HomeMy WebLinkAboutZBA Packet 2022-08-09Town of Ithaca
Zoning Board of Appeals
Tuesday August 09, 2022 @ 6:00pm
215 N. Tioga St.
Due to public health and safety concerns related to COVID-19 and NYS Legislation allowing
virtual meetings. The Public Hearing meeting for the Zoning Board of Appeals will be held by
video conferencing through the Zoom App with no in-person attendance permitted. The public
will have an opportunity to see and hear the meeting live and provide comments through the
Zoom App. If the public would like to attend the meeting for viewing purposes only, it is
recommended to watch the livestream video on YouTube.
Agenda
0013-2022 Appeal of Tompkins Financial, owner; Cayuga Signs, applicant/agent of 1012
Ellis Hollow Road, Tax Parcel No. 62.-2-1.21
0014-2022 Appeal of Neil and Brigid Shipman; owners of 681 Five Mile Drive, Tax
Parcel No. 31.-2-21.2
0015-2022 Appeal of Hoffmire Properties LLC, owner of 961 Taughannock Blvd., Tax
Parcel No. 21.-2-36
INSTRUCTIONS TO ACCESS THE MEETING VIRTUALLY ON ZOOM:
If you have a computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can access the Zoom meeting by going to
www.zoom.us and clicking on “JOIN Meeting”, and entering 852-5587-1576 into the
Meeting ID. You can also call in to the Zoom meeting at +1 (929) 436-2866. To join the
meeting directly, go to https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85255871576. If joining through the Zoom
App, you will be placed on hold until the meeting starts.
INSTRUCTIONS TO ACCESS THE MEETING VIRTUALLY ON YOUTUBE: If you have
a computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can access the meeting by going to the Town’s
YouTube channel. To join the meeting directly, go to
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC9vycXkJ6klVIibjhCy7NQ/live
Questions about accessing the Zoom video conference should be emailed to
ctorres@town.ithaca.ny.us or (607) 273-1783 ext.2.
Town of Ithaca
Zoning Board of Appeals
Tuesday, August 9, 2022 @ 6:00 p.m.
215 N. Tioga St.
0013-2022 Appeal of Tompkins Financial, owner; Cayuga Signs, agent/applicant of 1012 Ellis
Hollow Road, Tax Parcel No. 62.-2-1.21, are seeking relief from Town of Ithaca Code sections 270-
256B and 270-256F (5) to install a wall sign and is in addition to the existing canopy and freestanding
signs. The current property is located in the Community Commercial Zone.
Zoning Board of Appeals Application - (Area Variance)
Information
Department of Code Enforcement
607-273-1783
codes@town.ithaca.ny.us
Fee Information:
Area Variance Appearance Fee - $150.00
(If multiple variances are being applied for, only 1 fee is required per appearance, higher fee prevails)
To view the Fee Schedule, please click here
Fees can only be paid by check, cash or money order. Payment is due at the time of application submission.
Fees can be mailed to Town Hall, 215 N. Tioga St Ithaca, placed in the locked drop box at the Buffalo St. entrance or delivered to
Town Hall during regular business hours 8am-4pm M-F.
The application will not be processed or reviewed until we are in receipt of the
payment.
IMPORTANT: You must have applied for a building, sign, or other required permit and received a determination/denial from Code
Enforcement Staff or a referral from the Town of Ithaca Planning Board prior to submitting this application form.
Property Address
Tax Parcel No.
Property Owner(s)*
Owner(s) Mailing Address
Owner(s) Primary Phone Number
Owner(s) Email Address
Applicant's Name *
Applicant's Primary Phone Number
Applicant's Email Address
Brief Description of Variance Request *
Property Information
1012 Ellis Hollow Rd
Ithaca, NY 14850
If unknown, type "N/A"
Cornell University
15 Thornwood Rd
(xxx) xxx-xxxx
Cayuga Signs Inc
If the applicant is the owner, please type "N/A"
(607)-257-5593
cayugasigns607@gmail.com
Install 10"x 76" Brass letters
ZBA Application
0013-2022
Additional Information on the Criteria for Variances
AREA VARIANCE:
In making its determinaƟon, the zoning board of appeals shall take into consideraƟon the benefit to the applicant if the
variance is granted, as weighed against the detriment to the health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood or community
by such grant. In making such determinaƟon the board shall also consider:
a. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the neighborhood or a detriment to nearby properties will
be created by the granting of the area variance;
b. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some other method, feasible for the applicant to pursue, other
than the area variance;
c. Whether the requested area variance is substantial;
d. Whether the proposed area variance will have an adverse effect or impact on the physical or environmental conditions in the
neighborhood or district; and
e. Whether the alleged difficulty was not self-created
NOTE: Chapter 270-235J of the Town of Ithaca Code:
Unless work has commenced in accordance with the variance or special approval given by the Zoning Board of Appeals within
one year from the issuance of the building permit authorizing such work, or within 18 months of the granting of such variance or
special approval, whichever is earlier, not only the building permit but the variance or special approval shall expire and the
permissible uses and construction on the property shall revert to those in effect prior to the issuance of such special approval or
variance.
Additional Information on the Criteria for Variances
Area Variance Criteria Form
a. Will an undesirable change be produced in the character of the neighborhood or be a detriment to nearby
properties?
*
Reasons:
b. Can the benefit sought by the applicant be achieved by a feasible alternative to the variance?
*
Reasons:
c. Is the requested variance substantial?
*
Reasons:
d. Would the variance have an adverse impact on the physical or environmental conditions in the neighborhood?
*
Reasons:
e. Is the alleged difficulty self-created?
*
Reasons:
Area Variance Criteria Form
Yes No
Were removing existing letters that are 10" high and replacing with the new logo that is app half the length that is now
Yes No
We want their logo to be visible and also were replacing the same height
Yes No
Cause were installing their logo that they have now
Yes No
Replacing what there
Yes No
Change needs to occur cause of new logo
Additional Documents
In addition to the application, the following documentation should be submitted:
- A copy of the determination/denial letter from Code Enforcement or the Planning Board resolution referring the project to the
Zoning Board of Appeals, and
*
- A narrative describing your project, including the present circumstances under which strict observance of the Town Code would
impose practical difficulties and/or unnecessary hardship, along with the other criteria for a use variance, area variances, sign
variance, or sprinkler variance. Refer to the attached sheet “Information on the Criteria for an Area or Use Variance, "which
explains what you as an appellant need to prove and that which the Zoning Board will consider. Complete the applicable criteria
form (area, use, sign, or sprinkler), and
*
- A current survey map and any other plans that will clearly and accurately illustrate your proposal. The survey should include
dimensions, setback lines, and any natural features on or immediately adjacent to the site; such as streams, ponds, woodlands,
wetlands, etc. Height variance requests require scaled elevation drawings with accurate dimensions showing both the exterior and
interior proposed heights. The submission of floor and utility plans should be included when construction is involved. In some
cases, these plans may be the same plans submitted to the Code Enforcement Department which caused the determination or
denial, and
*
- If the property is located within a Tompkins County Agricultural District, submit a County "Agricultural Data Statement" form.
Maps showing these districts are located on the Town website www.town.ithaca.ny.us and at Town Hall, and
*
- Similarly, if the property has a stream on it, the survey map needs to show the distance of the stream to the property line as it
may need to comply with the Town’s Stream Setback Law. (See staff for more details)
*
- A completed SHORT or FULL Environmental Assessment Form. All applications require an Environmental Assessment Form
(exception--area variance where a residential building setback is involved). There are some cases where a full Environmental
Assessment Form will be required; in this case, a Zoning staff member will let you know. Either form can be completed online at
www.dec.ny.gov.
*
If you have documents larger than 11" x 17", tabloid size, we will need 8 hard copies of those documents. One copy can
be provided in the original packet and we will notify you when to submit the hard copies.
Upload Supporting Documents Here
Additional Documents
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
20 MB limit, please email additional files to codes@town.ithaca.ny.us
Signature Page
The UNDERSIGNED respectfully submit this application requesting an appearance before the Zoning Board of Appeals.
By filing this application, I grant permission for members of The Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals or Town staff to enter my
property for any inspection(s) necessary that are in connection with my application.
I acknowledge, that completed applications are scheduled on a first-come first-serve basis and that all documents ideally be
submitted forty-five (45) days advance of the proposed meeting date, together with the required application fee. Failure to do so
may result in a delay in my hearing.
If the applicant is not the owner, they will either need to provide a letter or email of authorization from the owner designating them
the agent, or provide a copy of the signed contract to show they can act on behalf of the owner.
Application Completed By *
Signature *
Date *
Owner Other
Property Manager
5/25/2022
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1
Chris Torres
Subject:FW: Conversation about ZBA 0004-2022
From: Justin McNeal <jmcneal@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 2:37 PM
To: Marty Moseley <MMoseley@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Subject: RE: Conversation about ZBA 0004-2022
Hey Marty,
Just to follow up on the other Applications going before the board next week:
0008-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0011-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0012-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0013-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0014-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0015-2022 – I don’t believe engineering has any concerns regarding this variance. Andy Sciarabba and the applicant
have been in touch with DEC and Army Corps a few times about this project but I don’t believe that would affect the
variance process for them.
Thanks,
Justin McNeal
Civil Engineer
Town of Ithaca Engineering Dept.
114 Seven Mile Drive
Ithaca, NY 14850
W: (607)-273-1656 Ext. 260
C: (607)-220-8342
From: Marty Moseley <MMoseley@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 7:57 AM
To: Justin McNeal <jmcneal@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Subject: RE: Conversation about ZBA 0004-2022
Sounds like a plan. Did you want to meet at Town Hall?
Thank you,
Marty Moseley
Director of Code Enforcement
Town of Ithaca
215 N Tioga Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
P: 607-273-1783
F: 607-273-1704
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
Town of Ithaca
Zoning Board of Appeals
Tuesday, August 9, 2022 @ 6:00 p.m.
215 N. Tioga St.
0014-2022 Appeal of Neil and Brigid Shipman, owners of 681 Five Mile Drive, Tax Parcel No. 31.-
2- 21.2, are seeking relief from Town of Ithaca Code sections 270-59 (Height limitations) and 270-56C
(Permitted accessory buildings and uses) to have a total of two accessory buildings that are
approximately 2,373 square feet in area and one accessory building that is approximately 21’4” in
height. Town of Ithaca Code section 270-59 allows for an accessory building to be a maximum height of
15’, Town of Ithaca Code section 270-56C allow for a maximum of three accessory buildings (not
including a garage or an accessory dwelling unit) not to exceed 2,000 square feet due to the parcel being
3 acres or larger, where the proposed accessory buildings total square feet would be approximately 2,373
and the height of the newly built accessory building would be approximately 21’4”. The current property
is located in the Low Density Residential Zone.
Zoning Board of Appeals Application - (Area Variance)
Information
Department of Code Enforcement
607-273-1783
codes@town.ithaca.ny.us
Fee Information:
Area Variance Appearance Fee - $150.00
(If multiple variances are being applied for, only 1 fee is required per appearance, higher fee prevails)
To view the Fee Schedule, please click here
Fees can only be paid by check, cash or money order. Payment is due at the time of application submission.
Fees can be mailed to Town Hall, 215 N. Tioga St Ithaca, placed in the locked drop box at the Buffalo St. entrance or delivered to
Town Hall during regular business hours 8am-4pm M-F.
The application will not be processed or reviewed until we are in receipt of the
payment.
IMPORTANT: You must have applied for a building, sign, or other required permit and received a determination/denial from Code
Enforcement Staff or a referral from the Town of Ithaca Planning Board prior to submitting this application form.
Property Address
Tax Parcel No.
Property Owner(s)*
Owner(s) Mailing Address
Owner(s) Primary Phone Number
Owner(s) Email Address
Applicant's Name *
Brief Description of Variance Request *
Property Information
681 Five Mile Dr.
Ithaca, NY 14850
If unknown, type "N/A"
Neil and Brigid Shipman
681 Five Mile Dr.
(607)-280-7912
(xxx) xxx-xxxx
nship72ant@yahoo.com
N/A
If the applicant is the owner, please type "N/A"
Initial permit was denied due to lot acreage. Acreage was increased to 3 acres and paperwork submitted. Dana
reviewed and verbally confirmed permission twice to begin work. The building is complete but Dana said she did not
review the drawing so a variance will have to be submitted.
ZBA Application
0014-2022
Additional Information on the Criteria for Variances
AREA VARIANCE:
In making its determinaƟon, the zoning board of appeals shall take into consideraƟon the benefit to the applicant if the
variance is granted, as weighed against the detriment to the health, safety and welfare of the neighborhood or community
by such grant. In making such determinaƟon the board shall also consider:
a. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the neighborhood or a detriment to nearby properties will
be created by the granting of the area variance;
b. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some other method, feasible for the applicant to pursue, other
than the area variance;
c. Whether the requested area variance is substantial;
d. Whether the proposed area variance will have an adverse effect or impact on the physical or environmental conditions in the
neighborhood or district; and
e. Whether the alleged difficulty was not self-created
NOTE: Chapter 270-235J of the Town of Ithaca Code:
Unless work has commenced in accordance with the variance or special approval given by the Zoning Board of Appeals within
one year from the issuance of the building permit authorizing such work, or within 18 months of the granting of such variance or
special approval, whichever is earlier, not only the building permit but the variance or special approval shall expire and the
permissible uses and construction on the property shall revert to those in effect prior to the issuance of such special approval or
variance.
Additional Information on the Criteria for Variances
Area Variance Criteria Form
a. Will an undesirable change be produced in the character of the neighborhood or be a detriment to nearby
properties?
*
Reasons:
b. Can the benefit sought by the applicant be achieved by a feasible alternative to the variance?
*
Reasons:
c. Is the requested variance substantial?
*
Reasons:
d. Would the variance have an adverse impact on the physical or environmental conditions in the neighborhood?
*
Reasons:
e. Is the alleged difficulty self-created?
*
Reasons:
Area Variance Criteria Form
Yes No
The barn is set back on the property behind current structures so as not to impede the character of the neighborhood.
This is a rural area and there are numerous other barns very nearby including one in the new Amabel community that
was retained from the original property. That barn appears to have a second story as well.
Yes No
Drawings were provided with the building permit application. Dana provided a denial letter stating the property needs
3.0 acres for an additional structure. Our neighbor offered property in the back of our lots to meet that need. Those
details were updated, Dana gave verbal permission to begin work stating the permit would be ready the following day.
She phoned later the following day stating she had not reviewed the drawing and it needs a variance. Work is complete,
the new variance details were conveyed a week later.
Yes No
The building has slightly more square feet than allowed and a height variance of six feet. The second story will be used
for small item storage. The building does not have utilities so it's only purpose is storage. Due to the level of crime in the
neighborhood a secure building is needed to safely house a boat, truck and other items.
Yes No
The lot was not altered, the structure is located outside of the flood plain.
Yes No
I received verbal confirmation to begin work, a site visit was scheduled and Dana stated the building permit would be
available to pick up the following day.
Additional Documents
In addition to the application, the following documentation should be submitted:
- A copy of the determination/denial letter from Code Enforcement or the Planning Board resolution referring the project to the
Zoning Board of Appeals, and
*
- A narrative describing your project, including the present circumstances under which strict observance of the Town Code would
impose practical difficulties and/or unnecessary hardship, along with the other criteria for a use variance, area variances, sign
variance, or sprinkler variance. Refer to the attached sheet “Information on the Criteria for an Area or Use Variance, "which
explains what you as an appellant need to prove and that which the Zoning Board will consider. Complete the applicable criteria
form (area, use, sign, or sprinkler), and
*
- A current survey map and any other plans that will clearly and accurately illustrate your proposal. The survey should include
dimensions, setback lines, and any natural features on or immediately adjacent to the site; such as streams, ponds, woodlands,
wetlands, etc. Height variance requests require scaled elevation drawings with accurate dimensions showing both the exterior and
interior proposed heights. The submission of floor and utility plans should be included when construction is involved. In some
cases, these plans may be the same plans submitted to the Code Enforcement Department which caused the determination or
denial, and
*
- If the property is located within a Tompkins County Agricultural District, submit a County "Agricultural Data Statement" form.
Maps showing these districts are located on the Town website www.town.ithaca.ny.us and at Town Hall, and
*
- Similarly, if the property has a stream on it, the survey map needs to show the distance of the stream to the property line as it
may need to comply with the Town’s Stream Setback Law. (See staff for more details)
*
- A completed SHORT or FULL Environmental Assessment Form. All applications require an Environmental Assessment Form
(exception--area variance where a residential building setback is involved). There are some cases where a full Environmental
Assessment Form will be required; in this case, a Zoning staff member will let you know. Either form can be completed online at
www.dec.ny.gov.
*
If you have documents larger than 11" x 17", tabloid size, we will need 8 hard copies of those documents. One copy can
be provided in the original packet and we will notify you when to submit the hard copies.
Additional Documents
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Providing
Not providing at this time
Upload Supporting Documents Here BP 1.jpeg 3.23MB
BP 2.jpeg 2.86MB
BP 3.jpeg 2.94MB
BP 4.jpeg 2.24MB
pic of barn.jpg 3.75MB
survey.jpeg 3.05MB
denial 1.png 695.33KB
denial 2.png 707.01KB
Information on the Criteria for an Area or Use
Variance.pdf 168.59KB
Marty 1.png 883.7KB
Marty 2.png 767.96KB
Envi 1.jpeg 2.83MB
Envi 2.jpeg 3.02MB
Envi 3.jpeg 2.83MB
20 MB limit, please email additional files to codes@town.ithaca.ny.us
Signature Page
The UNDERSIGNED respectfully submit this application requesting an appearance before the Zoning Board of Appeals.
By filing this application, I grant permission for members of The Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals or Town staff to enter my
property for any inspection(s) necessary that are in connection with my application.
I acknowledge, that completed applications are scheduled on a first-come first-serve basis and that all documents ideally be
submitted forty-five (45) days advance of the proposed meeting date, together with the required application fee. Failure to do so
may result in a delay in my hearing.
Application Completed By *
Signature *
Date *
Owner Other
Property Manager
6/3/2022
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1
Chris Torres
Subject:FW: Conversation about ZBA 0004-2022
From: Justin McNeal <jmcneal@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 2:37 PM
To: Marty Moseley <MMoseley@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Subject: RE: Conversation about ZBA 0004-2022
Hey Marty,
Just to follow up on the other Applications going before the board next week:
0008-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0011-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0012-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0013-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0014-2022 – No Engineering Concerns
0015-2022 – I don’t believe engineering has any concerns regarding this variance. Andy Sciarabba and the applicant
have been in touch with DEC and Army Corps a few times about this project but I don’t believe that would affect the
variance process for them.
Thanks,
Justin McNeal
Civil Engineer
Town of Ithaca Engineering Dept.
114 Seven Mile Drive
Ithaca, NY 14850
W: (607)-273-1656 Ext. 260
C: (607)-220-8342
From: Marty Moseley <MMoseley@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Sent: Wednesday, July 6, 2022 7:57 AM
To: Justin McNeal <jmcneal@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Subject: RE: Conversation about ZBA 0004-2022
Sounds like a plan. Did you want to meet at Town Hall?
Thank you,
Marty Moseley
Director of Code Enforcement
Town of Ithaca
215 N Tioga Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
P: 607-273-1783
F: 607-273-1704
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
Town of Ithaca
Zoning Board of Appeals
Tuesday, August 9, 2022 @ 6:00 p.m.
215 N. Tioga St.
0015-2022 Appeal of Hoffmire Properties LLC, owner of 961 Taughannock Blvd., Tax Parcel
No. 21.-2-36, is seeking relief from Town of Ithaca Code sections 270-43K (5), 270-43 K (8)(a), 270-
43K (9), and 270-43K (7) (Permitted accessory structures and uses). Town of Ithaca Code section 270-
43K (5) requires the surface area of all boat lifts and boat hoists on a water front lot not to exceed 308
square feet, Town of Ithaca Code section 270-43K (7) requires the width of any pier, dock, or wharf to
be a minimum of three feet and not to exceed eight feet in at least one dimension Any extension, such
as an "L," "T" or "U" extension, shall not exceed eight feet in at least one dimension (length or width),
Town of Ithaca Code section 270-43K (8)(a) requires the length of any dock, pier, or wharf to not
exceed 40 feet, Town of Ithaca Code section 270-43K (9) requires the maximum surface area of all
docks, piers, and wharves not to exceed 320 square feet in aggregate, where the applicant is proposing
to have a dock that is 48 feet in length, a boat hoist/lift area of 364 square feet, a maximum surface
area of 499 square feet, and a “U” extension on the dock that is 12 feet. The current property is located
in the Lakefront Residential Zone.
Scott,
After completing the review of your proposed project at 961 Taughannock Blvd. I have determined the
following items to be non-compliant per The Town of Ithaca’s Code.
1. 270-43 K (5), The maximum surface area of all boat lifts and boat hoists on a waterfront lot
(including any roof overhang) shall not, in the aggregate, exceed 308 square feet. Proposed area
is 364 SF, resulting in 56 SF over the allowable square footage.
2. 270-43 K (8)a, the length of any pier, dock, or wharf, including all extensions, boat lifts and boat
hoists, shall extend offshore from the ordinary high-water line to a distance no greater than 40
feet. Proposed dock length is 48 feet from ordinary high-water line, 8 ft. over the allowable
length.
3. 270-43 K (9), The maximum surface area of all piers, docks and wharves on a waterfront lot shall
not, in the aggregate, exceed 320 square feet. Proposed square footage of dock is 499 SF, 179 SF
over the allowable square footage.
4. 270-43 K (7), the width of any pier, dock, or wharf (excluding boat lifts and boat hoists) shall be a
minimum of three feet and shall not exceed eight feet. Any extension, such as an "L," "T" or "U"
extension, shall not exceed eight feet in at least one dimension (length or width). Proposed “U”
extension exceeds the 8 ft. with a proposed 4 ft. (catwalk). Resulting in the proposed total of a
12 ft “U” extension width, 4 ft. over the allowable 8 ft.
After further review we have concluded that the “catwalk” is part of the surface area of dock, not part of
the boat hoist system’s surface area.
In the event to work through an area of variance, please feel free to use this correspondence as your
official denial letter for the variance document package.
Any questions please call or email.
Thank you,
Jessica Hull
Electrical/Code Enforcement Officer
TOWN OF ITHACA
215 N. Tioga Street Ithaca, NY 14850
607-273-1783
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
Narrative – REVISED 7/26/22, with photos
Appeal of Scott & Judy Hoffmire (Hoffmire Properties LLC), owner of 961 Taughannock Blvd, Tax Parcel
21.-2-36.
As new homeowners of this property, we are improving the property, which includes demolishing a
deteriorating dock. The purpose of the variance request is to allow us to build a replacement dock,
covered lift, and supporting catwalk to accommodate an existing 24’ boat.
Increase the proposed boat lift roof area width by 2’ – Owners are seeking relief from Town of Ithaca
Code section 270-43 (K) (5), which states: Maximum surface area for all boat lifts and hoists on a
waterfront lot (including any roof overhang) shall not, in the aggregate, exceed 308 square feet.
A roof 11’ feet wide by 28’ long equals 308 square feet. We would like to build a roof that is 13’
wide by 28’ long which will result in a total roof area of 364 square feet, which is 56 square feet
over code. This is an increase of 18% over the permitted square footage.
The planned boat lift request would provide the needed space for a 24’ long by 8.5’ wide boat.
The additional 56 square feet allows sufficient space for the boat and mechanisms (guideposts,
cables, and motor).
Increase dock length 8’ – Owners are seeking relief from Town of Ithaca Code section 270-43 (K) (8) (a),
which states: the length of any pier, dock, or wharf, including all extensions, boat lifts and boat hoists,
shall extend offshore from the ordinary high-water line to a distance no greater than 40’. The primary
need is to obtain a lake depth that assures the boat has reasonable lakebed clearance.
The request is to extend the dock to a proposed length of 48’, 8’ longer than code allows, to
accommodate the 24’ boat. This is a 20% increase over the permitted footage.
The proposed 48’ dock provides an additional 1’ of lakebed clearance to accommodate a 2’ boat
draft at the bow area when it is in the slip facing the shore. At 40’ dock length the depth is ±4’ at
the bow, (providing only 2’ clearance), at 48’ dock length the depth is ±5’at the bow (providing
3’ clearance). The additional 1’ clearance allows for undercarriage lift rails to hoist the boat.
Because the proposed dock location is in a cove, the additional 8’ length will not impede
north/south boat traffic parallel to the shoreline (see included photograph).
In addition, the location of a stream 60 feet from the dock can change lakebed levels depending
on annual discharge, so the extended dock will provide extra clearance in case of lakebed
fluctuations.
Add a front and port side catwalk – Owners are seeking relief from Town of Ithaca Code section 270-43
K (9) which states: the maximum surface area of all piers, docks and wharves on a waterfront lot shall
not, in the aggregate exceed 320 square feet including all extensions but excluding any boat lifts and
boat hoists, and 270-43 K (7) which states: the width of any pier, dock, or wharf (excluding boat lifts and
boat hoists) shall be a minimum of 3 feet and shall not exceed 8 feet. Any extension, such as an “L”, “T”,
or “U” extension, shall not exceed 8 feet in at least one dimension (length or width).
The maximum surface area of dock permitted is 320 sq feet. It is our understanding the catwalk
will be included in the dock’s square footage calculation. Including the catwalk, the dock will be
499 sq. feet or 179 sq. ft over the permitted square footage. This is a 56% deviation.
However, the majority of the deviation is due to the inclusion of a 4’ wide catwalk, which has
been included for boat passenger safety. Passengers can only exit from a small area at the
starboard side of the stern. The catwalk will allow them to also exit from the port side of the
stern. In case of high winds, rough waves, fire, or other emergency situations, the catwalk will
provide egress so that all passengers, young and old, can exit quickly.
The main dock, not including the catwalk, is 339 square feet, which is only 19 sq feet or 6%
increase from that which is permissible. The variance request is for the full square footage
including main dock and catwalk.
The dock, boat lift and catwalk will adhere to all codes except for our Variance Request.
Dock location, showing cove
Neighbor dock, shows our conformity to neighborhood
Page 2 of 3
5.Is the proposed action,
a.A permitted use under the zoning regulations?
b.Consistent with the adopted comprehensive plan?
NO YES N/A
6.Is the proposed action consistent with the predominant character of the existing built or natural landscape?NO YES
7.Is the site of the proposed action located in, or does it adjoin, a state listed Critical Environmental Area?
If Yes, identify: ________________________________________________________________________________
NO YES
8.a. Will the proposed action result in a substantial increase in traffic above present levels?
b.Are public transportation services available at or near the site of the proposed action?
c.Are any pedestrian accommodations or bicycle routes available on or near the site of the proposed
action?
NO YES
9.Does the proposed action meet or exceed the state energy code requirements?
If the proposed action will exceed requirements, describe design features and technologies:
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
NO YES
10.Will the proposed action connect to an existing public/private water supply?
If No, describe method for providing potable water: _________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
NO YES
11.Will the proposed action connect to existing wastewater utilities?
If No, describe method for providing wastewater treatment: ______________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
NO YES
12. a. Does the project site contain, or is it substantially contiguous to, a building, archaeological site, or district
which is listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places, or that has been determined by the
Commissioner of the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to be eligible for listing on the
State Register of Historic Places?
archaeological sites on the NY State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) archaeological site inventory?
NO YES
13. a. Does any portion of the site of the proposed action, or lands adjoining the proposed action, contain
wetlands or other waterbodies regulated by a federal, state or local agency?
b.Would the proposed action physically alter, or encroach into, any existing wetland or waterbody?
If Yes, identify the wetland or waterbody and extent of alterations in square feet or acres: _____________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
NO YES
b. Is the project site, or any portion of it, located in or adjacent to an area designated as sensitive for
EAF Mapper Summary Report Tuesday, June 7, 2022 4:44 PM
Disclaimer: The EAF Mapper is a screening tool intended to assist
project sponsors and reviewing agencies in preparing an environmental
assessment form (EAF). Not all questions asked in the EAF are
answered by the EAF Mapper. Additional information on any EAF
question can be obtained by consulting the EAF Workbooks. Although
the EAF Mapper provides the most up-to-date digital data available to
DEC, you may also need to contact local or other data sources in order
to obtain data not provided by the Mapper. Digital data is not a
substitute for agency determinations.
Part 1 / Question 7 [Critical Environmental
Area]
No
Part 1 / Question 12a [National or State
Register of Historic Places or State Eligible
Sites]
No
Part 1 / Question 12b [Archeological Sites]Yes
Part 1 / Question 13a [Wetlands or Other
Regulated Waterbodies]
Yes - Digital mapping information on local and federal wetlands and
waterbodies is known to be incomplete. Refer to EAF Workbook.
Part 1 / Question 15 [Threatened or
Endangered Animal]
Yes
Part 1 / Question 15 [Threatened or
Endangered Animal - Name]
Lake Sturgeon
Part 1 / Question 16 [100 Year Flood Plain]Digital mapping data are not available or are incomplete. Refer to EAF
Workbook.
Part 1 / Question 20 [Remediation Site]No
1Short Environmental Assessment Form - EAF Mapper Summary Report
COMMISSIONER
Katherine Borgella
DEPUTY COMMISSIONER
M. Megan McDonald
121 E. Court St, Ithaca, N.Y. 14850 | Phone: (607) 274-5560 | tompkinscountyny.gov/planning
Creating and implementing plans that position Tompkins County communities to thrive.
July 29, 2022
Chris Torres, Admin. Assistant
Town of Ithaca
215 North Tioga St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Re: Review Pursuant to §239 -l, -m and -n of the New York State General Municipal Law
Action: Area variances for dock/boat lift, located at 961 Taughannock Blvd, Town of Ithaca Tax
Parcel # 21.-2-36, Scott & Judy Hoffmire, Owners/Applicants.
Dear Mr. Torres:
This letter acknowledges your referral of the proposal identified above for review and comment by the
Tompkins County Department of Planning & Sustainability pursuant to §239 -l, -m and -n of the New
York State General Municipal Law. We do not have any recommended modifications on this proposal.
The Department offers the following comment regarding the proposed project, which is not a formal
recommendation under General Municipal Law §239 -l, -m and -n:
Comment
• We note that Cayuga Lake is a shared community and regional resource. Docks of this size can
have the effect of appropriating this resource for private use and could result in adverse scenic
and recreation impacts.
We look forward to receiving notification on the final action taken by your municipality within 30 days of
decision, as required by State law. Should you have any questions about this review please contact us.
Sincerely,
Katherine Borgella, AICP
Commissioner of Planning and Sustainability
1
Chris Torres
Subject:FW: Town of Ithaca - Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting (August)
From: VanGorder, Keith (DOT) <Keith.VanGorder@dot.ny.gov>
Sent: Friday, July 29, 2022 3:44 PM
To: Chris Torres <ctorres@town.ithaca.ny.us>
Cc: Buck, Eric (DOT) <Eric.Buck@dot.ny.gov>
Subject: RE: Town of Ithaca - Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting (August)
No comments Chris, thank you.
Keith Van Gorder
NYSDOT Asst. Resident Engineer
Cortland–Tompkins Residency
3668 Route 281
Cortland, NY 13045
From: Chris Torres <ctorres@town.ithaca.ny.us>
To: VanGorder, Keith (DOT) <Keith.VanGorder@dot.ny.gov>; Buck, Eric (DOT) <Eric.Buck@dot.ny.gov>
Subject: Town of Ithaca - Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting (August)
ATTENTION: This email came from an external source. Do not open attachments or click on links from unknown senders or
unexpected emails.
Good morning,
Attached, are the material packets for items that are appearing in front of the Town of Ithaca’s
Zoning Board of Appeals in the month of August that are located off a State-owned Road. If you
wish to provide any comments, feel free to respond to this email.
Best,
Chris
Christopher Torres
Administrative Assistant
Town of Ithaca
215 N. Tioga St.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Phone: 607-273-1783
www.town.ithaca.ny.us