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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 2000-09-05Town of Ithaca Planning Board Tuesday, September 5, 2000 The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, September 5, 2000, in Town Hall, 215 North Tioga, Ithaca, New York, at 7:30 p.m. PRESENT: Fred Wilcox, Chairperson; Eva Hoffmann, Board Member; George Conneman, Board Member; Tracy Mitrano, Board Member; Larry Thayer, Board Member; Rod Howe, Board Member; Jon Kanter, Director of Planning; John Barney, Attorney for the Town; Dan Walker, Director of Engineering; Susan Ritter, Environmental Planner; Mike Smith, Planner. ALSO PRESENT: Ruth & Sam Peter, 1083 Danby Road; Lori Emmons, PRI; Chris Ballentine, Weiss - Manfredi Architects; David Herrick, TG Miller; Michael Manfredi, Weiss- Manfredi Architects; Warren Allmon, PRI; Will Ober, PRI; Amy Nettleton, Elemental Landscapes; Tammi Akin, TG Miller; Bill Gaudreau, Gaudreau Architects; Shirley Egan, Cornell University; Dwight Lopes, Baker Institute; Jim Hung, Baker Institute, Doug Antczak, Baker Institute. Chairperson Wilcox declared the meeting duly opened at 7:34 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 August 28, 2000, and August 30, 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 August 30, 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 this segment of the meeting at 7:34 p.m., and asked if any members of the public wished to be heard. With no persons present to be heard, Chairperson Wilcox closed this segment of the meeting at 7:35 p.m. AGENDA ITEM: SEAR, Determination, Same Peter Furniture Store Addition, 1083 Danby Road. Chairperson Wilcox opened this segment of the meeting at 7:35 p.m. Sam Peter, 1111 Danby Road, stated the south side of the store has a shed roof. It is the only unattractive part of the building. The addition will enhance the building. Mr. Herzing, Big AI's, is in favor of the project. He liked the plans. Mr. Peter stated that it is not a large addition. The addition is improving the aesthetics of the entire building. It will increase the value of the building. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 2 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED -APRIL 3, 2001 -APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox asked Mr. Peter if he was aware of any environmental issues related to the proposed addition. Mr. Peter responded there are no environmental issues. They are not adding to the ground coverage. The addition is on the second story. Chairperson Wilcox asked if there are additional exterior lights. Mr. Peter responded no. Board Member Mitrano asked if the clock would be illuminated. Mr. Peter responded that he does not know if it will be illuminated. The architect has the style of the clock. Chairperson Wilcox stated that it is an important issue if the clock face is illuminated to such an extent that someone on the other side of the valley will see it in the evening. The board does not want a lighting issue. Mr. Peter stated that he would be willing to eliminate the clock from the design if the Planning Board so desired. Chairperson Wilcox stated that he thinks the clock is a wonderful architectural aspect of what is being proposed. It needs to be done properly so that it does not create glare. Mr. Kanter stated that approval could be conditioned that architectural details of the lighting be submitted. Board Member Hoffmann stated that Mr. Smith mentioned in his memorandum to the board that the existing building exceeds the building coverage requirement. It does not state the percentage. Mr. Peter stated that he received a variance for lot coverage. Mr. Smith stated that in a Business C zone the maximum lot coverage is 30 %. The current building is at 43% lot coverage. The addition has a .005% increase. The lot coverage does not change. Board Member Hoffmann asked what is the square footage of the addition. The memorandum to the board mentions 178 square feet. The drawing shows 196 square feet. Mr. Smith stated that 196 square feet is shown on the drawings. Previously submitted plans showed 178 square feet. The resolutions should be changed to 196 square feet. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 3 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Board Member Thayer stated that he has been a friendly competitor and friends with Mr. Peter for many years. Board Member Thayer asked if he should abstain from voting. Attorney Barney responded that Board Member Thayer is eligible to vote on the motion. Chairperson Wilcox closed this segment of the meeting at 7:41 p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -74 - SEQR Preliminary & Final Site Plan Approval, Sam Peter Furniture Store. 1083 Danbv Road. Tax Parcel No. 43 -1 -5. MOTION made by Tracy Mitrano, seconded by Larry Thayer. WHEREAS: 1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed addition to Sam Peter Furniture Store, located at 1083 Danby Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 43 -1 -5, Business District "C ". The addition includes an expansion of 196 +/- square feet on the first floor and 1, 634 +/- square feet on the second floor to be used as additional stock room space. Sam Peter, Owner /Applicant, and 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval, and 3. The Planning Board, on September 5, 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, plans entitled "Addition to Sam Peter Furniture Store — Ithaca NY," sheets SP -1 and SP -2, revised 8- 25 -00, prepared by Tallman & Tallman Architects, and other application material, and 4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental significance with respect to the proposed Site Plan 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, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be required. A vote on the motion resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Hoffmann, Conneman, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NAYS: None. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 4 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED -APRIL 3, 2001 -APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED The motion was declared to be carried unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed addition to Sam Peter Furniture Store, located at 1083 Danby Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 43 -1 -5, Business District "C ". The addition includes an expansion of 178 ± square feet on the first floor and 1634 ± square feet on the second floor to be used as additional stock room space. Sam Peter, Owner /Applicant. Chairperson Wilcox opened the public hearing at 7:41 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 7:43 p.m. Board Member Hoffmann asked how much stockroom space is there in the building. Mr. Peter stated that he has a warehouse behind the store. The warehouse is 90 x 36. He has about 3,000 square feet of storage. Board Member Hoffmann stated on drawing SP1 it looks as if there is another warehouse. Mr. Peter stated that he has another warehouse that is 90 x 18. He has about 5,000 square feet of storage space. Board Member Hoffmann stated that it is a lot of storage space. Mr. Peter stated that they could use more storage space. Board Member Hoffmann asked if any of the area might be turned into retail space in the future Mr. Peter stated at this point they need storage space. There is State land located behind the store. He has been trying to buy the land for 10 years. If he were able to buy the State land, he would like to put additional warehouse space on that property. The furniture business requires a lot of warehouse space. The amount of storage space they are adding is not going to make a great difference. The main importance is the aesthetics. It is going to increase the value of the store. It is going to enhance its beauty. They need the most warehouse space in the fall when the students return. Board Member Mitrano asked where the State land is located. Mr. Peter replied that it is located directly behind his store. Mr. Kanter stated that the land is used for a truck turn around. The area is used for trucks to test their breaks. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 5 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED -APRIL 3, 2001 -APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED Mr. Peter stated since the traffic light has been installed, trucks are no longer required to use the turn around. The State is discussing closing the road. Mr. Kanter stated that the Town has been involved in discussions with the State and County. School buses for Montessori School line up in the turn around area. Mr. Peter stated that they are not a high traffic business. They do not need a lot of parking spaces. He has always had enough parking. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -75 - Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval, Sam Peter Furniture Store, 1083 Danbv Road, Tax Parcel No. 43 -1 -5. MOTION made by George Conneman, seconded by Rod Howe. WHEREAS: 1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed addition to Sam Peter Furniture Store, located at 1083 Danby Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 43 -1 -5, Business District "C ". The addition includes an expansion of 196 +/- square feet on the first floor and 1, 634 +/- square feet on the second floor to be used as additional stock room space. Sam Peter, Owner /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 Site Plan Approval, has, on September 5, 2000, made a negative determination of environmental significance, after having 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, and 3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on September 5, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate, plans entitled "Additions to Sam Peter Furniture Store — Ithaca NY," sheets SP -1 and SP -2, revised 8- 25 -00, prepared by Tallman & Tallman Architects, and other application material. 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 Checklists, 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 Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed addition to Sam Peter Furniture Store, located at 1083 Danby Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 43 -1 -5, Business District C, as shown on plans entitled PLANNING BOARD PAGE 6 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED 'Additions to Sam Peter Furniture Store — Ithaca NY, sheets SP -1 and SP -2, revised 8- 25 -00, prepared by Tallman & Tallman Architects, subject to the following conditions, to be completed prior to issuance of any building permits: a. submission of an original or mylar copy of the final site plan, to be retained by the Town of Ithaca, and b. the granting of any required approvals by the Zoning Board of Appeals, C. improvement of the existing planter on the South side of the building with the addition of low shrubs and annuals or perennial flowers, and maintenance of planters in reasonable condition, and d. submission for review and approval of Director of Planning of details of lighting of the proposed clock. A vote on the motion resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Hoffmann, Conneman, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NAYS: None. The vote on the motion was declared to be carried unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Final Site Plan Approval 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. The project site is located at 1259 Trumansburg Road (State Route 96) on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 4- 3 -3.1, Residence District R -30. Warren Allmon, Executive Director, Paleontological Research Institution, Owner /Applicant; T.G. Miller, P.C., Engineers and Surveyors and Weiss- Manfredi, Architects, Agents. Warren Allmon, Director of PRI, stated that a new Mastodon would be coming to Ithaca. The addition allows this to happen. Michael Manfredi, Weiss- Manfredi Architects, stated that they have made some changes that improve the site plan. The berms have been changed to be primarily grass. The height of the berms had been 11 feet and 6 inches. The berms remain at the same height. They have simplified the configuration of the berm. The intent is to shield the parking lot. The driveways have been reconfigured to allow for more generous turning radii. The sidewalks have also been widened. The buses are able to queue in front of the building. They have spent a lot of time on the detention area behind the building. The detention area is very close to the museum. They have made it into a feature of the new building. It is a longer, thinner pool of water. They have tried to engage it with the more private outdoor areas. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 7 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Mr. Manfredi presented samples of building material to the board. Mr. Manfredi stated that it is very difficult to capture the texture of the material in drawings. The building is concealed on three sides by berms or garden walls. The most visible areas of the building are made of glass and concrete. It is their intention to develop concrete that has warmth to it. They would like to cast ferns and shells into the concrete. This would be done in areas around the entry. They are going to introduce Lenrock into the ground plane. There will be panels of maple inside the building. The areas of approach will be visible. Their intent is to have the materials on display visible during the day and in the evening. The long window will house Barbara Page's 544 panels. Each panel represents one million years. It will be an impressive element visible from the outside. David Herrick, TG Miller, stated they made dimensional changes in the turning radii. The entrance with Route 96 has been enlarged to accommodate bus - turning movement without encroaching into the exit lanes. The sidewalks in front of the building have been widened to 8 feet. The scheme of the detention basin developed for Preliminary Site Plan was teardrop shaped. It has been modified to be an educational element. The capacity and function of the basin remains the same. It does provide a long, linear flow path for storm water, which is the recommended practice. Amy Nettleton, Elemental Landscapes, stated she felt it was important to integrate the detention basin with the building. There is a relationship between the water, detention basin and the building. There are opportunities to view the basin from the terrace. They have chosen to have a wet basin. There is a deep pool where the storm water enters and a deep pool where the storm water exits. Then it becomes shallower. The edges gently slope to support the bottomlands. The plantings will be on the edge of the pond. They have not decided on the species. The banks of the detention basin will be mowed lawns. Board Member Hoffmann stated that she wanted to more clearly understand the changes in the height of the stone walls along the berms. Before they ranged from 2 feet high at the southern end to 6 or 7 feet high at the northern end. They have been lowered. What height have they been lowered to? Mr. Manfredi stated that they are 3 feet. In the earlier scheme the retaining walls triangulated. They went from the low to the high and stepped up to the highest point. The highest point is 11.6 feet. The view from the road is exactly the same. The big difference is that the retaining wall is now constant at a height of approximately 3 feet then pitches up to 11.5 feet. They were concerned about the cost in the previous design. They did not want this seen as an eye sore. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 8 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Board Member Hoffmann asked if there is a wall on the other side of the driveway along side the water feature. Mr. Manfredi responded no. The land slopes down into a series of water terraces. Board Member Thayer asked if the roads are two -way. Mr. Herrick stated that the entrance is two -way. The access in front of the museum is two - way. It then becomes one -way. It has not changed from preliminary approval. Board Member Thayer asked what is the depth of the retaining pool. Is fencing needed? Ms. Nettleton responded that the deepest sections of the water feature are up to 4 to 5 feet. Wherever there is access to the pool, it is very shallow. Board Member Thayer stated that he is concerned about safety. Ms. Nettleton stated that there is a shallow entry into the pool. Mr. Manfredi stated the intent is that access would be limited to those permitted. Children would only be near the water feature as part of a class. The intent is to see it from the platform. People are prevented from casually walking up to the feature. Chairperson Wilcox asked Mr. Walker if he had any comments on the detention basin. Mr. Walker responded no. Chairperson Wilcox stated it was mentioned that this is to be a wet basin. How is it made a wet basin instead of a dry basin? Ms. Nettleton stated that the water level is controlled by outlet. The outlet can be set to keep a water level. Chairperson Wilcox opened the public hearing at 8:19 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 8:20 p.m. Chairperson Wilcox asked if PRI knew the status of their funding. Mr. Allmon stated they have about half of the funding. Board Member Hoffmann stated that she would like the material colors of the new building to harmonize with the colors of the existing building. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 9 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Mr. Manfredi responded yes. They have not received final approval from the State Historic Preservation Office. The colors will be complimentary. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -76 -Paleontological Research Institution - Museum of the Earth, 1259 Trumansburg Road, Final Site Plan Approval. MOTION made by Larry Thayer, seconded by Tracy Mitrano. WHEREAS: 1. This action is Consideration of Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed expansion of the Paleontological Research Institution facilities located on 1259 Trumansburg Road. Said proposal includes the construction of an 18,000 + 1- 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 Institution (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 for which 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, did on April 25, 2000, make a negative determination of environmental significance, and 3. The Planning Board, on April 25, 2000, did grant Preliminary Site Plan Approval, with conditions, for the proposed project; and 4. The Zoning Board of Appeals, on May 10, 2000, did consider and grant the necessary variances and special approval for the proposed project; and 5. The Planning Board, at a public hearing held on September 5, 2000, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a document entitled "Museum of the Earth, Town of Ithaca Final Site Plan Submission" (date received by Town of Ithaca 8111100) and supplemental information provided by the applicant. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: 1. That the Planning Board hereby grants Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed construction of an 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 show on the drawings enclosed in the document entitled Museum of the Earth, Town of Ithaca Final Site Plan Submission (date received by Town of Ithaca 8111/00) and supplemental information provided by the applicant, subject to the following conditions, all to be completed prior to issuance of any building permits except where otherwise indicated: PLANNING BOARD PAGE 10 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED a. NYSDOT approval of proposed new driveway location and design; b. submission of proposed easement for emergency access connection to adjacent parcel to the south, for review and approval by the Attorney for the Town; C. submission of proposed easement for stormwater drainage over the Ciaschi property for review and approval by the Attorney for the Town; d. 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; e. 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; f. submission of documentation that the City of Ithaca Fire Department is satisfied with the provisions for access for fire and other emergency vehicles; g. submission of exterior elevations showing the architectural details of proposed building, showing the colors, and materials as presented to the Board on September 5, 2000; h. submission of an original or mylar copy of the final site plan to be retained by the Town of Ithaca; and 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. A vote on the motion resulted as follows: AYES: Wilcox, Hoffmann, Conneman, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NAYS: None. The motion was declared to be carried unanimously. AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a revised sketch plan for the proposed expansion of the James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health at Cornell University, located on Hungerford Hill Road on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 61 -1 -7, Residence District R -30. The proposed 40, 500 ± square foot expansion will have three floors of new laboratories, a facility for experimental animals, an atrium, and a new 100 seat lecture theater. Modifications to the parking lots and walkways are also proposed. In addition, old laboratories in the existing main building would be renovated for future laboratory use, and other recovered space would be used for library holdings, meeting rooms and offices. Cornell University, Owner /Applicant; TG Miller, PC, Agent. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 11 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox opened this segment of the meeting at 8:30 p.m. Jim Hung, Project Manager, stated that in the original application the building was a 3 -story laboratory with a fourth floor for K -9s. The floors have been reduced to 2 floors of laboratory and 1 floor for K -9s. Mr. Hung stated they last showed the board a plan of a 52,000 square foot building. They have since updated the plan and received Cornell's approval. This is a plan that they want to pursue. It does have one less floor. They would like to present the design and updates to the board. Doug Antczak, Director of Baker Institute, stated that they have not changed their mission. The Baker Institute is part of the Cornell Veterinary College. It is a research institute that focuses on two aspects of animal health: infectious diseases and genetics and genetic diseases. The institute has a distinguished history. They are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Mr. Antczak stated that a lot of their work is making vaccines and diagnostic tests for genetic diseases. This is preventive medicine. It cost effectively improves animal health. Mr. Antczak stated that they want to provide modern facilities for their research scientists. They need more space per investigator. Scientists have an average of 600 square feet per laboratory. This is two - thirds to one -half of what is commonly found in modern laboratories. The laboratories are very crowded. People often work in shifts. They would like to alleviate it. They would also like to have all scientists in one building. Mr. Antczak stated that the goals have remained the same. They do not plan to increase the number of people working at the Institute. In the past, there have been a total of 15 senior scientists at the Institute. There have been two recent retirements. They are planning to replace the retirees. The number of scientific groups will not be increased. Traffic flow and patterns of traffic at the Institute are being investigated. They do not plan an increase in traffic. They are not planning to have extra people working at the Institute. Bill Gaudreau, Gaudreau Architects, stated their presentation is going to focus on comments made by the Planning Board at the first sketch plan hearing. One concern was the visual impact of the building on the hillside. The second was the mass and bulk of the building. Mr. Gaudreau presented the original site plan submission to the board. The building included three stories of laboratory and one story of facilities. A large atrium connected the new building to the old building. The board's comments were focused on the light from the building at nighttime. The new building had many windows. Some of the comments focused on the mass of the building. The board had wanted to see a smaller scale building. The board also commented on the texture of the building and the amount of glass. The materials were reflective. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 12 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Mr. Gaudreau stated that they developed a revised concept. They reduced the building's square footage from 52,000 to 42,000 square feet. They eliminated the main entrance road. They maintained the access road to the farmhouse. They reworked a more controllable entrance to the Institute. The area will be landscaped. It will create some visual attraction. The atrium has been eliminated. They have reduced the scale of the building and changed the materials. The building is 8 feet lower than the previously proposed building. They have removed the metal. The intention is to use earth tone material, split face block. They have eliminated one floor of the building. The shape of the windows has also been reduced. They have reduced the visual impact at night. Dwight Lopes, Baker Institute, stated that there was concern raised about how visible the current institute is from different locations around the area. The area to the east of the Institute is up the hill from them. Anyone from the east is unable to see the Institute. The Institute is over the hill from the northern view. It cannot be seen. The concern is the western and southern views. Mr. Lopes stated he drove around the western and southern areas to take photographs of the Baker Institute. He presented slides to the board of the various views from the west and south. Mr. Lopes took pictures from Ithaca College looking east. The addition would be hidden behind trees. Board Member Hoffmann asked if Mr. Lopes could compare the height of the chimney to the height of the buildings in the former proposal and this proposal. Mr. Lopes stated that the new scheme, with two floors of laboratories and the kennel underneath would be five feet higher than the existing building. He does not know how to compare it to the chimney. Mr. Lopes presented a picture he had taken in April from Coddington Road looking northeast towards the Baker Institute. He was looking at the south face of the building from this location. The new building would be approximately five feet higher. Mr. Lopes also showed a picture he had taken from the THERM site. Board Member Hoffmann had mentioned that the Institute is visible from King Road. He showed a picture from King Road in April. He also obtained images from West Hill driving out of Ithaca. There are a few locations where Snyder Hill can be seen. They were able to see the Institute from Route 79 with the telephoto binoculars. Board Member Hoffmann stated that the photographs are very useful. Mr. Lopes stated that the board's concerns are valuable. It is a beautiful environment that they want to fit in with. Chairperson Wilcox stated that it is beautiful and unique because the Town is on the hills that surrounds the City. Views from one hill across the valley to another are important. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 13 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox asked what is the height of the proposed building in relation to the existing chimney. Mr. Gaudreau responded that the chimney is about twenty feet higher than the proposed building. David Herrick, TG Miller, stated since March 21 st they have been coordinating their efforts with the Town Engineering Department. They have been out to survey the hills. They were able to get a better feel for the watersheds in the area and what watershed they are in and affecting. They also looked at the watershed below the project site so that they could determine if they were creating any problems or nuisances for residential properties downhill. They have refined their understanding of the watersheds. There are multiple watersheds that will be delineated and shared through their stormwater study. It began at the top of the hill near the water storage tank and developed as they continued toward Pine Tree Road. They know what watershed that they are part of and what watershed they are going to impact. They are looking at local and regional impacts for stormwater. It will include the changes that the project will have on hydrology. They are looking at a small amount of increase in impervious surfaces. They will present a plan to the Town for mitigating the peak rates of runoff from the additional impervious surfaces. They will also be looking to improve water quality from the entire watershed that the project is located within. Mr. Herrick stated they would satisfy Mr. Walker's concerns and satisfy the SPDES permit process. Chairperson Wilcox stated that he wants to make sure that the applicant is sensitive to the area of the slopes and the issues. Mr. Herrick stated that they did determine what portion of hillside they would impact. It is the properties immediately below the pasture area. Chairperson Wilcox stated that there are numerous manholes on the property that say "Storm ". They are located in and around the site of the proposed addition. What are they? Mr. Herrick stated that there is storm sewer system downhill of the existing building. They are going to be interrupting most of it with the new building. They will be looking to pick up the new impervious areas and getting it around the building and into a basin. It will be a basin that will handle the additional peak rates of runoff and improve water quality. It will be a dry swale basin. They have a lot of different topography. They do not have the ability to create large masses of water because of the steep slopes. Chairperson Wilcox asked if there are existing problems on the property. Mr. Herrick stated that he has not been told that there are existing drainage problems. There have been comments made from neighboring properties down below that they have been experiencing more wetness over time. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 14 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox stated he walked the property. He noticed a spot near the new curbing on the road in front of the building where the water seems to run down the steps that lead to the entrance into a drain. It did not seem to be a good channeling of water. Mr. Herrick stated that they would be disrupting all the storm sewer on the south side of the existing building where the new lecture theater is proposed. Their solution will pick up the location. Board Member Hoffmann asked if they would be looking at drainage on surrounding Cornell lands Mr. Herrick responded that they have looked at drainage specific to the site. They have also looked at neighboring watersheds. They have done that in order to determine the flow paths. There is some effort at the Town level to do regional analysis. The work that they will be providing the Town through their study can be plugged into the larger regional model. Mr. Walker stated that they are in the process of doing a Townwide watershed analysis. They are developing a watershed model of this area and down by the Pine Tree Road area. The Pine Tree Road drainage system is very flat. The Snyder Hill Road drainage system is very steep. There is water moving down the hill very fast. Chairperson Wilcox stated that he was not present for the previous presentation. He read the minutes. Someone mentioned removing the chimney. There was no general disagreement to that. Mr. Lopes stated that at the last meeting they though that the chimney had been abandoned. The possibility was that it could be taken down at some expense. He has subsequently found out that the boilers in that portion of the building are now exhausting through the chimney. It was an opportunity to use an existing structure. Board Member Hoffmann asked if it is used as an incinerator. Mr. Lopes responded no. Chairperson Wilcox stated that he would like it removed. There is some ductwork on the east side of it that is attached to the chimney. Does the board feel that the chimney could be removed or reduced in height? Board Member Mitrano asked to what expense of the Institute. Chairperson Wilcox stated that he does not care. It is an eyesore. It is very tall. The photographs show its height. It will be at least 15 feet higher than the new building. Board Member Mitrano stated that it is a very cavalier comment. At the very least the board could ask them to get some estimates on removing the chimney. She feels there are limits to what they can ask people to do. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 15 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Board Member Thayer stated that the chimney might be able to be reduced in height. Board Member Mitrano stated that she does not feel it should be reduced at any cost to the applicant. She does agree that it is aesthetically unpleasing. Board Member Hoffmann stated that the visual impact of the new addition might be greater if it is not carefully done. She would like to see the two different layouts of the building. She would like to compare the old design with the new design. She would also like to compare the elevations. The applicant presented the two drawings to the board. Board Member Hoffmann stated that the height of the building has been reduced. Is the footprint the same? Mr. Hung stated that the footprint is different. The revised plan extends the plane down farther. It has been squared off. The building is lower. They did eliminate the floor to reduce the height. Board Member Hoffmann asked what is the reduction in height. Mr. Hung stated that it was reduced from 11 feet to 5 feet. Board Member Thayer asked if the projections on the roof were air conditioning units. Mr. Hung responded yes. Board Member Thayer stated that they were not shown in the old plan. Mr. Hung stated that they were screened behind the metal fagade. Board Member Hoffmann asked what is the height of the projections on the roof. Mr. Hung stated that they are 10 feet. Mr. Kanter stated that it would be helpful in the preliminary plan details to have elevations. Mr. Hung stated that they would have everything labeled. Board Member Hoffmann stated that the drawing is misleading. On drawing Al of 4 it shows the two units and the three units on the northern side of the building. All units will be seen. Mr. Hung stated that they would not be seen from both sides. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 16 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Board Member Hoffmann stated that they are off sideways. It looks as if there is a larger space between the westernmost wall than there is between edge and the easternmost wall. The other picture shows it in reverse. Mr. Hung stated that she might be correct. Many times the reduction of the drawings does not agree because of the reduction in size. They are the same proportions. The scale is the same. Board Member Hoffmann stated that on drawing C01 she sees a boundary line just west of the westernmost part of the addition. It does not look like a boundary line. Mr. Herrick stated that they are showing the easterly line of the fence. The property line is further down the hill. Board Member Hoffmann stated site utilities are shown on the same drawing to the left of the end of the extension. What are they? Mr. Hung stated that they are transformers and generators. The chillers are also in that area. They are being moved to the roof. The next submission will show rooftop equipment that is being developed. It is easier to manage the acoustical sound emanating from the chiller. Board Member Mitrano stated that the reasons for the change in the plan were not exclusive the to the comments made by this board. If the board had made no comments, would these changes have still been made? Mr. Gaudreau stated that the driving force after the meeting with the Planning Board was the cost of the project. Reading the board's comments and reading the results were very similar. Some of the comments about mass and scale were elements that were driving them towards the new design. They decided to go with earth tone colors and a change in material to blend in with the natural landscape. Board Member Mitrano stated that she likes the first representation of the building better than the second. The photographs from her perspective confirm what she thought at the time. From a distance the building is not going to be outrageously visible in either representation. Board Member Howe asked if they could bury the kennel as deep as they had thought because of the rock. Mr. Lopes stated that they could. The second design lines up the floors of the two buildings better than they did in the initial design. When they eliminated the atrium the levels became less complicated. There is a gracious stairwell that allows products or materials between the laboratories. Chairperson Wilcox stated that they have not mentioned deceased animals. It was discussed at the previous sketch plan review. Their safety record is very good. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 17 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Mr. Kanter stated that he would like some documentation submitted with the environmental submission regarding their safety record. Mr. Hung stated they were prepared to address it in some detail. He feels it is appropriate that it be addressed in the next stage. Board Member Hoffmann stated that Mr. Antczak mentioned that he might talk about neighborhood meetings and animal care. Mr. Antczak stated that he would like some suggestions from the board as to whether a neighborhood meeting would be appropriate at this stage and how best to advertise. Board Member Hoffmann stated that she thinks it is a good idea to hold neighborhood meetings. Chairperson Wilcox stated that they should not present preliminary drawings or does not present drawings that mismatch. It should be advertised in the paper and Cornell publications. Mr. Antczak stated that they previously notified persons by putting notices in mailboxes. Board Member Hoffmann stated that many of the notices blew away. It was a windy, rainy day. It would be better to mail them. Mr. Antczak asked how they could get a mailing list of residents on Snyder Hill. Attorney Barney stated that the Tompkins County Assessment Department could provide the list for a few dollars. Chairperson Wilcox stated that the board does not want to encourage the applicant to stuff flyers into US government property. Mailings would be the best notification. Chairperson Wilcox stated he was confused about the total number of increased employees. Mr. Antczak stated they are not anticipating any change. They are around 100 employees. It fluctuates between 85 and 115 employees. It depends upon the number of undergraduates that work with then in the summer time. Chairperson Wilcox stated it was mentioned that people are working in shifts because of the shortage in space. Mr. Antczak stated it has happened a few times in the past five or six years because of the high density in some of the laboratories. It is not mandatory. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 18 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED - APRIL 3, 2001 - APPROVED - APPROVED - APPROVED Chairperson Wilcox stated the number of employees would stay the same. Will the number of employees during 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. increase? Mr. Antczak stated that it is unlikely. There is no plan for it at this time. They are at capacity in terms of the number of employees that can be supervised by one scientist. Their groups have not been very large. Chairperson Wilcox stated that they are adding 40,000 square feet. It is a tremendous amount of floor space. There would not be a significant increase in total employees. Mr. Walker stated that the New Town Hall is approximately three times larger than the old Town Hall. Staff size has not changed. There are larger workspaces for the employees, but it is the same number of workspaces. Mr. Antczak stated that the individual workspace size would increase. Chairperson Wilcox asked if some of the buildings across the street would be used for a different purpose. Mr. Antczak stated they do not know at this time how they will be used. Mr. Kanter stated they would like as much information as possible on programmatic changes. It is important on the environmental determination. Mr. Antczak stated that the vacant building might be turned into rodent housing. Chairperson Wilcox asked if Hungerford Hill Road is a Town road. Mr. Kanter responded that it is a Cornell Road. Chairperson Wilcox asked if it is a private road from Snyder Hill Road to Ellis Hollow Road. Mr. Kanter responded yes. Chairperson Wilcox closed this section of the meeting at 9:35 p.m. AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES — April 25, 2000. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -77 - Approval of Minutes — April 25, 2000. MOTION by Fred Wilcox, seconded by Larry Thayer. RESOLVED, that the Planning Board does hereby approve and adopt the April 25, 2000 as the official minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board for the said meeting as presented with corrections. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 19 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED -APRIL 3, 2001 -APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED THERE being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. AYES: Wilcox, Conneman, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. ABSTAIN: Hoffmann. The MOTION was declared to be carried. AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES — May 2, 2000. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -78 - Approval of Minutes — May 2, 2000. MOTION by Fred Wilcox, seconded by Larry Thayer. RESOLVED, that the Planning Board does hereby approve and adopt the May 2, 2000 as the official minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board for the said meeting as presented with corrections. THERE being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. AYES: Wilcox, Conneman, Mitrano, Thayer, Howe. NA YS: NONE. ABSTAIN: Hoffmann. The MOTION was declared to be carried. AGENDA ITEM: APPROVAL OF MINUTES — June 6, 2000. RESOLUTION NO. 2000 -79 - Approval of Minutes — June 6, 2000. MOTION by Fred Wilcox, seconded by Larry Thayer. RESOLVED, that the Planning Board does hereby approve and adopt the June 6, 2000 as the official minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board for the said meeting as presented with corrections. THERE being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. AYES: Wilcox, Hoffmann, Conneman, Mitrano, Howe. NA YS: NONE. ABSTAIN: Thayer. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 20 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED -APRIL 3, 2001 -APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED The MOTION was declared to be carried. AGENDA ITEM: OTHER BUSINESS. Chairperson Wilcox stated that Board Member Hoffmann's son wrote an article for National Geographic. Board Member Hoffmann stated that he works for National Geographic. He usually writes the captions for the pictures. Once in a while he is able to write an article. Mr. Kanter stated that the New York State Agricultural District Law seminar would be held on September 26th. There is no charge. It is open to the public. He received the agenda for the NYS Planning Federation Conference. He gave it to Board Member Mitrano and Board Member Conneman. Mr. Kanter stated he needs to know who is attending. night Board Member Mitrano stated that October 15th is a problem for her. She teaches on Monday Mr. Kanter stated that there are ways of registering for individual days. Board Member Mitrano stated that she teaches until 10:00 p.m. It would be a long drive for that late in the evening. Board Member Conneman stated that he might not be able to come Sunday. He would be there early Monday. He will let Mr. Kanter know. Board Member Howe stated that he is going through work. Mr. Kanter stated the Town newsletter would be coming out soon. He encourages members of the board to write articles. The deadline for articles is September 13th. The announcement of the New Town Hall will be included. Mr. Kanter stated it might be necessary to reschedule the October 17th meeting. There are two members of the Planning Board attending the Planning Federation. Board Member Thayer stated that he is out of Town for the October 17th meeting. Mr. Kanter stated that he would like to change the meeting date to October 24th The board agreed to move the October 17th meeting to October 24th if necessary. Mr. Kanter stated he has been asked to schedule the Tompkins County Environmental Management Council to discuss their Unique Natural Areas update. They have revised their inventory and mapping. They want to come to each municipality and go over so of the findings. PLANNING BOARD PAGE 21 SEPTEMBER 5, 2000 APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED -APRIL 3, 2001 -APPROVED -APPROVED -APPROVED Board Member Conneman stated that he would not be present for the next meeting. Board Member Conneman asked if there has been any progress on the North Campus Gateway. Has any progress been made? Mr. Kanter stated the committee has been meeting regularly. They have been looking at a number of configurations and solutions. They have considered traffic calming, signs, and major road changes. There have been discussions of changing the alignment of Pleasant Grove Road at the A- Lot area. There have been problems in getting that alignment agreed to, especially by the Cayuga Heights representatives. The problem is there are other municipalities involved. Options that might help one area it tends to hinder other areas. Board Member Conneman asked if the Mayor of Cayuga Heights is opposed to the solution, or is it the board. Mr. Kanter stated he couldn't speak for Mayor Anderson. They tend to be very skeptical of changing anything. The model has helped some perceptions. Board Member Conneman stated he has people complaining to him about the P &C and the lack of stop signs in the parking lot. Has anything happened? Attorney Barney stated the law is the municipality cannot compel the placement of a stop sign on a private property. The private property owner may come to the municipality and request the municipality to impose a stop sign. The Town is not in the position to compel P &C to install stop signs. Board Member Howe stated people need to complain to the managers of P &C. AGENDA ITEM: ADJOURNMENT: Upon MOTION, Chairperson Wilcox declared the September 5, 2000 meeting of Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 9:56 p.m. Respectfully submitted: Carrie L. Whitmore, Deputy Town Clerk.