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TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
V TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2002
The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday, September 3, 2002, in Town
Hall, 215 N. Tioga St, Ithaca, New York, at 7:00 p.m.
PRESENT: Eva Hoffmann, Vice Chairperson; George Conneman, Board Member; Larry Thayer,
Board Member; Rod Howe, Board Member; Kevin Talty, Board Member; David Dubow, Attorney; Dan
Walker, Director of Engineering; Susan Ritter, Assistant Director of Planning; Michael Smith,
Environmental Planner; Christine Balestra- Lehman, Planner,
EXCUSED: Fred Wilcox, Chairperson; Tracy Mitrano, Board Member; Jonathan Kanter, Director of
Planning.
ALSO PRESENT: John W. Jackson, Transmode Inc.; Emily Grayson, 1251 Trumansburg Road; Tom
Greenspun, 321 Washington Street; Scott Hamilton, 201 Christopher Lane.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann declared the meeting duly opened at 7:03 p.m, and accepted for the
record the Secretary's Affidavit of Posting and Publication of the Notice of Public Hearings in Town
Hall and the Ithaca Journal on September 23, 2002, and September 25, 2002, together with the
properties under discussion, as appropriate, upon the Clerks of the City of Ithaca and the Town of
Danby, upon the Tompkins County Commissioner of Planning, upon the Tompkins County
®Commissioner of Public Works, and upon the applicants and /or agents, as appropriate, on September
24, 2002. (Affidavit of Posting and Publication is hereto attached as Exhibit #1.)
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann read the Fire Exit Regulations to those assembled, as required by the
New York State Department of State, Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
AGENDA ITEM: Persons to be Heard.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened this segment of the meeting at 7:03 p.m., and asked if any
members of the public wished to be heard. Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed this segment of the
meeting at 7:04 p.m.
AGENDA ITEM: SEQR, Determination, Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg
Road.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened this segment of the meeting at 7:04 p.m.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Mike, do you have anything you would like to say about this since this
was something that you worked on for us?
Mr. Smith - Basically, the drawing you have of the Finger Lakes School of Massage... it is going to be
a new sign. The development disability services sign that is existing will be taken off and mounted on
,the new sign below it. The total right now goes from approximately 17.5 square feet up to 20.2
square feet. I believe the applicant is here if you have any questions. She has a rendered drawing.
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Emily Grayson, 1251 Trumansburg Road - We have been in existence for about ten years. Next year
it will be ten years and we have had the same sign since we began renting it with property. We are
very excited about this new rendering we received from Sancar Sign. We feel that environmentally it
will blend in. It has this lovely green color. It won't distract too much from the trees behind it. It is not
that much bigger that it will overwhelm that area in front of the two columns, which you will see in that
photograph. It also echoes the shape of the building very nicely. That beautiful stone building will
have sort of a compliment in our sign.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Why doesn't it show that other sign that is supposed to be included?
Ms. Grayson - This is the rendering from the woman who is designing the sign. The current disabled
services sign will be hooked right under ours.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - It is always useful for us to see exactly what you are planning to put
there. A half finished drawing is useful, but not as helpful as a finished one.
Ms. Grayson - I hear you. What I can provide for you is the rendering that you have in your packet
like this, which actually does have the sign attached. It is not as finished, I agree. I apologize for
that.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I had some problems with this section when I looked at the packet. I
had to call and ask Mike about the dimensions. The picture was very confusing.
Ms. Grayson - I'm horrible at math. We all sort of worked with designer and Joe Ciaschi's son to
present this to the best of our ability. I am happy to describe anything that is not clear to make this a
more full picture for you.
Board Member Conneman - It is going to be white?
Ms. Grayson - It is. It is going to be right under our sign. We have been talking to the disability
services folks. They are open to the possibly having a new sign there as well. For now, it will be the
white sign underneath ours with the blue lettering. It will fit in with the whole scheme of color.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Any other questions?
Board Member Talty - Is it in the same location?
Ms. Grayson - Exact same location. Correct.
Board Member Thayer - The new sign is much more attractive. I think it will draw more attention.
The PRI sign sits back in the lawn where you can really look at it as you are driving by.
Ms. Grayson - What I really like about this placement is that it is double sided so you can really catch
it driving by. I fear if we bring it too far back that it would really get missed.
Board Member Conneman - You do not plan to light the sign?
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PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Ms. Grayson - We do not plan to light the sign. We were considering it initially, but have thought
better.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The basic problem with the sign is that the existing and the proposed
are much larger than the four square foot sign that is allowed for this property. I don't think anyone
has a problem seeing it increased by this small amount. I don't have a problem with it either. I do
worry a little bit that signs are getting bigger and bigger. It is sort of creeping up on us slowly. We
keep getting requests for bigger signs. I think at some point we have to think about where is the limit.
Any other comments from staff or the board? Are we ready to move on the SEAR?
Board Member Thayer - I'll move the SEAR.
Board Member Conneman - I'll second.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - All in favor say aye.
Board - Aye.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - It is a unanimous vote for it.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed this segment of the meeting at 7:12 p.m.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -098 - SEQR, Preliminary & Final Site Plan Approval and a
Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a Sign Variance, Finger Lakes
School of Massage — New Sign, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24 -3-
3.4.
MOTION made by Larry Thayer, seconded by George Conneman.
1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and a
Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a sign variance for the proposed
replacement sign for the Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.4, Special Land Use District No. 4. The proposal includes
replacing the existing 17.5 +/- square foot sign with a new 20.2 +/- square foot sign for the
Finger Lakes School of Massage. The square footage includes the existing sign for
Development Disabilities Services mounted below the new Finger Lakes School of Massage
sign. Joseph O. Ciaschi, Owner; Emily Grayson, Applicant, and
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively
determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Site Plan
Approval, and
3. The Planning Board, on October 1, 2002, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short
Environmental Assessment Form Part 1, submitted by the applicant, and a Part II prepared by
91
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Town Planning staff, plans entitled "Proposed Sign — 1251 Trumansburg Road'; received
September 4, 2002, and other application material, and
4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental
significance with respect to the proposed Site Plan Approval,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of
environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act
for the above referenced action as proposed, and, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement will
not be required.
The vote on the motion resulted as follows:
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe, Talty.
NAYS: None.
The motion was declared to be carried unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and a
Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a sign variance for the proposed
replacement sign for the Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.4, Special Land Use District No. 4. The proposal includes
replacing the existing 17.5 +/- square foot sign with a new 20.2 +/- square foot sign for the
Finger Lakes School of Massage. The square footage includes the existing sign for
Development Disabilities Services mounted below the new Finger Lakes School of Massage
sign. Joseph O. Ciaschi, Owner; Emily Grayson, Applicant.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. and asked if any members of the
public wished to be heard. Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed the public hearing at 7:13 with no
persons present wishing to speak.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Any other comments? There were some conditions because... First of
all, we are considering preliminary and final site plan approval and making a recommendation to the
Zoning Board of Appeals that they grant a variance. I don't know how you feel about the last two
resolved that the proposed replacement sign will be a visual enhancement compared to the existing
sign and it will be easier for travelers on Route 96 to read. I think bigger letterings will make it easier
to read. I'm not sure that I would want to say that it is a visual enhancement to have a bigger sign
necessarily.
Board Member Thayer - It is more colorful.
Board Member Talty - The other one looks kind of piece meal.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - It probably was put up that way.
M
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Ms. Grayson - It certainly was. It is quite weathered.
Board Member Conneman - ...have they considered matching your sign?
Ms. Grayson - They don't have the funds right now to match our sign. They are happy with the
design and having it as part of this new creation.
Board Member Hoffmann - If there is nothing more to discuss, then I'll entertain a motion.
Board Member Howe - So moved.
Board Member Talty - I'll second.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - All in favor say aye.
Board - Aye.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The motion is carried unanimously. Thank you very much.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -099 - Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and a
Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a Sign Variance, Finger Lakes
School of Massage — New Sign, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24 -3-
3.4.
MOTION made by Rod Howe, seconded by Kevin Talty.
WHEREAS:
1. This action is consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and a
Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a sign variance for the proposed
replacement sign for the Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.4, Special Land Use District No. 4. The proposal includes
replacing the existing 17.5 +/- square foot sign with a new 20.2 +/- square foot sign for the
Finger Lakes School of Massage. The square footage includes the existing sign for
Development Disabilities Services mounted below the new Finger Lakes School of Massage
sign. Joseph O. Ciaschi, Owner; Emily Grayson, Applicant, and
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as lead agency
in environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval, has, on October 1, 2002, made a
negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as
adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a
Part 11 prepared by Town Planning staff, and
N1
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on October 1, 2002, has reviewed and accepted
as adequate, plans entitled "Proposed Sign — 1251 Trumansburg Road ", received on
September 4, 2002, and other application material, and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary
and Final Site Plan Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Site Plan Checklists,
having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in neither a
significant alteration of the purpose of site plan control nor the policies enunciated or implied
by the Town Board, and
2. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Site Plan
Approval for the proposed 20.2 +/- square foot replacement sign for the Finger Lakes School of
Massage, as shown on plans entitled "Proposed Sign — 1251 Trumansburg Road ", subject to
the following conditions:
a. granting by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the required Sign Variance, and
b. that the replacement sign be installed in the same location as the existing sign.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as the Town of Ithaca Sign Review Board,
recommends to the Zoning Board of Appeals that the request for a sign variance for a 20.2 +/-
square foot replacement sign, be approved for the following reasons:
a. the proposed replacement sign will be a visual enhancement compared to the existing
sign, and
b. the proposed sign will be easier for travelers on Route 96 to read.
The vote on the motion resulted as follows:
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe, Talty.
NAYS: None.
The motion was declared to be carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM: SEAR Determination, Greenspun 4 -Lot Subdivision, Bostwick Road.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened this segment of the meeting at 7:16 p.m.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Susan, did you have anything you would like to add?
Ms. Ritter - Nothing to add. We have all met Tom before. He has come in for sketch plan. This is a
revised plan. He came in with a sketch plan in February for the four -lot subdivision. The plan is to
101
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
subdivide the two lots and then consolidate the one parcel so he had road frontage and then to share
a driveway with the parcel that is currently owned by himself, his mother and brother.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - We are dividing the land into four parcels then two of them will be joined
together so it will be three parcels in the end.
Tom Greenspun, 321 Washington Avenue - Yes.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Because there is not sufficient frontage for two of the lots, you will need
to have two area variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Is there something you would like to
tell us?
Mr. Greenspun - I don't have much to add. There was also some concern about the use of the
driveway. Last time you said there would have to be an easement for my mother to use the driveway.
I have somebody ready to draw that up.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - There is a condition included in our resolution about that. We would
expect you to do that.
Mr. Greenspun - Yes.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Are there any questions from the board?
Board Member Howe - It is along the lines of what we talked about last time.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - There was an error on one of the maps, but that has been corrected. I
think everything is pretty clear from what Susan has written up in her cover letter. Are we ready to
vote on the SEQR? Do I have a motion?
IY.F1"i41&[aiIom- -'t • G o - u F � N 1170 M-
Board Member Talty - I'll second it.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - All in favor say aye.
Board - Aye.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The motion is carried unanimously.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -100 - SEQR, Preliminary & Final Subdivision Approval Bostwick
Road 4 -Lot Subdivision, Tax Parcel Nos. 32 -2 -3.2 and 32- 2 -3.4.
MOTION made by George Conneman, seconded by Kevin Talty.
WHEREAS:
7
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
1. This action involves consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the
proposed four -lot subdivision on Bostwick Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel Nos. 32 -2 -3.2 and
32- 2 -3.4, Agricultural District. The proposal will result in the creation of a 4.8 +/- acre parcel
from the 81.8 + 1- acres of Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and a 2.6 +/- acre parcel from the 6.7 +/-
acres of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4. The two new smaller parcels will then be consolidated to
create a new 7.4 +/- acre parcel. Claire Paley, Owner of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.2, and Barbara
Gizewski, and R. and T. Greenspun, Owners of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4; Tom Greenspun,
Applicant.
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively
determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Subdivision
Approval, and
3. The Planning Board, on October 1, 2002, has reviewed a Short Environmental Assessment
Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a Part 11 prepared by Town Planning staff, a map
entitled, "Map of Survey Parcel of Land To Be Conveyed by Paley Properties LLC, prepared
by Robert S. Russ /er, Jr., Surveyor, dated August 9, 2002, and other application materials, and
4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental
significance with respect to the proposed Subdivision Approval;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of
environmental significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act
for the above referenced action as proposed, and, therefore, neither a Full Environmental
Assessment Form, nor an Environmental Impact Statement will be required.
The vote on the motion resulted as follows:
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe, Talty.
NAYS: None.
The motion was declared to be carried unanimously.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed this segment of the meeting at 7:18 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the
proposed 4 -Lot Subdivision on Bostwick Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's. 32 -2 -3.2 and
32- 2 -3.4, Agricultural District. The proposed subdivisions will result in the creation of a 4.8 +/-
acre parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and a 2.59 +/- acre parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32 -2-
3.4. The two new parcels will then be consolidated to create a new 7.39 +/- acre parcel. Claire
Paley, Owner of Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and Barbara Gizewski, R. and T. Greenspun, Owner of
Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4; Tom Greenspun, Applicant.
E:3
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened the public hearing at 7:20 p.m. and asked if any members of the
public wished to be heard. Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed the public hearing at 7:21 p.m. with no
persons present wishing to be heard.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - This is preliminary and final subdivision approval and a
recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals. That it not how it reads. This does need to go to
the Zoning Board of Appeals, but it doesn't say that in the statement.
Ms. Ritter - It is not requiring you to give a recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals. It
requires them to get a variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Is there any further discussion?
13. FTi '�1�i[aiil�ta'i:.[Znl�Y'if11R#
Board Member Talty - It looks pretty straightforward to me.
Board Member Thayer - It is very straightforward.
Attorney Dubow - The only thing I would suggest in the resolution is in subparagraph c I think it
indicates that consolidation needs to be completed within six months and it needs to be demonstrated
by a copy of the request to the Tompkins County Clerk's Office. I believe that should be the
Tompkins County Division of Assessment.
Ms. Ritter - Before we pass that ... Tom, is there any problem with you getting the consolidation within
six months?
Mr. Greenspun - No. Does that just mean having the deed drawn up? What is that?
Attorney Dubow - It would probably be a deed prepared and then a filing with the Department of
Assessment at the County so that they know that those two parcels would be combined into one.
When you get approval for this subdivision, that map will be filed and their records will then show that
they are two separate parcels. Then you will have to consolidate them, but that is done through the
Division of Assessment.
Mr. Greenspun - I don't see any problem with that.
Ms. Ritter - Six months would be okay?
Mr. Greenspun - That is fine.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - That is pretty standard. I think in general, too, finally we have
something that is going to work well. It was a difficult piece of land to subdivide.
Board Member Talty - I'll move it.
we
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Board Member Thayer - I'll second it.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - All in favor say aye.
Board - Aye.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The motion is carried unanimously.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -101 - Preliminary & Final Subdivision Approval, Bostwick Road
Four -Lot Subdivision, Tax Parcel Nos. 32 -2 -3.2 and 32- 2 -3.4.
MOTION made by Kevin Talty, seconded by Larry Thayer.
1. This action involves consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the
proposed four -lot subdivision on Bostwick Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel Nos. 32 -2 -3.2 and
32- 2 -3.4, Agricultural District. The proposal will result in the creation of a 4.8 +/- acre parcel
from the 81.8 + 1- acres of Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and a 2.6 +/- acre parcel from the 6.7 +/-
acres of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4. The two new parcels will then be consolidated to create a
new 7.4 +/- acre parcel. Claire Paley, Owner of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.2, and Barbara
Gizewski, and R. and T. Greenspun, Owners of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4; Tom Greenspun,
Applicant.
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as lead agency
in environmental review with respect to Subdivision Approval, has, on October 1, 2002, made
a negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as
adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part 1, submitted by the applicant, and a
Part II prepared by Town Planning staff, and
3. The Planning Board, has held a public hearing on October 1, 2002, and has reviewed a plat
entitled, "Map of Survey Parcel of Land To Be Conveyed by Paley Properties LLC, prepared by
Robert S. Russler, Jr., Surveyor, dated August 9, 2002, and other application materials, and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary
and Final Subdivision Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Subdivision Checklist,
having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in neither a
significant alteration of the purpose of subdivision control nor the policies enunciated or implied
by the Town Board, and
2. That the Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the
proposed subdivision of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel Nos. 32 -2 -3.2 and 32 -2 -3.4 into four lots
resulting in the creation of a 4.8 +/- acre and 77 +/- acre lot from Tax Parcel No 32- 2 -3.2, and a
2.6 +/- acre and 4.1 +/- acre parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4; with consolidation of the
[D]
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
4.8 +1- acre and 2.6 +/- acre parcel, located off Bostwick Road, Agricultural District, as shown
on a map entitled, "Map of Survey Parcel of Land To Be Conveyed by Paley Properties LLC,
prepared by Robert S. Russler, Jr., Surveyor, dated August 9, 2002, subject to the following
conditions:
a. submission for signing by the Chairman of the Planning Board of an original or mylar
copy of the plat and three dark -lined prints, revised to include accurate tax parcel
numbers, prior to filing with the Tompkins County Clerk's Office, and submission of a
receipt of filing to the Town of Ithaca Planning Department, and
b. the granting of the necessary variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals, prior to the
plat being signed by the Chair of the Planning Board, and
C. within 6 months of this approval, consolidation of the 4.8 acre parcel with the 2.6 acre
parcel and submission to the Town of Ithaca Planning Department of a copy of the
request to Tompkins County Department of Assessment for the consolidation of said
parcel, and
d. submission of an easement agreement, for review and approval by the Attorney for the
Town, allowing the owners of "Remaining Lands of T P Greenspun, Greenspun, &
Gizewski" continued rights of ingress and egress on the existing driveway on Parcel II
should they choose to continue such use, said approval to be issued prior to signing of
the plat by the Planning Board Chair.
The vote on the motion resulted as follows:
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe, Talty.
NAYS: None.
The motion was declared to be carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM: SEAR Determination, Transmode Car Rental, Judd Falls Plaza, Pine Tree
Road.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened this segment of the meeting at 7:25 p.m.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Chris, did you want to speak about this before we get started?
Ms. Balestra- Lehman - I think I will allow the applicant to speak to some of the environmental issues.
John Jackson, Transmode Inc - I have lived in the Ithaca area most of my life and worked in the
Ithaca area most of my life as well. This business is known as Conway Affordable Car Rentals. It
was previously located at Garage de France for thirteen years up until its demise two years ago. We
located our office at the Lansing Plaza. We would like to open a satellite office. A great deal of our
business is with Cornell people. We are a little distant from them. We are not on a bus route up
11
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
there. We would like to be in an area where we are a little bit more accessible to our customers.
That is what this proposal is about.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - You say this will be a satellite office?
Mr. Jackson - Yes.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Satellite to which office? I'm not sure what I heard.
Mr. Jackson - The one in Lansing. Currently our office is in the Lansing Plaza.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - You mentioned some student clientele.
Mr. Jackson - We do a lot of business with graduate students and professors and visiting people from
oversees a lot. We have a fairly long- standing clientele in the Ithaca area. Repeat business we do
year after year with summer residents as well. It is a fairly low -key operation. It is a franchised
operation, but we are the only local franchise in Central New York.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I think we should all think about questions and comments that we have
for the applicant. I should maybe state that the basic problem about this application is that a car
rental office is not permitted in this business C zone in the Town of Ithaca. It is not permitted.
Board Member Howe - I am okay with the use. I just want to make sure there would be no more than
five cars.
Mr. Jackson - Primarily, we would use this office as a point where people would pickup cars and drop
off cars. It wouldn't be to store cars there. Almost everything we do is advanced reservations. We
never get drop in business. People don't just drive up and want to rent cars. We have the cars ready
when they arrive. We pick the clients up a lot of the time at the airport or University. Then just come
back here to fill out paperwork.
Board Member Thayer - So your cars are actually stored up in Lansing.
Mr. Jackson - Yes. A good share of them is in use most of the time. Hopefully they are not sitting too
long.
Board Member Conneman - You have two sites ... (comments not audible)
Mr. Jackson - It doesn't really matter that much. The only advantage to us would be if we could park
some cars in the front of the building for visibility. It might create some possible business in long -term
by people noticing our vehicle. We have a sign that comes up that says, "Rent Me ". It goes inside
the windshield. Typically, we may have two of those signs on vehicles if they are not in use, but that
is the only reason there would be any need to even have one out in the front.
12
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - There were two possible locations mentioned. One was the one
indicated on the drawings along Pine Tree Road then there was another location suggested as a
possibility between the drycleaner and the bank. It is not clear to me which spaces are meant.
Ms. Balestra- Lehman - That was actually a staff suggestion to the applicant if there were issues.
There wasn't any specific spaces that are set aside.
Mr. Jackson - There are seventeen spaces on the side towards the bank that would be adequate as
well. It doesn't matter for our purposes. There are seventeen parking spaces available. The portion
facing Pine Tree Road is where the office would face. The original proposal is to have the five
parking spaces out in the front, but that is an aesthetic problem. It doesn't matter.
Board Member Conneman - (comments not audible)
Mr. Jackson - It is eight feet, five inches long and two feet, eight inches high. This awning was
originally on the building in another location at one point in time. We would just be changing the face
of the awning.
Board Member Conneman - You are probably aware that in the community there has been some
reaction to people who park trucks and other things in front of their businesses. Why do you need a
car in front of the facility that says, "Rent Me "?
Mr. Jackson - The Affordable Car Rentals may not be visible from the road. It may not attract
anybody's attention whereas if there was a car parked out by the road and someone drove by they
might possibly see the car there and inquire. That was the purpose of it.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The building's fagade is quite visible actually. There is not much to
block it.
Mr. Jackson - I am sure it would give us reasonable visibility.
Board Member Conneman - The Ryder Truck sign is visible from the road also.
Mr. Jackson - Our cars consist primarily of compact and subcompact cars. There are various colors.
There are no markings whatsoever on them. They are all licensed. There really is nothing that would
distinguish them from somebody at the bowling alley or someone there for a sub sandwich.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The write up that we got says that it would be mostly cars and minivans.
Mr. Jackson - We have three or four minivans, but they are just like Dodge Caravan. We have one
cargo van, which we rent out. We don't have any and never will have any trucks per say, like Ryder
trucks or anything like that. Our franchise does not allow that usage.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The reason I'm a little wary about this is the business that was located
at the plaza before that did have the rental moving trucks was also limited to a certain number, but
the number grew over time. It was supposed to have just one truck parked out front by Pine Tree
13
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Road. Very often there were many more than one. The owner often said he did not have time to
move them back. I live in that area so I go by there very often. I doubt that that was always the
reason. Who would be responsible for making sure that there were no more than five cars on this site
at any one time?
Mr. Jackson - It would be my manager, Christopher Barton. He was also the manager the Affordable
Car Rental franchise for Garage de France for thirteen years. He is the one that deals with the public
and takes care of the rental vehicles. To address your other concern, one of the big differences
between our business and Ryder Truck is that we don't have national rentals and we don't have
vehicles coming in and out all the time. The vehicles do not leave the area. They are only for local
rentals. It is just our own vehicles. We don't have that situation.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Are you saying the five cars that you have that you would start with are
going to be the only ones that are parked there? It would be the same cars all the time coming and
going?
Mr. Jackson - No. We have about twenty -five cars now. We would never have the need for more
than five in that location at any one time. The only reason they would be there is for someone to pick
one up or drop one off. It wouldn't be there to be parked. It wouldn't be our primary staging area. It
would just be an area we would take the car to when we had it rented.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - If people had rented cars and they found it convenient to drop them off
in your area and you suddenly got ten cars back in one day, how would handle that?
Mr. Jackson - We would just move them over to the other lot at the time we got them back. It hasn't
ever happened. It's not impossible. It is very unusual. In any event, we would not leave the cars
there. We would just relocate them to our other facility.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - This is a town where students come and go and there are certain times
when lots of students and parents are coming into town.
Mr. Jackson - They do, but when they rent a car we set up a time when they are returning it as well.
We know we have a schedule to keep because quite often that car will turn right around and be
rented again the same day to someone else. There is a car wash across the street so in that case we
would wash the car and check and send it back out again. There wouldn't be cars parked there in
numbers.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Well, if this were to be approved, there would be no more than five.
Mr. Jackson - That is correct.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I wanted to point out on the Short Environmental Assessment Form
there were two answers that seemed incorrect to me. Point 8 is marked with a yes and it should be
no. The other one that needs to be changed in a similar way is Point 11. It does involve another
action by the Zoning Board of Appeals. That should be yes instead of no. Personally, I would also
add residential to Point 10. 1 can never remember from time to time what we mean by vicinity, but it
14
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
seems to me that there is residential close enough there to be called the vicinity. What do you think
about the location of the cars?
Board Member Howe - I would be in favor of just one in front and the others around to the side.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Around the corner, on the south side.
Board Member Howe - Yes, where he mentioned those seventeen spaces.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - When I looked there today, the parking spaces are not marked very
well. The places that are marked for handicap parking spaces on the maps here ... were they
supposed to be marked or striped for handicap parking with an earlier proposal?
10M:11[CEM.10'1iF 1 5.9 IM9T.n
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - It seems to me that they were. There is not a single spot that I could
see on this side along Pine Tree Road or around the corner to the south that is marked for handicap
parking spaces. In fact, those spaces that are marked as parking spaces right along Pine Tree Road
are not striped at all. There is some stripping right next to the building. It is not striped the way it
should. I would be interested why that isn't so. I would suspect that maybe Mr. Hamilton could tell
us.
Scott Hamilton, 201 Christopher Circle - They were all striped when did the reconstruction. It is just
normal erosion. They were all painted on the pavement.
Board Member Conneman - Christine, you raised the point about additional screening?
Ms. Balestra- Lehman - Yes. The original proposal includes putting the spaces right on Pine Tree
Road. There was a question of adequate screening for the cars although it is parking lot and so other
people who are not associated with the rental business would also be parking there as well. You can
avoid the additional screening if the alternate location is used if you put the cars on the south side of
the building rather than right in front of Pine Tree Road. It would not require the applicant to have
additional screening. It would be nice to have an additional buffer there anyway, but we can't require
them to do that.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I had asked Mike to find out what the underground utility lines were that
made it difficult to put landscaping along Pine Tree Road.
Mr. Smith - I was able to print out one map quickly that shows the water line that does run down that
side of the street.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Thank you. Is that typically something that prevents planting above it?
A water line would have to be done at frost -free level, right?
Mr. Walker - They are supposed to have five feet cover. Sometimes they don't get built that deep. I
believe most of that ... (not audible). Usually we don't like to see large trees right over top of the water
15
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
main. There are a lot of trees that are very adjacent to waterlines. The biggest risk is if we do have a
water main break, we may end up removing some of the vegetation. I believe that water line is in the
highway right -of -way in that location, also. There are some limitations on what you can plant in the
highway depending on the owner of the right -of -way. Usually they mow down everything in the right -
of -way.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Would you say there would be a problem in planting more shrubbery for
instance?
Mr. Walker - That is usually not a problem. It only becomes an issue if we have to take it out to
service the water line. There are sewer lines and water lines that have vegetation over them.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - It seems to me if you were up there looking recently, there are some
small trees planted, but they are really very small and they are not going to be of any substance for
quite a while. One of them had died it looked like.
Mr. Walker - Any kind of tree in that area is going to be very difficult to maintain because of the
proximity to the road and the parking lot on both sides. We do have winter here. We didn't have one
last year, but we will someday have winter again. They get tremendous amount of abuse from the
snowplowing and everything else.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - So do city trees, but they somehow manage to survive.
Mr. Walker - Well, they just cut down four of them in front of Town Hall this week because they were
all dying.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I was thinking of bigger cities like New York City and things like that
where they manage to have trees with no visible soil whatsoever. I'm not so worried about trees not
surviving here as long as they get some basic care and as long as they are planted correctly. I think
at least it is worth trying to plant both trees and shrubs in areas where it is appropriate for screening
purposes. What do you think?
Board Member Talty - I think walking that area there is not enough room between the street to where
the planting is proposed to the additional parking spaces between where the vegetation would be and
the building. I just don't think there is enough room there because it is all fine and dandy to plant
shrubbery or trees or whatever, but you have to give them enough room grows and I just don't think
there is enough room.
Board Member Thayer - Plus like Chris said, if we are going to move the cars we can't talk about the
shrubbery anyway.
Ms. Balestra- Lehman - You wouldn't be screening anything.
Board Member Conneman - Yes, that's right. I assume that voting yes on the SEQR would
not ... (comments not audible).
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PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Is there anything else that would pertain to SEAR before we take the
vote on that? Thank you for bringing that map. It really just is water lines under there.
Mr. Smith - That is all that we have on our database.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Are we ready...?
Board Member Thayer - Yes, we are. I'll move the SEQR.
Board Member Conneman - I'll second.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - All in favor say aye.
Board - Aye.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed this segment of the meeting at 7:48 p.m.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -102 - SEQR, Preliminary & Final Site Plan Approval, Transmode
Car Rental in Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's 62 -1 -1, -
2.1, -2.2, -3.2.
MOTION made by Larry Thayer, seconded by George Conneman.
WHEREAS:
1. This action is Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed car
rental office to be placed within the existing Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No's 62 -1 -1, 62- 1 -2.1, 62- 1 -2.2, and 62- 1 -3.2, Business District "C." The
proposal includes placing a 175 + 1- square foot office in the existing Judd Falls Plaza, a new
canopy sign over the front door, and reserving five existing parking spaces for rental vehicles.
A use variance will also be requested from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Scott & Sue
Hamilton, Owners; Transmode Inc., Applicant, and
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board is legislatively
determined to act as Lead Agency in environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval,
and
3. The Planning Board, on October 1, 2002, has reviewed and accepted as adequate a Short
Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a Part II prepared by
Town Planning staff, plans entitled 'Alterations to Car Rental Office, Judd Falls Plaza, 350
Pine Tree Road, Ithaca, New York," including Sheet No. SDI -Site Plan, Sheet No. SD4- Detail
Site Plan, Sheet No. A1— Detail Floor Plan, Sheet No. A2— Detail Plans, and Sheet No. A3-
Elevations, all dated August 30, 2002, and prepared by Cornerstone Architects, and other
application materials, and
17
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
4. The Town Planning staff has recommended a negative determination of environmental
significance with respect to the proposed Site Plan Approval;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby makes a negative determination of environmental
significance in accordance with the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act for the above
referenced action as proposed, and, therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement will not be
required.
The vote on the motion resulted as follows:
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe, Talty.
NAYS: None.
The motion was declared to be carried unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the
proposed car rental office to be placed within the existing Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree
Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 62 -1 -1, 62- 1 -2.1, 62- 1 -2.2, and 62- 1 -3.2, Business District
"C ". The proposal includes placing a 175 +/- square foot office in the existing Judd Falls
Plaza, a new canopy sign over the front door, and five existing parking spaces reserved for
rental vehicles. A use variance will also be requested from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Scott & Sue Hamilton, Owners; Transmode Inc., Applicant.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann opened the public hearing at 7:49 p.m. and asked if any member of the
public wished to be heard. Vice Chairperson Hoffmann closed the public hearing at 7:50 p.m. with no
members of the public wishing to be heard.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I think we have covered a lot of... What we need to discuss, I guess, is
the location of the parking spaces.
Board Member Conneman - There are two issues. One is, do we want to be more specific about
where these parking spaces are located. Secondly, I don't know where this idea of parking a car in
front of the office with a sign that says, "Rent Me" is ... (not audible). Those are my issues.
Board Member Howe - I'm supportive of one being in front.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I don't have a problem with one of them being in front either. I'm not
sure that I'd go for having an ad in the window. I don't think that is necessary. Don't the cars look like
rental cars?
Mr. Jackson - No. They don't. I don't ever want them to look like rental cars. They look just like
anybody else's car. We have all makes and models, most compacts and subcompacts and a few
other intermediate sizes. There is nothing to distinguish them, not even the license plates any more.
IR]
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
They quit changing the plates on them because it was a sign for a thief to steal. They just look like
anybody else's cars anymore.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - So if they don't look like rental cars, maybe there is not so much of a
need to have them over to the side except for other reasons like leaving the parking spaces in front of
the building available for other customers.
Board Member Thayer - How often are those spaces used for other customers?
Mr. Hamilton - (comments not audible)
Board Member Thayer - Basically, those spaces are pretty much open all time.
Mr. Hamilton - Absolutely.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - What do you think?
Board Member Thayer - I have no problem with the front or side.
Board Member Conneman - I would put them on the side.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I think my inclination would be to have them on the side, too, because
on the south side there is no entrance to any business. If you rent a car, most of the time you have to
walk a few steps to pick it up. It is just around the corner.
Board Member Thayer - Would that create a big problem for you to have them around the corner.
Mr. Jackson - It would only be an inconvenience to our customers at times because they would have
to walk around in the wintertime.
Board Member Talty - It is going to be the shortest walk ever to get a rental car.
Mr. Jackson - It is. It is nothing like going to one of major airports. The only purpose for having any
parked out by the road as far as I can see is to have a sign that says, "Rent Me" on one of them.
Otherwise, it doesn't matter where the cars are parked as far as that's concerned. It is just a
convenience for the customer when they bring them back to be able to drive in and get their luggage
out. They have to come in our office while we complete the paperwork for about five minutes and
then leave. It is just a matter of convenience as far as the customers are concerned.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - There is nothing that would stop them from pulling up outside the office
to do the paperwork and then you could drive the car over.
Mr. Jackson - They are going to do that any way. It is what we generally do. It is what we do now. In
Lansing, we are right next to the Post Office. We only have two parking spaces or three in front of
our section. We have to move the cars immediately when they are returned. We have to go clean
them anyway. It doesn't matter from that standpoint. As I said, the only advantage that I could see
W7
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
having one out by the road is if we could have a sign so people realized we had a car rental business
there that's all.
Board Member Thayer - Given the fact that there might be a sign in the window, it would be pretty
tough to police it anyway where they are going to park. It could be anybody's car.
Board Member Conneman - I guess I am sensitive to the fact that there are ways to make parking a
lot less obtrusive in the Plaza. I think our use of experience with PRI was great. If this mall came up
again, I think we would feel differently about how you would position that in terms of making the site
more beautiful. That is my only concern. I don't want to...I would be happy...
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I think also the canopy sign is going to be what people see.
Mr. Jackson - I think the canopy sign will help enhance the look of the building on that side really. We
are replacing the outside door with a new door and painting it.
Board Member Conneman - It's an eight -foot sign.
Mr. Jackson - The reason for that is the frame is already there. It was just being recovered. I want
something that is pastel... I don't want something that...
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - We have to consider if the proposed use is in character with the Plaza
and the neighborhood.
Board Member Thayer - I don't have a problem with that.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I don't think it would be a problem with this scale.
Board Member Thayer - It is much better than the Ryder rental.
Mr. Jackson - On a typical day we might have five people come in and out of the building. Maybe
eight on a really big day. That is between the hours of 8 to 5 and Saturday mornings from 9 to 12.
Board Member Conneman - (not audible)
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Do you have any more comments or questions?
Mr. Jackson - Not unless someone has a question.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Staff?
Ms. Balestra- Lehman - I have nothing to add.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Are we ready to take a vote?
Board Member Thayer - Do we want to move the cars?
01
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I would prefer to have them around the corner.
Board Member Thayer - So we'll have to make that condition.
Board Member Talty - With one in front with the sign.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - That would be a condition c then.
Board Member Thayer - It would be part of b.
Attorney Dubow - I would suggest that it be a subparagraph c that says four of the five cars be parked
on the south side of the building and one car to be permitted to be parked in front of the building.
Board Member Thayer - With a sign.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - It doesn't have to have a sign.
Board Member Howe - I'll make the motion.
Board Member Thayer - I'll second it.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - All in favor say aye.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann, Board Member Conneman, Board Member Thayer, Board Member
Howe - Aye.
Board Member Talty - Abstain.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - The motion is passed.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -103 - Preliminary & Final Site Plan Approval, Car Rental Office in
Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's 62 -1 -1, -2.1, -2.2, -3.2.
MOTION made by Rod Howe, seconded by Larry Thayer.
WHEREAS:
1. This action is Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed car
rental office to be placed within the existing Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No's 62 -1 -1, 62- 1 -2.1, 62- 1 -2.2, and 62- 1 -3.2, Business District "C." The
proposal includes placing a 175 + 1- square foot office in the existing Judd Falls Plaza, a new
canopy sign over the front door, and reserving five existing parking spaces for rental vehicles.
A use variance will also be requested from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Scott & Sue
Hamilton, Owners; Transmode Inc., Applicant, and
21
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
2. This is an Unlisted Action for which the Town of Ithaca Planning Board, acting as lead agency
in environmental review with respect to Site Plan Approval, has, on October 1, 2002, made a
negative determination of environmental significance, after having reviewed and accepted as
adequate a Short Environmental Assessment Form Part I, submitted by the applicant, and a
Part II prepared by Town Planning staff, and
3. The Planning Board, at a Public Hearing held on October 1, 2002, has reviewed and accepted
as adequate, plans entitled "Alterations to Car Rental Office, Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree
Road, Ithaca, New York, " including Sheet No. SDI -Site Plan, Sheet No. SD4- Detail Site Plan,
Sheet No. A1— Detail Floor Plan, Sheet No. A2— Detail Plans, and Sheet No. A3- Elevations,
all dated August 30, 2002, and prepared by Cornerstone Architects, and other application
materials, and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
1. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby waives certain requirements for Preliminary
and Final Site Plan Approval, as shown on the Preliminary and Final Site Plan Checklists,
having determined from the materials presented that such waiver will result in neither a
significant alteration of the purpose of site plan control nor the policies enunciated or implied
by the Town Board, and
2. That the Town of Ithaca Planning Board hereby grants Preliminary and Final Site Plan
Approval for the proposed 175 + 1- square foot car rental office, placement of canopy sign, and
reservation of five parking spaces for rental vehicles in Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road,
as shown on plans entitled "Alterations to Car Rental Office, Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree
Road, Ithaca, New York, " including Sheet No. SDI -Site Plan, Sheet No. SD4- Detail Site Plan,
Sheet No. A1— Detail Floor Plan, Sheet No. A2— Detail Plans, and Sheet No. A3- Elevations,
all dated August 30, 2002, and prepared by Cornerstone Architects, subject to the following
conditions:
a. Granting by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the required use variance for allowing the
rental and storage of cars in a Business "C" District, and
b. No more than five rental cars shall be stored on the Judd Falls Plaza site at any one
time, and
C. Four of the maximum five cars will be parked on the south side of the building with only
one car allowed to be parked in the front of the building.
3. That the Planning Board finds the proposed car rental use is compatible with the established
commercial character of the site and surrounding area, as long as the conditions listed above
are implemented.
The vote on the motion resulted as follows:
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe.
22
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: Talty.
The motion was declared to be carried.
AGENDA ITEM: Approval of Minutes: September 3, 2002.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - I had one major comment on these minutes and that was the resolution
we changed at the meeting... remember the resolution about the walkway at Ithaca College, where we
had two alternate endings, is missing. Otherwise, I just have small comments.
Board Member Conneman - I'll move approval.
Board Member Thayer - I'll second.
Board - Aye.
PB RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -104 - Approval of Minutes - September 3, 2002
MOTION by George Conneman, seconded by Larry Thayer.
RESOLVED, that the Planning Board does hereby approve and adopt the September 3, 2002
minutes as the official minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board for the said meeting as
presented with corrections.
THERE being no further discussion, the Chair called for a vote.
AYES: Hoffmann, Conneman, Thayer, Howe, Tally.
NAYS: None.
The motion was declared to be carried unanimously.
AGENDA ITEM: OTHER BUSINESS:
Board Member Conneman - What is going to happen at the next meeting?
Ms. Ritter - The Conservation Board has their meeting before the next Planning Board Meeting. I
sent them in the mail the sketch plan for the Cornell Alumni Replacement Fields. Those are going to
be proposed from across the street from the Reis Tennis Center and the Polo Barns.
Board Member Howe - Did I hear they are proposed to be lighted?
Ms. Ritter - Two. There are five fields proposed. Two are proposed to be lighted and built quite soon
to replace the Alumni Fields. Three are proposed in a Phase II. There is also going to be a building
and parking for about 25 to 30 cars.
23
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
Board Member Conneman - That is on the agenda for next meeting.
Ms. Ritter - That it. It is just the sketch plan. They do not have a lot of materials at this point to
provide to you. They are planning to do environmental impact statements, drainage, lighting, parking,
sound.
Board Member Howe - We don't want it.
Board Member Conneman - The diagram showed senior citizen housing across the road.
Ms. Ritter - It is close to Ellis Hollow Road. Cornell is going to be doing an environmental impact
statement on this project. They will be doing scoping. We are working with the City actually because
of the issue of the fact that the fields are being replaced in this location because of the proposed life
sciences building. There is some relationship between the city and the town and they want to legally
segment the projects.
Board Member Conneman - Will they tell us something about the alternative sites they looked at?
Ms. Ritter - There will be a discussion of alternatives. Those are the types of things to bring up at
sketch plan. I'm sure they are going to let you know what they are proposing to put into the
environmental impact statement. There will be a scoping session so the public will have an
opportunity to say what they would also like to see. It is not a public hearing, it is just sketch.
Board Member Conneman - I think there will be people who will be here.
Ms. Ritter - It seems like the papers are keeping up on what is going on. There was an article earlier
about this. It is not a public hearing.
Board Member Conneman - It is controversial. I just wanted to make sure I had read the mail
correctly.
Ms. Ritter - The project coming up November 5`" Phase III of Linderman Creek. That is not until
November.
Board Member Thayer - They haven't finished II yet.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - That is the Phase that would have more individual housing.
Ms. Ritter - When they came in to speak with us they talked about individual houses and townhouses.
I'm not actually sure what ended up being the case. The only other thing is I think you got notices
about the SEQR class. You may want to think about attending.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - That is really good to go to if you haven't. Any other business?
Board Member Talty - I will not be here next meeting.
24
PLANNING BOARD
OCTOBER 1, 2002
APPROVED - OCTOBER 15, 2002 - APPROVED
4.6 Board Member Thayer - I will not be here next meeting.
Vice Chairperson Hoffmann - Okay. We are adjourned.
AGENDA ITEM: ADJOURNMENT:
Upon MOTION, Vice Chairperson Hoffmann declared the October 1, 2002 meeting of Town of
Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 8:07 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:
Carrie Whitmore,
Deputy Town Clerk
•
25
TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
215 North Tioga Street
Ithaca, New York 14850
Tuesday, October 1, 2002
AGENDA
7:00 P.M. Persons to be heard (no more than five minutes).
7:05 P.M. SEQR Determination, Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg Road.
7:10 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and a
Recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a sign variance for the proposed
replacement sign for the Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of
Ithaca Tax Parcel No. 24- 3 -3.4, Special Land Use District No. 4. The proposal includes
replacing the existing 17.5 +/- square foot sign with a new 20.2 +/- square foot sign for the
Finger Lakes School of Massage. The square footage includes the existing sign for
Development Disabilities Services mounted below the new Finger Lakes School of Massage
sign. Joseph 0. Ciaschi, Owner; Emily Grayson, Applicant.
7:15 P.M. SEQR Determination, Greenspun 4 -Lot Subdivision, Bostwick Road.
7:20 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the
proposed 4 -Lot Subdivision on Bostwick Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's. 32 -2 -3.2 and
32- 2 -3.4, Agricultural District. The proposed subdivisions will result in the creation of a 4.8 +/-
acre parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and a 2.59 +/- acre parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32 -2-
3.4. The two new parcels will then be consolidated to create a new 7.39 +/- acre parcel. Claire
Paley, Owner of Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and Barbara Gizewski, R. and T. Greenspun, Owner
of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4; Tom Greenspun, Applicant.
7:25 P.M. SEQR Determination, Transmode Car Rental, Judd Falls Plaza, Pine Tree Road.
7:30 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the
proposed car rental office to be placed within the existing Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road,
Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.'s 62 -1 -1, 62- 1 -2.1, 62- 1 -2.2, and 62- 1 -3.2, Business District
"C ". The proposal includes placing a 175 +/- square foot office in the existing Judd Falls Plaza,
a new canopy sign over the front door, and five existing parking spaces reserved for rental
vehicles. A use variance will also be requested from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Scott & Sue
Hamilton, Owners; Transmode Inc., Applicant.
8. Persons to be heard (continued from beginning of meeting if necessary).
9. Approval of Minutes: September 3, 2002.
10. Other Business.
11. Adjournment.
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
45 Director of Planning
273 -1747
NOTE: IF ANY MEMBER OF THE PLANNING BOARD 1S UNABLE TO ATTEND, PLEASE NOTIFY MARY BRYANT AT
273 -1747.
(A quorum of four (4) members is necessary to conduct Planning Board business.)
U
0
is
TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
Tuesday, October 1, 2002
By direction of the Chairperson of the Planning Board, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Public Hearings will
be held by the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca on Tuesday, October 1, 2002, at 215 North Tioga Street,
Ithaca, N.Y., at the following times and on the following matters:
7:10 P.M. Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval and a Recommendation to the
Zoning Board of Appeals regarding a sign variance for the proposed replacement sign for the
Finger Lakes School of Massage, 1251 Trumansburg Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No.
24- 3 -3.4, Special Land Use District No. 4. The proposal includes replacing the existing 17.5
+/- square foot sign with a new 20.2 +/- square foot sign for the Finger Lakes School of
Massage. The square footage includes the existing sign for Development Disabilities
Services mounted below the new Finger Lakes School of Massage sign. Joseph 0. Ciaschi,
Owner; Emily Grayson, Applicant.
7:20 P.M. Consideration of Preliminary and Final Subdivision Approval for the proposed 4 -Lot
Subdivision on Bostwick Road, Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No's. 32 -2 -3.2 and 32- 2 -3.4,
Agricultural District. The proposed subdivisions will result in the creation of a 4.8 +/- acre
parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and a 2.59 +/- acre parcel from Tax Parcel No. 32 -2-
3.4. The two new parcels will then be consolidated to create a new 7.39 +/- acre parcel.
Claire Paley, Owner of Tax Parcel No. 32 -2 -3.2 and Barbara Gizewski, R. and T.
Greenspun, Owner of Tax Parcel No. 32- 2 -3.4; Tom Greenspun, Applicant.
7:30 P.M. Consideration of Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval for the proposed car rental office
to be placed within the existing Judd Falls Plaza, 350 Pine Tree Road, Town of Ithaca Tax
Parcel No.'s 62 -1 -1, 62- 1 -2.1, 62- 1 -2.2, and 62- 1 -3.2, Business District "C ". The proposal
includes placing a 175 +/- square foot office in the existing Judd Falls Plaza, a new canopy
sign over the front door, and five existing parking spaces reserved for rental vehicles. A use
variance will also be requested from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Scott & Sue Hamilton,
Owners; Transmode Inc., Applicant.
Said Planning Board will at said times and said place hear all persons in support of such matters or objections
thereto. Persons may appear by agent or in person. Individuals with visual impairments, hearing impairments or
other special needs, will be provided with assistance as necessary, upon request. Persons desiring assistance must
make such a request not less than 48 hours prior to the time of the public hearings.
Dated: Monday, September 23, 2002
Publish: Wednesday, September 25, 2002
Jonathan Kanter, AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
•
•
Iu
The Ithaca Journal.
Wednesday, September 25, 2002
F_
TOWN OF ITHACA
PLANNING BOARD
NOTICE OF
PUBLIC HEARINGS
'Tuesday, October 11 2002
'B direction of the
Chairperson of the Planning
Board, NOTICE IS HEREBY
'GIVEN that Public Hearings
will be held by the Planning
Board of the Town of Ithaca
on Tuesday, October 1, __
2002, at 215 North Tiogo preliminaryy and Final Sub-.
Street, Ithaca, N.Y. at the 'division Approval for the
following times and on the proposed 4-lot Subdivision .
following matters: on Bostwick Road, Town of
7:10 P.M. Consideration of 1lthoca Tax Parcel No's.
Preliminary and Final Site I '32 -2 -3.2 and 32- 2 -3.4, A -
Plan Approval and a Rec -; .ricultural District. The pro-
ommendation to the Zoning posed subdivisions will result
Board of Appeals regarding ,P the creation of a 4.8 +/-
in •a sign variance for the pro- j 'acre parcel from Tax Parcel
posed replacement sign for No. 32.2 -3.2 and a 2.59
the Finger Lakes School of
Massage, 1251 Truman- +/- acre parcel from Tax
sbur Road, Town of Ithaca Parcel pa 32 -23.4. The
Tax gParcel No. 24.3.3.4, , two new parcels will then be
Special Land Use District consolidated to create r ,
No. A. The proposal in. jnew 7.39 +/- acre parcel. I
cludes re lacing the existing iClrire Paley, Owner of Tax.
17.5 +// square fool sin 'Parcel, No., 2- 2- 3.2,
._and,' T.
with a new 20.2 +/- square Barbara un, O s n R. and x
foot sign for the Finger lakes Greens pun, Owner of. Tax
School of Massage. The , ,Pre a No. 32-2-3. t. Tom
square footage includes the iGreenspun, Applicant. I
existing sign for Develop. 7:30 P.M. Consideration of
ment Disabilities Services 1 'Preliminary and FlnalySite
mounted below the new Fin- 'Plan Approval for the Lpro-
ger Lakes School of Mas- { posed car rental office °Jo be
sage sign. Joseph O. Cias- within
chi, Owner; Emily Grayson,
Applicant. ITree Road, Town ' of Ithaca
7:20 P.M_ _Consideration of Tax Parcel No. s 62 -.1.1,
; 162.1 -2.1, 62.1.2.21 and
'62- 1 -3.2, Business District
C. The proposal includes
pplacing a 175 +/- square
toot office in the existing
Judd Falls Plaza, a new can-
opy sign over the front door,
and five existing parking
spaces reserved for rental
vehicles. A use variance will
also be requested from the
Zoning Board of Appeals.
Scott & Sue Hamilton, Own-
ers; Transmode Inc., Ap.
plicant.
Said Planning Board will ati
said times and said place
hear all persons in support
of such matters or objections
thereto. Persons may appear
by agent or in person.
Individuals with visual
impairments, hearin
impairments or other speciag
l•
needs, will be provided with
assistance as necessary, .
upon request. Persons desir.
ing assistance must 'make'
such a request not less than
48 hours prior to the time of
the public hearings.
Jonathan Kanter, 'AICP
Director of Planning
273 -1747
,Dated: Monday, September
123, 2002
'September 25, 2002
T
I
SIGN -IN SHEET
DATE: Tuesday, October 01, 2002
(PLEASE PRINT TO ENSURE ACCURACY IN OFFICIAL MINUTES)
PLEASE PRINT NAME
ACXE0
PLEASE PRINT ADDRESS /AFFILIATION
O!t- �,
iI/.
k
61
Lill
TOWN OF ITHACA
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING AND PUBLICATION
I, Sandra Polce being duly sworn, depose and say that I am a Senior Typist for the Town of
Ithaca, Tompkins County, New York; that the following Notice has been duly posted on the sign
board of the Town of Ithaca and that said Notice has been duly published in the local newspaper,
The Ithaca Journal.
Notice of Public Hearings to be held by the Town of Ithaca Planning Board in the Town of Ithaca
Town Hall 215 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, New York, on Tuesday, October 1, 2002
commencing at 7:00 P.M., as per attached.
Location of Sign Board used for Posting: Town Clerk Sign Board — 215 North Tioga Street.
Date of Posting
Date of Publication
September 23, 2002
September 25, 2002
Sandra Polce, Senior Typist
Town of Ithaca.
STATE OF NEW YORK) SS:
COUNTY OF TOMPKINS)
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 25th day of September 2002.
Notary Public
Notary Puubl c, Sta e o R ew York
No.01C16052878 W
Qualified in Tompkins County _
Commission Expires December 26, 20, ~