HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 1997-10-21•
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TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 21, 1997
FILED
TOWN IT ACA
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The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, October 21, 1997, in Town
Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca. New York, at 7:30 p.m.
PRESENT: Chairperson Fred Wilcox, Eva Hoffmann, Candace Cornell, James Ainslie, Robert Kenerson,
Herbert Finch, Gregory Bell, Jonathan Kanter (Director of Planning), John Barney (Attorney for the Town),
Daniel Walker (Director of Engineering), George Frantz (Assistant Town Planner).
ALSO PRESENT: Steve Everett, Jr.. Mickey Herzing, Roy Luft, Nancy Emerson, Shirley Egan, Nancy
Ostman, Joan Lent Noteboom, Jolene Hockersmith. A. Frost Travis, Christine Balestra.
Chairperson Fred Wilcox declared the meeting duly opened at 7:31 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 October 10, 1997, and October 15, 1997, together with the Secretary's Affidavit of Service by
Mail of said Notice upon the various neighbors of each of the properties under discussion, as appropriate, upon
the Clerks of the City of Ithaca,and the Town of Ithaca, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Planning .
upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Public Works, and upon the applicants and /or agents, as
appropriate, on October 15, 1997. (Affidavit of Posting and Publication is hereto attached as Exhibit # 1.)
Chairperson Wilcox 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 present to be heard. Chairperson Wilcox closed this segment of the meeting.
AGENDA ITEM: OTHER BUSINESS:
Director of Planning Jonathan Kanter stated that the Planning Board members were supplied with a
packet on the site visit of Friday October 24, 1997 at Ithaca College's proposed Observatory.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that the next Planning Board meeting will be November 18, 1997.
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Chairperson Wilcox stated that the final draft of the Park, Recreation, and Open Space Plan is not
completed at this time, so it will not be part of the Board's agenda tonight.
AGENDA ITEM: SEOR DETERiVIINATIOti, CAYUGA PROFESSIONAL CENTER SITE PLAN
MODIFICATION, 1301 TRUMANSBURG ROAD:
Chairperson Wilcox duly opened the above- mentioned matter at 7:38 p.m., and read aloud from the
Agenda.
A. Frost Travis, 321 North Tioga Street. stated that this proposal is to change the front west building
facade of the Cayuga Professional Center (formerly the Tompkins County Professional Building). The
proposal is for five new entrances with a break -metal canopy over each entrance, cement pads in front of each
new entrance, and new landscaping beds cut into the parking lot. The landscaping beds will be approximately
eight feet from the edge of the existing concrete �vall. As far as the environmental impacts are concerned, there
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 2 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
iswill be a reduction in the amount of impervious material on the site because they would be adding landscaping
beds instead of paving. They would not be rerouting drainage run off from the roof or building. They will still
drain into the parking lot from the building or into the planting beds. Mr. Travis said the environmental impact
will be negligible for this project. The main purpose of this would be to increase the curb appeal of the
building and up date the appearance for prospective tenants. The building was built in 1960, and with some of
the new medical office construction in the area, they feel it is important and essential to keep the building
economically viable to up date the appearance and attract tenants.
Board Member Eva Hoffmann stated that these plans involve the plantings on the western most side of
the complex, but as she drove around the site the plantings around the second building look as if they have been
planted more recently. She thinks that looks quite nice. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she noticed a row of pine
trees along the back of the building that look ragged. and are located underneath power lines. Fairly soon those
pine trees will be at the level of the power lines, and they would need to be trimmed back. Ms. Hoffmann
asked if there are any plans to replace those evergreens.
Mr. Travis stated that at this point there are not any plans to replace those evergreens. There are a
couple issues regarding those trees. Those trees were just trimmed this past summer. There is one tree that is
close to the building that needs to be addressed acutely, and over the next spring they would be redoing and
reconditioning a lot of the existing landscaping. There is a certified arborist on staff at his office (Ithaca
Rentals), and has done a complete inventory of all the landscaping and made recommendations for plantings,
renovations, and addressed the trees. The Planning Board was supplied with a drawing of the inventory of
plants for this area.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that the enlarged version of the complex plan showing the plant list
does not cover the whole complex. The plant list only covers the front of the building that is being proposed.
Mr. Travis stated that he thought it was beyond the scope of this meeting to include the entire plant list,
but he could provide that list if necessary.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that it looks as if the problem may come in a few years with the
evergreens growing closer to the overhead utility lines.
Mr. Travis stated that the plan is to keep the evergreens, and they will be trimmed as necessary. He
would be talking to NYSEG to see what needs to be done. There is a building supervisor, who has been with
the building prior to Ithaca Rentals ownership, and he also pointed those evergreens out. Those issues will be
addressed, but they are not part of this plan.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that she noticed some small evergreens planted in the northwestern
corner of the property. She tries to discourage planting evergreens near the road because when the trees grove
up they could block a driver's view. Ms. Hoffmann stated that she visited the site, and noticed that the hospital
has evergreens that have grown quite large and have effectively blocked the view entirely over the lake onto
east hill. Just past those trees is the property owned by Paleontological Research Institution. There are no trees
along the road in the upper part, but further down by the buildings. The views are gorgeous from there. Ms.
Hoffmann stated that to her that is a perfect example of what could happen when evergreens are planted along
the road.
• Mr. Travis stated that those evergreens predate Ithaca Rentals' ownership to the property. Ithaca
Rentals purchased the property in 1996, and those evergreens were already planted there.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 3 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Board Member Hoffmann stated that she would like to see plantings along the road that do not grow
very tall.
Mr. Travis stated that there are no plans for plantings along the road. He could see the trees presenting
a safety problem if they grow very full.
Chairperson Wilcox asked Mr. Travis if the entrance to the proposed facility would not change as part
of the renovations.
Mr. Travis stated that was correct.
Chairperson Wilcox asked Mr. Travis if the proposed sign would be the same size as the existing sign.
Mr. Travis stated that was correct. Essentially the sarne materials would be used for the new sign as the
existing signs, such as an aluminum sign with reflective lettering on a dark background.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that in % /1r. Travis' memorandum to the Planning Board dated
September 21, 1997, he mentions that the granite curb will rise six inches above the level of the asphalt. Ms.
Hoffmann stated that on the enlarged version of the plant list, there is a notation that a11- planting areas are
raised 18 inches above the asphalt and parking elevations.
Mr. Travis stated that was correct. It will be a slight berm in the planting beds. There will be a six inch
curb then an additional foot spread out over eight feet that would be favored towards the curb side, and tapered
more gently towards the back side to accommodate drainage and so forth.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the Planning Board was supplied with comments from the Conservation
Board dealing with storm water run off, which have been addressed by both the Town Engineer and Mr. Travis.
The Conservation Board also commented that they want to see native plant species used, but the Town Planner
mentioned that the species being proposed will be consistent with the present plantings.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that the Planning Board was supplied with information on the
potentially significant historic structures on the opposite side of Trumansburg Road, which this proposal should
not have any significant impact on. This proposal was referred to Historic Ithaca, and the Town has not heard
from them.
MOTION made by Herbert Finch, seconded by Gregory Bell:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board
significance in accordance with the New York
referenced action as proposed and, therefore, n
Environmental Impact Statement will be required.
hereby makes
State Environ
either a Long
a negative determination of environmental
mental Quality Review Act for the above
Environmental Assessment Form, nor an
There being no further discussion, Chairperson Wilcox called for a vote.
AYES - Wilcox, Hoffmann, Cornell, Finch. Ainslie, Kenerson, Bell.
NAYS -None.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 4
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimouslv.
(NOTE: The adopted resolution is hereto attached as Exhibit 42.)
Chairperson Wilcox duly closed the SEQR Determination for
Modifications at 7:51 p.m.
OCTOBER 21, 1997
Cayuga Medical Center - Site
PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF PRELIMINARY AND FINAL SITE PLAN
APPROVAL FOR THE PROPOSED MODIFICATION OF THE CAYUGA PROFESSIONAL
CENTER (FORMERLY TOMPKINS COUNTY PROFESSIONAL BUILDING), TO INCLUDE NEW
ENTRY PAVILIONS AT THE EXISTING BUILDING ENTRANCES FACING TRUMANSBURG
ROAD, THE ADDITION OF NEW LANDSCAPING BEDS, PLANTINGS AND GRANITE CURBING
ALONG THE EXISTING PARKING LOT, THE ADDITION OF LIGHTING IN THE PLANTING
BEDS, AND REPLACEMENT OF THE EXISTL`G SIGN ALONG ROUTE 96 FOR THE PURPOSE
OF RENAMING THE COMPLEX, LOCATED AT 1301 TRUMANSBURG ROAD (ROUTE 96), TAX
PARCEL NO. 24 -34, BUSINESS DISTRICT ``A", PROFESSIONAL BUILDING ASSOCIATES,
APPLICANT; A. FROST TRAVIS, AGENT:
Chairperson Wilcox declared the above -noted matter duly opened at 7:52 p.m., and read aloud from the
Notice of Public Hearings as posted and published and as noted above.
Board Member
from Tompkins County
0
very confusing because
red because the drawinE
with red in quotes.
Gregory Bell stated that he is glad that Ithaca Rentals will be renaming the building
Professional Building to Cayuga Professional Center. He always found the old name
he thought it was a county building. Mr. Bell asked Mr. Travis if the roofs would be
;s show them to be red, and another drawing states the roof will match the existing roof
Mr. Travis stated that is referring to the red brick metal on the back building above Dr. Husseini office.
There is a red roof there, but it is a different design than what is being proposed. The proposed roof will be the
same color as the existing roof.
Board Member Candace Cornell asked Mr. Travis if they would be changing the facade over the
entrance ways.
Mr. Travis responded, yes.
Board Member Cornell asked Mr. Travis if the landscaping beds being added in front of the parking
spaces would reduce the parking lot.
Mr. Travis responded, yes. They would be reducing the overall width of the parking lot by eight feet.
Board Member Cornell asked Mr. Travis if he means the width between the parking of cars would be
reduced.
Mr. Travis responded, yes. From east to .vest the parking lot would be reduced eight feet.
.Director of Planning Kanter stated that in essence it would bring the two isles of parking closing
together, but the center isle between the bays of parking is very wide now, so there is plenty of room to do that.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 5 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Board Member Cornell stated that she visits these buildings frequently, and it has always bothered her
the way the building is laid out. It is not accessible to her, especially for handicapped people by the
orthopedics. Ms. Cornell asked Mr. Travis if the isles are reduced, would it still be within standard distances.
At the present time it is very hard to turn around there.
Mr. Travis stated that they would not be touching the back parking lot at this point. They are just
proposing the front row.
Board Member Cornell stated that this proposal sounds like they are trying to make the front like the
back by narrowing the turn around space, and this could cause a problem for some people. Ms. Cornell asked
Mr. Travis if the signs on the building would be changed to show where the doctor's offices are.
Mr. Travis stated that is not part of this plan. but something needs to happen. Eventually an
intermediate sign would be added for a directory of the doctors. Even though they would be narrowing the
overall width of the parking lot, he thinks of access for less mobile people should improve because marked
handicapped spaces will be defined by the entrances. There would be reserved parking spaces for handicapped
vehicles specifically, so it would make it a shorter walk for them to enter the building. The foot traffic is
funneled between the planting beds. As far as any kind of traffic jam in the future, he would like to propose a
caution light at the entrance because it is a potentially dangerous intersection with Hayts Road there. Mr.
Travis stated that he has spoken with Mr. Kanter about this, and one thing that was mentioned was a possible
speed limit reduction in that area. What happens is that people take Harris Dates Drive Extension from the
hospital, and despite the fact that there are speed bumps they pass through there very quickly.
Board Member Cornell stated that there is not a very good flow of traffic there, so signage and a
directory would really help. Board Member Cornell asked if this could be part of this project.
Mr. Travis stated that could be part of another project. At this point they would like to start this project
before the weather turns sour. The sign would not be weather dependent because the sign could be discussed at
another meeting through out the winter.
Board Member James Ainslie stated that there are two handicapped parking spaces by the post box.
Mr. Ainslie asked how many more handicapped parking spaces would be added through this project.
Mr. Travis stated that that there would be at least one handicapped parking space in front of each
entrance.
Board Member Ainslie asked if the two handicapped parking spaces by the post box would remain.
Mr. Travis responded, ves, and at least four more spaces would be added.
Board Member Cornell stated that Finger Lakes Prosthetics should have more handicapped spaces.
Mr. Travis stated that is true, but unfortunately they would be moving at the end of this year to the
Cornell Business & Technology Park (Thornwood Complex). It is a beautiful facility, but would be a longer
walk to the entrance.
isChairperson Wilcox stated that this is a public hearing. and asked if anyone from the public wished to
be heard.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 6 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Roy Luft, 1317 Trumansburg Road, stated that he has concerns about the lighting in the planting beds.
The building is hardly used after dark, and the lighting for the planting beds for the entire night would cause
extra light pollution. Mr. Luft stated that he is concerned about the rising medical costs to meet the increased
rents to cover the cost of lighting flowers, which seems very unnecessary.
Chairperson Wilcox asked if there is was anyone else from the public who would like to address the
Board. No one spoke. Chairperson Wilcox closed the public hearing, and brought the matter back to the
Board for further discussion.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the lighting was addressed in the materials presented to the Planning
Board. The lighting is in a downward position facing the building. The light would not be shining into the sky
creating visual pollution.
Mr. Travis stated that the lights will help enhance the appearance of the building, and it is part of Ithaca
Rentals' approach of improving the appeal of the building. Calling attention to new planting beds will improve
and not pollute the view along Route 96. The lights in the entrance way are positioned to shine downward to
light the entrance ways. The planting bed lights are aimed against the building not the sky. There is a four foot
overhang, and a lot of the light shining upward would be captured by the over hang and reflected back to the
building.
Board Member Bell asked what hours would these lights be used.
Mr. Travis stated that the lights would be on light sensors to turn on automatically at dusk. The
building already has lighting against the building at the end by the Surgical Associates. He is not sure of the
exact wattage, but those lights light up the entire front of the building.
Board Member Cornell asked if the planting bed lights would be on after midnight, or could the lights
be timed to turn off at a certain time.
Mr. Travis stated that it is possible to have timers on the lights. The existing lighting is not on a light
sensor for the lights to come on at dark and shut off in the morning. If the Planning Board wants the planting
bed lights to be only on from dark to midnight that seems reasonable, but that would add to Ithaca Rentals
expense. It is standard practice to light commercial buildings from dark till morning.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that whether the lighting is on all night or not depends very much on
how intensive it is. If it is very subtle and low wattage lighting it is not as objectionable as very bright lights.
Mr. Travis stated that the information he provided the Planning Board mentions the low voltage
landscape lighting, and for this application it may be too dim. One option is to use a 50 watt metal halide bulb
which would be a white light, not like mercury or sodium lights. They would cut the number of fixtures in half
if they were approved to use the higher voltage lighting. Again, the fixtures would be aimed at the building and
not into the sky. The wattage will not change, but the voltage would. Higher voltage light bulbs tend to last
longer, and that would reduce maintenance.
Board Member Bell stated that it seems that the curb appeal of the building would not be effected by
•lights after midnight. Anybody driving along Route 96 at that hour is not too likely to be in the real estate
market. Chances are those people traveling along Route 96 work night shifts and live in that area. No one
•
1]
U
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 7
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16. 1997
would be looking for doctor offices to rent at midnight
they would save energy.
OCTOBER 21, 1997
If the lights came on at dark and off at a certain hour
Mr. Travis stated that is an excellent point, and lie needs to look into timers for that.
Board Member Bell stated that the Planning Board's preference would be to have the landscaping bed
lights off at midnight.
Mr. Travis stated that there are security lights that stay on 24 hours. It would be nice to be consistent,
but right now the building does not present a uniform appearance at night. Some times there are doctors that
stay until 2:00 a.m..
Director of Planning Kanter asked if the entrance lights would be on all the time.
Mr. Travis responded, yes.
Board Member Hoffmann asked if the sign by the entrance would be lighted.
Mr. Travis responded, no. The existing sign has reflective lettering, and that is visible enough. The
existing sign is visible before seeing the building.
MOTION made by Gregory Bell, seconded by James Ainslie:
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 for the purposed
modification of the Cayuga Professional Center (Formerly Tompkins County Professional Building), to
include new entry pavilions at the existing building entrances facing Trumansburg Road, the addition
of new landscaping beds, plantings and granite curbing along the existing parking lot, the addition of
lighting in the planting beds, and replacement of the existing sign along Route 96 for the purpose of
renaming the complex, as shown in the application package entitled Cayuga Professional Center, 1301
Trumansburg Road, Ithaca, NY, dated September 21. 1997, subject to the following condition:
a. Submission of a mylar original or copy and two paper copies of the final site plan and
landscaping plan, revised to include appropriate titles and dates, prior to the issuance of any
building permit.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that he is concerned that the final lighting specifications have not been
determined. Chairperson Wilcox stated that lie would like to add .a condition stating 'Finalized lighting
specifications be submitted and approved by the Town Engineer or Town Planner prior to issuance of any
building permit.''
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 8
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
9 Director of Planning Kanter stated that the plans show the basic locations of the lighting. Mr. Kanter
asked Mr. Travis if there would be any changes to the basic plan for the lighting.
Mr. Travis responded, no. The planting bed lights would be reduced, but would be in the same
location. The number of fixtures would be reduced.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that the plan should be revised to show the final location of the
lighting for the landscape beds as a condition of approval.
Mr. Travis asked if that would be done at the staff level.
Chairperson Wilcox responded, yes, and submitting final lighting specifications including those
elements being used (wattage, voltage, etc.).
Board Member Bell stated that the Planning Board is requiring Mr. Travis to submit copies of the site
plan. Mr. Bell asked if the site plan being submitted would be using the 1975 Boundary & Topographic Map
for the base of the site or just for the front of the building.
Mr. Travis stated that would be the base for the site plan. That plan was revised November 1996. Mr.
Travis stated that the parking spaces have been drawn on the mylar copies. He would use that as a basis for the
site plan.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that was why condition "a" was added to the resolution to help clear
10 up any labeling and dates on the site plan.
Board Member Bell stated that on the rear building on the site plan there are notations where it states
existing building and building addition. Mr. Bell asked if those things all exist now.
Mr. Travis responded, yes, and that needs to be revised on the drawing.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the resolution now has a condition "b ", which states "finalized
specifications including location of lighting fixtures to be submitted and approved by the Director of Planning."
A condition "c" was added, which states "That the site plan entitled Boundary & Topographic Map" be
modified to show the current conditions of the site as thev exist now."
Director of Planning Kanter stated that he would like to add another condition in reference to the
handicapped parking spaces, that it would be appropriate to show the actual number and location of those on
the revised plan.
The Planning Board agreed with Mr. Kanter's suggestion.
There being no further discussion, Chairperson Wilcox called for a vote.
AYES - Wilcox. Hoffmann, Cornell, Finch, Ainslie, Kenerson, Bell.
NAYS - None.
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously.
(NOTE: The adopted resolution is hereto attached as Exhibit 93.)
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 9 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Chairperson Wilcox duly closed the Cayuga Professional Center Site Modifications at 8:22 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF FINAL SUBDIVISION APPROVAL FOR THE
PROPOSED SUBDIVISION OF TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO. 35-1 -7.2 +/- 63.22 ACRES IN
SIZE AND LOCATED APPROXIMATELY 1,000 FEET EAST OF ELMIRA ROAD/1NYS ROUTES
34/96/13, AND EXTENDING SOUTHERLY FROM LICK BROOK TO THE TOWN OF NEWFIELD,
INTO TWO LOTS, +/- 26.81 ACRES AND +/- 36.41 ACRES IN SIZE RESPECTIVELY, WITH THE +/-
26.81 ACRE PARCEL TO_BE_CONVEYED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY AS A NATURAL AREA LI-
LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT AND RESIDENCE DISTRICT R -30, JOHN B. BABCOCK
OWNER; NANCY OSTMAN, APPLICANT:
Chairperson Wilcox declared the above -noted matter duly opened at 8:23 p.m., and read aloud from the
Notice of Public Hearings as posted and published and as noted above.
Nancy Ostman, Cornell Plantations. stated that the proposal is to subdivide a piece of land that John
Babcock owns. Mr. Babcock's entire parcel is in the Town of Ithaca and the Town of Newfield. Within the
Town of Ithaca, there are two pieces of which one piece would be donated to Cornell University and Mr.
Babcock would retain the other piece of land. The plan is to provide an access along a piece of land owned by
Tom Overbaugh's north boundary down along the railroad tracks, across the railroad crossing back along John
Babcock's land onto the subdivided property This land would be used for natural area. The access would be
pedestrian access only. The proposal would include the language which would be incorporated into the deed to
say that there would be no building on this propert. It is Cornell Is intentions to use this site exclusively for
educational purposes.
isBoard Member Cornell asked if there is a simpler way for pedestrians to access the property.
Ms. Ostman stated that the original plan did have Cornell following the Finger Lakes Trail, and as
Attorney Barney pointed out at the last meeting. that would not be a legal access because that railroad crossing
is not a legal crossing. To provide a legal access Cornell will be taking a convoluted route.
Chairperson Wilcox asked what would be the practical access to the parcel.
Ms. Ostman stated that the practical access would likely be that people would be following the Finger
Lakes Trail.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the Planning Board did ask for and require legal access to be provide in
some way.
Shirley Egan, Cornell University; stated that Cornell is doing this somewhat for the expediency that
donors like to give gifts before the end of the tax year. Cornell will be requesting a different access way across
the railroad, but it may take approximately 18 months to grant it. At that point. Cornell would be able to use
that portion of the Overbaugh easement across his land to a crossing in that vicinity instead.
Chairperson Wilcox opened the public hearing. and asked if anyone from the public wished to be heard.
No one spoke. Chairperson Wilcox closed the public hearing, and brought the matter back to the Board for
further discussions.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the Planning Board was supplied with a letter from Tom Overbaugh
reaffirming that he would Grant the necessary right -of -way across his property.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 10 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Board Member Hoffmann stated that it should be clear for the record that the Planning Board is not
encouraging or approving the everyday and practical access along the Finger Lakes Trail. The Planning Board
is approving the legal access right -of -way that has been pointed out.
Attorney for the Town John Barney asked Ms. Egan if there anything in the title for a right to cross the
railroad.
Ms. Egan responded, yes.
Attorney Barney asked if that would be shown on the deed from Babcock to Cornell.
Ms. Egan responded, yes.
Board Member Bell asked if the parcel that will be Cornell's would be managed in conjunction with the
Land Trust parcel in some way, or are these separate universes of naturalism.
Ms. Ostman stated that they are separate universes of naturalism, although she expects that the
management will be very similar. There is no current plan to manage them together, and she thinks that would
be difficult to achieve.
Board Member Bell asked if there is any potential future merger of those two parcels.
0 Ms. Ostman stated that she does not anticipate that either.
Attorney Barney asked why would it be difficult to achieve.
Ms. Ostman stated that it would be assumed that Cornell would agree with the Finger Lakes Land Trust
on the exact ways to manage the properties. which might be slightly different. There might be differences of
opinions on what appropriate levels of use are. There might be different opinions on the priority of research
versus recreation versus education. To assume that they could forever agree on that would be mistaken. She
thinks Cornell's general intention will always be very similar, but on specifics it would not be appropriate. For
example, if a Cornell class wanted to use the Lick Brook natural area for a research project they would need to
ask the Land Trust. That just creates a level of complication that seems unnecessary.
Board Member Cornell asked if Cornell allows hunting on natural areas.
Ms. Ostman stated that Cornell is experimenting with hunting at McLean for the first time this year.
Cornell has never allowed hunting in the past.
Board Member Cornell asked if Cornell would allow hunting on this property.
Ms. Ostman stated that it is not Cornell's intention immediately to allow hunting on this property.
Board Member Cornell stated that the Finger Lakes Land Trust allows hunting.
Board Member Ainslie asked how many times does the train pass along those railroad tracks per week.
Assistant Town Planner George Frantz stated that the train passes through there 6 to 8 times a week.
•
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES I I
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Board Member Ainslie asked if there is any liability for anyone.
OCTOBER 21, 1997
Attorney Barney stated that there would be liability to several people (Mr. Babcock, Turbacks, Cornell
University, Conrail, etc.). Everyone that lives within 100 miles would be sued, but the Town would not be sued
because the Town does not have anv interest in it.
Board Member Bell asked what does Cornell plan to do with this land other than natural area.
Ms. Ostman stated that this land would be used for educational classes and research projects.
MOTION made by Candace Cornell, seconded by Herbert Finch:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Final Subdivision
Approval, as shown on the 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 Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision of
Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 35- 1 -7.2, +/- 63.22 acres in size and located approximately 1,000 feet
east of Elmira Road/NYS Routes 13/34/96 and extending southerly from Lick Brook to the Town of
Newfield, into two lots, +/- 26.81 acres and +/- 36.41 acres in size respectively, with the +/- 26.81 area
parcel to be conveyed to Cornell University as a Natural Area, as shown on the plat entitled "Survey
Map Showing Portion of Lands of John B. Babcock, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York"
prepared by Allen T. Fulkerson, L.S., dated February 12, 1997, and amended October 10, 1997, other
application materials, subject to the following conditions, to be met prior to the signing of said plat by
the Chairman of the Planning Board:
a. Receipt by Cornell University of an easement 40 feet in width from Thomas OverbauQh along
the northerly line of his property from Routes 13 & 34 easterly to the former Lehigh Valley
Railroad, now Conrail, railroad right -of -way, thence south along the west side of said right -of-
way +/- 730 feet to the existing railroad crossing, as shown on the map entitled " Preliminary
Subdivision Map Showing a Portion of Lands of John Butler Babcock' dated September 1980,
amended June 4, 1993, and further amended October 10, 1997 to show said easement;
b. Receipt by Cornell University of an easement 40 feet in width from John Babcock extending
southward along the east side of the former Lehigh Valley Railroad, now Conrail, railroad
right -of -way, +/- 1,062 feet to the existing railroad crossing, as shown on the map entitled
"Survey Map Showing Portion of Lands of John B. Babcock, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins
County, NY ", dated February 12, 1997, and amended October 10, 1997 to show said easement;
C. Review and approval by the Town Attorney of any easements or right of ways that are required
as part of this subdivision;
d. Review and approval by the Town Attorney of the restrictive covenants intended to ensure that
the use of the property shall be limited to passive educational and recreational uses;
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 12 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
e. That no further subdivision shall be permitted nor shall any building permit be issued for any
construction until full legal and physical access for emergency vehicles is available, and such
limitations are to be noted on the final plat, and
f Submission for signing by the Chairman of the Planning Board of an original or mylar copy of
the approved plat and four dark -line prints.
Attorney Barney stated that a new condition "c" should read "Receipt by Cornell University of an
easement across the Lehigh Vallev Railroad parcel linking the easements referred to in subparagraphs "a" and
"b" above." The current conditions "c" through "f' should be relettered to reflect the new condition.
There being no further discussion, Chairperson Wilcox called for a vote.
AYES - Wilcox, Hoffmann, Cornell, Finch, Ainslie, Kenerson, Bell.
NAYS - None.
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously.
(NOTE: The adopted resolution is hereto attached as Exhibit #4.)
Chairperson Wilcox duly closed the Final Subdivision Approval for Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 35-
1 -7.2 at 8:45 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM: CONSIDERATION OF A SKETCH PLAN FOR THE PROPOSED
RECONSTRUCTION OF BIG AL'S HILLTOP QUIKSTOP, TO INCLUDE DEMOLITION OF THE
EXISTING FUEL PUMP ISLAND AND CONVENIENCE STORE AND CONSTRUCTION OF NEW
FUEL PUMP ISLANDS WITH CANOPY AND A +/- 3 330 SQUARE FOOT CONVENIENCE STORE
(WITH A POSSIBLE FUTURE PHASE 2 ADDITION OF +/- 1,125 SQUARE FEET), NEW CURBING
AND ENTRANCES, NEW PARKING AREAS, AND REPLACEMENT OF THE EXISTING POST
SIGN, LOCATED AT 1103 DANBY ROAD (ROUTE 96B), TAX PARCEL NO'S 43 -2 -1 AND 43 2-24
TOTALING +/- 1.54 ACRES, ALSO PROPOSED IS THE RESUBDIVISION OF THE TWO
EXISTING PARCELS INTO TWO NEW LOTS, APPROXIMATELY 49,075 +/- SQUARE FEET AND
17,820 +/- SQUARE FEET RESPECTIVELY BUSINESS DISTRICT "C" 3- CORNERS, INC ,
OWNER/APPLICANT: MICKEY HERZING AGENT:
Chairperson Wilcox declared the above - mentioned matter duly opened at 8:46 p.m., and read aloud
from the Agenda.
Mickey Herzing, 1 103 Danby Road; stated that he is looking for feedback from the Planning Board to
make his proposal as easy as possible to get through all the Boards he needs to go through. The engineers at
T.G. Miller's and himself tried to put together a proposal with as few special things as possible. One of them
being a variance on the Route 96B side, which is pointed out in the letter from Mr. Frantz as being the same as
Rogan's approval was years ago for a minimum setback from the pavement edge. Mr. Herzing stated that he
would be in business the whole time during construction of the actual building. The only thing that would be
out of business for a short period of time is the gas. New lines need to be installed for the tanks to DEC code.
The gasoline would be out, and construction would be taking place while business is being done on a day to day
basis. Equipment could be moved in from the old store to the new store during the night time, and the store
part could be opened for the day. It would take approximately one to two weeks for the installation of the gas
pumps and lines. There is a small garage located on the property that would potentially be demolished to meet
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 13 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
the setback if he needed to. That is not an issue because it is not much of garage. The aesthetic side of this,
the store is the first thing that people see coming into the Town of Ithaca. Mr. Herzing stated that he is not
proud of it. It does a lot of business. He built a store in McLean last year, and would like this store to be like
that. Mr. Herzing stated that there was a traffic light installed near the intersection by his store not too long
ago, and his store is part of the problem. His business has grown over the last eight years. He does not have
current curb cuts, and the proposal is proposing curb cuts. Mr. Herzing supplied the Planning Board with a
letter from Gordon Reimels (Resident Manager for Cortland /Tompkins County) that states he is okay with the
curb cuts if one of the entry ways is reduced from 70 feet to 40 or 50 feet.
Board Member Bell asked Mr. Herzing what are the curb cuts he has now.
Mr. Herzing stated that he does not have any curb cuts at this time.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz pointed out on an enlarged map entitled "Big Al's Hilltop Quikstop
Comparison of Existing and Proposed" prepared by the Town of Ithaca Planning Staff on October 21, 1997.
Mr. Frantz pointed out the existing gas pumps and existing store compared to where the new pumps and the
new store would be located. Mr. Frantz stated that the proposal is to demolish the existing store, the existing
gas canopy, the existing pump area, and one of the existing houses. The new store would be set back to the
south of the one home to be demolished. The new canopies would be located just beyond the rear southeast
corner of the existing store.
Board Member Finch asked if this store would be located just off of East King Road.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that the store would be located just off of East King Road
Extension. Mr. Herzing would like to subdivide the house at 105 East King Road Extension into a separate lot.
As a result the lot line would be within a few feet of the existing garage. The garage would be within the
required side yard setback of the new lot. The garage would either need to be moved or require a variance.
Board Member Cornell asked if the current gas station received a variance.
Mr. Herzing stated that his business is a non - conforming business.
Chairperson Wilcox asked how long has the structure been located at this site.
Mr. Herzing stated that the structure was built in the 1940's.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that the gas pumps predate the Zoning Ordinance. This
establishment is a legal pre - existing non - conforming use.
Mr. Herzing stated that approximately four years ago he received a variance to upgrade the gas pumps
to DEC 1998 Code. He put the pumps and tanks in the same location, and removed the other tanks.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that the record in the Zoning file shows special approvals for a
non - conforming use including a gasoline station dated late 1970's or early 1980's.
Board Member Cornell asked why didn't the Town look at this and change the Zoning map to reflect
• the non - conforming use.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 14
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16. 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
• Director of Planning Kanter stated that the Town has not done that revision of the Zoning Map, but the
Codes and Ordinances Committee will be doing that sometime.
Board Member Cornell asked if eventually Mr. Herzing's business would be conforming.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that depends on the new Zoning regulations
Attorney Barney stated that it is not rezoned at this point was the size of the lot. The feeling would be
that a gas station would need a little more space. If the property is made to a conforming use, then pretty much
anything could happen on that site. If it is a non- conforming use it requires both an application for the Planning
Board for the site plan, and a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Mr. Herzing stated that the original lot 1.vas just a little corner until he purchased more land around it.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that to establish a new business district, the Town requires a
minimum of two acres. In that respect, he has just under two acres.
Board Member Hoffmann asked if that house is a residence.
Mr. Herzing responded, yes, and it is also commercially zoned. With today's technologies the tanks
and pumps problems have been taken care of. If there is a leak he would know about it instantly. There is an
alarm that goes off on a computer (speaking of the McLean store only). With this type of upgrade he would put
a computerized alarm system in. The DEC 1998 Code requires a monitoring system for all tanks.
Board Member Ainslie asked Mr. Herzing if he would use Citgo gas like his McLean store.
Mr. Herzing stated that he would not be using Citgo because Rogan's and Benjamin's stores on the
same road use Citgo gas. He would probably go with Sunoco.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that the Board was talking about the safety of having a residence so
close to a gas station, and the fueling pumps would even be closer with the change, than they are now. It is not
just the problems Mr. Herzing was referring to. but for instance, the East Hill Plaza gas station has trucks
unloading gasoline, and there is often a strong odor in the air.
Mr. Herzing stated that a lot of that has changed also by a Stage II Vapor Recovery system, which went
into effect last June. Basically there is a special hook up on his tanks that the tanker needs to hook into. There
are still vents off the building, but the tanker needs to hook into this so it recaptures any possible vapors that
would either go back into the tank or into the tanker. Up until a year ago it happened all the time. and to a
degree it still does happen, but the Stage II Vapor Recovery was to take care of that.
Director of Planning Kanter asked if that system is part of the delivery truck.
Mr. Herzing stated that it is part of both. He needs to have a certain hook up on his tanks, and the
truck needs to have a certain hook up also.
Attorney Barney asked where are the existing fuel tanks on the property.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
15
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
• Mr. Herzing stated that the tanks are located to the south of the property. Based on the sketch plan
supplied to the Board, it allows the tanker to pull in without having to use any excess hoses. They can do a
normal drop.
Attornev Barnev asked if the tanks would be fueled in the same location.
Mr. Herzing stated that the tanks are not moving.
Attorney Barnev stated that he is not sure why'vIs. Hoffmann has concerns with the fumes of the gas
with all the new technologies.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that there are also the fumes from the gas pumps.
Mr. Herzing stated that would depend on where he would locate the vent pipes.
Attorney Barney asked if there is any recoven- system at the gas pumps for fumes.
Mr. Herzing responded, no, not in New York State.
Director of Planning Kanter asked if the Department of Transportation wants to shorten the curb cuts,
would a tanker still be able to fit in and out okay.
0 Mr. Herzing responded, yes.
Board Member Finch asked Mr. Herzing if he would still be providing full service at the gas pumps
with the new facility.
Mr. Herzing stated that he probably will not. It is a very costly thing, and he would be looking into this
further with other people involved. He was looking at it from a financial standpoint, and it would cost him
approximately $2,000 a month to have a self serve gas person.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that he would like to discuss the lighting and landscaping. He would like
Mr. Herzing to be very sensitive to the residents in the area.
Mr. Herzing stated that he owns the grav house that the Board is concerned about. He would like to
subdivide that property off because he and his wife would rather be in the convenience store business than the
real estate business. He would like to make it available to sell at some point. Anybody who would be
purchasing the house later on would obviously be aware of those concerns.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that it is not just that house, it is the entire neighborhood.
Board Member Cornell stated that when Mr. Herzing decides to subdivide that property and sell the
house, that there should be heavy screening at the boundary.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that those issues xvould be covered under screening and plantings.
• Board Member Bell stated that the issue of the house would be the real concern. The curb cuts and
traffic stuff are great, and the improvement of the building is good planning, except for that house. It seems to
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 16
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16. 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
•him that it would make it an unrentable or unsellable house. There is fume vapor recovery and fancy high tech
stuff happening, but still there is a canopy with a lot of lights all night. There are cars sitting there with their
exhausts, but no recovery for that. Despite the technolosies there are still things that happen with cars and gas
stations, and it is not a great place for any one to live.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that is Mr. Herzing's problem.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that the house is also zoned Business "C" on the map, so the house
could probably be used for a business instead of a residence.
Mr. Herzing stated that he has received some solicitations as to putting a business in that house.
Board Member Bell stated that it seems to him that it would make a better project to tear down the
house along with the other house. It would make it more of a functional business with more land to work with.
Board Member Cornell asked what the total acreage is.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that there is 1.49 acres of land.
Board Member Cornell asked what does the Town's Zoning Ordinance allow.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that it takes approximately two acres to set up a new business.
Attorney Barney stated that the new Zoning Ordinance will require a specific amount, but the current
Zoning Ordinance does not require a specific amount.
Board Member Cornell asked how big would the parcel be after the house is subdivided off.
Mr. Herzing stated that it would be 49,075 square feet.
Board Member Cornell stated that she finds the house really troublesome with it being so close.
Mr. Herzing asked what happens if he just wanted to present the project to the Planning Board as it
exists, and not subdivide the house off.
Board Member Bell stated that it would still be the same problem because the house is very close to the
gas station.
Mr. Herzing stated that he would like to save the house because it is a decent house and structurally
sound. The other house in the back of the parcel needs to be demolished because it is an old cinder block
building.
Board Member Bell stated that it seems that the normal concept of continuous non - conforming uses is
that they can occur as long as the function and the structures continue. What the Board is seeing here is a loop
hole. This is not a continuous non - conforming use, this is a new project.
• Mr. Herzing stated that the use is not chanQino.
Board Member Bell stated that the use is technically not changing, but the entire structure is changing.
CL J
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•
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
17
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that this would be a significant expansion of an existing non-
conforming use.
Director of Planning Kanter stated that this would require approval from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Board Member Bell stated that it seems that when doing a level of change that the non - conforming use
is no longer the controlling legal authority. The controlling legal authority should be a new business.
Attorney Barney stated that it is a non - conforming use no matter how it is sliced. The gas station is not
a permitted use in this zone.
Board Member Bell stated that the station should still meet whatever standards would exist for that.
Attorney Barney stated that it does now. There are no standards for gas stations other than they be in a
D zone. That is true of all commercials because the site plan requirement needs to meet the general site plan
criteria. There is no minimum size, depth, width, or height.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that there is a question about the setback in this project. Ms.
Hoffmann asked if that is with the 30 foot setback shown on the drawing.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that a 30 foot side yard setback (between the store, fuel islands,
and the canopy) would be the side yard setback required by the Zoning Ordinance. Some of the driveways are
within the setback that are allowed.
Board Member Hoffmann asked what would happen if the Planning Board requires the new setback of
50 feet in this case.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that the new setback for 50 feet applies to the front yard. There is
also a requirement for a 50 feet buffer from the R -15 zone.
Board Member Hoffmann asked how many variances are needed for the project.
Mr. Herzing stated that by the current plan there would only need to be one variance for the corner of
the canopy to the road frontage on Danby Road.
Board Member Hoffmann asked if that is where the 50 feet is required.
Mr. Herzing stated that was correct.
Board Member Hoffmann asked what would happen if the variance was not granted.
Mr. Herzing stated that the current plan would not work. He had 12 different plans done to take out as
many exceptions or variances as needed. It was narrowed down to one variance. This is not the ideal plan for
selling gasoline compared to the traditional setup today. If codes were not an issue he would like to have a
drive through island where people pull right up to the store for gas, and they would be visible from inside the
store.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 18 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16. 1997
• Board Member Hoffmann stated that one needs to assume that there is a reason why there was an
increase from 30 feet to 50 feet in the setback. Just because the other gas stations mentioned earlier had a
similar 30 feet setback is no reason to allow this construction without the proper setback.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that he was not involved with anv of the discussions when the
Town increased the setback from 30 feet to 50 feet. He does not know why that happened, that was with the
former Town Planner. Mr. Frantz stated that he was trying to point out the fact that there are two existing
gasoline stations, which were approved with the 30 foot setback. He just noted that for the Board's benefit to
have an idea of what the facility would look like with a 30 foot setback. Mr. Frantz stated that the 50 foot
setback does not include the canopy, the fuel pump islands. or the proposed 3,330 square foot store. The 50
foot setback is for the four possible parking spaces that would be within the required 50 foot setback. Mr.
Frantz pointed out on the enlarged map where the possible four parking spaces would be located. Mr. Frantz
stated that in the northwest corner of the proposed parking lot there are approximately two to three parking
spaces that would be in the required 50 foot front yard setback. In the Zoning Ordinance there is no parking
allowed within the front yard setback. The southwest corner of the parking lot there is the same thing where
there is one or two parking spaces that would be entirely or partially within the 50 foot wide front yard setback.
The canopy, the fuel pump islands, and the proposed building all meet the setback requirements of the Zoning
Ordinance.
Board Member Hoffmann asked if the canopy would not need to be 50 feet from the setback.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that the canopy needs to be 50 feet back, and the current site plan
shows it that way.
Board Member Bell asked if there is rear setback requirement where a variance is being requested.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz responded, no. There is a 50 foot buffer between the proposed building
and the R -15 zone. The rear yard would be a portion of the proposed complex that abuts the proposed lot for
the house at 105 East King Road Extension. Then there is a 30 foot side yard setback to the south.
Board Member Bell asked 30 feet from what.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that it is 30 feet from the canopy and the proposed property line.
Board Member Bell stated that calling the blacktop area some sort of driveway is not very appropriate
when it comes to a gas station. There is a pay phone being proposed, and there will be cars pulling in and out
of that area. It looks like it would be within 10 feet of the garage and 40 feet of the house. It may be called a
setback, but in reality it is functioning as part of his business. The building determines the setback, but his
point is that even though the blacktop is not a building it seems that the setback should start at the edge of the
pavement instead of at the edge of the building, because it is functioning as part of his business.
Attorney Barney stated that the difference between residential zones and business zones are the parking
in the front yard setbacks. Business zones are not allox ed parking in the required front yard set back, but it can
be in a residential zone. From a site plan consideration the Board is entitled to make a determination, but in
terms of making the literal requirements of the law lie does not think there is a problem with what is being
• shown on the plans.
Chairperson Wilcox asked what are the operating hours of the store.
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 19
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
Mr. Herzing stated that he would be open 6:00 a.m. to midnight during the week, and 6:00 a.m. to 1:00
a.m. on the weekends. Most municipalities have the same codes, that it is a driveway not a parking area.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that when she looks at the addition being proposed for the future it
looks like it would be within the 50 foot setback.
Mr. Herzing stated that would require a variance.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that on the smaller site plan map of the proposed area it shows a
staging area, and asked what would that be for.
Mr. Herzing stated that would be for deliver- trucks to unload the merchandise instead of parking in
the front of the building. The trucks would be able to circulate behind the store. Even though the staging area
encroaches the buffer zone, there is still a lot of space between that and the next residence (Sam Peter's). The
staging area would be for delivery vehicles only.
Board Member Cornell asked how high is the canopy.
Mr. Herzing stated that it is 13 feet four inches by code.
Board Member Cornell asked if the lights are projected down.
• Mr. Herzing responded, yes. The lighting would stay directly down as opposed to shining into the sky.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that a lot of gas companies want the gas stations to look uniform so
they are the same all over, such as the signs, canopies, and other things.
Mr. Herzing stated that lighting generally is not too much of an issue as to whether a recessed light is
used or fixed off of the canopy. The number of lights are not an issue with the gas companies. The colors are
an issue with the gas companies because they want their emblems to be the same for each station using their
gas. One company wanted his employees to wear their colors, the building their colors, and everything their
way. He decided not to do that because he wants it his Nvay.
Board Member Cornell asked why does he want to call this store "Big Al's Hilltop Quikstop"
Mr. Herzing stated that when he first acquired the store eight years ago his wife just had their son
whose name is Alex. His neighbor picked his son up, and called him Big Al. Our son is definitely fitting the
reputation because he is expected to be well over seven feet tall. The name just stuck, and that is what he wants
to name this place.
Board Member Hoffmann stated that she does not think those things are issues from the gas company's
point of view, but when she look at the gas station at East Hill Plaza, she thinks the lights are an issue there.
Mr. Herzing stated that they would be an issue for the actual type being used. The gas company does
not tell the owners what type of lights to use. He chose recessed lighting to keep the light direct. It is much
•more expensive to do that. He wants to keep the lights directly on the business. He does not want the light to
protrude outward where it should not be. Generally. depending on the financial deal that is worked out with the
gas companies, some of the gas companies get the owners to put canopies up. Then the gas companies want it
•
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PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 20 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED =DECEMBER 16. 1997
their way, some do not. It depends on the deal that is happening at that time and what gas company the owner
is dealing with.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the gas company may tell him to do it one wav, but the Planning Board
might say something different. Chairperson Wilcox stated that this is not a public hearing but the Board is
willing to entertain comments from the public.
Christine Balestra, 415 North Geneva Street. asked if public utilities are available to the house on East
King Road Extension.
Mr. Herzing responded, yes.
Ms. Balestra stated that she just had a question in regards to the location of the storage tanks to the
utilities of the house.
Mr. Herzing stated that there is some room to move the canopy a little closer to the building because
there is an issue with the water and sewer lines. He discussed these issues with the Town Engineer to help
eliminate any issues with the canopy. He tried to paint the worst picture as far as sizes and everything goes, so
if he needs to change things or scale down there might be an option to do that.
Joan Lent Noteboom, 1122 Danbv Road, stated that she is the Town Clerk and Receiver of Taxes for
the Town of Ithaca, but she is not here tonight in that capacity. She is here as a resident of the Town of Ithaca.
She came tonight to ask some questions for her and her husband, and to make a few comments. The sketch
plan is interesting. She disagrees with Mr. Herzing about the lights. She says that because her home is to the
south of Mr. Herzing's business, and her northern guest room window faces north toward the lights, and they
shine right in that window. She has curtains in that room to keep the light out. Ms. Noteboom stated that the
Herzings are good neighbors, and they do not have any problems with Mr. Herzing wanting to do the
expansion. They just want to bring a few points forth to be considered by the owner and the Board, so the
lights are an issue especially if the canopy is going to be changed. Ms. Noteboom stated that she had a question
about the gas tanks, but Mr. Herzing has answered them all sufficiently as far as she and her husband are
concerned. Ms. Noteboom stated that the bigger building on the sketch plan borders on an R -15 zone. She is
not sure of the residence, but there is a residential home on that side. If this proposal is approved she would
like to ask that some type of landscaping and vegetation be placed between the back of the building and the R-
15 zone to act as a buffer to the residential properties. Ms. Noteboom stated that she and her husband spent a
great deal of money a few years ago to remodel their home in an R -15. They are good neighbors, but they also
want to keep the value of their property.
Mr. Herzing asked if a fence would be out of line.
Ms. Noteboom stated that she would not have a problem with that as long as it is an attractive fence.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that the Planning Board will be sensitive to appropriate plantings as well as
visual and noise barriers because this would be bordering on an R -15 zone.
Iv1s. Noteboom stated that another issue is that she and her husband asked for a variance for their
•driveway and house. They have installed a partitioned fence in front of their home to mitigate traffic from their
picture window. There have been many instances where people would pass the stop light and Mr. Herzing's
business, and turn around in their driveway to go back to his business. Since his hours are until midnight and
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 21 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
is1:00 a.m., they hear traffic turning around in their driveway during the night. There are several times that they
have been in bed, and people are turning around in their driveway. Ms. Noteboom asked if this new store
would be increasing traffic at this location. and if he is adding an addition to make the store bigger, would he be
considering being opened 24 hours a day in the future.
Mr. Herzing stated that he does not want to be a 24 hour a day operation. A lot of those people who are
turning around in the Notebooms driveway are probably looking for Latourelle. He means that seriously,
because people are always stopping for directions to Latourelle.
Ms. Noteboom stated that adds traffic because the store is there to ask where Latourelle is. These are
just a few points. The Herzings are very good neighbors, and would always be there to help if anyone needs it.
She and her husband are probably one of their best customers, especially on Friday nights because the pizza is
great. Ms. Noteboom stated that she and her husband do have some concerns about the R -15 zone and the
lighting, especially with their guest room. Thee like the area they live in. They feel since they moved in and
remodeled their property, that the neighborhood has started to put more of an effort into their homes and their
landscaping. She thinks the neighborhood is upgrading itself on the R -15 side. They would hate to see it
become so commercialized that their property values would deteriorate, and they are sure that the Herzings are
interested in being good neighbors by helping with the lighting and landscaping.
Board Member Cornell asked if the proposed driveway would direct traffic in a better fashion away
from the Notebooms.
Ms. Noteboom stated that she thinks it would. It is a very dangerous area. She stops at this gas station
•because they pump the gas, and as she is pulling out she needs to be very careful. She thinks the curbing would
help the safety aspects of that corner. Ms. Noteboom stated that she and her husband are not opposed to the
expansion as they are to extended hours and lighting.
Board Member Cornell asked Ms. Noteboom if she has measured the driveway of the gas station to her
driveway.
Ms. Noteboom stated that she has not done any measuring, but her husband has.
Mr. Herzing stated that comparing what he has now to what he is proposing it would only enhance the
neighborhood. For example, a women from out of town would not stop at his place. A lot of women in town
will not stop either, it is more the people in the neighborhood that stop. The appearance is not there for people
town out of from. It is not the first thing the Tov.n of Ithaca wants people to see. The appearance is not here,
and this proposal will only help the neighborhood.
Ms. Noteboom stated that she thinks Mr. Herzing is right aesthetically in that respect, but she also
worries about the parcel that is right across the street from Mr. Herzing which is commercial. That would put
their property right next to a very large commercial property that borders Buttermilk Falls State Park. Ms.
Noteboom stated that there is a nursery being proposed across from the gas station, and it makes them nervous
as to what may happen to the 50 acres across the street in the R -15 zone.
Board Member Bell stated that Ms. Noteboom should come to the public hearings for the Park,
Recreation, and Open Space Plan because there have been a lot of people concerned about the impacts on the
eastern edge of the State Park. At the last Planning Board meeting, there was a big discussion on the impacts.
The State Parks' people understand that these parks were intended to be rural parks that have started to become
is
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PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
22
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
suburban. The State Parks do not think they have the capacity to handle that, and Ms. Noteboom should come
back to comment on the parks plan.
Ms. Noteboom stated that she may do that. She thanked the Planning Board for hearing her comments,
and would like the Board to consider her comments. Thank you.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that Ms. Noteboom's husband is also an employee of the Town of Ithaca
(Fred Noteboom, Highway Superintendent).
Board Member Cornell stated that she still has a problem with the house Mr. Herzing is proposing to
subdivide off. She thinks the project has a lot of merit though.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz asked Ms. Cornell if her primary concern is for the impact on the house
from the proposed gas station and store.
Board Member Cornell stated that it would be traffic and lighting.
Mr. Herzing asked if that would be his problem right now since it is his house, and wouldn't it be
someone else's problem if he sold the house that they would obviously be aware of that.
Board Member Bell stated that is not the wav zoning works. Theoretically what Mr. Herzing is saying
on a practical basis is true. The purpose of zoning is to protect future people and the general public. That is not
the Planning Board's job, this Board's job is to protect the future.
Steve Everett, Jr., Ithaca College Student, stated that he would like to comment about the house. He is
one of Mr. Herzing's customers as well, and he thinks the renovations sound wonderful. It seems there are a lot
of students that do not live on campus. Rental units are tough to come by. If Mr. Herzing has a two unit house
it would be better to rent to students. It disturbed him with the idea of getting rid of the house because he
knows college students that would love the idea of living off campus and right next to the gas station. If there
are lights on until midnight it will not bother the college students. It may change the type of crowd that Mr.
Herzing has, but the house would be good for student housing. Thank you.
Board Member Bell stated that the wav the entrances work it sounds as if people would enter and exit
right onto Route 96B, but under this scenario people would enter from Route 96B and exit onto East King Road
Extension.
Mr. Herzing stated that people are going to do what they please no matter if there are signs or painted
parking spaces. Most cars will enter off of Route 96B, but he is not sure where they would exit.
Board Member Bell stated that it makes more sense to funnel the cars onto East King Road Extension
to the facility then exit onto Route 96B.
Mr. Herzing stated that would be a good idea. but to get people to do that would be great. The natural
flow would be to exit onto East King Road Extension then onto Route 96B.
Chairperson Wilcox stated that he cannot get a sense of the Board about the subdivided lot and house.
• There are some concerns about the setbacks and lighting. Signage would be discussed through zoning.
.7
•
•
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES 23 OCTOBER 21, 1997
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16, 1997
Board Member Bell stated that Ithaca College is proposing an Observatory on their campus, and they
would be concerned about the lighting into the sky. When this Board discusses the lighting for this proposal
they may have some comments on that.
Assistant Town Planner Frantz stated that the Planning Department has a wide supply of information
on lighting fixtures and their spillage for anyone to review.
Ms. Noteboom asked how tall would the new store be, and what type of roof would the store have.
Mr. Herzing stated that he is still working on those plans, and he is leaning towards a flat roof with
some type of ornament towers. He does not want the store to look like a gas station only or just a country store.
He is not sure of all the plans yet.
Ms. Noteboom asked if the fuel pump islands would have pay at the pumps or would people need to
enter the store.
Mr. Herzing stated that depending whether it is a full serve or not, the pumps will have pay at the
pumps for credit cards. People who pay cash will have to enter the store. Mr. Herzing stated that he is
looking into having cash acceptors at the pumps.
Ms. Noteboom asked what would be the difference between a cash acceptor that he would need to pay a
salary to compared to someone who is pumping the gas.
Mr. Herzing stated that he does not know. He would need to look into that issue. These sketch plans
are very preliminary. He does not even have an official interior plan yet.
Board Member Hoffmann asked if Mr. Herzing really needs to have the driveway around the store.
Mr. Herzing stated that he could eliminate the driveway around the building, but then the delivery
trucks would be parked out front.
Chairperson Wilcox duly closed the sketch plan review of Big AI's Hilltop Quikstop Convenience
Store at 1103 Danby Road at 9:58 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES - OCTOBER 7,1997:
The Minutes of October 7, 1997 were not readv for the Planning Board's approval .
AGENDA ITEM: OTHER BUSINESS:
Chairperson Wilcox stated that this is Herbert Finch's last meeting with the Planning Board, and he
would like to make a motion to thank Mr. Finch for his dedicated years of service with the Town of Ithaca
Planning Board. The Planning Board was in agreement to Chairperson Wilcox motion.
---------------------------------------------------------------- - - - - --
Director of Planning Kanter stated that lie would like to introduce Ms. Balestra as the new Planner for
the Town of Ithaca who will be starting on Monday.
AGENDA ITEM: ADJOURNMENT:
LJ
•
•
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
24
APPROVED - DECEMBER 16. 1997
OCTOBER 21, 1997
Upon MOTION, Chairperson Wilcox declared the October 21, 1997, Meeting of the Town of Ithaca
Planning Board duly adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
Prepared by:
Deborah Kelley,
Keyboard Specialist /Minutes Recorder
Mary Bryant,
Administrative Secretary for the
Town of Ithaca Planning Board.
TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
0 126 East Seneca Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
Tuesday, October 21, 1997
AGENDA
7:30 P.M. Persons to be heard.
7:35 P.M. SEQR Determination, Cayuga Professional Center Site Plan Modification, 1301 Trumansburg
Road.
7:40 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING : Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed
modification of the Cayuga Professional Center (formerly Tompkins County Professional
Building), to include new entry pavilions at the existing building entrances facing Trumansburg
Road, the addition of new landscaping beds, plantings and granite curbing along the existing
parking lot, the addition of lighting in the planting beds, and replacement of the existing sign along
Route 96 for the purpose of renaming the complex, located at 1301 Trumansburg Road (Route
96), Tax Parcel No. 24 -3 -4, Business District "A ". Professional Building Associates, Applicant;
A. Frost Travis, Agent.
7:50 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision
• of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 35- 1 -7.2, +/- 63.22 acres in size and located approximately
1,000 feet east of Elmira Rd./NYS Rte 13/34/96 and extending southerly from Lick Brook to the
Town of Newfield, into two lots, +/- 26.81 acres and +/- 36.41 acres in size respectively, with the
+/- 26.81 acre parcel to be conveyed to Cornell University as a Natural Area, LI -Light Industrial
District and Residence District R -30. John B. Babcock, Owner; Nancy L. Ostman, Applicant
8:10 P.M. Consideration of a Sketch Plan for the proposed reconstruction of Big Al's Hilltop Quikstop, to
include demolition of the existing fuel pump island and convenience store and construction of new
fuel pump islands with canopy and a +/- 3,330 square foot convenience store (with a possible
future Phase 2 addition of +/- 1,125 square feet), new curbing and entrances, new parking areas,
and replacement of the existing post sign, located at 1103 Danby Road (Route 96B), Tax Parcel
No's. 43 -2 -1 and 43 -2 -2, totalling +/- 1.54 acres. Also proposed is the resubdivision of the two
existing parcels into two new lots, approximately 49,075 +/- square feet and 17,820 +/- square feet
respectively. Business District "C ". 3- Comers, Inc., Owner /Applicant; Mickey Herzing, Agent,
6. Approval of Minutes: October 7, 1997 (in packet)
7. Other Business.
8. Adjournment.
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
NOTE: IF ANY MEMBER OF THE PLANNING BOARD IS UNABLE TO ATTEND, PLEASE NOTIFY MARY
BRYANT AT 273 -1747.
(A quorum of four (4) members is necessary to conduct Planning Board business.)
0
•
•
The Ithaca Journal Wednesday, October 15 1997-
e,
to TOWN OF ITHACA '
:h PLANNING BOARD
:h NOTICE OF
ss PUBLIC HEARINGS a
th Tuesday, October 21, 1997 e
ie By direction of the Y,
d Chairperson of the Planning ?-
J. Board, NOTICE IS HEREBY is
)r GIVEN that Public Hearings )r
st will be held by the Planning
d Board of the Town of Ithaca 'n
as on Tuesday, October 21, rk
e 1997, at 126 E. Seneca ty
is Street, Ithaca, N.Y. at the fol• ))
d lowing times and on the fol- "
n lowing matters:
to 7:40 p.m. Consideration of
e Preliminary and Final Site
d Plan Approval for the pro-
9 posed modification of the Co-
st yuga Professional Center (for-
i- merly Tompkins County
i- Professional Building) to in-
y clude new entry pavilions at
,1 the existing building en-
trances facing Trumansburg
Road, the addition of new
1 landscaping beds, plantings
and granite curbing along
the existing parking lot, the
addition of lighting in the
planting beds, and re-
I placement of the existing sign
i along Route 96 for the pur-
pose of renaming the com-
plex, located at 1301
1 Trumansburg Road (Route
96), Tax Parcel No. 24 -3.4,
1 Business District "A" Pro -
i fessional Building Associates,
I Applicant; A. Frost Travis,
Agent.
7:50 p.m. Consideration of
s Final Subdivision Aprpoval
f for the proposed subdivision
I- of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel
i No. 35- 1 -7.2, +/- 63.22
acres in size and located
If approximately 1,000 feet
s east of Elmira Rd. /NYS Rte.
y 13/34/96 and extending
southerly from Lick Brook to
it the Town of Newfield, into
r two lots, +/- 26.81 acres and
ct +/- 36.41 acres in size re-
e spectively, with the +/- 26.81
or acre parcel to be conveyed
e to Cornell University as a
e Natural Area, LI -Li ht Indus -
e trial District and Residence
s District R -30. John B. Bab -
J cock, Owner; Nancy L. Os-
ri tmon, Applicant.
t Said Planning Board will at
J said times and said place
f -hear all persons. in support of
-such matters -or objections
i thereto. Persons may appear
i by agent or in person.
- Individuals with visual impair -
f ments, hearing impoirmenk
Le als 1
or other special needs, will
be provided with assistance
as necessary, upon request.
Persons desiring assistance
must make such a request not
less than 48 hours prior to the
time of the public hearings.
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
October 15, 1997
•
TOWN OF ITH CA PLANNING BOARD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
Tuesdav, October 21, 1997
By direction of the Chairperson of the Planning Board, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that
Public Hearings will be held by the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca on
Tuesday, October 21, 1997, at 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, N.Y., at the
following times and on the following ,:atlers:
7:40 P.M.
015n P_M_
Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the
proposed modification of the Cayuga Professional Center (formerly
Tompkins County Professional Building), to include new entry pavilions
at the existing buildira entrances facing Trumansburg Road, the
addition of new landscaping beds, plantings and granite curbing along
the existing parking lot, the addition of lighting in the planting
beds, and replacement of the existing sign along Route 96 for the
purpose of renaming the complex, located at 1301 Trumansburg Road
(Route 96), Tax Parcel No. 24 -3 -4, Business District "A ". Professional
Building Associates, Applicant; A. Frost Travis, Agent.
Consideration of
Final
Subdivision Approval for the
proposed
subdivision of Town
of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 35- 1 -7.2, +/- 63.22
acres
in size and located
approximately 1,000 feet east of Elmira
Rd. /NYS
Rte 13/34/96 and extending
southerly from Lick Brook to the
Town of
Newfield, into two
lots, -/-
26.81 acres and +/- 36.41 acres
in size
respectively, with
the +/-
26.81 acre parcel to be conveyed to
Cornell
University as a
Natural
Area, LI -Light Industrial District
and
Residence District R -30. John B. Babcock, Owner; Nancy L. Ostman,
Applicant
Said Planning Board will at said times and said place hear all persons in support
of such matters or objections thereto. Persons may appear by agent or in person.
Individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments or other special needs,
will be provided with assistance as necessary, upon request. Persons desiring
assistance must make such a request nc= less than 48 hours prior to the time of the
public hearings.
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
0ted: Friday, October 10, 1997
Publish: Wednesday, October 15, 1997
•
U
•
TOWN, OF ITHACA
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING AND PUBLICATION
I, Karen McGuire sworn. depose and say that I am a Secretary for the Town of Ithaca.
Tompkins County, New York: that the following Notice has been duly posted on the sign board
of the Town of Ithaca and that said Notice has been duly published in the local newspaper, The
Ithaca Journal.
Notice of Public Hearings to be held by the Town of Ithaca Planning Board in Town of Ithaca
Town
Hall 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca. New York. on Tuesday October 21 1997 commencing at
7:30
P.M., as per attached.
Location of Sign Board used for Posting: Bulletin Board Front Entrance of Town Hall.
Date of Posting
Date of Publication
October 10 1997
October 1 x.1997
STATE OF NEW YORK ) SS.:
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS )
aren mcuuire.Necretary
Town of Ithaca.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 15th day of ( ee6be -
T �O;otary Pu ic.
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF NEW YORK
# 4646 427
1997.
•
FINAL
ADOPTED RESOLUTION: SEQR
Cayuga Professional Center - Site
Modifications
1301 Trumansburg Road
Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval
Planning Board, October 21, 1997
MOTION by Herbert Finch, seconded by Gregory Bell
WHEREAS:
1. This action is the Consideration of Preliminary and Final
Site Plan Approval for the proposed modification of the
Cayuga Professional Center (formerly Tompkins County
Professional Building) , to include new entry pavilions at
the existing building entrances facing Trumansburg Road, the
addition of new landscaping beds, plantings and granite
curbing along the existing parking lot, the addition of
lighting in the planting beds, and replacement of the
existing sign along Route 96 for the purpose of renaming the
complex, located at 1301 Trumansburg Road (Route 96) , Tax
Parcel No. 24 -3 -4, Business District "A ". Professional
Building Associates, Applicant; A. Frost Travis, Agent,
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
3. The Planning Board, on October 21, 1997, has reviewed and
accepted as adequate the Short Environmental Assessment Form
Part I prepared by the applicant, a Part II prepared by the
Planning staff, and an application package entitled Cayuga
Professional Center, 1301 Trumansburg Road, Ithaca, NY, dated
September 21, 1997, and
4. The Town Planning staff have recommended a negative
determination of environmental significance with respect to
the proposed site plan modifications, 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
0
•
•
ADOPTED RESOLUTIONS:
SEQR
Cayuga Professional Center - Site
Modifications
1301 Trumansburg Road
Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval
Planning Board, October 21, 1997
Review Act for the above - referenced action as proposed and,
therefore, neither a Full Environmental Assessment Form nor
an Environmental Impact Statement will be required.
Ayes - Wilcox, Hoffmann, Finch, Bell, Ainslie, Cornell, Kenerson.
Nays - None.
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously.
C
Karen McGuire, Secretary,
Town of Ithaca.
oil
Bryao , Admin. jecretary.
r r Mr
• ADOPTED RESOLUTION:
Cayuga Professional Center - Site
Modifications
1301 Trumansburg Road
Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval
Planning Board, October 21, 1997
MOTION by Gregory Bell, seconded b,; .=a_..as Ainslie:
WHEREAS:
1. This action is the Considers =_= of Preliminary and Final Site Plan
Approval for the proposed cdifica ion of the Cayuga Professional Center
(formerly Tompkins County Professional Building), to include new entry
pavilions at the existing entrances facing Trumansburg Road,
the addition of new landscaping beds, plantings and granite curbing
along the existing parking -ct, ...a addition of lighting in the planting
beds, and replacement of =.isting sign along Route 96 for the
purpose of renaming the come _ ea., = cated at 1301 Trumansburg Road (Route
96), Tax Parcel No. 24 -3 -4, District "A ". Professional Building
Associates, Applicant; A. F=s. - ra%;is, Agent, and
2. This is an Unlisted Action for ,:__ich the Town
of Ithaca Planning Board,
acting as
Lead Agency in en-rir-- --ntal review
with respect to Site Plan
Approval,
has, on October 21, .,:7,
made a
negative
determination of
environmental
significance, of =er
having reviewed
having determined from
and accepted as
adequate
the Short Environmenta_
= ssessment Form
part I,
prepared by the
_ ._ waiver will
result in neither a
significant alteration
of the
rpose of site
applicant,
and a Part II prepared
by the Town
Planning
staff, and
3. The Planning Board, at a Pub =ic Hearing on October 21, 1997, has
reviewed and accepted as an application package entitled Cayuga
Professional Center, 1301 _r-:mansc-rg Road, Ithaca, NY, dated September
21, 1997, and additional app_ica_ic�. materials.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Town
of Ithacs Board hereby waives certain
requirements for
Preliminar_; a_..
Final Site Plan
Approval, as shown on
the Preliminary
and Final Site =.an
Checklist,
having determined from
the materials presented
t�.s=
_ ._ waiver will
result in neither a
significant alteration
of the
rpose of site
plan control nor the
policies enunciated or implied b_
_he Town Board,
and
2. That the Planning Board hereby __ants Preliminary and Final Site Plan
Approval for the proposed .,cdifics_icn of the Cayuga Professional Center
(formerly Tompkins County P. fessicnal Building), to include new entry
pavilions at the existing bwiidi g entrances facing Trumansburg Road,
the addition of new landscaping beds, plantings and granite curbing
along the existing parking =oz, ___ addition of lighting in the planting
beds, and replacement of i= e:_s ing sign along Route 96 for the
purpose of renaming the cc :o_ex, ..s shown in the application package
•
•
:7
ADOPTED RESOLUTION:
Cayuga Professional Center - Site
Modifications
1301 Trumansburg Road
Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval
Planning Board, October 21,1997
entitled Cayuga Professiona. niter, 1301 Trumansburg Road, Ithaca, NY,
dated September 21, 1997, suti_ea_ to the following conditions:
a. Submission of a myiar __,final or copy- and two paper copies of the
final site plan a -a` .andscaping plan, revised to include
appropriate titles ar_v ca-.es, prior to issuance of any building
permit.
b. Submission of final ._ _ing specifications and locations shown on
the site plan to be sub- :i =ted to Director of Planning for approval
prior to issuance of a. .gilding permit.
C, Labelling of all buildings(on Building and Topography
Map) to show current c=.---ions of site.
d. Revision of plan to location and number of existing and
proposed handicapped par: {_ng spaces.
Ayes - Wilcox, Hoffmann, Bell, Ai~. =.__, Kenerson, Finch, Cornell
Nays - None.
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously.
Karen McGuire,Secretary,Town of Ithaca
2
Mary B(ryantfiAdministrat/ive Secretary.
0
•
•
0
PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN CHECKLIST
PROJECT NAIME
PROJECT NUMBER
PREPAREi
= ITEM SUBMITTED
N/A = NOT APPLICABLE
W = WAIVE
COND = CONDITION OF APPROVAL
1. v 'icat
P_
Com leted and signed Development Review A oion.
P
a. Development Review Escrow P_creement and Back -up
Withholding Force ( if required) (Only one (1) copy
each.)
2. Payment of review fees.
Deposit of escrow.
3. Fully completed and signed Short Environmental
Assessment Form, Part I (SERF), or Long Environmental
Assessment Form, Part I (LEAF). (See Town Planner as
4. Zto which to submit.)
Proposed preliminary site plan, with the following
information, must be filed in the office of the Town
Planner at least thirty (30) calendar days prior to the
Planning Board meeting at which preliminary approval is
requested. Information may be supplied on more than
/Vicinity one drawing if necessary.
a . Map showing the general location of the
property and proposed project at a scale of 1" =1000' or
1"= 2000'.
b. IVA Natural features within and immediately adjacent to the
site including but not limited to streams, lakes,
floodplains, ponds, wetlands, woodlands, brushlanas,
significant natural habitats or other features
pertinent to review of the proposed project.
C. Exact boundary lines of the tract, indicated by a hea7ry
line, showing location and description of all
monuments, giving property metes and bounds to the
nearest one - tenth, angles to the nearest minute, and at
/ least one bearing.
d. Size, location, and use of all existing structures,
parking areas, access drives, of- street loading areas,
signs, lighting, pedestrian facilities, landscaping,
and other existing features pertinent to plan review.
e. Size, location, proposed use, design_, and construction
materials of all proposed structures.
PR= LIM7NRRY SITE PLAN CHECKLIST
Pace 2
f. /VA Location, design, and construction materials of all
proposed parking areas, access drives, and off- streer.
loading areas.
g. V Size, location, design, and cons t=uction materials Of
all proposed signs and lighting.
h. /V Location, desi
II gn, and construction materials of all
proposed pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
i. V/ Landscaping plan and planting schedule including
location and proposed design of buf =ens.
j. Location, design, and construction materials of all
proposed water and sewage facilities.
k. VV Location of any existing or proposed fire and other
emergency zones, including the location of fire
hydrants.
1. Location, name, and dimensions of each existing or
proposed street and alley and each existing or proposed
utility, drainage, or similar easement within,
abutting, or in the immediate vicinity of the proposed
project.
m. Existing and proposed site topography represented by
contour lines with intervals as required by the
Planning Board, but not to e: geed 5 (five) feet,
including a grading plan describing the volumes of cut
and fill materials and their composition_, and including
elevations of proposed buildings, signage, lighting,
and other features.
n. Drainage plan which includes a description of method
used for analysis, the calculation of drainage area
above point of entry for each water course entering or
abutting the site, and proposed method of on -site
retention if required.
o. V" Border lines bounding site plan sheets one inch from
the left edge and one -half inch from each of the other
edges. All required information., including signatures,
seals, dates and such information shall be within the
border.
P. Map scale in bar form, and north point.
Q. Name of proposed project.
r. Name of Town, County, and State.
S. G Date of Site Plan, including any applicable revision
dates.
t Key map (when more than one sheet is submitted,•
dor
•
•
•
S
G
•
•
PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN CHECKLIST
Uw
7. �fv
s. G
Page 3
Name and seal of the registered land surveyor(s) or
engineers) who prepared the topogra_ohic and boundary
survey and the date of survey.
Name (s) and addresses) of all property owners and
persons who have an interest in the site and of parcels
abutting the site, or within Soo, of the site,
including easements or rights -of -way, plus the tax
parcel numbers.
Estimate
of
the
cost of
improvements
(excluding
the
purchase
cost
of
land)
to be prepared
(preferably)
by a
licensed
professional
larger than
11" x 1711)
engineer.
copy
of all
Three
(3) dark -line
prints of the
proposed Site
Plan
and 25
copies of
all
sheets of the
proposed
Site
Plan
in reduced format
(no
larger than
11" x 1711)
and
copy
of all
other items
required above
(Except Development
Review
Application
and escrow forms).
planbord \prelimis.ite
mb \5/L4/?o
t
•
•
•
FINAL SITE PLAN CHECKLIST
PROJECT NAME
PROJECT NUMBER q7 e q -25
PREPARER ��� 4 tQs�
V = ITEM SUBMITTED
N/A = NOT APPLICABLE
W = WAIVE
COND = CONDITION OF APPROVAL
1. Completed and signed Development Review Application,
Development Review Escrow Agreement, and Back -up
/ Withholding Form (if required). (Only (1) copy each.)
2. Payment of additional review fees as needed and
deposited in an escrow account.
3. All other items submitted with the preliminary site
plan application with modifications made according to
the approval given by the Town Planning Board.
4. Record of application for and approval status of all
necessary permits from county, state, and /or federal
agencies. Submit copies of all permits or approvals so
granted.
5. IVA Detailed sizing and final material specifications of
all required improvements.
6. Construction details of all proposed structures, roads,
water /sewage facilities, and other improvements.
71 C One (1) Original or mylar copy and two paper copies of
the final site plan to be retained by the Town of
Ithaca.
PLANBCRD \cINALS =
mb/5/14/96
•
n
Li
ADOPTED RESOLUTION.
Final Subdivision Approval,
Subdivision of Tax Parcel No. 35 -1 -7.2
Town of Ithaca Planning Board,
October 21, 1997
MOTION by Candace Cornell, seconded by Herbert Finch:
WHEREAS,
I . This action is Consideration of Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision of
Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 35- 1 -7.2. -/- 63.22 acres in size and located approximately 1,000
feet east of Elmira Rd./NYS Rte 13/34/96 and extending southerly from Lick Brook to the Town
of Newfield, into two lots, +/- 26.81 ac. and =/- 36.41 ac. in size respectively, with the +/- 26.81
acre parcel to be conveyed to Cornell University as a Natural Area, LI -Light Industrial District
and Residence District R -30. John B. Babcock, Owner; Nancy L. Ostman, Applicant, and
2. 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 September 16, 1997, made a
negative determination of environmental significance, and
3. The Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals did, on October 8, 1997, grant a variance from the
requirements of Article VII, Section 44 of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance and Section
280a of New York State Town Law to permit the creation, by subdivision, of said +/- 28.61 acre
parcel of land without frontage on a Town. County or State highway, and
4. The Planning Board, on October 21, 1997. has reviewed and accepted as adequate a subdivision
plat entitled "Survey Map Showing Portion of Lands of John B. Babcock, Town of Ithaca,
Tompkins County, New York" prepared by Allen T. Fulkerson, L.S., dated February 12; 1997,
and amended October 10, 1997, and other application materials.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Final
Subdivision Approval, as shown on the Final Subdivision Checklist, having determined from the
materials presented that such waiver NN ill 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 Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision
of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 35 -1 -7?. +/- 63.22 acres in size and located approximately
1,000 feet east of Elmira Rd./NYS Rte 13/34/96 and extending southerly from Lick Brook to the
Town of Newfield, into two lots. +/- 26.81 ac. and +/- 36.41 ac. in size respectively, with the +/-
26.81 acre parcel to be conveyed to Cornell University as a Natural Area, as shown on the plat
entitled "Survey Map Showing Portion of Lands of John B. Babcock, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins
County, New York" prepared by Allen T. Fulkerson, L.S., dated February 12, 1997, and
amended October 10, 1997, other application materials; subject to the following conditions, to be
met prior to the signing of said plat b} the Chairman of the Planning Board:
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page
2
of
2
ADOPTED RESOLUTION: Final Subdivision Approval,
Subdivision of Tax Parcel No. 354-7.2
Town of Ithaca Planning Board,
October 21, 1997
a. Receipt by Cornell University of an easement 40 feet in width from Thomas OverbauQh
along the northerly line of his propem from Routes 13 & 34 easterly to the former
Lehigh Valley Railroad, now Conrail. railroad right -of -way, thence south along the west
side of said right -of -way +/- 730 ft. to the existing railroad crossing, as shown on the
map entitled "Preliminary Subdivision Map Showing a Portion of Lands of John Butler
Babcock'' dated September 1980; amended June 4, 1993, and further amended October
10, 1997 to show said easement;
b. Receipt by Cornell University of an easement 40 feet in width from John Babcock
extending southward along the east side of the former Lehigh Valley Railroad, now
Conrail, railroad right -of -way, +/- 1,062 ft. to the existing railroad crossing, as shown on
the map entitled "Survey Map Showing Portion of Lands of John B. Babcock, Town of
Ithaca, Tompkins County, N.Y." dated February 12, 1997, and amended October 10,
1997 to show said easement;
C. Receipt by Cornell University of an easement across the Lehigh Valley Railroad parcel
linking the easements referred to in subparagraphs "a" and " b" above;
d. review and approval by the Town Attorney of any easements or right of ways that are
required as part of this subdivision,
e. review and approval by the Town Attorney of the restrictive covenants intended to
ensure that the use of the property shall be limited to passive educational and
recreational uses;
f. that no further subdivision shall be permitted nor shall any building permit be issued for
any construction until full legal and physical access for emergency vehicles is available,
and such limitations are to be noted on the final plat; and
g. submission for signing by the Chairman of the Planning Board of an original or mylar
copy of the approved plat and four dark -line prints;
AYES - Wilcox, Hoffmann, Cornell, Finch, Ainslie, Kenerson, Bell.
NAYS - None.
The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously.
1TA C` lIj
Karen McGuire, Secretary, Town of Ithaca.
t,Aj dministratiye Secretary.
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N/A
COND
ARTICLE VI, SECTION 37. FINAL SUBDIVISION PLAT CHECKLIST
= ITEM SUBMITTED
= WA1L 'D
= NOT APPLICA31JE
= CON:77ION OF APPRCV?=
PROJECT NAIME
PROJECT NTUMBER
PRE PARER
g70"7�,YLB'
The items llszed below, unless wai'j °d by t_ ^.e '_� ;an ^� ;_n_g Boa=.:, TijSO ^e Z" �^,
in the O=ffice of the Tcwn Planner or Town P'_ar_nerI s des -e - be =cry an
acclicazion for a final suZaivision approval is deemed T_._Se
materials snla.1 be filed at leas= 30 ca__ndar da.rs prier
Board meeting az which preliminary approval i s re nested.
1 • _ Completed and s=creed Development Review ADDlicat'_Ci -.
2, Development Review Escrow Agreement and bac: {::p With: o_dinc ford
(if recuired)
3. V�,t Pa went of review fees.
K
4. Deposit of escrow.
• If required because not submitted with preliminary p =at approval
or substantial modifications have occurred since preliminary
plat approval, one fully completed and signed Short
Environmental Assessment Form, Part I (S E_ -F)- or Long
Environmental Assessment Form, Part 1 (LEA:) (See Town Planr:er
as to which to submit.)
6. ✓ Owner's Certificate: A certificate signed by the owners) to
the effect that he /they own the land, that he caused the land to
be surveyed and divided, and that he makes the dedications
indicated on the plat.
71 `� Surveyor's Certificate: A certificate signed and sewed by a
registered land surveyor to he effect that (1) the plat
represents a surrey made by him, (2) the plat is a correct
representation of all exterior boundaries of the land surveyed
and the subdi visicn of it, (3) all monuments indicated on the
pla: actually exist and their leca: ion, size and materi a1 are
correctly show=n, and (4) the ?'ec-uirementS Of these regL'lat 1C 1S
and New York State laws relating to subdividing and surv_'r___ c
- ^ J
have been complied with.
A' Mor_gacor' s Certificate . A cert_ ficate signed and sea' ed by t ^e
mor:cacor (s) , if any, to the e=lect that he consents zo the pl_�
and the dedications and trictiors shcwr_ on cr re =erred tc or_
ith= plat .
9. _ TWO copies Of the County realLh Cep ar`..,ie. ^.t a _DrC�Tal Cf t'le Wa_er
succiv and /or sewage system.
Final S ubdivision Plat Checklist ip
10. V S Four full size dark -line printS of the final plat and 25 reduced
CGD1 eS Of all Sheets Of the final plat ( tae redL'ced coC'_es tO be
no larger than 11" by 1711) wita the fcliow_nc information_:
a._ Highway and alley bcundary or r_ght -o. -wad, lines,
sb_cwing boundary, r_cht -cf -way or easement width and
any other informaticn- needed for locating such lines;
purposes Of easements.
b. _ F-!_gnwa %r center ._nest snow_nc angl °_ O.
angles of 1nt°_rsectlon, r d ; 1 °ncthS of ta'gentS and
arcs, and degree of csr•ratur=_, with bass of curve
data. Lengths and distances shall be to the nearest
one hundredth fcct . Ar_c.es s.!=-.'I be to t'_^_e near_st
half minute.
c._ Highway names.
d. ✓ Location, name, and d- Lmension-s Of each existing
highway and alley and each uti 1ity, drainage, or
si mi I ar easement within, ahu_ti ng, or in the i mmedi_te
vicinity of the proposed subdivision.
e. ✓ Exact boundary lines of the tract, indicated by a
heavy line, giving the dimensions to the nearest one
hundredth foot, angles to the nearest one -half minus
and at least one bearing; the traverse shall be
balanced and closed with an error 01. closure not to
exceed one to two thousand; the type of closure shall
be noted.
f. ,� Location and description of all section line corners
and government survey monuments in or near the
subdivision, to at least one of which the subdivision
shall be referenced by true courses and distances.
g, ✓ Location of property by legal description, including
areas in acres or square feet. Source of tit.=,
including deed record bock and page numbers.
h. ✓ Name and address of all owners of the prop_ erty a_
^_d
name and address of all. persons who have an interest
in the preperty, such as easements or rig:L�- G-- r1G`r•
i . ✓ Name (s) an
subdivider
address (es) c= tae subdivider (s) , i= t: _e
;s) is (are) net the owners)
✓ AC curate locat -.cns and descr_Ct1GnS of all subdls =On
monuments.
k, �_ Accurate outlines and descriptions of any areas to b
dedicate^ or reserved for public use or accu_S_t'_On�
with the purposes indicated t:te_ eon; any areas to be
reserved by deed covenant for common uses of a.1
property owners in the subdivision.
Building setbac'.� lines w_t^ dimensions .
Final Subdivision Plat Checklist 3
• m. ✓ Lot lines, fully dimensioned, With lengths to t ^e
nearest one- hundredth foot and angles or bearings to
the nearest one-half minut =.
n. �_ width at building line of looms located on a curve cr
having non-parallel side 1 .4 nes, when r °C; -'_r°_ : by
Planning Board.
o. ✓ Names and addresses of owners of all parcels abu =zinc
the or: ccsed subdivision_.
p. A114 Names of recorded subdivisions abutting the prcpesed
subdivision_.
a. N k The blccks are numbered ccnsecuti -;e_v t..rcuc_hcut t: ^e
suLG ;vis =0n_ and toe lots are n:L'm�er °G c: nsecu =_- %e 'r
throuahou L eac a blCCk .
r Key man, when more than one sheet is rec_-uired tc
present plat .
S, ✓ vicinity map s_ ^_owing the general locaticn o t ^e
property, 1" =1000' or 111= 2000'
t . ✓ Name of subdivision, which shall not du^licate t In e
name of any other subdivision in the county.
• u. li✓ Name and seal of the registered land surveyor or
engineer who prepared the topographic information.
Date of survey.
V, ✓ Name and seal of registered land surveyor who made t^e
boundary survey. Date of survey.
W, ✓ Name (s) and address (es) of the owner (s)
X, ✓ Map scale (1" =30' or 1" =1001) in Bar Form and nor=:
point.
Y_ ✓ Date of plat and any applicable revision dates.
z. ✓ Name of town, county and state.
al. ✓ Border lines bounding the shee`, one inch from t ^e
left edge and one -hal- inch from each c= the other
edges; all information, including al_ pla= lines,
lettering, signatures, and sea's, s all be wit ^_n the
border 11nes.
b. CD Reese e ^Ce or tiles Dies= t0 - S °Dar�`e nstr'�men�-
y -
including reSCr ;CCi're covenan�s, wn_'cn G_rec�
the !and . in the sune_-r�s_cn.
• c1 . tow) One original or mirlar ccr, C= t_?e Z)! a- to be reco=."
and three dark -line prints cn trio c more sheets -
11 Cer=i fi Cation san=d by the Cha_r�a or Ct^ d °Si ?tat °_
►� _ _ - g
official cr agent c= the Plan___ng Bcar,z to th` effect that t ^e
plat was giver final a=. 1 ''h ; ;.
%a by L e :_a^ ^c Boer
Final Subdivision Plat Checklist 4
SECTION 38. IMPROV=A NT PLANS AND RELATED INFORMATION •
1. Where improvements are required for a croposed subd, vision, the
following documents shall be submitted to the Planning De =artmen_t:
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a.
b.
C,
d.
e.
f
Detailed conscruct_on plans and spec:= :cations for water lines,
including locations and descriptions o= mans, valves, hydrants,
accu'rtenances, etc
Detailed
conscruccion
p' -an s,
pr, = - -es, and s_ ec,= _ca
=ic ^s fcr
sanitary
sewers
and
storm
drainage facilities,
i_'_c =ud_-c
locations
and
descriot_ons
o=
pees, mar_holes,
aria
other
facilities
.
Highway paving plans and spec: = _cation..
The estimated cost of:
Grading and fi11inc_,
Culverts, swales and other storm drainage faCil_t' eS,
Sanitary sewers,
Water 11 nes, valves and f1Ye hydrar_ts,
Paving, curbs, gutters and sidewalks,
Any other improvements required bv_ Town of Ithaca Sub= v;s_on
Regulations. •
The plan and profile
subdivision, with grade
horizontal, and 1" = 5'
sheets. Profiles shal
highway or alley along 1
the sidewalks, if any. "
Filerame : 7Su�'-di•r.:k:
of each proposed highway in t_ ^_e
indicated, drawn to a scale of 1" = 50'
vertical, on standard plan and profile
show accurately the profile of the
he highway center line and location of
N