipated session (for me) was entitled "Revisions to SEQR - Part 617'
presented by Barbara Rinaldi and Jack Nasca of the Department of Environmental
Conservation. Unfortunately, this was the worst session that I attended. Although Jack
presented a decent overview of proposed changes to the SEQR regulations, Barbara's
portion on SEQR training quickly disintegrated into a gripe session. For example, a
significant amount of time (maybe thirty minutes or so) was spent by attendees
complaining that the State should do more because of the incompetence of their own town
employees. Three interesting points made during the session were:
• Proposed changes to the SEQR regulations will allow Planning Boards to focus on
only those issues that are determined to be of significant impact, Currently, the EIS
requires that issues be addressed that are not significant. This means less resources
can be applied to the significant impacts.
Exhibit #6
2/28/95 Planning Board Minutes
FEB 27 '95 10:21AM
• Jack Rinaldi's interpretation of the current regulations is that erection of signs does
• not require an Environmental Assessment Form. Although signs are not specifically
mentioned on the Type II list of actions, they are not subject to review and don't
require SEQR.
o Cumulative environmental impacts can be mitigated through zoning changes which
identify the limiting environmental resource.
Other notes and comments on the conference in no particular order:
P.3 /6
• The Planning Board has the right and the obligation to "stick its nose" into anything
having to do with planning and development. A Planning Board has the ability to
initiate investigation, This can be both an opportunity and an opening for conflict with
the Town Board.
• Town boards, through Iocal law, can enact training requirements for Planning Board
members.
• The Planning Board can require a developer to install excess facilities as part of the
approval process as long as he /she is compensated for those improvements that are
over and above what is necessary for the subdivision itself.
• Planning Boards should be careful not to grant a bonus to a developer (in the number
of building lots permitted) because of a proposed clustered subdivision. This is best
accomplished by requiring the developer to submit a standard subdivision plat before
submission of a clustered proposal.
There was a good session on Paper Streets. A significant amount of time was spent
on driveways verses private roads. Relevance to EcoVillage. Attached; please find
three pages of information on Road Maintenance Agreements and road standards that
were distributed at the session.
• Another good session on Access Management by Town of Penfield officials. It is
more important now that access to roads be managed so that thoroughfares can carry
the load (vehicle counts) that they were designed for because state funded upgrades
are less likely to be available.
• Municipalities can require clustering, For example, along shore lines, in areas with
steep slopes or in environmentally sensitive areas.
• The training session on Zoning provided a through introduction to both use and area
variances; what they are and what the appellant must show in order to be granted a
variance.
Overall, I was pleased with the information available at the conference. Except for the
SEQR session and one on GIS, I found the gathering to be informative and useful. A
minor complaint would be that the general planning board training was held on Tuesday
instead of on Monday.
I appreciate the opportunity provided by the Town for meeting with other Planning Board
members to discuss their problems and proposed solutions as well as for the knowledge
gained from the various sessions.
MATTHELFEB X27 P95 10 � 1AMES, INC.
•
0
Road Maintenance Agreements and Legal Considerations
P. 4/6
Below is a checklist of itens that should be addressed in the planning of private roads
and arrangements for maintenance, ownership, etc. Municipalities may wish to consult
an attorney to further define these provisions.
Legal and Plat Arrangements for Private Roads General
�. Easement or separate parcel: A private road should be protected by a well-
defined permanent easement or a separate road parcel which should provide for
"sufficient width and suitable grade and shall be suitably located to accommodate
fire protection and to provide access of fire fighting equipment to buildings..." and
must be "suitably graded and paved..." (Town Law Section 277, Subsection Z).
The above "standard" provides for a great deal of discretion on the part of
decision - makers and requires assessment of the density of the development,
character of the terrain, and nearby development. Town Laws Section 277 and
2WA delineate the above.
2. A road maintenance agreement, or similar agreement governing ownership, repair
and maintenance, should be provided for all private roads involving even as few
as two lots. In some towns, shared driveways between residences require road
maintenance agreements. If an existing road is governed by an RMA then it
should be revised to address new lots added to the road.
34 Where there is shared interest in real property, for example, several property
owners own a road parcel in common, the New York State Attorney General's
approval is required.
Road Maintenance Agreements, Specific Features. These provisions could also be
denoted on subdivision plats as needed.
1. Both the RMA and plat should clearly identify the private roadway parcel and
improvements, its layout and dimensions and specify the lots which are associated
with the RMA parcel. The RMA should refer to the plat and vice versa. Where
a separate lot for private road is involved, a homeowners association (HOA) or
other organization or entity specifically responsible for ownership may be
necessary. P.
r r m e O 7J I • CC.' HI'I
MATTHEW D. RUOIKOFF ASSOCIATES, INC.
•
•
r.�it
20 The RMA and plat should specify that each associated lot has an easement and
right -of -way over the roadway parcel for both vehicular and non•vehicular access
for each lot affected.
3. Maintenance of the road should be provided to keep the road accessible under
any traffic or weather conditions, and accessible particularly to any type of
emergency vehicle.
4. The members affected by the road' maintenance agreement should be specifically
delineated (as owners of specifically identified lots, not identified by name) and
an equitable apportionment of the expenses of the agreement should be specified.
Expenses will include maintenance, repair and /or rebuilding of the roadway. Any
lot owners not part of the specific subdivision which may, be affected by the RMA
or gain access to the private road should be specified
5. The agreement should be binding and enforceable by all lot owners. The
agreement should run with the land and any. changes in lot number or
configuration should be. added td revisions of the RMA.
6. The RMA will affect all lots specified until the road is formally accepted by the
town as a public road.
79 The agreement should be validated by a notary public by all parties who. are
affected by the RMA at the time it is executed. Immediately after filing of the
subdivision map or plat, the approved agreement should be recorded m the
county clerk's office as are plats.
8. The subdivision plat, before it is approved in final form, should contain a notation
indicating that the roads shown on the plat are private and that a road
maintenance agreement has been approved that affects all lots which gaha access
from the private road. It may be appropriate to include the requirements of the
RMA as part of the resolution granting final approval of a plat.
90 For inclusion in the RMA and on the plat, a note should be provided that
indicates that the road discussed and the road shown there is a private road and
that the town shall have no liability or responsibility for the maintenance and
repair of the private road until the event when the town board is offered and
formally accepts the road as a public highway.
Matthew D. Ruaikoff Associates, Inc
328 Main Matl
Poughkecpsie, NY 12601
rebmuy, 1991
FFR ?7 '9c; 41 A: ?RAM
MATTHEW D. RUDIKOrr A.^+i0CIAT5Z, INC.
is
•
P. Aelfi
ISSUES REGARDING ESTABLISHING STANDARDS FOR
DRIVEWAYS (WITHIN OR OUTSIDE OF PAPER STREETS) AND PRIVATE ROADS
Presentation at the New York State Association of Towns Conference
February 20, 1995
1. Consideration of Development Thresholds
For what number of lots does a :driveway become inadequate access and a road
should be developed?
2. Standards for Shared Driveways should include:
. Grade
Width
Paving /Drainage Requirements
Location and Number of Driveways within a Paper Street
Rn2d Maintenance Agreements
36 Private Road Staudw -ds shuuld izzclude, but not be limited to:
Grade
Right -of -Way Width
Pavement Width
Vcrlic,al /Horiwntal Carves
Sight Distances
Paving /Drainage Requirements
Design Specifications - Utilities, Curbing, Asphalt, etc.
Bonding and Performance Guarantees
Road Maintenance Agreements
C&de -sac Length � and other General Provisions as may be indicated in
existing standards for Public Roads
Marthew D. Rudikoff Associates, Inc
328 Main Mall
rouolakccYsia, IvY 1260;
Te[ephoc (914) 4735633
7