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HomeMy WebLinkAboutZBA History Combined (56) Zoning Board of Appeals History as of 58.-2-39.6 139 Honness Ln Tax Parcels involved, with address if known 139 Honness Ln 58.-2-39.6 with no subdivision and readdressing. History: 1987 – Special Approval for increased enrollment and addition at nursery school - Granted 1981 – Special Approval for Nursery School – Granted TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS AND AGENDA WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987 7:00 P.M. By direction of the .HEREBY GIVEN that Public of the Town of Ithaca on Seneca Street, (FIRST COMMENCING AT 7:00 P.M., Chairman of the Zoning Hearings will be held by Wednesday,.November 18, Floor, REAR Entrance, Board of Appeals NOTICE IS the Zoning Board of Appeals 1987, in Town Hall, 126 East WEST Side), Ithaca, N.Y., on the following matters, as appropriate: APPEAL of Leslie V� Appellants, with respect to a request for authorization by the Zoning Board of Appeals, pursuant to Article XII, TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS AND AGENDA WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987 7:00 P.M. By direction of the .HEREBY GIVEN that Public of the Town of Ithaca on Seneca Street, (FIRST COMMENCING AT 7:00 P.M., Chairman of the Zoning Hearings will be held by Wednesday,.November 18, Floor, REAR Entrance, Board of Appeals NOTICE IS the Zoning Board of Appeals 1987, in Town Hall, 126 East WEST Side), Ithaca, N.Y., on the following matters, as appropriate: APPEAL of Leslie N. and Margaret B. Reizes, Appellants, with respect to a request for authorization by the Zoning Board of Appeals, pursuant to Article XII, Section 54, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, to extend an existing non -conforming residence structure at 1061 Taughannock Blvd., Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-21-2-13, Residence District R-15. The existing residence is located approximately ten feet from the south side yard lot line, a room addition proposed for the north side of said residence would create a north side yard of approximately two feet. APPEAL of Earland and Robert Mancini, Appellants/Property Owners, Richard R. Anderson, Applicant/Agent, from the decision of the Building Inspector/ Zoning Enforcement Officer denying permission for the construction of a proposed moving and storage facility proposed to be located on a 1.5± acre portion of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-33-3-2.2, 90.23 acres total, in a Light Industrial District at 608 Elmira Road. The proposed building would be greater than 25 feet, in height with a front yard setback of approximately 90 feet and a south side yard setback of approximately 45 feet. Said building would also front on a private road. Permission is denied under Article VIII, Section 44, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, whereby a front yard setback no less than 150 feet is required, a side yard no less than 60 feet is required, and a building height no greater than 25 feet is required. Permission is further denied under Section 280-a of Town Law which requires frontage on a public roadway. APPEAL of Michael J. Hannan, Appellant, from the decision of the Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer denying permission for the construction of proposed "South Yard" Warehouse approximately 36 feet in height, proposed to be located on Five Mile Drive (N.Y.S. Route 13A) near Elmira Road (N.Y.S. Route 13), on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-31-3-3.11, 1.46 acres total, in a Light Industrial District. Permission is denied under Article VIII, .Section 44, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance whereby a building height no greater than 25 feet is required. A height variance for said proposed warehouse was granted by the 'Zoning Board of Appeals on May 14, 1980, permitting a building height of 32 feet. APPEAL of John and Doris Perialas, Property Owners/Appellants, John and Valerie Littlefield, Applicants/Agents, with respect to a request for Special Approval of a Nursery School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 11, Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed expansion of Little. Feet Montessori Center to include 44 children, an enrollment of 32 children having been previously approved and presently attending, and a room addition, at 139 Hon ness Lane, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6, Residence District R-15. AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of an Executive Session, Said Zoning Board of Appeals will at said time, 7:00 p.m., and said place, hear all persons in support of such matters or objections thereto, as appropriate. Persons may appear by agent or in person. Andrew S. Frost Building Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer Town of Ithaca 273-1747 Dated: November 10, 1987 Publish: November 13, 1987 11 and Route 13-A of the proposed storage area would be minimal; and WHEREAS, from Route 13-A the screening will be increased, and WHEREAS, removal it would be of the existing an unnecessary hardship to truss structure that require the is already standing; and this at the 1981 hearing. Chairman Aron stated that WHEREAS, no one from the public appeared in opposition to this at the 1981 hearing. Chairman Aron stated that variance; it of is RESOLVED, that this Board grant a height variance to permit construction of "South Yard" Warehouse to be no more than 36 feet in height; and it is further RESOLVED, that the conditions as set forth by the Planning Board with regard to this matter be adopted. Edward King seconded the motion. The voting was as follows. Aye - Aron, Reuning, Austen, King Nay - None The motion was carried. The last item on the agenda was as follows: APPEAL of John and Doris Perialas, Property Owners /Appellants, John and Valerie Littlefield, Applicants/Agents, with respect to a request for Special Approval of a Nursery School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 1 1 , Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed expansion of Little Feet Montessori Center to include 44 children, an enrollment of 32 children having been previously approved and presently attending, and a room addition, at 139 Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6, Residence District R-15. witnessed any further violations when he had made his inspection of the property in November of 1987. Mr. Frost responded that part of the conditions of the special approval was that the I Chairman Aron referred to the conditions imposed upon the Littlefields at the 1981 hearing. Chairman Aron stated that one of the conditions as to parking, which conditions were imposed when special approval was granted in 1981 to the Littlefields, was that the parking lot should be striped. Chairman Aron indicated that from the photographs he had viewed this had not been done. Chairman Aron then asked Mr. Frost if he had witnessed any further violations when he had made his inspection of the property in November of 1987. Mr. Frost responded that part of the conditions of the special approval was that the I 12 parking areas across the street from the school be clearly marked and that there be signs showing entrance and exit. Mr. Frost stated that as of his inspection in November of 1987 there were no clearly marked parking spaces and that some vehicles were parked on the grass. Mr. Frost went on to say that there was one sign showing the entrance but this was in poor repair and there was no exit sign. Mr. Littlefield acknowledged that they had done nothing with regard to the parking situation. Mr. Littlefield explained that there*was great demand for quality daycare in Tompkins County and they were trying to supply that quality daycare to more children and that was why they were before the Board. Mr. Littlefield stated that they had tried to take care of the traffic problem and there had been absolutely no problem with parking or traffic. Chairman Aron said there must have been some problem because from the photographs it appeared that there .were cars parked on the .lawn. Chairman Aron further stated that he was aware that during the last snowfall, about ten days ago, some cars could not park at the school and indeed had to park on someone else's property. Mr. Littlefield said that was correct but a normal condition on Honness Lane and that if a neighbor could not get to their house up the street ---and came to the school to ask if they could park in their parking lot he would say yes but caution them to ,park out of the way so other people can get through. Mrs. Littlefield stated they had also accommodated neighbors by letting them park in the school parking lot on weekends, especially one Mrs. Bredbenner, Chairman Aron asked if the Littlefields had ever considered buying other land for their school and Mr. Littlefield responded they had considered doing that across the street but had been turned down. Chairman Aron said that was still in an R-15 district and that people want their neighborhood to remain a residential neighborhood. Chairman Aron continued that the Board had allowed 32 children to be present on the property and it was not to exceed that number. Chairman Aron stated that the Board was taken aback by the fact that the Littlefields were now coming in to request more children and would it not be more feasible for them to look for land outside the R-15 zone and build their school there. Mr. Littlefield stated that there were approximately eighteen people in the neighborhood that had used the school and referred to a list of same. Mr. Littlefield continued they wanted their school to be a hou:.z in a neighborr,00d kind of situation where children were treated with respect and given the use of an actual house. Mr. Littlefield felt this kind of setting was best for the children and indeed they felt they had the best daycare in the County of Tompkins. 13 Chairman Aron stated that what the Board had to consider was whether to allow more children to be added in an R-15 district which is a residential neighborhood. Mr. Littlefield continued that there was a vast number of parents who wanted their children to be enrolled in their daycare center because it is so good for the children. He felt that they should at least be allowed to utilize the area they had in the school now to its fullest extent. He said that it was a school, an educational institution, and was a benefit to the neighborhood and to the community as well. Mr. Littlefield could not understand why the neighborhood did not want them since some of the children raised in that neighborhood had attended the school. Mr. Littlefield said they were trying to work things out so the neighbors would be satisfied and had indeed tried to move across the street but'had been turned down for 120 children and now they were only asking for 12 more children in an existing building. Mr. Littlefield said that the traffic question should not be a problem because according to Town Engineer Flumerfelt's report the practical capacity of Honness Lane is 900 vehicles per hour and right now the use on Honness Lane is approximately 310 vehicles per hour. He continued that even with the additional twelve- -children which would bring the total to 44 children the use would be brought up to 316 vehicles per hour. He stated that as far as the traffic is concerned the report showed that the traffic would not be a problem. Mr. Littlefield continued that the house has been there for a long time and is attractive, not a square schoolhouse looking structure, and the additional room would not impede anybody's view. Chairman Aron asked at this point where Mr. and Mrs. Littlefield resided and they said they resided on Mecklenburg Road, Chairman Aron stated that even though the house had a residential facade it was still a business. Chairman Aron read a letter from George and Matoula Nickles in opposition to the expansion, a copy of which letter is attached hereto as Exhibit 7. He also read two letters from Edgar and Barbara Bredbenner, also in opposition, copies of which letters are attached hereto as Exhibits 8 and 9. Mr. Littlefield said that after the Planning Board meeting he had thought of a way to make a single very small driveway in the front of the house so that no trees would have to be removed. The public meeting was opened. /J 14 Peter Nickles spoke for his parents, George and Matoula Nickles who lived next door to the residence in question. Mr. Nickles stated that cars now parked at the residence across the street which is an apartment house and also a business venture. He wondered what would happen to the parking situation for the Littlefield School if that business across the street were sold. George Nickles who lives next door to the Littlefield School said that he bought his house to relax in his senior years in peace and quiet. Mr. Nickles said that there were apartments in back of his house and expansion all around him and now the Littlefield School wanted to expand. He maintained that when the children are outside for recess for two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon he had to put down his windows to hear his television. Mr. Nickles said that traffic was also bad in the neighborhood and last' week there had been about ten cars stuck in the road. Douglas Armstrong of 121 Honness Lane, Ithaca, New York, said he was against the expansion of the daycare center across the street on Honness Lane and was still against the expansion in its present location. Mr. Armstrong was not opposed to daycare or to the methods the Littlefields used in teaching. Mr. Armstrong was concerned with the continued whittling away of the R-15 area which is comprised of Honness Lane and Pine Tree Road by tremendous growth within a relatively small area. He continued that this growth indicates a diminishing value of the residential aspect of life in that area. The duplexes and four apartment homes have already changed the character of the neighborhood and even had the Town Planner referring to the area concerned as the "fringe area for R-15." He stated that Little Feet was approved in 1978 for 15 students and in 1981 at its present location, 139 Honness Lane, the number was increased to 32. Mr. Armstrong felt that every incursion into a residential area decreases the privileges of all other individual owners in this R-15 area of Ithaca. Mr. Armstrong asked that the Board deny the request for an addition of children to the Little Feet School at 139 Honness Lane, Ithaca, New York, Mr. Gus Lambrou of 156 Honness Lane stated that he had lived there for 20 years and had bought the house because it was in a residential area. Mr. Lambrou asked the Board to deny the application for an increase in the number of children at Little Feet School, Ms. Shirley Rappensperger of 139 Pine Tree Road said she had lived in this "fringe ;area" for 26 year She stated that when they moved there there were only single family houses but now approximately 50% of those houses have apartments in them. Ms. Rappensperger stated that the accumulation of variances, etc, puts the residents of that R-15 neighborhood in a marginal or fringe neighborhood. She ..asked that no further changes be 15 allowed to increase the problem because she felt the residents had a contract with the Town of Ithaca in that they lived in an R-15 zone and wished it to remain so. She continued that when the daycare center first was proposed many residents were in favor of it but now feel it has outgrown the neighborhood daycare kind of concept. Mrs. Lit:tlef ield stated that when the children go outside on rare special occasions like a Halloween parade or having an ice cream cone because of a birthday party, they are outside in groups of 15 and 17 children. For a fire drill, she said, everyone evacuates. Other than that, she ctintinued, the children go out in groups of nine children so that the play area in the backyard is used by no more than nine children at one time and sometimes there are only five at a time. Mrs. Littlefield stated some .children don't go out at all. She also said- that the children were not out there for recess for two hour's but it was more like a ten or fifteen minute span, especially now when the weather is not so good, and it was a small group.of children at a time. Mr. Nickles said that the children come out twice a day every day especially in the spring and summertime and he did not know exactly how many there were at one time as he never counted. The public hearing was closed. Chairman Aron stated that he had been out to the property himself to view it a number of times .and had found that drivers were very irresponsible and traffic was a problem in that area. Chairman Aron felt that twelve more children would add to the traffic problem because it meant twelve more cars in the morning and twelve more cars in the afternoon in addition to the traffic already present on that road generated by the other development in the area, the churches, the non -conforming uses in the area, etc. He felt that all this was, in his opinion, not advantageous to the residents of the area. Chairman Aron stated that when the Littlefields were granted the extension to 32 children he thought it was a fine thing and had congratulated the Littlefields on their concept of daycare but he did not think his conscience could let him vote for further expansion now in fairness to the residents of -that area. Mrs. Reuning referred to the list mentioned by Mr. Littlefield of parents in the area who had used their daycare facility and noted that only one family on Honness Lane had used that daycare. A copy of said list is attached hereto as Exhibit 10. Mrs. Reuning felt that the residents of Honness Lane were going to feel the impact more than anyone else of further expansion in their immediate neighborhood. 1 Mrs. Littlefield asked then if petitions submitted in Y 16 opposition to their school should not bear names from Pine Tree Road and surrounding areas and should only bear names of residents on Honness Lane, Mrs. Reuning that the list was misleading since Honness Lane was listed first, yet only one family from Honness Lane was mentioned. Edward Austen said that when the Board first approved the school he was very much in favor of it as daycare was needed and he felt that putting a school in this house was a good use of that particular property. He continued trrat when the school was expanded to thirty children it was questionable because of the noise and traffic generated. Mr. Austen said that now he had serious doubts as to further expansion and felt it would be too much of 'an imposition on the neighbors and also felt that the traffic would be increased significantly. Mr. Littlefield felt that Little Feet was an educational institution and something that was important to the whole community, not just to Honness Lane and it was sad that an educational institution was limited because of other things that had developed in the area. Mr. Littlefield said that those other things had developed long before they got there and they basically had nothing to do with them in terms of the time span in which they tried to expand their school. Mr. Littlefield felt that everything else had been allowed to grow around them long before they came to the area. He mentioned the doctor's office on Pine Tree Road, the church nursery school, the construction a half a mile away of Cornell, and the Judd Falls Shopping Center, Mr. Littlefield could not understand why something as important as a nursery school should be limited or put down just because all of this other development. Attorney Barney told Mr. Littlefield a line had to be drawn somewhere, that if the twelve extra children were approved, then they would request fourteen, and so on. He continued that there had been an expansion two or three times and now, according to many people, for the size of the lot and the location, the number of children were enough. Attorney Barney said that even though Mr. Littlefield felt he was victimized by all of the other development lines had to be drawn and policy had to be followed. Mrs. Littlefield clarified that in 1979 or 1980 they were approved for 15 children on 140 Honness Lane. When they requested additional children they moved to a new location on Hornless Lane where they are presently so they have never asked for more children at their present location. Mrs. Littlefield said she understood what Mr. Barney was saying as she was also a homeowner but additional daycare was needed in the County and she wondered where it would be placed, in old jailhouses for example or were the children going to be placed in a situation that was 17 good for thechildren and for the community. Mr. Littlefield added that there was more room in the present house than for 42 children but he felt that room was important for children so they would not feel crowded. Mrs. Littlefield felt that the square footage requirement of 33 square foot per child mandated by the State of New York was not enough so that was why they had additional space. She continued that .if they were granted the twelve additional children they would not come before the Board for this particular property again for any additional children. Mr. Littlefield felt that they had tried to work within the community and with the zoning board to offer something to the community that was needed, that the engineer's report had shown that traffic would not be a problem, but that because the community had grown up so much around them, now everyone wanted to draw the line and they were the ones being turned down. Chairman Aron referred to the environmental assessment recommendation of Susan Beeners, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 11. At this point, Ms. Beeners asked if she could make a revision to this report. Ms. Beeners stated that based upon the comments --that had been made at the public hearings, both at the Planning Board and at the Zoning Board of Appeals, and also based upon the suggestions of the Planning Board to the Zoning Board of Appeals on this matter, she believed that there might be significant adverse impact on the neighborhood and possible erosion of what the intention of the zoning ordinance was. Ms. Beeners stated it would depend upon how the Town Boards define comprehensive planning. Edward King asked Ms. Beeners if the amendments made to her review changed her recommendation to a positive declaration of environmental significance and Ms. Beeners responded that she was recommending that there may be significant adverse impact, especially as related to community character and land use plans and goals as officially adopted, and as based on the amount of public input that there had been at the meetings and the deliberations of the Planning Board. Edward King made a motion as to the environmental impact as follows: WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of Appeals is the lead agency for this unlisted action, and. WHEREAS, this Board finds that this nursery school is housed in the most restrictive residential zone area of the Town of Ithaca, namely R-15, that it occupies what appears to be a normal single family dwelling which was built with the standard setback from the south side of Honness Lane on a n�r ku lot that is 100 feet wide by 175 feet deep, with an adjunct parking area at 143 Honness Lane, and mile WHEREAS, the intensity of residential development in this area within the last several years has been extreme, there being three times as many dwelling units within a half mile of this particular area as there were a few years ago when the special permit was issued for 32 children in this home, and WHEREAS, the problem of traffic on Honness Lane is increased by the concentration of vehicles depositing and picking up children about four times a day, adding to the sense of noise and congestion in this residential neighborhood; and WHEREAS, accepts this the Board fact that is there not against is daycare a need for centers more and quality daycare but not at a cost to the residents of the area; and WHEREAS, this Board has taken into account the comments made by the Town Planner in amending her recommendation as to the environmental impact; and WHEREAS, while the Board acknowledges that there is a daycare facility in the Lutheran Church several hundred feet east of the property in question, it should be noted that the Lutheran Church is built several hundred feet back south away from the highway and has a large front lawn and is. a much bigger property and more suitable for this type of operation; it is therefore RESOLVED, that this Board finds a positive declaration of adverse environmental impact by this proposal to increase the number of children from 32 to 44 in its present location even with the proposed addition to the structure. Edward Austen seconded the motion. The voting was as follows: Aye - Reuning, Aron, Austen, King Nay - None The motion was carried. There being no further business to come before the Board the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Chairman 19 Respectfully submitted, Beatrice Lincoln Recording Secretary Exhibits 1 through 11 attached. Fee. APPLICATIONTOWN OF ITHACJ c D $2.50 Main Building or Extension '1--6(1 - Accessory Building Make checks payable to Town of Ithaca Return application to: ......... .-_----.-_............... Application Date .... c/. .< .-... Permit Number ....... .._ (. ......... Date ..... (a./1 i q - Parcel Number ................................ Zoning District ...R.nl ............ Application is hereby made to (build ❑, extend 0, convert 0, ._dZT:;:;-GJf,,) ...................... 191'a structure or use land at ........ .g,... /7A.!It".:3_--- k.A .... -Rd Town of Ithaca, N. Y. To be used for ....................................................................... ............................. .. At a cost of 5.�........., Structure is to be completed on or b ore .fD ................-•--------- 19.........._. ............... MMMMMMMM Owner of land ...f"'R. ri1C.I-eS.....� ' ..4..-.f1 A.I.y--------------------.... Builder .� 7��..1�kN.Ct� �.--�I.�c4.�i:................. Land Owner's mailing address...4.6.A...�R_ay.....-O.D�....r... `r_ f # C--A�._1�1.1.. �....... If building is being built for a person other than present land owner, show name...........................................0...........I............. The structure (s) will be as follows: Type of construction ..... n.N}_E...................................I Number of stories ............... J................................................... Number of Family Units ------------------------------------------------•- Percentage of Lot to be occupied 4? by all structures ....................................... ----.................... -•--- Plot Plan on Back of Permit ....u..... or Attached ............ Square Feet Floor Area: v*MM' �2 e AC7 Basement....---•----••................................................I....:............ FirstFloor.......................................I I ........................... 0 .... I ... I SecondFloor.......................................................................... Over Second The required permits have been obtained as follows: Date Issued FROM TOMPKINS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Approval of septic system and/or well _.... FROM TOWN CLERK i Hon0e SS Strect.opcning (if road must be opened for pipes) Blasting permit (if blasting necessary) i q7 FROM SUPERVISOR 3 U Water Tap ......... District . GU Sewer Tap .......... ........................................I District . . . . . . . . . FROM PROPER HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT Culverts and driveways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FROM TOWN ZONING OFFICER Multiple :residence permit ------------------------------------------------------------------ The Undersigned hereby applies for permission to do the above, in accordance with provisions of the Zoning Ordinance and other Laws and Regulations of the Town of Ithaca, New York, or others having jurisdiction, and affirms that all statements and information given herein are correct to the best of his , know T Date:.....u......................-- --------- a and belief._/�. ---- Building -- Building permitapproved by ...... ... ............................ K denied under Section ............ of the Zoning Ordinance by ............................ Appeal action Dateof appeal ................... ............................... ......... ...... Dateof hearing .......................... ....---........... ------------------------- Date of advertising ... -............ --............... ....---- ---- •--•----------- Board members notified...................................................... -- ------------ -------- - --------------------- -- - --- --------------- -- - - -- m ------------------------ - - - - -- ---------------- -------------- ----------- - - - - -- -- 5.00 -Appeal, advertising expenses. ►> Progress of work. Checked on: Foundation................... ..... ........ Framing--------------------- ------- -•........... Trim.............•---• .... ...... Completion-----------------••-•-----.....•------...---•--•----...... Order to refill excavation issuedon -----• .........................•----•••-..._...-•--•--- Order to demolish structure issuedon ......................................... P a n,ning Board -9- July 7, 1981 Mr. Stanton noted that the backyard is proposed to be totally enclosed. Mrs. Littlefield submitted the following letter to the Board which is herein entered into the record: "July 1981 To Whom It May Concern: We have no objection to a Montessori N?r.sery School being operated at 139 Honness Lane, Ithaca, NY 14850. (Sgd.) Sarah R. Lillie, 203 Pine Tree Road Barbara J. Bredbenner, 141 Honness Lane Leona C. Northrop, 141 Honness Lane Gus Lambrou, 156 Honness Lane Frederick J. Ciaschi, 146 Honness Lane Maria Lambrou, 156 Honness Lane . Patricia A. Ciaschi, 146 Honness Lane Hunna Johns, 138 Honness Lane -- P.S. -- not transferable to any other owner. Pete Niccies, 137 Honness Lane Mr. & Mrs. George P. Nickles, 137 Honness Lane" � Y aN.. ♦1 �.1� ...lV N1 Al 14 V The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. MOTION by Mr. David Klein, seconded by Mr. Bernard Stanton: RESOLVED, that the Town of Ithaca Sign Review Board (Planning Board) recommend and hereby does recommend that Mr. Bell try to incorporate the word "DIESEL" on the existing sign where he now has "GAS", regardless of what spacing i� ake to effect this thereon, and further, that said Board recommends denial of the sign as proposed and suggests that it be in the space between "Grocery" and the changeable message sign. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - May, Grigorov, Stanton, Bronfenbrenner, Klein. Nay - None. The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously. Chairman May declared the matter of additional signage in re Bell's Convenience Foods duly closed at 8:30 p.m. PUBLIC -HEARING: REVIEW OF APPLICATION TO OPERATE A NURSERY SCHOOL AT 139 HONNESS LANE, TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO. 6-58-2-39.6, AND CONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATION TO THE BOARD OF APPEALS PURSUANT TO ARTICLE IV, SECTION 4, OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING ORDINANCE. JOHN AND DORIS PERIALAS, OWNERS, VALERIE LITTLEFIELD, AS AGENT. Chairman May declared the Public Hearing in the above -noted matter duly opened at 8:30 p.m. and accepted for the record the Clerk's Affidavit of Posting and Publication of the Notice of Public Hearings in Town Hall and 'the Ithaca Journal on June 29, 1981, and July 2, 1981, respectively. Mrs. Valerie Littlefield and Mr. John Perialas appeared before the Board and the Chair invited them to tell the Board about their proposal. Mr. May noted that each Board member had received a copy of their letter, their Appeal Form, and attached drawings. (The letter referred to reads as follows:) "June 15, 1981 To Whom It May Concern: In the recent past I have become aware. of the growing need and large demand for a Montessori Nursery School in the Northeast area. I have become aware of.these needs through many parents of young children inquiring as to the availability of space for their children in such a Montessori Nursery Program. Being a parent and a Certified Montessori Teacher (affiliated with the American Montessori Society), I can understand and respect the concern of these parents to enroll their children in a good Montessori Program. To open such a program would enable us to provide young children with a learning, loving environment, while they had to be away from their working parents. I plan to staff our program with four full-time staff members, one of which will also cook. My husband, John Littlefield, aswell as myself will also be there full time. I am Certified to teach children through the age of six years and am also Certified to operate a Montessori Nursery School. I will obtain any licensing required to operate a Nursery School in the State of New York. Approximately two years ago we submitted plans to open a Nursery School at 140 .Honness Lane. The Zoning Board of Ithaca agreed to the opening of .r� Planning uoara -/- July i, lynl that school, but because the building wasn't what I wanted it to be, I decided to wait rather than going through with it at that time. The School site in question now at 139 Honness Lane, in my estimation is a very desirable place for a Nursery School. The rooms are large and spacious, there are two full bathrooms and two full kitchens and many large windows. *See diagram. The outdoor area is also very conducive to outdoor play. There is a large garden that the children could use, and a large open field directly behind our lot. I plan in the near future to fence in the backyard to secure the children's safety and to consider our neighbors' privacy. Parking and Traffic: Parking -- I don't see parking as a problem, there is a circular drive and large parking lot directly across the street from 130 Honness Lane that has already been okayed to be used for the school needs by the owner of that lot: John Perialas. *See diagi=d[n. Traffic -- Because of the varied hours of the parent's arrivals and depar- tures traffic should not be a problem. As very few people would be arriving or leaving at exactly the same time. I have approximately thirty sets of parent's in need of our future facility. I plan to enroll a total of no more than thirty-two children. In closing I do hope you will take time in considering the opening of this Montessori.Nursery School as I feel it would be a great asset to.our community and would allow the working parents of Ithaca to enroll their children in a program of quality. Thank You Very Much, (Sgd.) Valerie Littlefield" Mr. Perialas stated to the Board that Valerie Littlefield is his daughter. Mrs. Littlefield stated that she would like the zoning for 139 Honness Lane to be such that it would be proper to operate a nursery school. She stated that they plan to do whatever is needed to7be done as far as fencing, emergency exits, etc. to be perfectly safe. She stated that the hours of the school would be 8:00 to 5:00 with nothing going on on the premises in the evenings or on weekends which would be a benefit to the neighborhood because a lot of people in the neighborhood work during that time. She stated that there would be two separate age groups with 15 or 16 in each age group. She stated that the older children would be in the upstairs portion and the younger children in the downstairs portion of the house. She stated that there are two separate entrances. She stated that for outdoor play time, with a fence installed, there would be no more than 15 or 16 outdoors at one time maximum (one group). Mrs. Littlefield stated that the staff ratio she wants is 1 to 5 for the younger group and 1 to 6 for the older group. She stated that meals would be provided on the premi- ses. She stated that it would be a Montessori school and that there is a need in the area because of Cornell University and -,the number of children that they have at this time. Mr. May asked if the Littlefields plan on living in the house. Mrs. Littlefield stated that they do not and added that outside of the 8:00 to 5:00 hours the house would be vacant. She stated that parents' meetings would be held during the school hours. Chairman May asked if there were anyone from the public who wished to speak to this matter. Mr. Herbert Deinert, 130 Honness Lane, stated that he is the neighbor across the street. He stated that he and his wife have talked to Mrs. Littlefield and Mr. Perialas and they thought that they have answered most of their questions rather satisfactorily. Mr. Deinert asked if the Board received a copy of his phone call to the Secretary on June 24, 1981 -- they had, as follows: "Mr. Deinert is unable to attend this public hearing • lull l♦l LA UVLLlU final action -taking •'�^�J / -• `-- Appeals makes the final decision under the zoning ordinance of the Town. Mr. May (Z.B.A., June 24/81) and wishes the record to indicate that he is strongly opposed to having a third commercial building in this neighborhood. This is a residential neighborhod and there already exists the non -conforming �. uses formerly owned.by Hunna Johns on Honness Lane. The house in question is a two-family house and Mr. Deinert is very apprehensive about this nursery school proposal. He does not want any further commercial activity in the neighborhood norany further noise. There is hardly enough parking for the occupants in the house now. Honness Lane is very narrow and with the continuing expansion of Eastwood Commons, it is being heavily travelled already. It is particularly hazardous in the winter since it is one of the last roads to get plowed by the Town. A nursery school would rake it worse with parked cars even if only for twenty or thirty minutes twice a day." Mr. Deinert stated that fifteen years ago they moved to Honness Lane and there have been several changes which are highly commendable, but, have increased the traffic level. He noted that there have been two. new churches built and they have generated a lot of traffic. He stated that there is a sign for a Nursery School there now -- Trinity Lutheran Church, three days a week, Pastor Donald A. Cario. He stated that the Hunna Johns property is somewhat improved. He stated that Eastwood Commons is the best example of a commendable improvement but there is ceaseless traffic day and night. He stated that there has been additional building on Snyder Hill Road and that continues to develop. He stated that most of the people who are part of all this development come down Honness Lane. Mr. Deinert stated that Mrs. Littlefield is planning to have 30 students and that means thirty cars and staggered traffic. Mr. Deinert stated that Honness Lane is very narrow and even more crowned after the PEgCiiU __of.. to the road. He stated that there are ten ornfifteen cars parked there at any one time making the road even more narrow. He stated that Honness Lane is not one of the first roads to be plowed. Mr. Deinert commented that the foregoing was Part (1) of his statement. Part (2), he stated, is the noise level as it relates to the proposed nursery school. He stated that there will be a playground outside with 15 children outside at one time and right in back of his house is the railroad track which the Town invaded in order to widen and on which they can walk the children. Part (3), he stated, is the demographics of the matter which point to a declining birth rate. He asked what will happen if three years from now,Mrs. Littlefield finds it not possible to continue the school, would that commercial use remain forever? Mr. May stated that the Planning Board is not the final action -taking body in matters of nursery schools; the Zoning Board of Appeals makes the final decision under the zoning ordinance of the Town. Mr. May commented that the Zoning Board has a number of ways to go and a special approval to the Littlefields alone a residential area and could if a residential building should be be one of those ways. to a nursery school. Mrs. Deinert spoke to the Board of the constant coming and going. Mrs. Deinert commented that their neighbors do not object because they prefer a nursery school to noisy neighbors. She stated that she is more frigh- tened about 30 kids as neighbors and she would like Honness Lane to remain a residential area and she questioned if a residential building should be converted to a nursery school. 137 Honness Lane, said to her that if Mr. Stanton asked Mrs. Littlefield where she planned to install the fencing. Mrs. Littlefield stated that they plan to close off the whole yard with a fence. Mrs. Littlefield stated that Mr. Nickles, 137 Honness Lane, said to her that if they put a fence of his choosing on the line he would split the cost. Mrs. Littlefield stated that the Bredbenners do not even want a fence -- they want to see the kids. Mr. enclosed. Stanton noted that the backyard is proposed to be totally Mrs. Littlefield submitted the following letter to the Board which is herein entered into the record: "July 1981 To Whom It May Concern: We have no objection proposed a total to a Montessori Nursery School being operated at 139 Honness-Lane, and leaving at Ithaca, times. NY 14850. (Sgd.) Sarah R. Lillie, 203 Pine Tree Road Barbara J. Bredbenner, 141 Honness Lane Leona C. Northrop, 141 Honness Lane Gus Lambrou, 156 Honness Lane Frederick J. Ciaschi, 146 Honness Lane Maria Lambrou, 156 Honness Lane Patricia A. Ciaschi, 146 Honness Lane Hunna Johns, 138 Honness Lane -- P.S. -- not transferable to any other owner. Pete Nickles, 137 Honness Lane Mr. & Mrs. George P. Nickles, 137 Honness Lane" Mr. Klein asked if this were a Montessori School or day care. Mrs. Littlefield stated that it is a Montessori School, morning and afternoon, with people arriving at 15 minute intervals. She stated that it would only take at the most 5 minutes for a parent to get his/her child comfor- table. She stated that she would schedule the children to come at different times. Mr. May noted that there is proposed a total of 30-32 children coming at staggered hours in the morning and leaving at staggered times. Mr. Stanton asked, if there are people going to be working for them, where do they park? Mrs. Littlefield stated that they will park in the parking lot across the street. She added that there will be 4 people plus her and her husband. Mr. May commented that Mrs. Littlefield's proposal seems to indicate that they would be using the field behind the house for the children. Mrs. Littlefield stated that she did not mean that, she was merely describing the area around the house. Mr. Cartee asked if the Tompkins County Health Department or the County have any jurisdiction over the operation of this program, adding the ques- tion of whether they have conferred with them about this proposal. Mr. Perialas stated that the State of New York has jurisdiction. Mr. Cartee stated that he would suggest that he call Mr. Burgess at the Health Depart- ment and discuss the school with him. Mr. Perialas stated that he would most assuredly do that. Mr. May noted that there are two full bathrooms in the house and added that there will probably be a lot of potties and a lot of diapers. Mrs. Littlefield agreed and stated that whatever is needed they plan to obtain. Mrs. Deinert stated that Mrs. Blatchley would be concerned with the proposal. The Secretary stated that Mrs. Blatchley has been notified by mail. Planning board Mrs. Littlefield stated that Town -- one has a waiting list and ,to Cayuga Heights. -lu- July 'I , 1961 there are two other Montessori Schools in one is over T.G..Miller's and is moving Mr. May asked about the ages of the children to be enrolled. Mrs. Littlefield Zoning stated that they will be 18 months to 6 years. Mrs. Bronfen- brenner inquired about the State regulations with regard to infants. Mrs. Littlefield stated that if a school has children from 8 weeks to 18 months, the ratio must be 1 teacher to each 4 children, however, they will not be doing that. Mr. Deinert stated, speaking only for himself, that he is not against his neighbors or the Montessori concept, he is concerned about the side effects. Mr. May, speaking to Mr. Fabbroni, inquired about the traffic matter, noting that Mr. Fabbroni has done a traffic study up there. Mr. Fabbroni stated that it is all a matter of what transpires up there, e.g., if cars stop on the shoulder of the road, this is a real problem and a hazard. Mr. Fabbroni stated that he cannot refute anything Mr. Deinert said about the road. He stated that the Town is paving this road with a twenty -foot paved portion and minimal shoulders. He commented that it is a definite main- tenance problem especically in the winter when people try to get as close to their door as possible. Mr. Fabbroni commented that he could foresee problems. Mr. Fabbroni felt that the bigger problem has to do with the proposed use and its compatability with the immediate properties around it, together with the fact that this is a residential area as far as the Town's zoning goes. , Mr. Deinert, referring to the buildings that. were there before the War, stated that at the time Mr. Perialas proposed this use for one of the other buildings, it seemed a step down from the multiple use that had been there. Mr. Fabbroni stated that he did not know what kind of a favor it is to take what was basically a single family house and make it a nursery school. Mr. Perialas stated that it is a two-family house. Mr. Fabbroni pointed out that the apartment is in the basement, being a one -family home converted into a two-family, and now every square foot is intended to be used as a school. Mr. Fabbroni stated that his main comment has to do with general zoning and having a comprehensive plan that shows a residential neighborhood, and also having the area requirements in place for such residential zone. Mr. Fabbroni commented that if the same house were situated on five acres, we might be able to look at it in the spirit of what "R-15" intended by the ordinance. Mr. Fabbroni commented that in certain areas it is close to the people it is intended to serve and .that is one reason why nursery schools are permitted through a special approval process which includes what could be termed a site plan review approach. Mr. Fabbroni pointed out that this property contains 17,500 sq.ft. Mr. Fabbroni stated that he has absolutely no problem with the intention, i.e., the Montessori concept, however, certain questions need to be addressed -- who it is going to serve; the need for it, etc. Mr. Fabbroni stated that his comments have more to do with land use and the purpose of maintaining some integrity in the neighbor- hood. Mr. Stanton stated that the purpose of the Planning Board is only to make a recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Mr. Klein stated that he thought Mr. Fabbroni's report was somewhat negative and that he sort of tended to agree with him. Mr. Klein stated that he, however, has to abstain because he is vice-president of the Montessori School on Willow Avenue. •Ylatltltttg nva.l•u -�1- JUly , 1.701 Mr. Stanton commented that one of his great concerns is the size of the lot and, although he is concerned with the traffic matter,the play area is a little minimal. Mrs. Littlefield stated that a lot of schools have smaller play areas than what they are talking about having. Mr. Klein agreed, noting that the Willow Avenue Montessori School play area is very small. Mr. May wondered about playground equipment and its effect on parking. Mr. Perialas stated that if that happens, he would enlarge the property across the street for parking. Mr. Perialas noted that he owns that two acres of land. MOTION by Mrs. Liese Bronfenbrenner, seconded by Mr. Montgomery May: RESOLVED, that the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca supports the concept of the nursery school at 139 Honness Lane,.Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6, Town of Ithaca, N.Y., as proposed by Mrs. Valerie Littlefield and Mr. John Perialas, and encourages its due and proper consideration by the Zoning .Board of Appeals of the Town of Ithaca, with the recommendation to said Board of Appeals that the matters of traffic, parking on Honness Lane, impact on the residential neighborhood, and possibly the adequacy of the lot and platy area, be given careful consideration by said Board.of Appeals, and c FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Planning Board wishes to inform the Zoning Board of Appeals that the appropriateness of the house for 'such use was discussed with the applicants as well as their need to review the matter with the Tompkins County Health Department and the agency of the State of New York which deals with nursery schools and to abide by ariy regulations or requirements such agencies, or any others having jurisdiction, may set forth. There being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote. Aye - May, Bronfenbrenner, Grigorov, Stanton. Nay - None. Abstain - Klein (conflict of interest). The MOTION was declared to be carried. Chairman May declared the Public Hearing in the matter. of the Planning Board review of the application of Perialas/Littlefield to operate a nursery school at 139 Honness Lane duly closed at 9:15 p.m. It was noted that the Zoning Board of Appeals will take up this matter tomorrow night, July 8, 1981, at 8:10 p.m. ADJOURNMENT Upon Motion, the Chair declared the July 7, 1981, meeting of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 9:16 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Nancy M. Fuller, Secretary. TO : TOWN OF ITHACA BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS MEETING : NOVEMBER FROM GEORGE AND 137 HONNESS ITHACA, NY, 18, 1987 MATOULA NICKLES LANE 14850 FOR : THE REQUEST OF PERIALIS-LITTLEFIELD, 139 HONNESS LANE, FOR A REQUEST FOR AN ADDITION TO AN EXISTING BUILDING AND TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN ATTENDING SCHOOL UP TO A TOTAL OF 44. WE LIVE DIRECTLY NEXT DOOR TO THE PERIALIS PROPERTY WHERE THE LITTLEFIELDS RUN A BUSINESS CALLED, "LITTLEFEET." AT FIRST THE BUSINESS WAS TO ACCOMODATE 15 CHILDREN WITH TRAFFIC TO MATCH NOW THE 15 HAVE GROWN TO 32 AND TRAFFIC TO MATCH. WE ARE NOW ASKED TO ACCEPT 44 CHILDREN WITH TRAFFIC TO MATCH. WHERE DO ALL THE AUTOMOBILES STOP AND GO WHEN THE FACILITY WAS ORIGINALLY DESIGNED TO ACCOMODATE A SINGLE FAMILY. THIS IS BECOMING A TREMENDOUS COMMERCIAL VENTURE IN OUR R-15 NEIGHBORHOOD. THE NOISE FACTOR EVERY MORNING AND EVENING DURING THE RECESS SESSION AND THE SOUNDS OF 32 CHILDREN OUTDOORS WITH LITTLE RESTRICTIONS IS ALARMING. WITH THE ADDED CONDOMINIUMS DOWN THE STREET, THE HOUSING AND APARTMENTS BEHIND US AND THE COMMONLAND COMMUNITY THE ADDED TRAFFIC FLOW UP AND DOWN HONNESS LANE MAKES IT DANGEROUS TO PULL IN AND OUT OF A DRIVEWAY DESIGNED FOR A SINGLE FAMILY, ESPECIALLY IN THE WINTER. WHAT WE FEEL THIS BUSINESS NEEDS IS A MUCH LARGER PROPERTY, MORE PARKING, EASY ACCESS AND REGRESS IN A MORE ISOLATED AREA WHERE THE RESIDENTS DO NOT HAVE TO WORRY. CITING FOR EXAMPLE, THE NEW SCHOOL ON KING ROAD. WE DO NOT OBJECT TO CHILDREN BUT WE DO OBJECT TO THE OVER -CROWDING OF ONE LITTLE NEIGHBORHOOD ENVIRONMENT. THANK YOU FOR LETTING US VOICE OUR CONCERN ITHACA FOR THE PAST 30 YEARS AND HOPE YOU PLIGHT. SINCERELY: GEORGE & MATOULA NICKLES WE HAVE BEEN RESIDENTS OF UNDERSTAND OUR NEIGHBORHOOD TO TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD. RE : PROPOSAL FOR ADDITION TO FAMILY HOME AT 139 HONNESS LANE FOR AN ADDITIONAL FOURTEEN (14) CHILDREN TO BE LOCATED AT THAT RESIDENCE. ONCE AGAIN WE HAVE BEEN ASKED BY OUR NEIGHBORS TO REPRESENT THEM AND SEEK SUPPORT AGAINST THE PROPOSED ADDITION TO THE FAMILY HOME AT 139 HONNESS LANE AND FOR AN INCREASE OF FOURTEEN (14) CHILDREN AT THE SCHOOL HOUSED THERE. THE FOLKS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD AGAIN ARE AGAINST ANY PROPOSALS TO EXPAND THIS SCHOOL LOCATED IN A NEIGHBORHOOD THAT ALREADY HAS HAD MORE THAN ITS SHARE OF ZONING EXCEPTIONS. WE ALL FEEL THAT WE HAVE ENOUGH DENSITY AND TRAffic PROBLEMS IN THIS NEIGHBORHOOD ALREADY. AT THE LAST HEARING ON THIS SCHOOL WE PRESENTED SIGNATURES AND COMMENTS FROM MOST OF THE RESIDENTS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. ALL OF THE MANY THAT WERE CONTACTED AND THE SIGNERS TO THIS PETITION EXPRESSED THEIR CONCERNS ABOUT THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND THE MANY CHANGES THAT HAVE ALREADY TAKEN PLACE IN THE HONNESS LANE AND PINE TREE ROAD AREA. WE ALL FEEL THAT THE LAST HEARING TOOK CARE OF ANY PROPOSALS TO EXPAND AND ANY MORE EXCEPTIONS IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. WHEN THIS SCHOOL STARTED FIFTEEN (15) CHILDREN WERE HOUSED THERE. AT A LATER DATE THIS WAS DOUBLED TO THIRTY. (30) THIS CHANGE WAS PRESENTED AND TOOK PLACE WITHOUT ANY PERSON IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD RECEIVING ANY NOTICE OF THIS PROPOSED CHANGE. WE ALL FEEL THIS ALREADY IS TOO MANY FOR THIS FAMILY HOME TO ACCOMMODATE AND ESPECIALLY WITH ALL THE PARKING AND TRAFFIC PROBLEMS THAT ALREADY EXIST IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. cc NOEL DESCH - SUPERVISON SHIRLEY RAFFENSPERGER - COUNCILWOMAN SUSAN BEENERS - PLANNER EDGAR & BARBARA BREDBENNER 141 HONNESS LANE NOVEMBER 3'1 1987 v TO --------------------- TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS FROM ------------------- BARBARA J. BREDBENNER 141 HONNESS LANE ITHACA, NY 14850 MEETING DATE ----------- NOVEMBER 181 RE: -------------------- PERIALAS AND REQUEST FOR AND TO HOUSE I REGRET THAT I WILL BE UNABLE MEDICAL APPOINTMENT IN ATLANTA, ALONG WITH OUR ATTACHED LETTER OF THE MINUTES OF THIS MEETING. 1987 LITTLEFIELD (139 HONNESS LANE) AN ADDITION TO AN EXISTING STRUCTURE ADDITIONAL CHILDREN. TOTALING 44. TO ATTEND THIS MEETING DUE TO GEORGIA. PLEASE, MAY WE HAVE OF NOVEMBER 3, 1987, READ.AND TO RESTATE OUR OPPOSITION TO THE ABOVE WORDS TO VOICE SOME OF OUR OBJECTIONS: A PRIOR THIS LETTER MADE PART PROPOSAL, I SHALL TRY IN A FEW v WE, THE RESIDENTS OF HONNESS LANE AND PINE TREE ROAD AREA APPEARED BEFORE YOU ON JUNE 2, 1987 AND RECENTLY AT THE TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1987, ASKING THAT YOU ADHERE TO THE PRESENT ZONING REGULATIONS THAT APPLY TO A R-15 AREA, WHICH IS TO BE USED IN A RESIDENTIAL '.NEIGHBORHOOD, THE FUTURE LOOKS GRIM IF WE ARE TO CONTINUE TO ENTERTAIN OR ENCOURAGE ANY BUSINESS VENTURES. THE ABOVE PROPOSAL TO EXPAND THE CURRENT NON -OWNER OCCUPIED HOME SHOULD NOT -BE GRANTED SINCE IT IS A COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISE. THE RESIDENTS IN OUR AREA FEEL THE PROJECT WOULD HAVE GREAT ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE DENSITY AND TRAFFIC IN THIS AREA. IT IS TO BE CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS BUSINESS OR ANY FUTURE BUSINESS ENTERPRIZES SHOULD BE DISCOURAGED OR TERMINATED TO PROTECT THE HOMEOWNERS CONCERNED AND EFFECTED. WE APPRECIATE, IN FAVOR OF THE THANK YOU NOW, AS IN THE PAST, YOUR CONSIDERATION AND EVALUATION HOME OWNERS, SOME OF OVER 30 YEARS RESIDENCE. BARBARA J. BREDBENNER (MRS. EDGAR E. JR.) FI 03.: !via. ;• . FA w1i man � Zia w IF Fd /�GiIV IoKC 1I N pr�/ �i 1�iil luIL\. 1\U Fin H'1, �' u, � r ✓� .-✓: f 1 rot -� � �yy(!'r�'.'��, i� 1�1�,vI i i);r�' ���1 �_.�\\\ii�� ✓. �1;a, 1, r , ..cr �:�i ,tib mal/J °�) /t, i /„ V , o- IF goo �VIIIz Olt 1,1No 20a �'��,��� r dl o.�Ic� �' � ` •�'�:�' •'.;�� � \l0. ��^ \.. %I 111 F(1 _ (�- _ f� � '' r` • r/��rl—�c� ,' \L \� � 1 / ��\ c�Y o ,�� �J •7!% �/.� i �f/-� ►^.i _0 If ,` I I r I �• .o• o :, Edward King made a motion as to the environmental impact as follows: WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of Appeals is the lead agency for this unlisted action, and WHEREAS, this Board finds that this nursery school is housed in the most restrictive residential zone area of the Town of Ithaca, namely R-15, that it occupies what appears to be a normal single family dwelling which .was built with the _ standard setback from the south side of Honness Lane on a ...lot that is 100 feet wide by 175 feet deep, with an adjunct parking area at 143 Honness Lane; and WHEREAS, the intensity of residential development in this area within the last several years has been extreme, there being three times as many dwelling units within a half mile of this particular area as there were a few years ago when the special permit was issued for 32 children in this homes and WHEREAS, the problem of traffic on Honness Lane is increased by the concentration of vehicles depositing and picking up children about four times a day, adding to the sense of noise and congestion in this residential neighborhood; and WHEREAS, this Board is not against daycare centers and accepts the fact that there is a need for more quality daycare but not at a cost to the residents of the area, and WHEREAS, this Board has taken into account the comments made by the Town Planner in amending her recommendation as to the environmental impact; and WHEREAS, while the Board acknowledges that there is a daycare facility in the Lutheran Church several hundred feet east of the property in question, it should be noted that the Lutheran Church is built several hundred feet back south away from the highway and has a large front lawn and is a much bigger property and more suitable for this type of operation; it is therefore RESOLVED, that this Board finds a positive declaration of adverse environmental impact by this proposal to increase the number of children from 32 to 44 in its present location even with the proposed addition to the structure. Edward Austen seconded the motion. The voting was as follows. Aye - Reuning, Aron, Austen, King Nay - None The motion was carried. There being no further business to come before the Board the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m. ti TO : TOWN OF ITHACA BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS MEETING : NOVEMBER 18, 1987 FROM GEORGE AND MATOULA NICKLES 137 HONNESS LANE ITHACA, NY, 14850 FOR THE REQUEST OF PERIALIS-LITTLEFIELD, SESSION AND 139 HONNESS LANE, FOR A REQUEST FOR AN ADDITION TO AN EXISTING BUILDING AND TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF CHILDREN ATTENDING SCHOOL UP TO A TOTAL OF 44. WE LIVE DIRECTLY NEXT DOOR TO THE PERIALIS PROPERTY WHERE THE LITTLEFIELDS RUN A BUSINESS CALLED, "LITTLEFEET." AT FIRST THE BUSINESS WAS TO ACCOMODATE 15 CHILDREN WITH TRAFFIC TO MATCH. NOW THE 15 HAVE GROWN TO 32 AND TRAFFIC TO MATCH. WE ARE NOW ASKED TO ACCEPT 44 CHILDREN WITH TRAFFIC TO MATCH. WHERE DO ALL THE AUTOMOBILES STOP AND GO WHEN THE FACILITY WAS ORIGINALLY DESIGNED TO ACCOMODATE A SINGLE FAMILY. THIS IS BECOMING A TREMENDOUS COMMERCIAL VENTURE IN OUR R-15 NEIGHBORHOOD. THE NOISE FACTOR EVERY MORNING AND EVENING DURING THE RECESS SESSION AND THE SOUNDS OF 32 CHILDREN OUTDOORS WITH LITTLE RESTRICTIONS LARGER PROPERTY, MORE PARKING, IS ALARMING. WITH THE ADDED CONDOMINIUMS DOWN THE STREET, THE HOUSING ISOLATED AND APARTMENTS BEHIND US AND THE COMMONLAND COMMUNITY THE ADDED TRAFFIC WORRY. CITING FOR FLOW UP AND DOWN HONNESS LANE MAKES IT DANGEROUS TO PULL IN AND OUT OF A DRIVEWAY DESIGNED FOR A SINGLE FAMILY, ESPECIALLY IN THE WINTER. WHAT WE FEEL THIS BUSINESS NEEDS IS A MUCH LARGER PROPERTY, MORE PARKING, EASY ACCESS AND REGRESS IN A MORE ISOLATED AREA WHERE THE RESIDENTS DO NOT HAVE TO WORRY. CITING FOR EXAMPLE, THE NEW SCHOOL ON KING ROAD. WE DO NOT OBJECT TO CHILDREN BUT WE DO OBJECT TO THE OVER -CROWDING OF ONE LITTLE NEIGHBORHOOD ENVIRONMENT. THANK YOU FOR LETTING US VOICE OUR CONCERN. WE HAVE BEEN RESIDENTS OF ITHACA FOR THE PAST 30 YEARS AND HOPE YOU UNDERSTAND OUR NEIGHBORHOOD PLIGHT. SINCERELY: GEORGE & MATOULA NICKLES '` TO : TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD. RE : PROPOSAL FOR ADDITION TO FAMILY HOME AT 139 HONNESS LANE FOR AN ADDITIONAL FOURTEEN (14) CHILDREN TO BE LOCATED AT THAT RESIDENCE. ONCE AGAIN WE HAVE BEEN ASKED BY OUR NEIGHBORS TO REPRESENT THEM AND SEEK SUPPORT AGAINST THE PROPOSED ADDITION TO THE FAMILY HOME AT 139 HONNESS LANE AND FOR AN INCREASE OF FOURTEEN (14) CHILDREN AT THE SCHOOL HOUSED THERE. THE FOLKS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD AGAIN ARE AGAINST ANY PROPOSALS TO EXPAND THIS SCHOOL LOCATED IN A NEIGHBORHOOD THAT ALREADY HAS HAD MORE THAN ITS SHARE OF ZONING EXCEPTIONS. WE ALL FEEL THAT WE HAVE ENOUGH DENSITY AND TRAffic PROBLEMS IN THIS NEIGHBORHOOD ALREADY. AT THE LAST HEARING ON THIS SCHOOL WE PRESENTED SIGNATURES AND COMMENTS FROM MOST OF THE RESIDENTS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. ALL OF THE MANY THAT WERE CONTACTED AND THE SIGNERS TO THIS PETITION EXPRESSED THEIR CONCERNS ABOUT THE NEIGHBORHOOD AND THE MANY CHANGES THAT HAVE ALREADY TAKEN PLACE IN THE HONNESS LANE AND PINE TREE ROAD AREA. WE ALL FEEL THAT THE LAST HEARING TOOK CARE OF ANY PROPOSALS TO EXPAND AND ANY MORE EXCEPTIONS IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. WHEN THIS SCHOOL STARTED FIFTEEN (15) CHILDREN WERE HOUSED THERE. AT A LATER DATE THIS WAS DOUBLED TO THIRTY. (30) THIS CHANGE WAS PRESENTED AND TOOK PLACE WITHOUT ANY PERSON IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD RECEIVING ANY NOTICE OF THIS PROPOSED CHANGE. WE ALL FEEL THIS ALREADY IS T00 MANY FOR THIS FAMILY HOME TO ACCOMMODATE AND ESPECIALLY WITH ALL THE PARKING AND TRAFFIC PROBLEMS THAT ALREADY EXIST IN OUR NEIGHBORHOOD. cc NOEL DESCH - SUPERVISON SHIRLEY RAFFENSPERGER - COUNCILWOMAN SUSAN BEENERS - PLANNER EDGAR & BARBARA BREDBENNER 141 HONNESS LANE NOVEMBER 3, 1987 t TO --------------------- TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS FROM ------------------- BARBARA J. BREDBENNER 141 HONNESS LANE ITHACA, NY 14850 MEETING DATE ----------- NOVEMBER 18, 1987 RE: -------------------- PERIALAS AND LITTLEFIELD (139 HONNESS LANE) REQUEST FOR AN ADDITION TO AN EXISTING STRUCTURE AND TO HOUSE ADDITIONAL CHILDREN, TOTALING 44. I REGRET THAT I WILL BE UNABLE MEDICAL APPOINTMENT IN ATLANTA, ALONG WITH OUR ATTACHED LETTER OF THE MINUTES OF THIS MEETING. TO ATTEND THIS MEETING DUE TO A PRIOR GEORGIA. PLEASE, MAY WE HAVE THIS LETTER OF NOVEMBER 3, 1987, READ.AND MADE PART TO RESTATE OUR OPPOSITION TO THE ABOVE PROPOSAL, I SHALL TRY IN A FEW WORDS TO VOICE SOME OF OUR OBJECTIONS: WE, THE RESIDENTS OF HONNESS LANE AND PINE TREE ROAD AREA APPEARED BEFORE YOU ON JUNE 2, 1987 AND RECENTLY AT THE TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD ON NOVEMBER 3, 1987, ASKING THAT YOU ADHERE TO THE PRESENT ZONING REGULATIONS THAT APPLY TO A R-15 AREA, WHICH IS TO BE USED IN A RESIDENTIAL '.NEIGHBORHOOD., THE FUTURE LOOKS GRIM IF WE ARE TO CONTINUE TO ENTERTAIN OR ENCOURAGE ANY BUSINESS VENTURES. THE ABOVE PROPOSAL TO EXPAND THE CURRENT NON -OWNER OCCUPIED HOME SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED SINCE IT IS A COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISE. THE RESIDENTS IN OUR AREA FEEL THE PROJECT WOULD HAVE GREAT ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE DENSITY AND TRAFFIC IN THIS AREA. IT IS TO BE CLEARLY UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS BUSINESS OR ANY FUTURE BUSINESS ENTERPRIZES SHOULD BE DISCOURAGED OR TERMINATED TO PROTECT THE HOMEOWNERS CONCERNED AND EFFECTED. WE APPRECIATE, IN FAVOR OF THE THANK YOU NOW, AS IN THE PAST, YOUR CONSIDERATION AND EVALUATION HOME OWNERS, SOME OF OVER 30 YEARS RESIDENCE. BARBARA J. BREDBENNER (MRS. EDGAR E. JR.) COvn p4''% /qac lie & 4P (" tt"q- / /' gl, I Uwiv Ur i i r Ak N 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca, New York 14850 (60 7) 273-1747 A P P E A L to the Inspector/Zoning Enforcement Officer and the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Ithaca, New York rtt: alu.uu RECEIVED: Gb& I— CASH CHECK ZONING: For Office Use Only Having been denied permission to increase enrollment, and to add an addition on top of an existing room at 139 Honness Lane Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 58 - 39 - .6 as shown on the accompanying application and/or plans or other supporting documents, for the stated reason that the issuance of such permit would be in violation of:a/required special approval Article(s) V , Section(s) of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, the UNDERSIGNED respectfully submits this Appeal from such denial and, in support of the Appeal, affirms that strict observance of the Zoning Ordinance would impose PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES and/or UNNECESSARY HARDSHIP as follows: (Additional sheets may be attached as necessary.) SEE ATTACHED COVER LETTER Signature of Appellant/Agent: Town of Zoning Ithaca., Ithaca Board of NY 14850 Appeals To whom it may concern, Little Feet Montessori Center, Valerie & John Littlefield 139 Honness Lane Ithaca, NY 14850 (607) 273-5234 My husband John and I would like to add a room on the existing house located on 139 Honness lane in Ithaca. The proposed room would occupy the area above an existing room, and enclose an area of 24 ft. by 24 ft.. Little Feet has had many requests over the years to allow larger enrollment. To date we have been unable to accommodate these families. We are requesting that the boards of appeals grant special approval for 14 additional children, which would bring Little Fett's total enrollment to 44 children. Little Feet is in operation Monday through Friday from 7:30a.m.- 5:30p.m.. Therefore there will be no evening or weekend traffic. Because of the varied hours of parents arrivals and departures parking will not be a problem. Very few people will be arriving or leaving at the same time. *See attached drop off and pick up schedule. The need for Day Care in the Ithaca area is great. The demand for Day Care in the East gill - Cornell area is tremendous. We realized how overwhelming the need was when our waiting list at one point was as high as one hundred and forty children. We will continue to obtain all of the necessary permits from the proper authorities to operate Little Feet. I was told by the Dept. of Social Services in Albany, New.York that Little Feet would set a good example to other Center's inspected in the State of New York. I attribute this compliment to the fact that we strictly adhear and inforce the regulations placed on us. We intend to continue to provide high quality care for the youth in this community. Thank You in advance for your time in considering these plans. We look forward to discussing them with you in the near future. Sinc rely, Valerie Littlefiel Little Feet Owner/Director A Sn Littlefield Little Feet Owner A.M. DROP OFF P.M. PICK UP LITTLE FEET MONTESSORI CENTER 139 HONNESS LANE ITHACA,NY 14850 VALERIE & JOHN LITTLEFIELD OWNERS Drop Off & Pick. Up Schedule For 44 Children 7:30 children) - 7:45 7:45 - 8:00 children) 8:00 - 8:15 8:15 (6 - 8:30 children) 8:30 - 8:45 8:45 children) - 9:00 9:00 - 9:15 (6 9.15 - 9:30 3:30 children) - 3:45 3.45 - 4.00 children) 4:00 - 4:15 4:15 (6 - 4:30 children) 4:30 - 4:45 4:45 children) - 5:00 5:00 - 5:15 (6 5:15 children) - 5:30 (5 children) (5 children) children) (6 children) children) (6 children) children) (6 children) children) (6 children) children) (5 children) children) (5 children) children) 44 children (5 children) (5 children) ( 5 children) (5 children) (6 children) (6 children) (6 children) (6 children) 44 children (MOTE) 'do one is allowed to nark on the shoulder of Honness Lane for any reason. Any one who does is asked, before they leave their car, to move to one of the two parking areas. New parents are made aware verbally and in writing in the Little Feet Newsletter and the Parent Handbook of the strict parking rules. Z. 4'y C4& `04S DAY CARE AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OF TOMPKINS COUNTY. INC Valerie Littlefield Littlefeet Montessori Day Care Center 139 Honness Lane Ithaca, N.Y. 14850 Dear Valerie: 306 N. AURORA STREET, ITHACA. NEW YORK 14850 (607) 273-0259 June 9, 1987 You informed us that Littlefeet Montessori School is exploring exploring expansion of their program to allow it to serve more children. Based on our experiences and knowledge as a coordinating agency for child care in Tompkins County, we strongly support this endeavor. The following statistics may be of assistance to you: At least 2,500.children under 5 need day care in our community. There are 575 licensed or certified spaces for children. There are another approximately 700 children cared for in the homes of family day care providers registered with the Day Care Council. Of the 485 spaces in Day Care Centers, there are only 52 spaces for toddlers. (ages 18 months -3 years) Our most recent update (May 1987) of day care needs (12 of 13 licensed centers responded) shows that all toddler spaces are full and there are 84 names on waiting lists. In all there are 914 names on center .waiting lists. In 1986 the Day Care Council received calls from parents needing care for 2 year olds alone. Many of these parent callers live in the east Ithaca/Belle Sherman neighborhoods. Clearly, there is an overwhelming need for more day care spaces for toddlers. Your program's location in east Ithaca also is fortunate since there are no other day care centers convenient to families looking for care in that area. We hope that this information will assist you in making the decision to expand your services. If we can be of more help, please contact us again. Sincerely, Margaret F. Dill Executive Director Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * RESOLUTION: Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 MOTION by Dr. William Lesser, seconded by Mr. Robert Kenerson: WHEREAS: -1- 1. This action is the Consideration of a Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to a request for Special Approval of a School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 11, Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed addition of 12 additional children (32 children originally approved and now attending) and for a room addition to the Little Feet Montessori Center, at 139 Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6. 14 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Zoning Board of Appeals has been legislatively designated to act as Lead Agency, and for which a recommendation of a negative determination of environmental significance has been made by the Town Planner, 3. The proposal has been reviewed by the Planning Board at a Public Hearing on November 3, 19.87. THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED: 1. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals that a negative determination of environmental significance be made, subject to certain mitigating measures which would be made part of any further project implementation. 2. That the Planning Board has determined that: a. there is a need for the proposed use in the proposed location; b. The existing and probable future character of the neighborhood will not be adversely affected, c. The proposed change is in accordance with a comprehensive plan of development of the Town. 3. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals that Special Approval be granted for ;. 41 Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * RESOLUTION: Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 MOTION by Dr. William Lesser, seconded by Mr. Robert Kenerson: WHEREAS: -1- 1. This action is the Consideration of a Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to a request for Special Approval of a School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 11, Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed addition of 12 additional children (32 children originally approved and now attending) and for a room addition to the Little Feet Montessori Center, at 139 Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6. 14 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Zoning Board of Appeals has been legislatively designated to act as Lead Agency, and for which a recommendation of a negative determination of environmental significance has been made by the Town Planner, 3. The proposal has been reviewed by the Planning Board at a Public Hearing on November 3, 19.87. THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED: 1. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals that a negative determination of environmental significance be made, subject to certain mitigating measures which would be made part of any further project implementation. 2. That the Planning Board has determined that: a. there is a need for the proposed use in the proposed location; b. The existing and probable future character of the neighborhood will not be adversely affected, c. The proposed change is in accordance with a comprehensive plan of development of the Town. 3. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals that Special Approval be granted for 1 Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 -2- the proposal as presented, subject to the following conditions. a. The Special.Approval be granted for expansion of the school for a total enrollment of no more than 44 children. b. The Special Approval be granted for twenty-four (24) months, with the possibility of extension of such 24 -month period upon review. c. The Special Approval be subject to all conditions and regulations required by the New York Department of Social Services and the Tompkins County Health Department. d. That all parking and standing be on the sites at 139 and 142 Honness Lane, with no parking or standing to be permitted -on Honness Lane. e. That parking, delivery and loading rules, and scheduling be implemented and strictly enforced by the applicant. f. That final site improvement plans, prepared by a registered professional engineer or registered landscape architect, be submitted for approval by the Town Engineer for the improvements at both 139 and 142 Honness Lane, with no parking at either location to be within the required 25 -foot front yard setback, and with parking areas to be suitably landscaped, and with six pick-up and drop-off parking spaces to be provided, as well as ten staff parking spaces and six parking spaces for the tenants at 142 Honness Lane. g. That, subject to the approval of the Town Engineer, the pick-up and drop-off arrangements with respect to 139 Honness Lane be revised to limit to the fullest extent possible automobiles backing out onto Honness Lane. h. That the final planting plan, schedule, and installation be subject to approval by the Town Planner. i. That no further applications for any additional expansion be entertained. j. That the Special Approval be granted to the extant applicant only, not to be passed with the property. k. The Zoning Board of Appeals reserve the right to impose additional conditions at any time. Aye - Lesser, Kenerson. Nay - May, Grigorov, Klein. NOT CARRIED. 1 Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 RESOLUTION: Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 MOTION by Mr. David Klein, seconded by Mr. Montgomery May: WHEREAS* This action is the Consideration of a Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals with respect to a request for Special 1987. Approval of a School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 11, Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed addition of 12 additional children (32 children originally approved and now attending) and for a room addition to the Little Feet Montessori Center, at 139 Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6. 2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Zoning Board of Appeals has been legislatively designated to act as Lead Agency, and for which a recommendation of a negative determination of environmental significance has been made by the Town Planner, 3. The proposal has been reviewed by the Planning Board at a Public Hearing on November 3, 1987. THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED: 1. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals,that the Special Approval be denied. 2. That the Planning Board has determined that: a. there is a need for the proposed use in the proposed location, but that, be the existing and probable future character of the neighborhood will be adversely affected by the increased use of what amounts to a single-family house on a minimal residential lot; C* The proposed change is not in accordance with a comprehensive plan of development of the Town. 3. That the Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Zoning Board of Appeals that Special Approval be denied for the proposal as presented. Little Feet Montessori Center Expansion 139 Honness Lane Report to the Zoning Board of Appeals Planning Board, November 3, 1987 Aye - May, Grigorov, Klein. Nay - Lesser, Kenerson, CARRIED. Nancy M. DPuller, Secretary, Town of Ithaca Planning Board. November 6, 1987. -4- 4 14.16-4 (2187)—Text 12 PROJECT I.D. NUMBER 617.21 SEAR Appendix C State Environmental Quality Review SHORT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM For UNLISTED ACTIONS Only PART I—PROJECT INFORMATION (To be completed by Applicant or Project sponsor) 1. APPLICANT /SPONSOR 2. PROJECT NAME state John & Valerie Littlefield Little Feet Montessori Center 3, PROJECT LOCATION: this assessment Municipality Town of Ithaca County Tompkins Co. 4. PRECISE LOCATION (Street address and road intersections, prominent landmarks, etc., or provide map) 139 Honness Lane Ithaca, NY 14850 5. IS PROPOSED ACTION: ❑ New ® Expansion ❑ Modification/alteration 6. DESCRIBE PROJECT BRIEFLY: Special approval for (14) fourteen additional children and to add a room 241x24' over an existing room that is 241x24' 7, AMOUNT OF LAND AFFECTED: Initla13fIme q g; n r g c@ n 4@cres Ultimate) s 8. WILL PROPOSED ACTION COMPLY WITH EXISTING ZONING OR OTHER EXISTING LAND USE RESTRICTIONS? ® Yes ® No If No, describe briefly The room addition complies with with zoning. S ecial approval is neede for the increased number of child 9. WHAT IS PRESENT LAND USE IN VICINITYOFPROJECT? 1�I ® Residential ❑ Industrial R3 Commercial Agriculture ❑ Park/Forest/Open space ❑ Other Describe: 10. DOES ACTION INVOLVE A PERMIT APPROVAL, OR FUNDING, NOW OR ULTIMATELY FROM ANY OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY (FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL)? [y Yes ❑ No If yes, list agency(s) and permit/approvals Building Permit 11, DOES ANY ASPECT OF THE ACTION HAVE A CURRENTLY VALID PERMIT OR APPROVAL? ED Yes ❑ No If yes, list agency name and permit/approval Town of Ithaca., NY State Dept. of Social Services, Tompkins Co. HealthDe r+ i n o p { 12. ASA RESULT OF PROPOSED ACTION WILL EXISTING PERMIT/APPROVAL REQUIRE MODIFICATION? ❑Yes No Aooroval for adriitinnai > 1 CERTIFY THAT THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ABOVE IS TRUE TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE John & Valerie Littlefie d Date: Applicant1sponsor name: Signature: / If the action is in the Coastal Area, and you are a state agency, complete the Coastal Assessment Form before proceeding with this assessment OVER 1 t. PART II - Environmental Assessment - Little Feet Montessori Center Proposed Expansion A. Action is Unlisted. Be Action will not receive C. Could action result in an from the following: Cl. Exis antity. noise air evels coordinated review. y adverse effects on, to or arisin lity, surface or groundwater existin traffic proauction or aisposal, potential flooding problems? tterns. so ality or Ld waste or erosion, drainage or No significant adverse impact is expected to air quality, or solid waste production or disposal, because of the small scale of the proposed increase in site use. Because children are normally outside in the backyard play area only in small groups, no significant adverse impact with respect to noise levels is anticipated. A small impact is expected to existing traffic patterns. The increase in traffic volumes on Honness Lane as a result of the proposed school expansion is considered negligible, and within the capacity of Honness Lane (see Town Engineer's report, "Honness Lane Traffic", dated Nov. 3, 1987). The proposed improvements to parking and circulation patterns at 139 and 142 Honness Lane are expected to mitigate any potentially significant adverse impacts with respect to traffic safety as a result of the proposed increase of 12 children and two teachers. No significant adverse impact is expected with respect to drainage, erosion, flooding, or water quality problems that cannot be mitigated through proper design and construction of site parking improvements, as to be subject to final approval by the Town Engineer. Additional mitigation with respect to traffic and noise is considered to be provided by the vacancy of the premises on weekends, r?_ other Aesthetic , , i r M 1 or character-: The proposed room addition would represent a slight increase in building scale as compared with other buildings on Honness Lane, but would not significantly impact views from existing residences. The benefit of providing day care in this location is considered to outweigh any potential impacts from the slight increase in building scale. The present operation of the school, with 32 children, was approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals in 1981. The only main complaints received from the Honness Lane neighborhood related to this present operation have been about parking and pickup/dropoff, which are proposed by the applicants for improvement. The existing character of the neighborhood, particularly the mixture of land uses in the vicinity of Honness Lane (several multiple dwellings, single and two family dwellings, two churches in the vicinity, Eastwood Commons Multiple Residence District, Grandview clustered subdivision, Cornell University R-30 lands) is not expected to be adversely impacted by the proposed increase of 12 children at Little Feet Montessori Center, because of the small scale of the proposed increase, proposed site improvements, and the benefits of day care provision in a mixed use neighborhood close to Cornell University, the major employment center in East Ithaca. C36 species, species? There site that C4. Vegetation or fauna, fish, shellfish or significant habitats, or wildlife reatened or endanqere are no significant species or habitats on or near the would be adversely impacted by the proposed expansion. A community' s existin )lans or goals as officiall adopted, or a change in use or intensity of use of land or other natural resources? No significant adverse environmental impact is expected with respect to these considerations. Nursery schools are permitted by Special Approval in R15 Districts, as subject to determinations required of the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals in Sections 77 and 78 of the Zoning Ordinance. It. is the reviewer's opinion that the criteria of these sections would generally be met in the proposed school expansion (see C2 above). The proposed 1/3 increase in enrollment at the existing school would not represent a significant adverse change in use or in land use intensity provided that the proposed site improvements are implemented, and considering the benefit of providing day care in a location accessible to Cornell and other East Ithaca employees and the East Ithaca neighborhood. C5. Growth, likelv to be induc subsequent development, or related activities the propose action? A positive determination of environmental significance was made by the Zoning Board of Appeals in June, 1987 for the proposed construction of a new school building at 142 Honness Lane for a total of 80 to 120 children, the Board having identified potential adverse impacts related to the proposed building size and type, building coverage and visual impact, the proposed size of the school in a medium -density residential neighborhood, traffic volume and traffic safety, and related to opposition from the neighborhood with respect to these potential impacts. The project proposal was subsequently withdrawn. The current proposal for 12 additional children at the existing school site is,of a much smaller magnitude. Any further requests for school expansion would require further review. C6. Long term, identified in C1-05? Not expected as the implementation mitigate potential short term, cumulative, or other effects not a result of the current proposal, subject to of proposed site improvements which should adverse impacts with respect to traffic .ti safety, and monitoring restriction subject to the continued operation of the school with and scheduling of pickups and dropoffs, and the of children outside to small groups. C7. Other ntitv or t Not expect D. Is potenti Th cts includ changes in use of either of energy)? due to the -small sacle of the proposal, there, or is there likely to be, controversy related to adverse environmental impacts? ere has been public controversy, as stated above, with respect to an earlier prop-osal for school relocation and expansion. A letter has been received from Honness Lane resident about the current proposal, generally expressing concern about area density and traffic. It is the reviewer's recommendation that the small scale of the proposed increase, accompanied by proposed site improvements, will not have a significant adverse environmental impact to area density or traffic, that the mixed residential/institutional character of the Honness Lane area will will not be adversely impacted by the small expansion of a needed day care service as proposed. PART III A negative determination oaf environmental significance is recommended, for the reasons stated in the review above. Lead Agency: Town of Ithaca Zoning Board o Appeals Reviewer: Susan C. Beeners, Town Planner Review Date: Nov. 3, 1987 .r, ROBERT R. FLUMERFELT, P.E. SHEET NO ` OF i •1� Engi� '•.yy `�:� 1f �' S� < < i,,,.yy + i':%' a ..�5 •Y.: tlk.tif'RYe�✓' y.i .x '.rneer Ave' CALCULATED BY NlY5 �:•.by,i�DAtE 115 Campbell Avenue ` - _ ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850 CHECKED BY DATE_ SCALE t r Pa':i-•-' � '`_ =dy' tw-. ughn Mm 0101. �s� ✓9B8 Sot• /ZZ ffd � w : , f/c e4; ,OPJ i. t r Pa':i-•-' � '`_ =dy' tw-. ughn Mm 0101. �s� ✓9B8 Sot• /ZZ ffd � w : , f/c e4; ,OPJ .:: .. _._...:._..------.._........ - -- _....... :i t r Pa':i-•-' � '`_ =dy' tw-. ughn Mm 0101. �s� ✓9B8 Sot• /ZZ ffd � w : , f/c e4; ,OPJ .:: .. _._...:._..------.._........ - -- _....... ............... .. .... ....... -...... - ...... _. PRWJCI 2041A s Inc, GMm, Wa 01471 ROBERT R. FLUMERFELT, P.E. '.i Civil Engineer 115 Campbell Avenue ITHACA, NEW YORK 14850 SHEET NO. OF CALCULATED BY DATE CHECKED BY DATE SCALE V w vy i :y,! f4 PROdICf MI a Ix.. Gmtn, Mm 01171. r 14.12$ (2187)-9c 617.21 Appendix E State Environmental Quality Review POSITIVE DECLARATION Notice of Intent to Prepare a Draft EIS Determination of Significance Project Number SEAR Date November 24, 1987 This notice is issued pursuant to Part 617 of the implementing regulations pertaining to Article 8 (State Environmental Quality Review Act) of the Environmental Conservation Law, The Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals , as lead agency, has determined that the proposed action described below may have a significant effect on the environment and that a Draft Environmental Impact Statement will be prepared. Name of Action: Proposed expansion of Little Feet Montessori Center, 139 Honness Lane, from 32 to 44 children, including a proposed room addition. SEOR Status: Type I ❑ Unlisted ; Description of Action: APPEAL of John and Doris Perialas, Property Owners/Appellant8, John and Valerie Littlefield, Applicants/Agents, with respect to a request for Special Approval of a Nursery School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 11, Paragraph 4, of the Town of Ithaca -Zoning Ordinance, for the proposed expansion of Little Feet Montessori Center to include 44 children, an enrollment of 32 children having been previously approved and presently attending, and a room addition, at 139 Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca. Tax Parcel No. 6-58-2-39.6, Residence District R-15. Location: (Include street address and the name of the municipality/county. A location map of appropriate scale is also recommended.) 139 Honness Lane, Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County (Location Map Attached) .4ft SEQR Positive Declaration Reasons Supporting This Determination: Page 2 The Zoning Board of Appeals found that the proposed action may have a significant adverse impact with respect to community character, land use intensity, and land use plans and goals as officially adopted. While nursery schools are allowed by Special.Approval of the -Zoning Board of Appeals, the Board found potential for the proposed expansion not meeting the criteria for Special Approval by reasons of lot size, land use intensity and potential traffic impact. (Copy of.Resoluti.on attached) I For Further Information: Contact Person: Susan C. Beeners, Town Planner Address: 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York 14850 Telephone Number: (607) 273-1747) A Copy of this Notice Sent to: Commissioner, Department of Environmental Conservation, 50 Wolf Road, Albany, New York 12233-0001 Appropriate Regional Office of the Department of Environmental Conservation Office of the Chief Executive Officer of the political subdivision in which the action will be principally located. Applicant (if any) Other involved agencies (if any) New York State Education Department Montgomery May, Planning Board Chairman 1= r O` 0 ON 0- IN�V t� ✓ mss• Z 1= r O` 0 ON 0- 1=.-1 I r ; „�� I& r 1Y�� ►✓ 1 5 L rt! t✓ -c S S is C S i -f 0 N vir c c . iNf� .tc e TY'&114 t� Alt cr v Cr Dieu � �� l u m p 'Art/ � ►,�� �� ,� , . r �r ��s� 0, + � �)iALt!Cfk N6 'Ar n1nn ? Ntoo�\ 4, N4 Nmp r cq U cvMr\, a..n 0 Sc rf! A. U ori r�r to a F f Pig f�c� H z C G S r- Y 1131 CHILD EVALUATION SHEET CHILD'S NAME LITTLE F LET MONTESSORI l J 1 lill 139 HONNESS LANE ITHACA, NY 14850 I. Practical Life Pouring Buckling Stringing Hook & Eye Lg. Button Tie Sm. Button Lacing Snapping 4 Food Groups II. Sensorial Comments Cylinder Blocks & Boxes Geometric Solids 1 RED Pink Tower 2 YELLOW Sound Cylinders 3 GREEN Weight Cylinders 4 BLUE Comments: 8 Matching Sorting -Colors Box 1 Box 2 Box 3 Constructive Triagles Blue Triagles III. Language Group Yellow Group Red Group Green Group Orange Group White Letter Cans Picture Cards Object/Picture Matching Matching Letters Movable Alphabet Blends L ords Writing Flip Books (3 letter words) Reading GROUP GROUP DATE_ AGE TEACHER NUMBER Comments IV. Speech ( include sentence structure, volume, speed, vocabulary, etc. ) Box 1 Box 2 Box 3 Box 4 Triagles Blue Triagles III. Language Group Yellow Group Red Group Green Group Orange Group White Letter Cans Picture Cards Object/Picture Matching Matching Letters Movable Alphabet Blends L ords Writing Flip Books (3 letter words) Reading GROUP GROUP DATE_ AGE TEACHER NUMBER Comments IV. Speech ( include sentence structure, volume, speed, vocabulary, etc. ) ..{ V . M,ath 0-9 symbol 0 quantity 10-20 symbol 10-20 quantity Number rods Number matching VI. General Play 1111 What is child's favorite Imaginative Play_ Group Involvement Comments VII. Large Motor Climbing - Skipping Hopping Balance Beam Lj Running VIII. Social Does child Number cans Sandpaper numbers Colored Beads Golden Bead Counting, how high? 1 - 100 Board Addition Subtraction activity? Pedalling Throwing Catching Basket Ball Comments Comments: (include Outdoor Involvement) usually want to play alone or with others? Does child get along well with others? Special Friends Comments. (include taking turns, sharing, social behavior, etc.) IX. Eating Snacks Lunch Comments. X. Health & Toilet (be specific) XI. Sleeping Does child nap? Yes or No Room child sleeps in Are there any special things you need to do to get child to sleep? XII. Art XIII. Extra Comments Comments: Staff Member sign P arming Board -9- July ?, 1981 Mr. Stanton noted that the backyard is proposed to be totally enclosed. Mrs. Littlefield submitted the following letter to the Board which is herein entered into the record: "July 1981 To Whom It May Concern: We have no objection to a Montessori Nitr.sery School being operated at 139 Honness Lane, Ithaca, NY 14850. (Sgd.) Sarah R. Lillie, 203 Pine Tree Road Barbara J. Bredbenner, 141 Honness Lane Leona C. Northrop, 141 Honness Lane Gus Lambrou, 156 Honness Lane Frederick J. Ciaschi, 146 Honness Lane Maria Lambrou, 156 Honness Lane Patricia A. Ciaschi, 146 Honness Lane Hunna Johns, 138 Honness Lane -- P.S. --- not transferable to any other oviner. Pete Nic'_kles, 137 Honness Lane Mr. & Mrs. George P. Nickles, 137 Honness Lane" To: the residents of Honness Lane, Pine Tree Road and Eastwood Commons From; the Armstrongs, 121 Honness Lane 1272-31493) Re: the proposed building of a day care center at 142 Honness Lane On June 2, 1957, the Town of Ithaca Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend a request for Special Approval of a.Schooi Use for the proposed construction of a nursery school building on the back portion of 142 Honness Lane. (see attached map) A nursery school may be established in an R15 zone provided special approval is granted by the Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals. in July, 1981, the Zoning Board of Appeals granted a Special approval to Valerie and John Littlefield to operate a nursery school at 139 Honness Lane. Nine conditions were imposed, including one which said the approval was granted to the applicants, was not transferrable, and did not run with the land. Another condition was that the permit was for the duration of 24 months with the possibility of extension upon review. The proposal before the Zoning Board of Appeals is for a structure of 7890 square feet, for a day care facility to run from 7:30 a.m, until 5:30 p.m., to accommodate up to 120 children. We feel that a building this size, which will become a permanent facility in an R 15 neighborhood, does not respect the intent of the zoning ordinance for a residential neighborhood. We feel that the traffic resulting from the transportation of 120 children will seriously increase the hazards on an increasingly dangerous "country road." We spoke with as many of you as we could before the Town Planning Meeting. 32 of you signed the petition asking for a denial of the nursery school move and the proposed construction. We read the petition to the Board, but Board Members did not look at the petition nor the accompanying signatures. We urge those of you who are opposed to the proposed day care center to sign our new petitions, to notify the Zoning Appeals Board of your opposition, and to attend the Hearing on Wednesday, June 10, in the Town of Ithaca Town Hall (126 E. Seneca St.) For additional information, please call us or speak to Susan Beeners, the Town Planner. i Z013,s' - PLAyG(zol.lNv.�! a -A d1 c 0 ' z 2p8_5'_ 18� log I�o�,1r1E; Lar.lE TOWN OF ITHAC A AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING AND PUBLICATION I, Jean H. Swartwood, being duly sworn, depose and say that I am the Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York; that the following Notice has been duly posted on the Sign Board of the Town Clerk of the Town of Ithaca and that said Notice has been duly published in the local newspaper, The Ithaca Journal. Notice of Public Hearings to be held by the Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, Ithaca, New York on Wednesday, November 18, 1987 commencing at 7:00 P.M., as per attached. Location of Sign Board used for Posting: Located at front entrance of Town Hall;outside of front door of Town Hall;outside door of Town Hall meeting room. Date of Posting: November 10, 1987 Date of Publication: November 13, 1987 STATE OF NEW YORK ) COUNTY OF TOMPKINS ) S " Town of Ithaca Sworn to and subscribed before me this November , 19 87 Notary Public 13th day of .. RICINVY Public, State4of New York °.5546WO 16 Ou011ftld . - The Ithaca Journal Friday, November 13, 1987 J TOWN OF. ITHACA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS AND AGENDA _ t WED:', NOV.'18, 1987 . I.7:00 P. M. ` 8 direction of the Chairman of the'Zoning Board of Ap- peals NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Public Hearings will be held by the Zoning Board of. Appeals of the Town. of Ithaca on Wednesday, No- vember 18, 1987, in Town Hall, 126 East Seneca Street, (FIRST Floor, -REAR Entance, WEST 'Side), . Ithaca, N.Y., COMMENCING AT 7:00 P.M., on the following matters, as appropriate: APPEAL of Leslie N. and Mar- garet B. Reizes, Appellants, with respect to a request for authorization by the Zoning Board of Appeals, pursuant to Article XII, Section 54, of the Town of Ithaca Zoning Ordi- nance, to extend an existing non -conforming residence structure at 1061 Taughannock Blvd., Town of Ithaca Tax Par- cel No. !6-21-2-13, Residence District R-15. The existing resi- dence is located approxi- mately ten feet from the south side yard lot line; a room ad- dition Proposed for the north side of said residence would create a north side yard of ap- proximately two feet. APPEAL of Earlond and Robert Mancini; Appellants/Property Owners;'Richard R.'Anderson, Applicant/Agent, from the de- cision of the Building"Insppec- tor/Zoning Enforcement Offi- cer,denying permission for the construction of ,d' proposed moving -.'and storage facility proposed to be located on a 1.5plus or minus acre portion of Town•. of Ithaca. Tax Parcel No. 6-33-3-2.2, 90.23 acres to- tal, in a Light Industrial District at 608'Elmiro Road: ,The pro- posed building , would be greater than 25 feet in height with a front yard setback of approximately 90 feet and a south side yard setback of ap- proximately 45 feet. Said building would also front on a private; road. Permission is denied under Article VIII, Sec- tion 4 of the Towri of Ithaca Zoning Ordinance, whereby a frontyard setback no less than 150 feet is required; a side yard no less than 60 feet is re- quired, and a building height no greater. than 25 feet is- re- luired. Permission is further denied under Section 280-o of Town Law which reqquires frontage on a public way. APPEAL of4Michael J. Hannan, i. Appellant, from the, decision of the Building Inspector/Zon- ing Enforcement.Offic_er-deny-I ing permission for. the con- struction of proposeO "South,) Yard" Warehouse approxi- mately 36 feet in height, ppro, posed to be located on Five , Mile Drive (N.Y.S: Route 13A) near Elmira Road (N.Y.S. Route 13), on Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 6-31-3-3.11; 1,46 acres total, in a Light -In- ' dustriol District. Permission is ' denied.under Article VIII, Sec - I tion 44, of the Town of Ithaca' Zoning Ordiance whereby a building height no greater than 25 feet is required. A height variance for said pro- posed warehouse was grant- ed by the Zoning Board of Ap- peals on May' 14,. 1980, permitting a building height of 32 feet. 0 - APPEAL of John and Doris Per- iolos, Property Owners/Ap- pellants, John and Valerie Lit- tlefield, Applicants/Agents, with respect to a request for . Special Approval of a Nursery ; School Use, pursuant to Article IV, Section 11, Porogroph'4, of .' ; the Town of Ithaca Zoning Or-.. dinance, for the proposed ex- pansion of Little Feet Montes- sori Center toI include 44 . children, an enrollment of 32 children having been pre- viously approved and present- - ly attending, and a roon oddi- tion, at 139 Honness lane, o Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. -, 6-58-2-39.6, Residence District 'I R-15. AGENDA ITEM: Consideidtion of on ExecutiveSession. Said Zoning Board of Appeals will at said time, 7:00 p.m., and said place,' hear, all pea' son in support of such matters or objections thereto,; as.:ap- I propriate. Persons may .cP-� pear by agent or in person... r Andrew S. Frost;, Building Inspector/Zoning;' Enforcement Officer' Town of, Ithaca ,273-1747 Dated: November 10, 1987 November 13, 1987 . j�i��eF��a/L��'1"/� �e� {�QecL " I4a. �IorJNes< Lam 6-10-87 ,cow, - -Fa� , Vic, 40 how 5 ILIIIUIk '.n Ww uru� } e r lir► � �� ��'�'� �► '' n+l/�f ���es�L -14a NoNc�ess 6-60-[-l6 6—lo-g7 Ritj O)CS5- �de- i�x" �.jl � I� 491 ' i t