HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 2011-01-04FILE
DATE �
TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD MEETING d-
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
215 N. Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
Board Members Present: Members: George Conneman, John Beach, Jon Bosak, Kevin Talty,
Rod Howe, Hollis Erb (acting chair), Ellen Baer (alternate)
Staff Present: Susan Ritter, Director of Planning; Debra DeAugistine, Deputy Town Clerk;
Christine Balestra, Planner; Mike Smith, Planner; Kristin Taylor, Engineer; Susan Brock, Attorney
for the Town
Call to Order
Ms. Erb call led the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. and accepted the posting of the public hearing
notices.
AGENDA ITEM
Persons to be heard
No one came forward to address the Board.
AGENDA ITEM
SEQR Determination: Phillips 2 -Lot Subdivision, 721 & 817 Elmira Road.
Mr. Giordano gave a brief statement regarding the project. It is currently a six -acre property. The
driveway of 721 Elmira Road is right on the property line, so they'd like to add 20 feet from the
other property. The prospective buyer is in agreement.
PB RESOLUTION No. 2011 -001: SEQR, Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval,
Phillips 2 -Lot Subdivision, 721 & 817 Elmira Road, Tax Parcel No.'s 35. -1 -12.2 & 35.-l-13
Moved by Kevin Talty; seconded by Rod Howe
WHEREAS:
This is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed two -lot
subdivision located at 721 and 817 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's 35. -1 -12.2 &
35. -1 -13, Low Density Residential Zone. The proposal involves subdividing off a 20 +/- foot
wide strip of land from the northeastern edge of 817 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35. -1- 12.2),
and consolidating it with 721 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35.- 1 -13). Sybil S. Phillips and
Doug Phillips, Owners /Applicants; Joseph G. Giordano, Agent, and
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is acting in this
uncoordinated environmental review with respect to Subdivision Approval, and
3. The Planning Board, on January 4, 2011, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short
Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, a Part II prepared by the
Town Planning staff, a survey map titled "Survey Map, No. 721 & 817 Elmira Road, Town of
Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York," prepared by Lee Dresser, Licensed Land Surveyor with
T. G. Miller, P.C., and dated, 12/2/10, 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:
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
Page 2 of 13
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental
significance Ifor the reasons set forth in the Environmental Assessment Form Part II referenced
above, 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 was as follows:
AYES: Erb, Conneman, Beach, Baer, Bosak, Talty, Howe
NAYS: None
PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for , the
proposed 2 -lot subdivision located at 721 and 817 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s
35 -1 -12.2 and 35 -1 -13, Low Density Residential Zone. The proposal involves subdividing off a 20
+/- foot wide strip from the northeastern edge of 817 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35 -1- 12.2),
which will then be consolidated with 721 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35- 1 -13). Sybil S. Phillips
and Doug Phillips, Owners /Applicants; Joseph G. Giordano, Agent.
Ms. Erb opened the public hearing at 7:08 p.m. Hearing no one, Ms. Erb closed the public
hearing at 7:10 P.M.
PB RESOLUTION No. 2011 -002: Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval, Phillips 2 -Lot
Subdivision, 721'& 817 Elmira Road, Tax Parcel No.'s 35. -1 -12.2 & 35. -1 -13
Moved by Rod Howe; seconded by Kevin Talty
WHEREAS: 1
This is consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed two -lot
subdivisio i located at 721 and 817 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's 35. -1 -12.2 &
35. -1 -13, Low Density Residential Zone. The proposal involves subdividing off a 20 +/- foot
wide strip of land from the northeastern edge of 817 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35. -1- 12.2),
and consolidating it with 721 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35.- 1 -13). Sybil S. Phillips and
Doug Phillips, Owners /Applicants; Joseph G. Giordano, Agent, and
2. The Planning Board on January 4, 2011, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short
Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, a Part II prepared by the
Town Planning staff, a survey map titled "Survey Map, No. 721 & 817 Elmira Road, Town of
Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York," prepared by Lee Dresser, Licensed Land Surveyor with
T. G. Miller, P.C., and dated, 12/2/10, and other application materials;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the
proposed two -lot subdivision located at 721 and 817 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel
No.'s 35. -1 �112.2 & 35. -1 -13, as shown on the map titled "Survey Map, No. 721 & 817 Elmira
Road, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York," subject to the following conditions:
a. Submission, for signing by the Chairperson of the Planning Board, of an original or mylar
copy of the revised plat, along with three dark -lined prints, prior to filing with the Tompkins
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
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County Clerk's Office, and submission of a receipt of filing to the Town of Ithaca Planning
Department, and
b. Consolidation of the 20 -foot wide strip on 817 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35. -1- 12.2),
with 1721 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35.- 1 -13), and submission of a copy of the
consolidation request to the Town of Ithaca Planning Department.
A vote on the motion was as follows:
AYES: Erb, Conneman, Beach, Baer, Bosak, Talty, Howe NAYS: None
AGENDA ITEM
Continuation of consideration of Acceptance of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS)
for the proposed Holochuck Homes Subdivision, located between NYS Route 96 (Trumansburg
Road) and NYS Route 89 (Taughannock Boulevard), Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 24- 3 -3.2,
25- 1 -5.1, 25 -2 -41.2, 26 -4 -37, 26 -4 -38, and 26 -4 -39, Low Density Residential Zone, Medium
Density Residential Zone, and Conservation Zone. The proposal involves the construction of
106 + /- town home type units in a clustered neighborhood development with two entrances
proposed from NYS Route 96 (Trumansburg Road). The development will be concentrated on the
west side of the property closest to NYS Route 96, zoned Low and Medium Residential, with
more than half of the eastern portion of the property, mainly zoned Conservation, remaining
undeveloped. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
proposes to acquire most of the eastern portion of the property in conjunction with development
of the future Black Diamond Trail. Holochuck Homes LLC, Owner /Applicant; David M. Parks,
Esq., Agent.
Fred Wells, Tim Miller Associates, attended via conference call. Present were David Parks,
agent, and Mark Parker from Keystone Associates.
Discussion centered on a memo from Mr. Wells outlining his planned FEIS edits in response to
Ms. Balestra's comments of 12/14/10.
Comment 2 -58 (regarding the vacancy rate at Overlook): Mr. Bosak requested a statement
saying that the prices of the Holochuck units may shift downward, but they will not be low enough
to be considered affordable. Mr. Wells agreed that the applicant would consider lower prices for
units, depending on market, but do not expect to offer affordable housing.
Comments fro the DOT, which the Planning Staff received at 5:27 p.m., were placed on the
table and discussed. The applicant agreed to clarify items they plan on doing that DOT didn't
seem to be aware of.
Trafffic
Left turning lane (southbound into the main access drive): Mr. Wells noted that they will discuss
how to respond to the DOT. Mr. Parks had a question about when these items need to be
addressed: right now as part of the SEQR process or later when the application is handed to DOT
for construction. Ms. Brock responded that the Board can address these comments in their
findings by stating that the DOT will be forthcoming with more requirements. Since it fronts onto
the state highway, tho applicant won't get permits unless they meet the DOT requirements.
Regarding the DOT comment about reserving a strip of land along Route 96 just in case a turn
signal is warranted, the applicant doesn't own it. It may become an issue when Cornell tries to
develop the property on the other side of the road.
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
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Synchro analysis: Mr. Bosak said that the time it takes to get through each signal doesn't have
anything to do with how long it takes to get through the string of them as a unit. Mr. Wells
responded that that's what the Syncho model does: studies the synchronization, or lack of, with
intersections that are close to one another and are signalized. It provides data on each
intersection for delays and turning movements. They do riot calculate how long it takes to get
through the entire string; it crunches the data as a whole and produces data for each individual
signal. Mr. Bosak commented that the Board is using these figures to find the impact of this
development on the level of service, and wondered what the effect of increased traffic will be on
the mess at the bottom of the hill.
Ms. Brock responded that we know the effect on each intersection, but we don't know what route
people are taking, so you can't come up with an analysis that says how long it will take to get
through the mess because everyone's path is different. Mr. Wells added that, theoretically, if you
add up the three figures you will get the total time through all three.
Ms. Brock wanted to discuss approvals contingent on the applicant paying their share should the
DOT require a signal or roundabout. The Town should not be in the position to bear the entire
expense after it accepts dedication of the road. Mr. Parks agreed and stated that the applicant
would need an escrow arrangement; he acknowledged that if a traffic signal were warranted now,
they would have to pay their fair share. With Cornell's proposal (conceptually), the applicant can
come up withla fair percentage.
Ms. Brock stated that the FEIS needs to acknowledge the applicant's or homeowners'
responsibility for this share of the cost should it be required in the future and that funding
mechanisms will be further explored. Details can be worked out later.
To a question 'Ifrom Mr. Bosak about procedure, Mr. Wells stated that their goal is to provide a
red -lined change document in two weeks, which would be in time for the meeting of February 1.
SEQR Determination: Belle Sherman Cottages, Mitchell Street.
Toby Millman, !Agora Homes, gave a presentation.
Sara Hymes, 1120 Vine Street, requested that, if possible, it be written into the homeowner's
agreement that the units be owner - occupied. Otherwise, parents of Cornell students will buy them
and this rental Will go on in perpetuity.
Ms. Brock respi
Development Z
to restrict occur
consider the lay
what happens t
owners going o
in. In the past, t
requiring owner
Mr. Conneman
otherwise, in a
permits the Bo,
as an example,
that area.
nded that the simplest way to accomplish that would be if the Planned
ine language imposed this requirement. If the Planning Board thinks it's important
incy to owners, they can request that the Town Board consider this as they
Regarding suggested exceptions to owner occupancy, Ms. Brock questioned
the law once you provide for the exceptions. She gave examples, such as the
sabbatical, taking in a border, or charging rent to a grown child who moves back
e codes and Ordinances Committee decided that they would not recommended
occupancy.
uggcsted the Board require it in the homeowner's association language;
sort period of time, the development will be filled with student rentals. The SEQR
J to reject something because of the social impact. He provided Honness Lane
ind the difficulty the Code Enforcement Department had enforcing Town laws in
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
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Mr. Millman stated that they are sensitive to the issue and realize how these neighborhoods can
change. He disagreed that these particular homes will become student rentals because the price -
point of the homes (above the average home in Belle Sherman) will make it difficult for someone
to make it work financially as a rental. The existing homes in Belle Sherman that are small and
less expensive are more likely to be used as rentals. He does not believe that this project will be
the catalyst for Belle Sherman becoming a rental zone. This project should be a stabilizing point
because of this. At issue is that a home buyer will have enormous difficulty getting a mortgage on
such a property because lenders want to know that there's a viable alternative. It would be a deal
killer for home buyers and for himself, since it would be difficult for people to get mortgages under
such a condition. He thinks that there are enough protections in place for this project to
discourage them being used as rentals. If someone is given the choice of buying the $200,000
house or the much more expensive house as a rental, they will buy the less expensive home,
knowing how, hard students are on houses. The project would not be feasible with this restriction.
Ms. Brock stated that the way the PDZ is written, each dwelling can have a family and a boarder.
A family can be two unrelated people who live and cook together and function as a single unit.
Ms. Erb stated that the issue is the illegal rental that exceeds Town law. The Board can't hold
developers responsible for the illegal actions of someone else.
Mr. Bosak stated that he is sensitive to the issue, too, but from another direction. He wasn't
aware that the Town had a policy of discouraging the development of housing for rental. As a
person who has spent the majority of his life renting, he resents the implication that he's a low-
life. If the prokIlem is with the behavior of students renting, the way to address the issue is by
having laws against that behavior.
Ms. Erb commented that the Tompkins County needs assessment pointed out the need for
rentals. She and Mr. Talty agreed that this is more an issue of enforcement of the Town code.
Ms. Brock noted that a few years ago, the Town had a big problem with noise on South Hill from
IC students in rental homes. The Town revised its noise ordinance and worked closely with the
Sheriff's office � The Town Supervisor, who was in the audience, concurred that complaints are
essentially nonexistent.
Ms. Erb suggested that the homeowner's association bylaws state that all residents and
homeowners in', the project will be sent an annual reminder of the Town's occupancy laws.
Mr. Millman agreed to use some form of confirmed communication tied to when they have to pay
their dues. I
Mr. Conneman agreed that writing something into the homeowner's association bylaws regarding
enforcement of (Town laws is important.
Mr. Talty asked Mr. Millman what would happen if the market tanks and he has to drop his selling
price; he suggested that a lower price would increase the likelihood of buying to rent.
Mr. Millman responded that homes will be built as they're sold, so they won't be in a situation
where there are 20 unsold homes. In the unlikely event that the houses don't sell, he would have
to come back to the Board with a redesign for a lower price point. Empty lots are the developer's
risk.
Mr. Beach stated that while he shares the concerns of residents in the area, he also takes issue
with the assumption that renters are only students; as a 63 -year old, he would not want to be
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
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prevented from renting a home in this neighborhood. He said that enforcement is the key, and
cited past problems on South Hill and in College Town neighborhoods. Problems were brought
under near complete control in part because non - student residents came together and worked
with the Sheriff's Department to make sure laws were enforced.
Mr. Bosak had comments regarding environmental cleanup. They tested only for organic
compounds,l� but since this was a historically industrial -use site, there is every reason to believe
there could be a vast array of inorganic compounds. Mr. Talty agreed, noting that lending
institutions ask for that kind of testing.
Mr. Millman desponded that the environmental engineer made a determination that Phase II
would be necessary since there was reason to believe there might have been contamination. He
was not surelwhy they selected certain types of compounds to test for, but it was likely based on
the previous use of the site — an asphalt plant. The study was done by a reputable environmental
consulting firm, managed by a reputable law firm, and reviewed by the DEC. Mr. Millman stated
that there is no record of any use prior to the asphalt plant. All the tanks were above ground.
They found one hot spot and there's a DEC work plan to clean it up.
Ms. Erb commented that there is no evidence that it was ever used as a dump site, for example,
and that she is willing to go with a reputable company and oversight of the DEC. Mr. Bosak stated
that if everyone else is comfortable, he is willing to go with it.
Ms. Brock commented that the remedial work plan does not give any specificity as to how many
samples will be taken and over what period of time. Mr. Millman did not know the answer, but
said the plan was put forward and approved by the DEC.
David Orr, 1241 Vine Street, pointed out an error, saying that there is an underground tank on the
property and that it was the site of a brick plant.
There was a discussion about Vine Street. It's a privately owned lane, and everyone uses it only
at the goodwill of the applicant. Board members Erb and Bosak were confused by letters from
neighbors. Thel comments appear to be about Mr. Millman's previous plan to turn it into a street,
particularly with, regard to increasing traffic.
Mr. Millman's preference was to deed over the section of Vine Street adjacent to the Vine Street
neighbors, giving it to them at the transactional cost of $1000 per owner. Mr. Millman said this
offer is still up in the air. The townhouses are the only component of the project that would
theoretically use Vine Street, and only for those traveling westbound on Mitchell. The traffic study
calculates that, worst case, this would generate two peak hour trips per day -- one car in morning
and one in evenina.
To a question from Ms. Erb regarding truck routes, Mr. Millman responded that modular home
companies have) said it will require only four trips per home. Modular homes require much less
traffic. They will always come in from Mitchell Street. Ms. Erb requested that they limit the wide -
load trucks to no hours.
To a concern of Mr. Bosak's regarding not installing the play area until Phase II, Mr. Millman
responded that there will be lots of construction activity in close proximity to the area, which
would be a hazard.
Carol Kalafatic, 8'I 5 Mitchell Street, immediately across the street from the development, had a
question on the vegetative buffer that she does not see in the plan.
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
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Mr. Milman ;responded that the stormwater management area is retained by a low wall. Although
they can't vegetate the stormwater area, there is heavy vegetation planned along the slope up to
the rear of the homes. The depressed area is not a pond, but is covered in grass. The wall is four
feet at the corner of Vine and Mitchell and tapers down at either end. Right now, there's heavy
vegetation at the corner, so site distances are currently worse for people pulling out onto Mitchell.
PB RESOLUTION No. 2011 -003: SEOR, Preliminary Site Plan, Preliminary Subdivision, and
a Recommendation to the Town Board Regarding the Proposed Rezoning, Belle Sherman
Cottages, Tax Parcel No.'s 63 -2 -10.3, 59 -1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3 and 59 -1 -4
Moved by Road Howe; seconded by Kevin Talty
WHEREAS:
This action is consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and Preliminary Subdivision
Approval for the proposed Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 59 -1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3, 59 -1 -4 and 63 -2 -10.3, High Density
Residential Zone. The proposal involves the development of 19 single - family houses and 10
attached townhouse units on 3.1 +/- acres. The proposal will involve a new private road
between Worth Street and Clover Lane, new stormwater facilities, a play area, landscaping,
sidewalks, land a new connection to the East Ithaca Recreation Way. The Planning Board will
also be considering a recommendation to the Town of Ithaca Town Board regarding the
rezoning of the property from High Density Residential to a new Planned Development Zone.
Susan J. an, d Harold Mix, Owners; Agora Homes and Development, LLC, Applicants, and
2. This is an (Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is acting in an
uncoordinated environmental review with respect to the project, and
3. The Planning Board, on January 4, 2011, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Long
Environmental Assessment Form (LEAF) Part I, submitted by the applicant, and Part II
prepared bye Town Planning staff, drawings titled "Cover" (Sheet 000), dated December 3,
2010; "Topographic Map" (Sheet 1), dated 07/24/09, prepared by T.G. Miller, P.C.;
"Preliminary Plat Plan" (Sheet L001), "Layout Plan" (Sheet L201), "Photometric Plan" (L202),
"Grading Plan" (Sheet L301), "Planting Plan" (Sheet L401), "Site Details" (Sheet L501),
"Illustrative Perspective Views" (Sheet L502), dated December 3, 2010 and prepared by
Trowbridge & Wolf; "Utility Plan" (Sheet 1) and "Erosion & Sediment Control Plan" (Sheet 3),
and "Road Profile" (Sheet 4), dated November 2010 and prepared by O'Brien & Gere; "Clover
Lane Bungalow" (Sheets 1 and 2), "Clover Lane: Bungalow Alternatives ", "Clover Lane
Farmhouse Ili (Sheets 1 and 2), "Clover Lane Farmhouse" (Sheets 1 and 2), "Clover Lane —
Farmhouse Alternatives ", dated 8/23/2010 and prepared by Allison Ramsey Architects, Inc.;
and "Clover Lane Townhouse A" (Sheets Al, A2, A3 and A4), dated 11/20/10 and prepared
by Allison Ramsey Architects, Inc., and other application materials, and
4. The Town PI'anning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental
significance with respect to the proposed project;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental
significance in accordance with Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR
Part 617 New Yo k State Environmental Quality Review for the above referenced actions as
proposed, based on the information in the LEAF Part I and for the reasons set forth in the LEAF
Part II, and, therefore, a Draft Environmental Impact Statement will not be required.
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
Page 8 of 13
A vote on the motion was as follows:
AYES: Erb, Beach, Baer, Bosak, Talty, Howe
NAYS: Conneman
PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and Preliminary Subdivision
Approval for the proposed Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 59 -1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3, 59 -1 -4 and 63 -2 -10.3, High Density Residential
Zone. The proposal involves the development of 19 single - family houses and 10 attached
townhouse units on 3.1 +/- acres. The proposal will involve a new private road between Worth
Street and Clover Lane, new stormwater facilities, a play area, landscaping, sidewalks, and a new
connection to the East Ithaca Recreation Way. The Planning Board will also be considering a
recommendation to the Town of Ithaca Town Board regarding the rezoning of the property from
High Density Residential to a new Planned Development Zone. Susan J. and Harold Mix,
Owners; Agora Homes and Development, LLC, Applicants
Ms. Erb opened the public hearing at 9:42 p.m.
Garret Blalocki, 210 Cobb Street, noted that he has been in contact with City Councilman Ellen
McCollister, who could not come to the last three meetings. They have been in contact with the
Ithaca City Department of Public Works regarding installation of stop signs going east/west on
Worth Street. Ms. McCollister said that if the Town could include somewhere in their document a
recommendation that the City consider stop signs and /or a similar traffic calming measure, this
would help them�l facilitate seeing this through to fruition. It's an opinion from one municipality to
another.
The Board ag
Mr. Blalock also stated that he lives two blocks from the university and has students living on all
sides of him. They deal with student issues through the zoning process, including writing letters to
the City. He offered to work through this process with his neighbors; he feels it is not fair to put
owner - occupancy as a special condition onto this developer — it's a problem everywhere.
Mr. Orr noted that the Town Board changed the zoning in 2003, and he pointed out that they have
never used the High- density zoning, so it has never been tested. Now they are changing it again
to make it more dense. He thinks it's too dense — it's denser than Maplewood and Fall Creek,
based on both area covered and square feet per acre. It doesn't match the Belle Sherman
neighborhood that it is supposed to match. According to Real Property Law Section 335 -a, Vine
Street is a highway; it may not be publicly maintained, but the people on the road have an
easement of necessity. It cannot be anything but a road. It will continue to be used by walkers
and drivers. He guaranteed that it will see a greater increase in traffic than predicted because it
will have better sight distances than Clover Lane for people coming from East Hill. The problem is
in their feeling of safety. He also said that he is opposed to sidewalks in the whole area. He walks
in the street and sees no problem and thinks it would be better to make streets narrower.
Mr. Talty disagreed that sidewalks are not needed: with a speed limit of 30 mph, it is especially
not safe for children or people with baby carriages. He asked Mr. Orr what his current position is
regarding the applicant's offer to deed Vine Street over.
I PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
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Mr. Orr responded that he is not interested, because this will not increase his value, but it will
increase his liability. It is not the job of the Town to guarantee that the developer make money; it's
the job of the Town to serve all the people in the Town. He thinks that Mr. Millman will have a
problem selling these properties. He does not think this particular use of the property will be in the
best interest, of all residents in the long term.
Mr. Millman 'responded to Mr. Orr's comment on density. Based on the criteria Mr. Millman used —
units per ac �e — Maplewood is denser. The discussion was whether this development would fit
into the character of the neighborhood. It is denser than Belle Sherman, but less dense than
Maplewood. The comparison to Fall Creek is based on comparing lots, but not on whether this
developmentlis exactly the same density.
Linda Caughey, 125 Pearl Street, requested a speed bump be installed before traffic emerges
onto Worth Street from the new road.
Noah Demarest responded that a raised intersection at the inside curve of the interior road is
planned. There will be a stop sign at the corner going out of the development. It is not shown on
the site plan.
The Board discussed requiring this as part of site plan approval.
There was discussion about turning Vine Street into a Town -owned road. Aside from the cost
issues, the general opinion was that this would increase speed and traffic. When asked, Ms.
Taylor said that the Public Works Department does not want to take over any more roads.
Ms. Erb close0he public hearing at 10:06 p.m.
Regarding a question from Mr. Smith regarding minimum distance between buildings, Mr. Millman
said that they are applying for a variance from the State, and will have a hearing on Friday. The
distance between homes (10 feet) will be met, but the distance between the structure and the
property line will; not be met.
Ms. Brock requested clarity on the following items:
• Lights: they will be privately owned and maintained.
• Utility plan: the existing sewer connects to the Maplewood apartments, but the applicant
will need a new easement. The line runs from Maplewood through the site to Vine Street.
They propose tying the existing line into the new sewer line that will run down the new
private street and abandoning the section from the new private drive to Vine Street.
PB RESOLUTION No. 2011 -004: Preliminary Site Plan, Preliminary Subdivision, and a
Recommendation to the Town Board Regarding the Proposed Rezoning, Belle Sherman
Cottages, Tax Parcel No.'s 63 -2 -10.3, 59 -1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3 and 59 -1 -4
Moved by Rod Howe; seconded by Kevin Talty
WHEREAS:
This action is consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and Preliminary Subdivision
Approval for the proposed Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 59 -1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3, 59 -1 -4 and 63 -2 -10.3, High Density
Residential Zone. The proposal involves the development of 19 single - family houses and 10
attached townhouse units on 3.1 +/- acres. The proposal will involve a new private road
between Worth Street and Clover Lane, new stormwater facilities, a play area, landscaping,
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
Page 10 of 13
sidewalks, and a new connection to the East Ithaca Recreation Way. The Planning Board will
also bed ;considering a recommendation to the Town of Ithaca Town Board regarding the
rezoning of the property from High Density Residential to a new Planned Development Zone.
Susan J. and Harold Mix, Owners; Agora Homes and Development, LLC, Applicants, and
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting in an
uncoordinated environmental review with respect to the project has, on January 4, 2011,
made a negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and
accepted as adequate a Long Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the
applicant,, and a Part II prepared by Town Planning staff, and
3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on January 4, 2011, has reviewed and
accepted Ias adequate, drawings titled "Cover" (Sheet 000), dated December 3, 2010;
"Topographic Map" (Sheet 1), dated 07/24/09, prepared by T.G. Miller, P.C.; "Preliminary Plat
Plan (Sheet L001), Layout Plan (Sheet L201), Photometric Plan (L202), Grading Plan
(Sheet L301), "Planting Plan" (Sheet L401), "Site Details" (Sheet L501), "Illustrative
Perspective Views" (Sheet L502), dated December 3, 2010 and prepared by Trowbridge &
Wolf; "Utility Plan" (Sheet 1) and "Erosion & Sediment Control Plan" (Sheet 3), and "Road
Profile" (Sheet 4), dated November 2010 and prepared by O'Brien & Gere; "Clover Lane
Bungalow" (Sheets 1 and 2), "Clover Lane: Bungalow Alternatives ", "Clover Lane Farmhouse
II" (Sheets 1 and 2), "Clover Lane Farmhouse" (Sheets 1 and 2), "Clover Lane — Farmhouse
Alternatives ", dated 8/23/2010 and prepared by Allison Ramsey Architects, Inc.; and "Clover
Lane Townhouse A" (Sheets Al, A2, A3 and A4), dated 11/20/10 and prepared by Allison
Ramsey Architects, Inc., and other application materials;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary Subdivision Approval for
the proposed Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, as described in the
drawings listed above, subject to the following conditions:
a. submission of the final subdivision plat, including all requirements on the Final Subdivision
Checklist prior to Final Subdivision Approval, and
b. upon issuance of Final Subdivision Approval, submission for signing of one original or
mylar copy, and three dark -line prints of the final plat by the Planning Board Chair, said
plat to be (filed in the Tompkins County Clerk's Office, and a copy of the receipt of filing
provided to the Town of Ithaca Planning Department, prior to the issuance of any building
permits, and
C. submission of draft documents regarding the creation, operation and responsibilities of a
home owners association or similar entity to own and maintain the private road,
recreational facilities, stormwater facilities, lighting facilities, and any other common
facilities or lareas, and to provide annual written notices to owners and residents in the
subdivision of the Town of Ithaca's then - current occupancy requirements and noise laws,
satisfactory Ito the Attorney for the Town, prior to final subdivision approval, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary Site Plan Approval for the
Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, as described in the drawings listed
above, subject to the following conditions:
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
Page 11 of 13
a. approval by the Town Board of the concept and locations of the sanitary sewer mains and
water mains and the associated easements, following the recommendation of the Town's
Public Works Committee, prior to Final Site Plan Approval, and
b. submission of record of application for and proof of receipt of all necessary permits from
county, state, and/or federal agencies, prior to the issuance of any certificates of
occupancy for any houses, and
c. approval by the Town Board of the new Planned Development Zone for this project, prior
to Final Site Plan Approval, and
d. submission of a final complete landscape plan for the property, including the final shrub
plan, prior to Final Site Plan Approval, and
e. the demolition of the existing structure on the property will require a permit from the
Town's Code Enforcement Office, prior to any work occurring on the structure, and
f. a truck hauling plan(s) is to be provided regarding the removal of the demolition material,
the re I oval of the excavation material, delivery schedules limiting wide -load truck
deliveries of modules to times between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 9
a.m. to l3 p.m. on Fridays, and the delivery route during construction, for review and
approval of the Town's Public Works Department, prior to any work occurring on the site,
and
0
h
submiss
ion of details showing types and locations for any traffic signage proposed for the
ate road, prior to Final Site Plan Approval, and
m of the final Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan and associated drawings, for
id approval by the Town of Ithaca Public Works Department, prior to Final Site
roval, and
of a stormwater "Operation, Maintenance, and Reporting Agreement' between
owner and the Town of Ithaca, satisfactory to the Attorney for the Town and
Ithaca Public Works Department, prior to issuance of any building permits for
and
of drainage easements, maintenance schedules / agreements, and /or deed
or other legally sufficient mechanisms for all lots containing stormwater
itisfactory to the Attorney for the Town and the Town of Ithaca Public Works
t, prior to issuance of any building permits for any houses, and
of draft sanitary sewer and water main easements, satisfactory to the Attorney
i and the Town of Ithaca Public Works Department, prior to final subdivision
id
proof of receipt of the necessary curb cut permit(s) from Tompkins County
Mitchell Street, prior to any site work, and
e necessary approvals of the Tompkins County Health Department on the
'ding the realty subdivision, prior to signing of the plat by the Planning Board
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
Page 12 of 13
n. submission of construction details of all proposed structures, roads, water /sewer facilities,
stormwater management, and other improvements, prior to Final Site Plan Approval, and
o. submission of a plan for applicant - provided improvements of the crosswalk at Vine Street
and Mitchell Street, including the possible reorientation of the crosswalk and the possible
installation of new, more visible pedestrian warning signs, prior to Final Site Plan
Approval, val, and
p. submission of draft easements or other legally binding documents showing that public
access to the sidewalks, parkland, and connection points to the East Ithaca Recreation
Way will be provided and maintained, satisfactory to the attorney for Town and the Town
of Ithapa Public Works Department prior to final subdivision approval, and
q. submission of evidence that the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation has determined that the approved remedial work plan, dated March 2010,
and any DEC - approved revisions to the work plan, have been completed prior to
commencement of site work, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby recommends that the Town of Ithaca Town Board
enact the proposed Local Law Amending Zoning Chapters 270 and 271 of the Town of Ithaca
Code to Provided a Planned Development Zone for the Belle Sherman Cottages Project.
A vote on the motion was as follows:
AYES: Erb, Conneman, Beach, Baer, Bosak, Talty, Howe
NAYS: None
AGENDA ITEM I
PB RESOLUTION No. 2011 -005: Nomination and Election, Planning Board Vice
Chairperson 2011
Moved b Rod Howe; e; seconded b Kevin T
y I , y alts
RESOLVED, that t i e Town of Ithaca Planning Board does hereby nominate and elect Hollis Erb
as Vice Chairperson of the Planning Board for the year 2011.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that said election shall be reported to the Town Board.
A vote on the motion) was as follows:
AYES: Conneman, Beach, Bosak, Baer, Talty, Howe
NAYS: None
ABSTENTIONS: Erb
AGENDA ITEM
PB RESOLUTION No.�2011 -006: Minutes of December 7, 2011
PB Minutes 01 -04 -2011
Page 13 of 13
Moved by Rod Howe, seconded by Kevin Talty
WHEREAS,I the Town of Ithaca Planning Board has reviewed the draft minutes from the meeting
on December 7, 2010; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED,I that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board approves the minutes, with corrections, to
be the final minutes of the meeting on December 7.
AYES: Erb, C'onneman, Beach, Bosak, Talty, Howe
NAYS: None
AGENDA ITEM
Meeting of January 18, 2011
• College lCircle Final Approval
• Discussion of Scenic Resources Inventory
Adjournment
Upon a motion by Hollis Erb, the meeting adjourned at 10:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
ra DeAugistiN
Deputv Town
TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
215 North Tioga Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
AGENDA
7:00 P.M. Persons t o be heard (no more than five minutes).
7:05 P.M. SEQR Determination: Phillips 2 -Lot Subdivision, 721 & 817 Elmira Road.
7:05 P.M. PUBLICIHEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed 2 -lot
subdivision located at 721 and 817 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 35 -1 -12.2 and 35 -1 -13,
Low Density Residential Zone. The proposal involves subdividing off a 20 +/- foot wide strip from the
northeastern edge of 817 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35 -1- 12.2), which will then be consolidated with 721
Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35- 1 -13). Sybil S. Phillips and Doug Phillips, Owners/Applicants; Joseph G.
Giordano, Agent.
7:10 P.M. Continuation of consideration of Acceptance of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the
proposed Holochuck Homes Subdivision, located between NYS Route 96 (Trumansburg Road) and NYS
Route 89 (Taughannock Boulevard), Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 24- 3 -3.2, 25- 1 -5.1, 25 -2 -41.2, 26 -4-
37,26-4-3 8, hand 26 -4 -39, Low Density Residential Zone, Medium Density Residential Zone, and
Conservation Zone. The proposal involves the construction of 106 + /- town home type units in a clustered
neighborhood development with two entrances proposed from NYS Route 96 (Trumansburg Road). The
development ill be concentrated on the west side of the property closest to NYS Route 96, zoned Low and
Medium Residential, with more than half of the eastern portion of the property, mainly zoned Conservation,
remaining undeveloped. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation
proposes to acquire most of the eastern portion of the property in conjunction with development of the future
Black Diamond Trail. Holochuck Homes LLC, Owner /Applicant; David M. Parks, Esq., Agent.
8:00 P.M. SEQR Determination: Belle Sherman Cottages, Mitchell Street.
8:00 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and Preliminary Subdivision
Approval for the proposed Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, Town of Ithaca Tax
Parcel No.'s 59 -�1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3, 59 -1 -4 and 63 -2 -10.3, High Density Residential Zone. The proposal
involves the development of 19 single - family houses and 10 attached townhouse units on 3.1 +/- acres. The
proposal will involve a new private road between Worth Street and Clover Lane, new stormwater facilities, a
play area, landscaping, sidewalks, and a new connection to the East Ithaca Recreation Way. The Planning
Board will also be considering a recommendation to the Town of Ithaca Town Board regarding the rezoning
of the property from High Density Residential to a new Planned Development Zone. Susan J. and Harold
Mix, Owners; Agora Homes and Development, LLC, Applicants.
7. Nomination and Election of Vice Chairperson for 2011.
8. Approval of Minutes: December 7, 2010 and December 21, 2010.
9. Other Business
10. Adjournment
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
NOTE: IF ANY MEMBER OF THE PLANNING BOARD IS UNABLE TO ATTEND, PLEASE NOTIFY
I_ SANDY POLCE AT 273 -1747.
(A quorum ofjfour (4) members is necessary to conduct Planning Board business.)
TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
By direction of the Chairperson of the Planning Board, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Public Hearings
will be held by the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca on Tuesday, January 4, 2011, at 215 North Tioga
Street, Ithaca, N.Y., at the following times and on the following matters:
7:05 P.M. Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed 2 -lot
subdivision located at 721 and 817 Elmira Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 35 -1-
12.2 and 35 -1 -13, Low Density Residential Zone. The proposal involves subdividing off
a 20 +/- foot wide strip from the northeastern edge of 817 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No.
3511- 12.2), which will then be consolidated with 721 Elmira Road (Tax Parcel No. 35 -1-
13). Sybil S. Phillips and Doug Phillips, Owners /Applicants; Joseph G. Giordano, Agent.
8:00 P.M. Consideration of Preliminary Site Plan Approval and Preliminary Subdivision Approval
for the proposed Belle Sherman Cottages project located on Mitchell Street, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 59 -1 -1, 59 -1 -2, 59 -1 -3, 59 -1 -4 and 63 -2 -10.3, High Density
Residential Zone. The proposal involves the development of 19 single - family houses and
10 attached townhouse units on 3.1 ±/- acres. The proposal will involve a new private
road between Worth Street and Clover Lane, new stormwater facilities, a play area,
landscaping, sidewalks, and a new connection to the East Ithaca Recreation Way. The
Planning Board will also be considering a recommendation to the Town of Ithaca Town
Board regarding the rezoning of the property from High Density Residential to a new
Planned Development Zone. Susan J. and Harold Mix, Owners; Agora Homes and
Development, LLC, Applicants.
Said Planning Board willlat said times and said place hear all persons in support of such matters or objections
thereto. Persons may appear by agent or in person. Individuals with visual impairments, hearing
impairments or other special needs, will be provided with assistance as necessary, upon request. Persons
desiring assistance must make such a request not less than 48 hours prior to the time of the public hearing.
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
Dated: Monday, December 27, 2010
Publish: Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesda <Decembers�29 201U� THEM �HA'C�A�IOURNAL
Town of Ithaca Planning Board
Sign -in Sheet
Date: January 4, 2011
Print Name I Address e-mail
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TOWN OF ITHACA
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING AND PUBLICATION
I, Sandra Polce; being duly sworn, depose and say that I am a Senior Typist for the Town of
Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York; that the following Notice has been duly posted on the sign
board of the Town of Ithaca and that said Notice has been duly published in the local newspaper,
The Ithaca Journal.
I
Notice of Public Hearings to be held by the Town of Ithaca Planning Board in the Town of Ithaca
Town Hall, 215 � North Tio2a Street, Ithaca. New York. on Tuesday. January 4. 2011
Location of Sign Board used for Posting: Town Clerk Sign Board — 215 North Tioga Street.
Date of Posting: December 27, 2010
Date of Publication: December 29, 2010
STATE OF NEW
COUNTY OF TC
Sworn to and subscribed
� (3ku--,
Sandra Polce, Senior Typist
Town of Ithaca
SS:
me this 29th day of December 2010.
Notary Public)
CARRIE WHITMORE
Notary Public, State of New York
No. 01 WH6052877I
Tioga County
Commission Expires December�l26,�