Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 2000-04-25TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2000 The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in special session on Tuesday, April 25, 2000, in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York, at 7:30 p.m. PRESENT: Fred Wilcox, Chairperson; James Ainslie, Board Member; Tracy Mitrano, Board Member (7:40 p.m.); Larry Thayer, Board Member; Rod Howe, Board Member; Jonathan Kanter, Director of Planning; John Barney, Attorney for the Town; Dan Walker, Director of Engineering (7:50 p.m.); Susan Ritter, Environmental Planner; Michael Smith, Planner. EXCUSED: Eva Hoffmann, Board Member; George Conneman, Board Member; George Frantz, Assistant Town Planner. ALSO PRESENT: Ivar & Janet Jonson, 934 East Shore Drive; Warren Allmon, Director of PRI; Tammi Aiken, TG Miller; Chris Ballentine, Weiss- Manfredi Architects; Michael Manfredi, Weiss - Manfredi Architects; Amy Nettleton, Elemental Landscape; David Herrick, TG Miller. Chairperson Wilcox declared the meeting duly opened at 7:35 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 April 17, 2000, and April 19, 2000, together with the properties under discussion, as appropriate, upon the Clerks of the City of Ithaca and the Town of Danby, 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 April 19, 2000. (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. Chairperson Wilcox opened PERSONS TO BE HEARD at 7:35 p.m., and asked if any member of the public wished to be heard. With no persons present to be heard, Chairperson Wilcox closed PERSONS TO BE HEARD at 7:36 p.m. AGENDA ITEM: SEQR Determination, Lots 32 -A and 32 -B Grandview Subdivision, 141 Westview Lane. Chairperson Wilcox opened this segment of the meeting at 7:36 p.m., and asked if there was anyone present representing the applicant. There was no one present representing the applicant. Michael Smith, Planner, stated that this is currently one lot with a duplex unit. The applicant wishes to sell the two units separately. They need to re- subdivide the parcel as it was on the original PLANNING BOARD PAGE 2 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Grandview Subdivision. The rear deck on the property at 143 Westview Lane appears to encroach across the property line. Chairperson Wilcox asked if it is an issue with the plat. Mr. Smith stated that they are not sure. It does look as if the deck was built afterwards. Chairperson Wilcox stated that the subdivision lines proposed are the original lines. Chairperson Wilcox closed this segment of the meeting at 7:38 p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -36 - SEQR Preliminary & Final Subdivision Approval, MacDonald 2 -Lot Subdivision, 141 Westview Lane, Tax Parcel No. 58 -2- 39.50. MOTION made by Larry Thayer, seconded by Rod Howe. WHEREAS: 1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 58 -2 -39.50 located at 141 Westview Lane into two lots, Residence District R -15. The subdivision will create two parcels containing an existing duplex that will be consistent with the original lots 32 -A and 32 -B of the Grandview Subdivision and will be sold separately. June Fessenden MacDonald, Owner /Applicant. 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Subdivision Approval, and 3. The Planning Board, on April 25, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a Part 11 prepared by Town Planning staff, a plat entitled, "Map of Survey Lots 32 -A and 32 -B Grandview Subdivision," prepared by Robert S. Russler JR., Licensed Land Surveyor, dated August 17, 1987 and revised March 10, 2000, and other application materials, and 4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed Subdivision Approval; NOW THEREFORE BE I T RESOLVED: That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act for the above referenced action as proposed, and, therefore, neither a Full Environmental Assessment Form, nor an Environmental Impact Statement will be required. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 3 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED A vote on the MOTION resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Ainslie, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 58 -2 -39.50 located at 141 Westview Lane into two lots, Residence District R -15. The subdivision will create two parcels containing an existing duplex that will be consistent with the original lots 32 -A and 32 -B of the Grandview Subdivision and will be sold separately. June Fessenden MacDonald, Owner /Applicant. Chairperson Wilcox opened the public hearing at 7:40 p.m., and asked if any members of the public wished to be heard. With no persons present to be heard, Chairperson Wilcox closed the public hearing at 7:41 p.m. Chairperson Wilcox asked if Attorney Barney was comfortable with the wording in the proposed resolution that the plat be revised to ensure that the deck is not encroaching. Attorney Barney stated that it needs to be more specific to say that the adjustment be that the west line of Lot B be adjusted so that it runs along the westerly line of the deck to the corner, and then proceeds south to the pin as shown on the map. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -37 - Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval, MacDonald 2 -Lot Subdivision, 141 Westview Lane, Tax Parcel No. 58 -2- 39.50. MOTION made by James Ainslie, seconded by Larry Thayer. h�ICl�7��lC`>9 1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 58 -2 -39.50 located at 141 Westview Lane into two lots, Residence District R -15. The subdivision will create two parcels containing an existing duplex that will be consistent with the original lots 32 -A and 32 -B of the Grandview Subdivision and will be sold separately. June Fessenden MacDonald, Owner /Applicant. 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 April 25, 2000, made a negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a Part II prepared by Town Planning staff, and PLANNING BOARD PAGE 4 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED 3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on April 25, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate, a plat entitled, "Map of Survey Lots 32 -A and 32 -B Grandview Subdivision," prepared by Robert S. Russler JR., Licensed Land Surveyor, dated August 17, 1987 and revised March 10, 2000, and other application materials; NOW THEREFORE BE I T RESOL VED. 1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Subdivision Checklist, having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in neither a significant alteration of the purpose of subdivision control nor the policies enunciated or implied by the Town Board, and 2. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed subdivision of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 58 -2 -39.50 located at 141 Westview Lane into two lots, as shown on the plat entitled, "Map of Survey Lots 32 -A and 32 -B Grandview Subdivision," prepared by Robert S. Russler JR., dated August 17, 1987 and revised March 10, 2000, subject to the following conditions: a. revision of subdivision plat to eliminate encroachment of the wooden deck at the rear of 143 Westview Lane onto new lot at 141 Westview Lane by adjusting the boundary line to run along the west line of the deck to the southwest corner of the deck and then run south to the existing pin at the southwest corner of Lot B. b. submission for signing by the Chairman of the Planning Board of an original or mylar copy of the revised plat and three dark -lined prints, prior to filing with the Tompkins County Clerk's Office. A vote on the MOTION resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Ainslie, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. AGENDA ITEM: SEAR Determination, Lot Line and Site Plan Modification, 201/203 Westview Lane. Chairperson Wilcox opened this segment of the meeting at 7:43 p.m. Janet Jonson, 934 East Shore Drive, stated that they just recently sold the home of Elizabeth Giorgianni and Katherine Gajewski. Her husband was the builder of the home. He placed the house on the lot different than what was originally configured by the Town of Ithaca. She is asking that the Town approve the difference. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 5 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox asked if Ms. Jonson was aware of any environmental issues related to the project. Ms. Jonson responded that she is not aware of any issues. Chairperson Wilcox closed this segment of the meeting at 7:44 p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -38 - SEQR Preliminary & Final Subdivision Approval, Site Plan Modification Lot Line and Site Plan Modification, 2011203 Westview Lane, Tax Parcel No.'s 58 -2- 39.622 and 58 -2- 39.621. MOTION made by Tracy Mitrano, seconded by James Ainslie. WHEREAS: 1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval and Site Plan Modification for the proposed modification of lot lines of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 58 -2- 39.622 and 58 -2- 39.621 located at 2011203 Westview Lane, Residence District R -15. The proposed lot line and site plan modifications will reflect the lots and duplex as built as part of the Grandview Subdivision, which is a modification of what was approved on the original site plan. Elizabeth Giorgianni and Katherine Gajewski, Owners /Applicants. 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Subdivision Approval, and 3. The Planning Board, on April 25, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part 1, submitted by the applicant, and a Part 11 prepared by Town Planning staff, a plat entitled, "Map of Survey Lots 44 -A and 44 -B Grandview Subdivision," prepared by Robert S. Russler JR., Licensed Land Surveyor, dated November 14, 1987 and revised March 23, 2000, and other application materials, and 4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed Subdivision Approval; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act for the above referenced action as proposed, and, therefore, neither a Full Environmental Assessment Form, nor an Environmental Impact Statement will be required. A vote on the MOTION resulted as follows: PLANNING BOARD PAGE 6 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED AYES: Wilcox, Ainslie, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval and Site Plan Modification for the proposed modification of lot lines of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's. 58 -2- 39.622 and 58 -2- 39.621 located at 201/203 Westview Lane, Residence District R -15. The proposed lot line and site plan modifications will reflect the lots and duplex as built as part of the Grandview Subdivision, which is a modification of what was approved on the original site plan. Elizabeth Giorgianni and Katherine Gajewski, Owner /Applicant. Attorney Barney stated that he is concerned that the proposed resolution did not talk about any requirement for access to the back property for the driveway and water /sewer lines. The board might want to impose a condition that the deed to Lot 44 -B have an easement. There needs to be an easement across the front lot. Ivar Jonson, 934 East Shore Drive, stated that many times the sewer lines might be on the other person's property. There is an easement. Attorney Barney stated that there needs to be evidence provided that there is an easement in existence or made to be in existence. Mr. Jonson stated that it is very steep when you drive up the road. It would not have been possible to arrange the house any other way on the lot. Attorney Barney stated that it would have been helpful if he had come back before the board for a site plan modification. Mr. Jonson stated that he received the Certificate of Occupancy. Attorney Barney stated that there was a gentleman in New York City who received a building permit. He put an additional 13 stories on a building in an area where it was not permitted. The highest court in the State of New York required him to remove the 13 stories. Mr. Jonson stated that he assumed that he would not have received a Certificate of Occupancy if it were not okay. Attorney Barney stated that the responsibility is on the developer. Chairperson Wilcox opened the public hearing at 7:50 p.m., and asked if any member of the public wished to be heard. With no persons present to be heard, Chairperson Wilcox closed the public hearing at 7:51 p.m. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 7 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -39 - Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval, Site Plan Modification Lot Line and Site Plan Modification, 2011203 Westview Lane, Tax Parcel No.'s 58 -2- 39.622 and 58-2 - .W R21 MOTION made by Larry Thayer, seconded by Tracy Mitrano. WHEREAS: 1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval and Site Plan Modification for the proposed modification of lot lines of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 58 -2- 39.622 and 58 -2- 39.621 located at 2011203 Westview Lane, Residence District R -15. The proposed lot line and site plan modifications will reflect the lots and duplex as built as part of the Grandview Subdivision, which is a modification of what was approved on the original site plan. Elizabeth Giorgianni and Katherine Gajewski, Owners /Applicants. 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 and Site Plan Approval, has, on April 25, 2000, made a negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a Part 11 prepared by Town Planning staff, and 3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on April 25, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate, a plat entitled, "Map of Survey Lots 44 -A and 44 -B Grandview Subdivision," prepared by Robert S. Russler JR., Licensed Land Surveyor, dated November 14, 1987 and revised March 23, 2000, and other application materials; NOW THEREFORE BE I T RESOLVED: 1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval and Site Plan Modification, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Subdivision and Site Plan Checklists, 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, and 3. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval and Site Plan Modification for the proposed modification of lot lines of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 58 -2- 39.622 and 58 -2- 39.621 located at 2011203 Westview Lane, as shown on the plat entitled, "Map of Survey Lots 44 -A and 44 -B Grandview Subdivision," prepared by Robert S. Russler JR., Licensed Land Surveyor, dated November 14, 1987 and revised march 23, 2000, subject to the following conditions: a. submission for signing by the Chairman of the Planning Board of an original or mylar copy of the plat and three dark -lined prints, prior to filing with the Tompkins County Clerk's Office. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 8 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED b. delivery to and approval by the Attorney for the Town of the proof of existence of appropriate easements for access for ingress and egress and water and sewer lines to Lot 44 -B before signing of the plat by the Chairperson. A vote on the MOTION resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Ainslie, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS: Chairperson Wilcox stated that the board received a pamphlet in their packet about the 2nd Annual Smart Growth Conference in Albany, New York. Mr. Kanter will be attending. Board Member Howe stated that he is attending the conference. Chairperson Wilcox stated that the board received a copy of a brochure indicating that the Tompkins County Planning Federation is sponsoring a training session. He would encourage the newer members of the board to attend the training session. They do ask that they RSVP. AGENDA ITEM: Continuation of Consideration of SEAR Determination, Paleontological Research Institution — Proposed Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road. Chairperson Wilcox opened this segment of the meeting at 8:00 p.m. Warren Allmon, Director of PRI, stated that they were before the board April 4t ". Since then they have had several extensive meetings with their neighbor to the east, Les Reizes. This included a walk through his property. They also had a meeting with Joe Ciaschi, the neighbor to the south. Mr. Reizes has indicated that his clients will not take a position on the drainage solution that will be presented to the board. It did indicate in one of the documents that Mr. Reizes had not seen the drainage. He has seen the drainage solution. Attorney Barney did speak with him regarding the drainage. Mr. Allmon stated that he had a brief meeting with Joe Ciaschi. He expressed his support for the project and he also said that it would not be a problem to get an easement for the storm water pipe. They have also addressed the concerns of the New York State DOT. Michael Manfredi, Weiss- Manfredi Architects, stated that they have brought all the material with them. They are prepared to discuss the project and answer any questions the board might have. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 9 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED David Herrick, TG Miller, stated that the meeting minutes very well laid out the presentation by Stephen Ferranti. His analysis was that with the modifications that were made, they had mitigated the regional and on site circulation issues. The DOT responded favorably to Mr. Ferranti's report. Mr. Herrick stated that the existing conditions of the watershed are broken down into 3 subareas. Mr. Herrick showed the board a drawing of the 3 subareas. Subarea 2 is a large lawn area that drains onto Ciaschi property through overland flow. It runs down to the existing curved roadway and ultimately ends up in the Ciaschi storm sewer system that discharges on to Cayuga Cliffs several hundred feet south of the PRI property. The blue area is mostly existing pavement that are picked up by the small amount of storm sewer system that is currently on site. The discharge is now through an 8 -inch pipe about 2/3 of the way up the property line onto Cayuga Cliffs. The yellow area drains overland, across the grass, and onto Cayuga Cliffs. Subarea 1 and Subarea 3 drain directly on to the Cayuga Cliffs area. Mr. Herrick stated that at the previous meeting they had an approach that attempted to minimize the flows to the Ciaschi property. This created a larger amount of flow from the balance of the property on to the Cayuga Cliffs property. They modified their original plan, to come back to the board with a traditional detention facility. The detention basin is located behind the new museum. They sacrificed a little of their site design in that there was a leg of a turn around that would facilitate easier access to the back of the museum. They have lost a portion of that to accommodate the grading for the detention basin. They have also gone back to adding traditional base flow in to the Ciaschi storm sewer system. They found that they were unable to handle all the site runoff in the back. Some of the flow from the building and one of the parking lots will be sent through a conventional storm sewer system into Ciaschi. This has allowed them to reduce the volume and rates of runoff from Subarea 1. There is a sliver of untouched property that is Subarea 3. Mr. Herrick stated that they presented a table in the revised storm water report that might be misleading in describing the amounts of discharge that come out of the storm water basin compared with Subarea 1. Subarea 1 and Subarea 3 drain on to Cayuga Cliffs. They now have Subarea 1 that is much larger and a small piece that is Subarea 3. Subarea 1 and Subarea 3's contribution after going through the detention basin is very similar in rates of run off for the 2 -year, 10 -year, 50 -year and 100 -year storm events. The 2 -year event does exceed the existing condition slightly. Using a traditional basin of the geometry shown, they have been able to mitigate the peak rates of run off to the point where DOT has given verbal acceptance of this concept. Board Member Ainslie asked what is the depth and circumference of the retention basin. Will there be water present at all times? Mr. Herrick stated that they would like to have the flexibility of developing it as a dry or wet basin. There is an opportunity to make this an ammenity to the museum. The geometry might change so that it is more appealing. It is about 150 feet in length. The width is about 60 to 75 feet. It is about 3 feet from the top of the embankment to the invert of the pipe. There could be the possibility of deepening it if they choose to keep an elevation in this. The consultant team does have some interest in using innovative ways of tying it to the museum. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 10 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED They feel that they have addressed any DOT concerns. They have taken care of many of the concerns that were represented in the various committee and sub - committee letters. Board Member Ainslie asked if there is an overflow for the retention basin. Mr. Herrick stated that the embankment would serve as an overflow. It is about 4 inches lower across a certain length of it than it is on the very ends. There could be some shallow flow over the top for storms greater than 100 -year. Chairperson Wilcox stated that Mr. Herrick previously proposed an innovative sheeting technique. He presumes that it was proposed because it was thought to have some advantages over the more traditional drainage. What has been given up by going to the more traditional way of handling the drainage? Mr. Herrick stated that they had a level area that would allow flow in shallow depths to flow across the neighbor's property. They now have an outlet pipe. They have gone back to channelizing the flow. At the end of the pipe there is an end wall. They are installing riprap and it will be flared out as much as possible. This will allow the water to have a chance to spread out. He is not looking to channelize the water across the property. It will be more channelized than it was previously. Mr. Walker stated that this does take up more area. They have lost some parking. Board Member Thayer asked if the end wall and riprap was on PRI property. Mr. Herrick responded that it is on PRI property. Board Member Howe asked if it would create any hazards to the turn around being lost behind the museum. Mr. Herrick stated that it might. It might create conditions where someone may have to help the driver to back in to the area. Mr. Manfredi stated that it would be easier to get the trucks in and out of the area if there was a wider loading dock area. In this case a tractor - trailer would not be able to get in and then be able to maneuver out easily. Board Member Ainslie asked if the driveway would be sturdy enough to hold a tractor - trailer. Mr. Herrick stated that it is a generous depth of crushed limestone. Chairperson Wilcox asked Mr. Walker if he had any comments on the drainage. Mr. Walker stated that the drainage limits the proposed condition discharges to the existing condition discharges. The storage that they have handles the excess run off. They have sacrificed PLANNING BOARD PAGE 11 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED some of the planned area to do so. The Fire Department may have some access concerns because there will be 200 to 300 feet of the perimeter of the building that is not easily accessible. The building will have sprinklers. The risk of a fire hazard is going to be low. Chairperson Wilcox asked Mr. Walker if he prefers the new drainage plan to the old drainage plan Mr. Walker stated that the new plan keeps the discharge off the site to almost what it is today. The original plan was based on a constraint that they did not have enough room as they needed to make it work. Chairperson Wilcox asked Ms. Aiken if she could share her conversations with Mr. Reizes to the board. Tammi Aiken, TG Miller, stated that she met with Warren Allmon, Shirley Egan, and Mr. Reizes at PRI. They discussed Mr. Reizes' concerns with the drainage. He was concerned about the increase in flow. She explained the difference between the peaks and the volumes. She also explained some of the concepts with respect to storm water management practices. They still need to discharge someplace and that he is currently receiving some of the storm water discharges from the site. It was explained that the area as it is now receives some of the storm water discharge from PRI and from the Ciaschi property. Ms. Aiken stated that they decided to walk the property. They walked across the back of PRI, down to Ciaschi's property. They followed the outlet of the stormwater from that property. They did notice some of the dispersion characteristics and land characteristics. Ms. Aiken stated that they continued to walk down the sewer easement and walked back north to the other outlet, where the other outlet would intercept. Ms. Aiken showed the route of their walk on a drawing to the board. They also walked the general site where they anticipate the dispersion terrace to go. Mr. Reizes felt more comfortable about the storm water management practices that they were proposing. He realized that storm water is going on to his property now. He had not realized that he had storm water dispersing on to his property. Mr. Reizes did not realize that the property is wet now. Chairperson Wilcox stated his opinion that Mr. Reizes is not present and he was present three weeks ago. It speaks for itself. Attorney Barney stated that he did speak with Mr. Reizes earlier. His opinion was that the proposal that is before the board is a better proposal than he had seen before. However, he does not want to commit to saying that he approves the plan because he does not want to be barred from raising a question later. He does not oppose it, but he is not blessing it either. Chairperson Wilcox asked if Shirley Egan is part owner. Mr. Allmon stated that Ms. Egan is the PRI Board President. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 12 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Board Member Ainslie asked what would be the outcome if he were still concerned in the future Attorney Barney stated that he is uncomfortable having the Planning Board proceed in a fashion that is going to be unacceptable to the landowner, because he does not want to buy a lawsuit. Mr. Reizes' reaction was that he does not think that there is going to be a problem. If there were, he would view it as a private nuisance and would go to PRI. The main message was that he is not opposed, but he is not in favor. Mr. Walker stated that there is one concentrated flow point that comes off the PRI property into Mr. Reizes' property. By putting the pond in, the same size outfall is being put in at the southern end of the PRI property. The whole area is wet and takes a lot of drainage now. Developing the area would take some drainage work. From an engineering standpoint, the discharge point that exists today and what is proposed will not make it any worse. Board Member Thayer asked if the drainage should be less than what he is getting now except in a large storm. Mr. Walker stated that they are keeping the conditions to preexisting conditions. The 2 -year storm is slightly larger, but it is a more frequent event that the storm water system will handle without any difficulty. Board Member Ainslie stated that the Cayuga Cliffs property is going to get water on their land that they have to control. This is not going to control the water. The property is downhill. The situation cannot be completely dried up. Mr. Walker stated that if the board looks at exhibits 2 and 3 in the packet. There is an outfall below the property line that drains across the property. There is also a swale. This area has sheet flow. It is discharging across 300 feet of property. The new proposal will have a single discharge point near the southerly end of the PRI property. This will remove discharge from 300 feet and put it into one small area. It is diverting water away from a portion of the Cayuga Cliff's property. Board Member Thayer asked if they decide to dig the area deeper and make a pond out of it, will it change the overall drainage. Mr. Walker stated that it should not. Any depth below the usable 3 -foot of storage is going to be better for the pond. Board Member Ainslie asked if they have taken borings at the site of the proposed site. Mr. Herrick stated that they took borings in the area of the museum. They did do borings close to the property, but none where the majority of the basin is proposed. Board Member Ainslie asked if there would be a turning lane. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 13 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Mr. Herrick stated that DOT did not see the need to have a turning lane. Mr. Ferranti did suggest that they have generous radii at the entrance so those larger vehicles could enter and exit the property without having to encroach into the other lane. Mr. Walker stated that the volume of traffic generated by this project will be much less than what is generated at the hospital. Board Member Ainslie stated that there is a problem when coming west at Bundy and Hayts Roads. Cars need to take two wheels on the shoulder. Chairperson Wilcox asked if DOT has seen the drainage as modified. Ms. Ritter stated that the DOT was sent all the revised drainage information. They do feel comfortable with the drainage. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -40 - SEQR: Paleontological Research Institution — Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road (Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.1). MOTION made by Tracy Mitrano, seconded by James Ainslie. WHEREAS: 1. The Paleontological Research Institution is proposing to expand its current facilities with the construction of an 18,000 square foot two -story building, to be known as the Museum of the Earth, with parking to accommodate approximately 64 cars, on a portion of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.1, totaling 6.35 +/- acres in size, located on Trumansburg Road, R -30 Residence District, and 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board has been designated to act as Lead Agency, with a coordinated review among the other involved agencies, in the environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval and the approvals requested from the other Involved Agencies, and 3. The Planning Board on April 25, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Long Environmental Assessment Form (LEAF), Part 1, submitted by the applicant, and Part II LEAF prepared by the Town Planning staff, and an Environmental Review and Preliminary Site Plan Submission (Date Received by Town of Ithaca 2122100), a Stormwater Management Study (March 4, 2000, revised April 18, 2000), Site Impact Traffic Evaluation for the proposed Museum of the Earth (2117100), along with other application materials, and 4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed Site Plan Approval and the actions of the other Involved Agencies. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 14 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act for the above referenced action as proposed, and, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be required. A vote on the MOTION resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Ainslie, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and Recommendations to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding Special Approval and a sign variance for the proposed Museum of the Earth, Paleontological Research Institution's new public educational and exhibit facility. The new museum will be an 18,000 ± square foot, two -story expansion partially below grade. New parking areas will accommodate approximately 64 cars that will be concealed from the road. The project site is located at 1259 Trumansburg Road (State Route 96) on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.1, Residence District R -30. Warren Allmon, Executive Director, Paleontological Research Institution, Owner /Applicant; TG Miller, PC, Engineers and Surveyors and Weiss- Manfredi, Architects, Agents. Mr. Manfredi stated that they are intending to preserve the cattail area, and turn it into a more permanent feature. They are proposing to make the building appear as two different buildings above grade, but will be connected below grade. The building closest to the existing PRI building will be the educational wing. It will have a lobby, multi - purpose room, the whale, and there will be a ramp with a mural that will document the evolution and the passage of time. The other wing is devoted to the exhibition area. There is an open area between the two buildings. It is an entry plaza. When the weather is nice someone might be able to walk in to a smaller intimate garden. Lightly shaded in blue is the new water detention area that was described by Mr. Herrick. They are trying to think of how to turn it in to an amenity. They would like to shape it so that it can be seen from the outdoor areas and be treated as an attractive feature. Mr. Manfredi presented drawings to the board that showed how the parking is terraced. The intent is to terrace the parking and berm in such a way that from Trumansburg Road it is concealed as much as possible. The intent is to have Lenrock retaining walls. The building is below grade. The roofing material will be a turn - coated metal. It will start to age within 6 months to 2 years. They are going to line the bottom of the water feature with crushed Lenrock. It will have texture and character that will make it attractive. Mr. Manfredi stated that generally exterior spaces are over lighted. A typical Wal -Mart parking lot would have about 50 -foot candles. Moonlight is about .002 foot - candles. A dollar bill can be read PLANNING BOARD PAGE 15 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED by moonlight. Their parking lots average out to be about 3 -foot candles. They are using spill light, light from inside the building to wash the plaza. There are 3 light fixtures. They are located in such a way where cars will be turning. The photometrics are such that there is a larger pool of light. They are concerned about spill. There is a shield that prevents someone from looking at the lamp or the bulb. The light is deflected onto a conical element and spills downward off a shade. They think that they can control photometrics in a precise way. The smaller lights are an incandescent light. They will give a softer, warmer glow. Board Member Ainslie asked if there would be evening programs. Is the lighting for evening programs? Mr. Allmon stated that the operating hours of the museum are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. There might be an evening program once in a while. If it does become dark at 4:30 p.m., this level of lighting would be for late afternoon regular operation hours. They would like to have the museum open and available in the evenings. Mr. Manfredi stated that the lights would be on a timer. Light levels will also trigger it. If there were a thunderstorm at 2:00 p.m., the lights would turn on. Mr. Manfredi stated that the sign is a low concrete wall adjacent to the entry. The wall slopes down to a low point. At the high point the wall is 6 feet high. There will be a sign for the Museum of the Earth on the concrete wall. They are proposing to have a stamped metal letter signage graphic. They think it will be a nice texture change. The lettering will be made of brushed aluminum or brushed stainless steel. It will be lit by 2 lights on either side of the sign. The light fixture has an adjustable focusing device. This light would be about 10 -foot candles. The sign at the hospital is about 20 -foot candles. Adjacent to the lettering will be the PRI dinosaur logo. It will also be made of brushed aluminum or brushed steel. Mr. Manfredi stated that Board Member Hoffmann had a question about what could be seen from the plaza. If someone were to stand in the plaza, they would be able to see through the wing and enjoy the fine stone work on the existing building. The State Historic Preservation Office is very interested in marking or distinguishing new buildings from old buildings. Making sure that the buildings are compatible, but not the same. The glass line has been pulled back so that the east fagade of the existing building can be seen in its entirety from the inside of the new building. There is an attempt to have dialog between the old and the new evident from the outside and inside. Mr. Manfredi stated that Board Member Hoffmann asked what would happen if they turned the building. They took the footprint and showed how the parking would be impinged. They also need the area for water. He wanted to be able to demonstrate it for her. Mr. Manfredi presented drawings to the board that were the south view from Trumansburg Road. They are trying to keep the massing of the new building pushed in such a way that it would not upstage the existing building. It was important to make an inviting plaza and to make clear that this is a new museum. They are trying to strike a balance between making the entry to the museum and the view of the whale an important feature. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 16 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Board Member Ainslie asked if they are worried about insulation in the building. Mr. Manfredi stated that there are some areas of the project that are very open. The area to the east has very good thermal capacity because it is buried. Board Member Ainslie asked if they would insulate under the main roof. Mr. Manfredi responded yes. It will be rigid insulation. Board Member Thayer asked if the building is lower now than the original plan. He remembered that the rooflines were going to be equal. It appears that they are lower. Mr. Manfredi responded no. These are the drawings that they presented to SHPO. The eave lines match. Amy Nettleton, Elemental Landscape, stated that the site plan has been closely integrated with the development of the architecture. They are also trying to choose plant materials that integrate with the educational mission of the museum. On one hand they want to interpret the landform, geology and the natural plant communities that might be present on the site or could be established on the site. They would also like to introduce plant materials that are related to ancient plant materials. They are preserving the existing wet area. They are re- rooting a lot of exotic shrubs and invasive shrubs that have established themselves in that area. They are favoring the cattails and augmenting some of the native shrubs that have become established. They are also preserving the existing large spruce. The large arborvitae is going to be preserved. Some of the over mature shrub material will be removed. They are also adding Dawn redwood, Ginkgo magnolia in the back garden area. The large triangular area, which is presently mowed lawn, will be converted to switch grass. It will be left to grow to its mature height, which is 4 to 5 feet. It is adaptive to both the wet conditions and drier conditions. They are also introducing some other tall grass species in the swales by the parking lot. They are used in conjunction with the French drain system. It will help filter storm water runoff. Board Member Mitrano asked what Ms. Nettleton meant when she used the word ancient. Ms. Nettleton stated that ancient plant groups being those that developed early in plant history. The species that they would show might be closely related to early plants. There are a few plants that are very closely related to plants that were existing millions of years ago. Board Member Ainslie asked if the plants would survive the winters. Ms. Nettleton stated that they are plants that are not native to this region, but could adapt. Chairperson Wilcox opened the public hearing at 9:01 p.m., and asked if any member of the public wished to be heard. With no persons present to be heard, Chairperson Wilcox closed the public hearing at 9:02 p.m. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 17 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox stated that this could be a beautiful site. Board Member Ainslie asked if the museum has received all the money that they need. Do they need all the money before they can start? Mr. Allmon stated that the board would be deciding that in 2 weeks. They will not start until they know that they have all of the hard costs involved with this project in hand. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -41 - Paleontological Research Institute - Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road, Preliminary Site Plan Approval & Recommendation to Zoning Board of Appeals for Special Approval and Sign Board Review Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals. MOTION made by Rod Howe, seconded by Larry Thayer. WHEREAS: 1. This action is Consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and a Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding Special Approval, as well as Sign Review Board Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, for the proposed expansion of the Paleontological Research Institution facilities located on 1259 Trumansburg Road. Said proposal includes the construction of an 18, 000 square foot two -story building, to be known as the Museum of the Earth, parking facilities to accommodate 64 cars, a proposed sign /wall, landscaping, and lighting located on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.1, 6.4 acres, R -30 Residential District. Paleontological Research Institute (PRI), Owner; Warren Allmon, PRI Director, T.G. Miller, P.C., Engineers and Surveyors, and Weiss- Manfredi Architects, Applicants /Agents, and 2. This is an Unlisted Action pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), 6 NYCRR Part 617, and Town of Ithaca Local Law No. 5 of the Year 1988, providing for environmental review of actions in the Town of Ithaca. The Town of Ithaca Planning Board acting as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval and Special Approval, in coordination with other involved agencies, has on April 25, 2000, reviewed and accepted as adequate a Long Environmental Assessment Form Part 1 prepared by the applicant, and a Long Environmental Assessment Form Part II prepared by planning staff, and made a negative determination of environmental significance, and 3. The Planning Board, at a public hearing held on April 25, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate application materials presented by the applicant, including an Environmental Review and Preliminary Site Plan Submission (Date Received by Town of Ithaca 2122100), a Stormwater Management Study (March 4, 2000 revised April 18, 2000), Site Impact Traffic Evaluation for the proposed Museum of the Earth (2117100) and supplemental information provided by the applicant. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: PLANNING BOARD PAGE 18 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED 1. That the Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary Site Plan Approval for the proposed construction of a 18,000 ± square foot, two story (museum) building, located at the Paleontological Research Institution's current facilities on Trumansburg Rd., on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.1, as shown in a site plan submission which includes an Environmental Review and Preliminary Site Plan Submission (Date Received by Town of Ithaca 2122100), a Stormwater Management Study (March 4, 2000 revised April 18, 2000), Site Impact Traffic Evaluation for the proposed Museum of the Earth (2117100) and supplemental information provided by the applicant, subject to the following conditions: a. granting by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the required Special Approval for the proposed project prior to Final Site Plan Approval; b. granting by the Zoning Board of Appeals for a sign variance prior to the issuance of any necessary permits; C. NYSDOT approval of proposed new driveway location and design prior to issuance of any building permit; d. submission of proposed easement for emergency access connection to adjacent parcel, for review and approval by the Attorney for the Town, prior to issuance of any building permit; e. submission of proposed easement for stormwater drainage over the Ciaschi property for review and approval by the Attorney for the Town, prior to issuance of any building permits; f. submission of proposed agreement for shared parking (for overflow parking during special events) on adjacent property(ies), for review and approval by the Attorney for the Town, prior to issuance of any building permit; g. submission of architectural details of proposed building (colors, materials, etc.) prior to Final Site Plan Approval; h. conveyance of proposed 20 foot wide easement to Town of Ithaca for operation and maintenance of water system prior to issuance of Certificate of Occupancy; revision of site plan to include name and seal of registered land surveyor or engineer who prepared the topographic and boundary survey and the date of survey; j. submission of documentation that the City of Ithaca Fire Department is satisfied with the provisions for access for fire and other emergency vehicles, prior to Final Site Plan Approval; PLANNING BOARD PAGE 19 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED k. submission of detailed sizing and final material specifications of all required improvements, prior to Final Site Plan Approval; submission of an original or mylar copy of the final site plan to be retained by the Town of Ithaca prior to the issuance of a building permit; M. submission to the Director of Planning of executed Memorandum of Agreement among the N.Y. S. Historic Preservation Office and the other involved State agencies regarding the preservation of the historic resources of the existing PRI building, prior to issuance of any building permits. AND BE I T FURTHER RESOL VED: 1. That the Planning Board, in making a recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals, determines the following: a. there is a need for the proposed use in the proposed location, as demonstrated by the applicant; b. the existing and probable future character of the neighborhood will not be adversely affected as a result of the proposed project; C. the specific proposed change in land use as a result of the proposed project is in accordance with a comprehensive plan of development for the Town of Ithaca. 2. That the Planning Board reports to the Zoning Board of Appeals its recommendation that the aforementioned request for Special Approval be approved. AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: 1. That the Planning Board, acting as the Sign Review Board, hereby recommends that the Zoning Board of Appeals approve the proposed sign variance for the Museum of the Earth, for the sign as shown on Sheet AS103 in the Environmental Review and Preliminary Site Plan, entitled "Site Details ", dated February 22, 2000. A vote on the MOTION resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Ainslie, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS: PLANNING BOARD PAGE 20 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox stated that Mr. Kanter wrote a letter to Ashley Management about their snow removal at East Hill Plaza. What is happening with Big AI's? Mr. Kanter stated that Mr. Herzing submitted some revised plans. They had not done any changes to the drainage or gravel areas. Mr. Walker looked at the plans. He did not like the plans. The plans did not address the original drainage calculations. The drawings have been sent back to Mr. Herzing. The Town should be receiving the plans. Board Member Mitrano asked what happens if the Town does not receive the plans. Mr. Kanter stated that the temporary Certificate of Occupancy would be expiring soon. The Town does have the leverage of whether or not to extend the Certificate of Occupancy. If it looks like they are progressing and they are scheduled to come, they would not need to worry about it. Board Member Ainslie stated that Board Member Hoffmann was concerned about the trees not being planted. Mr. Kanter stated that Mr. Herzing is going back to the original landscaping plan with the exception of the area around the freestanding sign. Chairperson Wilcox stated that this process is dragging along. Board Member Howe asked if there is an update on the Cradit -Moore House. Attorney Barney stated that they have agreed on the lease terms and the covenants. Board Member Thayer asked if it is 100 -year lease or a 7 -year lease. Attorney Barney stated that it is a 99 -year lease. Much of the objectionable material is now limited to the last 10 years of the lease. Attorney Barney stated that he met with Supervisor Valentino, Mr. Kanter, Hal Craft and Shirley Egan. The first thing that happened in the meeting was that the 7 -year issue became a 99 -year lease. Board Member Ainslie stated that they have not done anything to the new site. Mr. Kanter stated that they need to get the record of the building permit from Cayuga Heights. ADJOURNMENT: Upon MOTION, Chairperson Wilcox declared the April 25, 2000 meeting of Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 9:16 p.m. Respectfully submitted: PLANNING BOARD PAGE 21 APRIL 25, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Carrie L. Coates, Deputy Town Clerk.