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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 1983-06-21 TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD JUNE 21 , 1983 The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday , June 21 , 1983 , in Town Hall , 126 East Seneca Street , Ithaca , N . Y . , at 7 : 30 p . m . PRESENT : Vice Chairman Carolyn Grigorov , James Baker , Barbara Schultz , David Klein , Edward Mazza , Lawrence P . Fabbroni ( Town Engineer ) , Peter M . Lovi ( Town Planner ) , Nancy M . Fuller ( Secretary ) . ALSO PRESENT : M . A . Radzinowicz , Mildred S . Johnson , Lorenz E . Johnson , Lawrence Hoffman , Thomas Li Vigne , Town Councilman Marc Cramer , Town Councilman George Kugler , Thomas R . Salm , Town Supervisor Noel Desch , Town Councilman David Jennings , Town Councilwoman Dooley Kiefer , Town Councilwoman Shirley Raffensperger , A . Padamsee , I . Padamsee , A . Schwarting , A . Goldfarb , J . Amin , C . Milnor , Ellen Robb , Claude Robb , Judith Hughes , Patrick Hughes , Virginia Marcus , Stanley T . Marcus , Muriel Brink , Joanne Strike , Marilyn Martin , Robert Martin , Robert Marion , Kay Marion , Margaret J . Thomas , Lolia Mezgar , Eloise Blanpied , Connie Billinghurst , Jeffrey R . Gargiulo , Paul Cheng , Richard B . Fischer , Joseph Multari , Nathaleen Multari , Maurice White , Phil Cornell , Jim Brinkerhoff , Roberta Kohut , Carol Brinkerhoff , Pat Cornell , Valentin Boriakoff , Gary Wojdyla , Jery R . Stedinger , Robert Kohut , J . C . McKinley ( WTKO News ) , Bruce Ryan ( WHCU News ) . Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the meeting duly opened at 7 : 30 p . m . and accepted for the record the Clerk ' s Affidavit of Posting and Publication of the Notice of Public Hearings , for each of the three public hearings to be held by the Planning Board , in Town Hall and the Ithaca Journal on June 13 , 1983 and June 16 , 1983 , respectively . PUBLIC HEARING : SITE PLAN MODIFICATIONS , INCLUDING CONSIDERATION OF INTERIOR CHANGE , I . E . , THE INCLUSION OF A HAIR SALON , AND CONSIDERATION OF CHANGE IN LANDSCAPING TIMETABLE , AT " COURTSIDE RACQUETBALL AND FITNESS CLUB , " CORNER JUDD FALLS ROAD AND MITCHELL STREET ( FORMERLY IDE ' S ROLLER RINK ) , TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO . 6 - 62 - 1 - 5 . Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the Public Hearing in the above - noted matter duly opened at 7 : 35 p . m . and read aloud the Notice of Public Hearing as published and as noted above and asked Mr . Thomas Li Vigne to speak to the matter . 1 Planning Board 2 June 21 , 1983 Mr . Li Vigne stated that the national trend currently is to offer as many amenities to Club members as possible . A hair salon is very compatible with the Club ' s facilities . The architects have advised Mr . Li Vigne that landscaping work , including plantings , should be done next spring . He explained that financing was set up to phase in payments for the proposed changes . The financial arrangements made with investors call for a gradual payment schedule of which the last one is due in March of 1984 . Approximately $ 7 , 000 has been set aside out of this final payment for the purpose of landscaping the area outside the Club . Mr . Li Vigne stated that Spring ' 84 would be a better time to do the landscaping work so that anything planted would be assured of living . Mr . Li Vigne presented to the Secretary , for the record , the following letter : " Courtside Racquet and Fitness Club Box 2616 Ithaca , New York 14850 June 21 , 1983 Town of Ithaca Planning Board 126 East Seneca Street Ithaca , New York 14850 • To Whom it may concern ; Due to the construction schedule of Courtside Racquet and Fitness Club it would not be feasible to put the landscaping in until the Spring of 1984 . Also , the financial arrangements made with our investors call for a gradual payment schedule of which the last one is due in March of the same year . Approximately $ 7 , 000 has been set aside out of this final payment for the purpose of landscaping the area outside the club . Thank you for your cooperation . Sincerely , ( sgd . ) Thomas P . Li Vigne [ Location : 14 Judd Falls Road - Ithaca , New York - 607 277 - 0200 ] " Vice Chairman Grigorov asked if there were any comments from the public for or against the matter before the Board . There were none . Mrs . Grigorov asked for Board comment . Mr . Mazza asked how the Board could be assured that this money has been set aside for the landscaping . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the Board could require that a letter of credit be filed stating this , adding that this could be a condition of any resolution made by the Board . Mr . Mazza asked where the hair salon would be located within the Club . Mr . Li Vigne stated that it would be located where the pro shop presently is . He pointed 2 Planning Board 3 June 21 , 1983 • to the diagrams to point the locations out . The pro shop will be moved behind the front desk and will be on a smaller scale . Mr . Mazza asked if the hair salon would be open to the public or to only Club members , to which Mr . Li Vigne replied that it would be open to the public . Vice Chairman Grigorov asked if there were any further comments . There were none . Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the public hearing closed at 7 : 42 p . m . MOTION by Mr . David Klein , seconded by Mr . Edward Mazza : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board approve and hereby does approve the site plan modification :for " Courtside Racquet and Fitness Club , " 14 Judd Falls Road , Town. of Ithaca Tax Parcel No . 6 - 62 - 1 - 5 , as presented by Thomas P . Li Vigne , Partner , . David H . Taube , Architect , Alex Turner , Turner Designs , Inc . , Designer , to said Planning Board at Public Hearing , June 7 , 1983 and June 21 , 1983 , to include a hair salon and a change in landscaping timetable from the Fall of 1983 to the Spring of 1984 , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that the approval herein granted be and hereby is contingent upon the filing in the Office of the Town Engineer of a Letter of Credit established with a lending • institution , to the satisfaction of the Town Attorney , in the amount of $ 7 , 000 . 00 . There being no further discussion , the Vice Chairman called for a vote . Aye - Grigorov , Klein , Baker , Mazza . Nay - Schultz . The MOTION was declared to be carried . Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the matter of the modifications to Courtside Racquet and Fitness Club duly closed . PUBLIC HEARING : SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATION TO THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS FOR PROPOSED 100 - BED DORMITORY OF APPROXIMATELY 196 ' X 36 ' , CONTAINING APPROXIMATELY 15 , 300 SQ . FT . , TWO - STORY BUILDING WITH LOBBY PORTION ON NORTHERLY SLOPE BEING A THIRD STORY , HEIGHT LESS THAN 30 ' , AND COVERING APPROXIMATELY 6 , 980 SQ . FT . OF LAND , ON THE ITHACA COLLEGE CAMPUS , TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO . 6 - 41 - 1 - 30 . 2 . HOFFMAN O ' BRIEN LEVATICH & TAUBE , ARCHITECTS . ( PURSUANT TO ARTICLE IV , SECTION 11 , PAR . 41 OF THE TOWN OF ITHACA ZONING ORDINANCE . ) Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the Public Hearing in the above - noted matter duly opened at 7 : 45 p . m . and read aloud the Notice of Public Hearing as published and as noted above . Messrs . Thomas R . Salm , Vice President for Business Affairs , 3 e e C5 Planning Board 4 June 21 , 1983 Ithaca College , and Lawrence Hoffman , President , Hoffman O ' Brien Levatich & Taube , P . C . , Architects , were present to speak to the matter of a proposed dormitory for Ithaca College . Mr . Hoffman had several drawings for Board review which he utilized to described the " Campus Plan , " the dormitory areas , and the site plan denoting the proposed dormitory . Mr . Hoffman noted on the site plan that there are three buildings located in the quad area . There are a series of power lines that run across the site . The proposed dormitory will be located at the end of the parking lot . There will be living areas that will occupy two floors of the proposed building with an exit at grade on the upper side . The main entrance is a continuation of the walkway . There will be a small portion of floor area at the lower end of the building which will contain the main entrance and lobby of the building , general storage for the dormitory and the manager ' s apartment . All student - living accommodations will be on the two main levels . Mr . Hoffman indicated on the floor plans as he described the layout of the proposed dorm . Further describing the building , Mr . Hoffman stated that the floors of the dorm will have a stair at each end , major lounges will be located at the ends of the building , and another lounge will be mid-way down the corridor . One of the lounges will be quiet and one will be active . Each floor will have single and double rooms . The majority of rooms are double . There will be two baths on each . floor , elevator access , and access and facilities for the handicapped . The dimensions of the proposed dormitory are 3418 " x 203 ' 8 " . Mr . Mazza asked what the size of the rooms will be . Mr . Hoffman stated that the rooms are 1018 " x 141 ± for a total of approximately 150 sq . ft . There is a four foot closet located in each room with half of it being occupied by a dresser . Mrs . Grigorov asked what the size of the rooms in some of the other dorms is . Mr . Hoffman stated that the upper quad dorm rooms are 12 ' x 13 ' 2 " . Mr . Mazza asked about the size of the windows . Noting that everything is sized to concrete block dimensions , Mr . Hoffman described the windows as to height and size and stated that each room has two 4 - foot square windows . Mr . Hoffman stated that the building will be a masonary building with pre - cast plank walls and insulated stucco , adding that materials used will be very similar to the materials used at the new building in Downtown Ithaca at 200 East Buffalo Street . Mr . Mazza asked how high up from the floor the windows are . Mr . Hoffman described the sill height , noting a comparison to a guard rail , and stated that a desk can be set under the window against the wall without interfering with the windows . Mr . Mazza stated that he was concerned about the possibility of someone being able to slip and fall through the window . Mr . Hoffman stated that the sill height on the windows is the same as required by New York State Code . Mr . Mazza asked if the windows were sealed . Mr . Hoffman stated that one window slides and there will be removable screens . 4 Planning Board 5 June 21 , 1983 • Mr . Hoffman stated that they will be completing the contract documents this week or next and hopefully will be able to begin construction in mid - July . Mr . Fabbroni asked about the height of the building and the view from , for example , Mrs . Raponi ' s front yard . Mr . Hoffman stated that the building is 17 feet at its highest point and has been located in a clearing between two stretches of woods which will effectively hide the two - story building . He pointed to the plans and described the terrain of the area . Vice Chairman Grigorov asked if there were any comments at this point from the public . No one spoke . Vice Chairman Grigorov suggested that the Board turn to the Environmental Assessment Form ( Short Form ) , as submitted , a copy of which each Board member had received and reviewed . MOTION by Mr . David Klein , seconded by Mr . Edward Mazza : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Town of Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals that said Board of Appeals make a Negative Declaration , i . e . , a determination of non - significance in re environmental impact , in the matter of the proposed construction of a 100 - bed dormitory , being approximately 34 ' 8 " x 20318 " in size , on the • Ithaca College Campus , Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No . 6 - 41 - 1 - 30 . 2 . There being no further discussion , the Vice Chairman called for a vote . Aye - Grigorov , Baker , Schultz , Klein , Mazza . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . MOTION by Mrs . Carolyn Grigorov , seconded by Mr . Edward Mazza : WHEREAS , the Town of Ithaca Planning Board has reviewed the Site Plan for a proposed 100 - bed , approximately 34: 18 " x 20318 " , two - story Dormitory with lobby portion on northerly slope being a partial third level , to be constructed on the Ithaca College Campus , and finds such proposed Site Plan to be in good order , and WHEREAS , said Planning Board determines that there is a need for the proposed use in the proposed location , that the existing and probable future character of the neighborhood in which the use is to be located will not be adversely affected , and , that the proposed change is in accordance with a comprehensive plan of development of the Town ; NOW , THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Town of 5 Planning Board 6 June 21 , 1983 • Ithaca Zoning Board of Appeals the granting of special approval by said Board of Appeals for said proposed 100 - bed Dormitory on the Ithaca College Campus , Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No . 6 - 41 - 1 - 30 . 2 . There being no further discussion , the Vice Chairman called for a vote . Aye - Grigorov , Baker , Schultz , Klein , Mazza . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the Public Hearing in the matter of the proposed Ithaca College Dormitory duly closed at 8 : 14 p . m . Mrs . Fuller , Secretary , announced the location of all fire exits and steps to be followed in the event of a fire . Mrs . Fuller introduced the members of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board , the Town Engineer , and the Town Planner to the public . INFORMATIONAL PUBLIC HEARING TO DISCUSS ALL ISSUES ENCOMPASSING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EASTERN HEIGHTS AREA PARK - HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ; PROPOSED BUDGETED PROGRAM FOR 1983 ; PUBLIC • DISCUSSION OF STATUS OF 1983 PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENTS ; ALTERNATIVE OR FUTURE PLANS . Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the Informational Public Hearing in the above - noted matter duly opened at 8 : 15 p . m , and read aloud the Notice of Informational Public Hearing as published and as noted above . Vice Chairman Grigorov asked Mr . Fabbroni , Town Engineer , to speak of the historical perspective of the Eastern Heights Area Park . Mr . Fabbroni began by referencing the Town of Ithaca Comprehensive Park and Open Space Plan and giving an overview of the comprehensive plan of development for parks in the Town of Ithaca . In the original document adopted by the Town Board , revised by them in 1977 , they identified six neighborhoods in the Town of Ithaca by geographical constraints . Mr . Fabbroni identified the six areas through the utilization of aerial photographs . As part of this plan , the Town stated that each of these areas would have an area park . In the case of some neighborhoods , because of plans taken through the subdivision process , it was necessary to have more than one park . Mr . Fabbroni further explained the steps taken at this time . A copy of the Comprehensive Plan was distributed to the public for circulation . . Mr . Fabbroni stated Eastern Heights was seen to have an area . park , by no means to the scale of Stewart Park , Cass Park , Buttermilk , or any of the regional parks . Duplication of these parks was not envisioned . An area park is a mix of both passive and active recreation with picnic areas , walking trails , 6 Planning Board 7 June 21 , 1983 • basketball , tennis , level grassed areas for spontaneous play . Mr . Fabbroni noted again that the Comprehensive Plan states that each neighborhood should have an area park , and proceeded to describe the area potentially to be served by the Eastern Heights Area Park . It was discussed that the area between Ellis Hollow Road and Slaterville Road could potentially be served . Mr . Fabbroni commented on the approved park within the 60 lots of the Blatchley property which could accommodate a 3Z acre ball field . Mr . Fabbroni also commented briefly on what he termed Dr . Baldwin ' s " private preserve " which , in his own way and of his own choosing , serves a recreational purpose for many in the Snyder Hill Road area . Historically , in 1977 , as briefly mentioned earlier , the Town revised the Comprehensive Plan to speak in terms of an Area Park for Eastern Heights , among others . This can be seen in the Appendix of the report . Mr . Fabbroni commented at this juncture that over the years graduate students from Cornell have developed a lot of site plans for parks which , if one began to price out all these development proposals for these different parks , it would have involved around one million dollars over ten years time . The Planning Board reviewed this at the time and found lots of good ideas but the price tag was too high . We were asked to go back and scale down the plans . There should be open play areas developed . Mr . Fabbroni stated that over the last five to six years , there has been a step - by - step approach in each park . For our own management of funds , we started out in 1976 , with a capital reserve fund of $ 130 , 000 for park development . At the present time , there is still $ 112 , 000 in the account , thus it is clear that we have tried to manage funds to develop parks in different areas of the Town keeping in mind the maintenance that will be required in the parks at a later time . Through the Comprehensive Plan , a process was begun whereby neighborhood civic organizations would state their specific needs for park development which the Town Staff would take to the Planning Board for recommendation to the Park Committee of the Town Board . As an example of this procedure , Mr . Fabbroni noted that recommendations for 1984 are now at the Planning Board to go to the Park Committee and then the Town Board in the Fall for the budget . With respect to Eastern Heights Park , Mr . Fabbroni recalled the thirteen acre commitment from the developer , commenting that the gift was essentially because of the rock in the area and further commenting that the ball field , thus , went out the window as it was envisioned at an alternate site discussed during the lengthy complex development of Eastern Heights for a five acre area . He noted that the Town received 2 . 2 acres on the other • side of the road at this site and the water main goes up through the middle of the property , any attempt to level off the land would involve the lowering the water main at the same time . 7 Planning Board 8 June 21 , 1983 • Mr . Fabbroni stated that over half of the neighborhood has changed over the past five years , adding that those who have been around for the first stage have seen the wood chip trails , picnic areas , benches , modest play structure and level Frisbee area put in . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the first phase of the plan got a good response in terms of the trails . There was some problem with the picnic areas but that was straightened out . A ten - space parking lot off the end of Skyvue Road was developed . A 250 - foot gravel entry into the site was constructed . There is enough space for ten additional parking spaces in this area . Mr . Fabbroni stated that he was never really comfortable with the access . Noting that the Haven Hill Subdivision did not pan out , Mr . Fabbroni commented that the primary users of the park would be the people in Eastern Heights , however , the park will serve the area from Cascadilla Creek to Six Mile Creek as a neighborhood . Mr . Fabbroni stated that in 1982 , the Civil Engineering class at Cornell offered to do a more comprehensive study of the Eastern Heights Park . As an aside , Mr . Fabbroni commented that if one were the " one engineer " in a " one - engineer Town " it should be easy to understand that one would be pleased to get help from engineering students with professors of engineering backing them up . Mr . Fabbroni cited some of the many projects over the years • in the various Towns and the City in the area which have benefited from the expertise of Cornell Engineering - Soils Studies , the Pavilion at Treman Park , the suspension bridge over Fall Creek . Returning to the Eastern Heights Park , Mr . Fabbroni described both the academic and the planning processes which ensued . He stated that there were three groups of students involved who came up with three different plans : active , passive , and semi - active - - each reflecting soils and hydrological studies done in conjunction with each plan . They came to the Park Committee and the Planning Board early on and bounced ideas off with respect to these three plans and to discuss the environmental factors involved in the plans . Mr . Fabbroni noted here that as part of the Town ' s program we had hoped to level off a play field such that it would be more than a frisbee area . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the student ' s work reached fruition in September of 1982 when they then presented their master plan . The Planning Board reviewed this and accepted it as a working document for a comprehensive plan . Almost immediately through discussions with the Planning Board and Park Committee the Town staff moved on the play field area . This was constructed last fall with the final raking and seeding occurring this spring 1983 . Mr . Fabbroni went on to describe the regrading and seeding for the sled hill , showing what the students had designed by the use of overlays . He noted that the parking was changed from what had been designed by the students in order to decentralize the parking . Mr . Fabbroni reviewed the old Frandsen • development plan and indicated a walkway and parking which may be involved a couple of years down the line . 8 r Planning Board 9 June 21 , 1983 • Moving on to the Town of Ithaca Park Use Law which is the Town law to control use of parks , Mr . Fabbroni pointed out that it requires that users have a permit if a group is in excess of 30 people . Accesses from both Skyvue and Tudor were discussed . In terms of the play field , Mr . Fabbroni stated that , as part of the plan , we spoke to the Park Committee about adjacent areas ; consulted with individual landowners one on one , and tried to do all buffering on park land in order to leave as much land as possible on residents ' properties . But , a boundary exists where a boundary exists and left little in one case . As to the play field again , there was a lot of discussion of scale and ability to support few official field sport dimensions . In terms of regulation fields - DeWitt is for any sport - also Ithaca College any sport - North Dorm and on Campus any sport - Cass Park . The play field constructed will accommodate very little , if any , sports . Mr . Fabbroni used overlays to show the different size fields of various sports set over the size of the play field of Eastern Heights to illustrate that the field would not accommodate many sports . The field is not big enough for football or soccer , however , it is conceivable , if it were widened , that it could accommodate field hockey , boy ' s soccer , or touch football . It was not planned to have organized sports or • professional sports on this field . Mr . Fabbroni stated that this should put some kind of perspective on what this field can be used for - - if you want to practice catching a ball with your son or daughter , okay , it is an open public park . Mr . Fabbroni described a 30 ' x 40 ' foot pavilion which was planned to be constructed so that people picnicking at a neighborhood party could get under cover from the weather . He distributed photos of a structure similar in scale and design . Mr . Fabbroni now turned to a description of the drainage on the whole hillside , describing the 1976 Flood when the whole hillside was in full motion . He described the soils and sub - drainage areas over the years and studies of the soils and flood problems in Eastern Heights . Mr . Fabbroni pointed to the diagrams and described the soil , flood , and drainage schemes to put these areas back into operation and what they were before development . Thus , the dry pond - - not a wet pond as envisioned by the students . The dry pond is a feature of the Park . Speaking now in terms of what has been planned , Mr . Fabbroni distributed pictures of the play structures , pavilion , and views of the site . He stated that he would like to enhance the play area to make it more suitable for younger age children - - 2 - to 6 - year - old age range . Mr . Fabbroni described the gravel drive , the ten - space parking lot , the natural buffer , the completed landscaping and seeding of sled hill and play field . He stated that the pavilion is the one thing remaining incomplete in the 1983 program with the exception of a landscaping program which is 9 Planning Board 10 June 21 , 1983 • available to municipalities through the Small Business Administration under the Jobs Bill and which involves revegetation of eroded areas along road cuts and enhancing some buffer areas and which has every chance of being approved by July 1st . Mr . Fabbroni commented that in this sized facility we are really planning for every age range with a peak loading in certain age ranges . Turning again to the Park Use Law , Mr . Fabbroni noted that it calls for daylight use of Town parks only . Mr . Fabbroni stated that discussions took place with the Sheriff and he indicated that there is no reason .why the ordinance should not be enforceable . If there are problems , the sheriff should be contacted directly . The sheriff has been alerted about the particular problem . Mr . Fabbroni also talked with the game warden who stated that he could not do anything unless the area was posted prohibiting hunting . The sheriff would likely be the enforcement agency in any case . The Town intends to post the major types of. restrictions on the park , including hours of operation , use of alcohol , need for permits , .. prohibition of hunting and motorized bicycles , etc . Vice Chairman Grigorov stated that it was in April 1982 that the civil engineering students from Cornell brought in their ideas for the Eastern Heights park . The following September they • brought in their master plan which the Planning Board accepted as a working document with quite a bit of enthusiasm since the land had been desecrated . Mrs . Barbara Schultz stated that this plan went to the Parks Committee and the Town Board . At a public meeting of the Town Board , the master plan was approved and has been worked with since . Town Councilwoman Shirley Raffensperger , Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Planning Committee stated that this committee is represented by three Town Board members and one Planning Board member , i . e . , Town Councilmen Kugler and Jennings , herself , and Planning Board Member Barbara Schultz . Mrs . Raffensperger described the construction and charge of the Parks and Recreation Planning Committee . She stated that the Committee meets monthly ; 11 times a year . She stated that notices of the meetings are sent to all members of the Town Board , Planning Board , Zoning Board of Appeals , County Board members , County Commissioner of Planning and Associate Planner , Town Attorney , County Assessment Office , and all representatives of the news media . Notices are posted in the Town Hall . People who would like to be notified about the meetings can be sent notices if interest is expressed . [ The list was circulated after the meeting so that any one interested could sign it . ] Mrs . Raffensperger stated that these particular improvements in the Eastern Heights Park came to the Park Committee and the Planning Board twice . The Planning Board made the recommendation 10 Planning Board 11 June 21 , 1983 which the Park Committee reviewed and then it went to the Town Board . Mrs . Raffensperger stated that the plan this year was to complete the seeding and landscaping of the play field and of the sledding hill , and to do the pavilion . She stated that the buffer plantings came primarily from the Park Committee because they were concerned and , therefore , asked the staff to work out a plan to buffer activities from the adjoining neighbors . Mrs . Raffensperger stated that the Park Committee reports to the Town Board each month ; staff reports to the Planning Board any kind of major decisions ; at year end there is an annual report . The Park Committee presents an annual budget during August to the Town Board with recommendations for the next year . At the end of the year , the Park Committee is recomposed for the next year and charged with its duties . Vice Chairman Grigorov asked if there were any comments at this point from the public . Mr . Valentin Boriakoff , 219 Tudor Road , spoke from the floor and stated that , after these various meetings , he had asked the people in this particular neighborhood if they would use this area park . The majority of the residents that he talked with stated that they do not want any further improvements made in the park . Mr . Boriakoff read the following petition that was signed by 82 individuals , which includes 55 households in this area : " To the Town of Ithaca : We , the undersigned , homeowners or temporary residents ( renters ) of the Eastern Heights area of the Town of Ithaca , and living in close proximity to the park being presently developed located at the eastern end of the Eastern Heights area ( next to the southern end of Sky - Vue and to the eastern end of Tudor Rd . ) petition that the park be developed no further than its present state ( as of June 12 , 1983 ) . " Mr . Boriakoff stated that this opinion is representative of the overwhelming majority of the residents of the area . Mr . Boriakoff stated that he kept statistics as he asked for signatures on this petition and stated that 7 people had refused to sign , 7 wished to think further before signing and the rest he talked with had chosen to sign . Mr . Mazza asked Mr . Boriakoff what use is made of the area that he is aware of . Mr . Boriakoff stated that it is used by the households in the area for their children to play . There is a ball field where they play catch ; they sled in the winters they play frisbee ; there are no organized activities of any sort . Vice Chairman Grigorov asked Mr . Boriakoff what he was worried about with regard to the area park . Mr . Boriakoff stated that he did not like the influence of the people that would come 11 Planning Board 12 June 21 , 1983 into the area to use the park ; the people are concerned about many more people coming in , organized sports would bring in traffic and they do not wish to add traffic . He further stated that he would like to see the park left as it is and that the residents do not want it to be a public park . Vice Chairman Grigorov stated that Eastern Heights Park is a public park . Mrs . Anne Schwarting , 112 Park Lane , spoke from the floor , and mentioned a letter , dated June 18 , 1983 , sent to Town Board Members by her husband , Robert H . Schwarting , President , Eastern Heights Homeowners ' Association , a copy of which was distributed to. each of the Planning Board Members by the Secretary . For the record , the letter is as follows : " This open letter is being sent to town officials to express in political and technical channels a number of issues important to our residents . We feel these issues are not best addressed during discussion of the park plan before the Planning Board on June 21 . It is thought that the following are vitally important to town decision and planning processes , and therefore constituent well being , but their inclusion in the planning meeting would detract from the technical merits of the town ' s and neighborhood ' s design solutions . It is the Association ' s position that the past town park plan irrevocably declares itself in favor of town - wide pocket parks serving small enclaves and groups of houses . The residents recall the major hearings which determined the character of the several parks in Eastern Heights . Since then there has been incremental development of each along the lines described in the initial meetings . With the advent of major earth work this spring and the discussion of soccer league play , it became apparent that a major shift in park policy had or was occuring . The Association membership is not aware of any explicit park policies replacing those which they supported six years ago , nor is it apparent that the town decisions makers have articulated any new policy . If in fact the town planners currently plan an area of " non - pocket " park , there is a fundamental and irreversible shift in town policy . What appears to be creeping policy evolution gives the residents of this area a park ( and park policy ) which they cannot support . Their position of opposition to the Fabbroni - Beener plan is adopted reluctantly but forcefully . The homeowners do not believe that the town officials have adopted new policies without hearings or that the contemplated development and our opposition to it was with their complete knowledge . The Association members , at meetings on June 8 and 15 , felt the Town Board has the right and responsibility to question the current plan to extensively develop the Tudor Road park . It appears to us that construction and planning have taken an 12 Planning Board 13 June 21 , 1983 approach outside the arena authorized by the decision makers and clearly outside the scope tolerated by the residents . Furthermore , a cursory review of Planning Board minutes shows that the Planning Board , although desirous of questioning the technical merits of some physical features and the issue of new park development , was unable to conduct a thorough park analysis . A number of key issues surface as a consequence of the Tudor Road park development . Many of them address park accessibility , usage policy , park - neighbor relations , complaint and enforcement plans , and liability issues . None of these issues seem to be now clearly resolved ; and in spite of that , park development is going forward . The Association recommends that the Town Board and the Planning Board reopen policy discussion with residents of neighborhoods before proceeding with park development ( particularly regarding the large space created by developers ' trading of land in Eastern Heights ) . The Association further recommends a clearly open channel of policy discussion and communication between staff , decision makers , and technical lay persons representing the town , and the Association representing the neighborhood . Finally , the Association sees value in park improvement tailored to meet the changing needs of our expanding Eastern Heights , but is at a loss to see these ends being met in the contemplated development . Please advise the Association of planned meetings and hearings . We will endeavor to further provide elected officials with a receptive - and critical audience for discussion and policy analysis . " Mrs . Schwarting stated that a meeting had been held earlier with many neighbors where residents voiced a great many concerns about the picnic pavilion and what would come of it . She was concerned that the Town was not taking into account that users of the park come in from the Sky - Vue access ; they park all over the place - there are no sidewalks . This means increased traffic in front of people ' s homes . Parking is provided in the park but Mrs . Schwarting did not feel that people would use it . If cars park along the road , they cannot get far enough off the road . Anyone walking along the road or bicycling would end up in the road because of parked cars . Children play in this area a great deal and no mention has been made about posting speed limits . Mrs . Schwarting stated that the people realize that this is a public park , adding that it would be nice to have " Children At Play " - " Speed Limit such and such " - signs . Mrs . Schwarting further stated that trash is a major problem already and wanted to know how often it was supposed to be picked up . She wondered if this issue • had been addressed . Mrs . Schwarting stated that policing is a real concern of the neighbors . Her experience has been that the sheriff does not send officers when there is a complaint . If a pavilion is to be added to the area park , someone should insure that users will 13 Planning Board 14 June 21 , 1983 obtain a permit if they are over the limit as to number of people . She asked who was going to enforce that and how . She stated that there is a lot of concern about sound amplifiers and wondered why they could not simply be banned . Mrs . Schwarting asked if pets would be required to be on leashes and how would closing hours be enforced . Ms . Schwarting stated that she has not heard anything said about liability and asked if the liability issues had been addressed . Also , in terms of liability , Mrs . Schwarting spoke of the parking on Skyvue and asked what would happen when someone drives on someone ' s property and damages personal property . Mrs . Schwarting was very concerned about the repercussions of all these people coming into their area . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the Town of Ithaca has had in place for many years a leash law and , aside from the Sheriff , anyone can call the S . P . C . A . to ask that an animal be picked up . Mrs . Schwarting stated that these are not enough . With respect to the liability issue , Mr . Fabbroni stated the Town is fully covered on all its parks with insurance . Mrs . Ann Goldfarb , 120 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and expressed her concern with the logistics of the barbeque pits , stating that there is no water there . If there were a fire near the barbeque pits there would be no water nearby to put out the fire ; they have had one fire already and one of the fire places is a total disaster . She also was concerned about the Town ' s commitment to trash removal ; the park is already adding to the debris on Snyder Hill Road . She stated that there seems to be no commitment for trash cleanup . Mr . Jery, R . Stedinger , 204 Tudor Road , spoke from the floor and stated that he is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Engineering / Civil Environmental Engineering at Cornell University , he and his family reside at 204 Tudor Roads he is the manager of a rental property at 209 Tudor Road , and he is one of the professors who worked with the Civil Engineering students on the Park . He stated that he was sorry about the friction from this park , adding that he felt the neighbors were reacting to what may be perceived as fear of what the Town might do with the park . Mr . Stedinger stated that some of that fear is unwarranted - - fear is the reason for the petition . Mr . . Stedinger stated that he was present when Mr . Boriakoff went around with the petition , adding that he was glad that people have come to see the plans which should set things in appropriate perspective . He stated that the pavilion was an attractive addition so that parents could sit and watch their children play . Mr . Stedinger commented that no one had talked about Nancy Street , stating that Nancy Street Extension is a good idea - Tudor Road is a struggle and an upper access would be a good idea to resolve some of the parking problems . 14 Planning Board 15 June 21 , 1983 Mrs . Roberta Kohut , 214 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and asked if any of the other Town parks are bordered so closely by homes . Mr . Fabbroni stated that all of the Town ' s parks have some homes adjacent ; some have homes even closer than what they are at Eastern Heights , Mr . Fabbroni named and described some of the area parks , for example - Tareyton , DeWitt , Northeast - that had homes in close proximity to an area park . Mrs . Kohut asked if these parks have a parking area . Mr . Fabbroni noted that DeWitt Park is in conjunction with the DeWitt Middle School , therefore , there is a lot of parking , at Tareyton there is none Salem Drive is a passive site , Winthrop Drive . Mr . Fabbroni proceeded to describe the ideas behind the alternate parking scheme at Eastern Heights , Mr . Phil Cornell , 117 Park Lane , spoke from the floor and stated that he had two areas of concern : ( 1 ) an area park of the type being discussed at Eastern Heights was the type that would draw people for long periods of time . There are no sanitary facilities and there had been no mention of sanitation facilities ; ( 2 ) the buffer areas are great but we cannot see , because the buffering that has been done blocks residents from seeing what is going on in the park . If there is vandalism or a fire , residents cannot assist . Mr . Cornell also voiced the concern that more policing is needed in the park . Mr . Fabbroni wondered if sanitation facilities were provided in the park would the neighbors not say that the Town is opening up the park to that many more people who would come in to use the park . Mr . Fabbroni stated that Mr . Cornell ' s point was good , adding that there is no reason facilities cannot be provided . He was thinking of groups of less than 30 at a time for the pavilion . Mrs . Raffensberger commented that one of the students ' plans did provide for toilet facilities and was discussed by the Park Committee . She stated that it was her opinion that the primary users of this park would be people that could walk home to use their own facilities . Sanitation facilities should not be provided in the park because this would encourage extended use of the park , which is not what its use was envisioned to be . Mr . Cornell commented that he felt that the pavilion and parking areas were encouraging this extended use of the park . Mr . Cornell asked if there were a Town ordinance requiring sanitation facilities . Mr . Fabbroni stated that there is no such ordinance . Mr . Pete White , 101 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and commented that if a passive use of the park is being promoted , it will not be used by the neighbors because they will use their backyards and then people out of the area will be using it . Mr . White stated that the park is supposed to be a local area park yet the facilities are not what the local residents would use - there are no tennis courts there . He stated that he jogs up there and he does not see anyone using it because active facilities are not provided . Mr . White commented that friction 15 Planning Board 16 June 21 , 1983 is created any time people come into a neighborhood from the outside . Mr . White felt that the pavilion was unnecessary , however , there should be better playground facilities . He stated that activities like a single tennis court and children ' s play area were more in line with neighborhood needs and wants . Mr . A . Padamsee , 103 Skyvue Road , spoke from the floor and stated that he agreed with Mrs . Schwarting as she expressed all of her concerns Mr . Padamsee stated that all of the streets in the area are residential streets . He stated that there had been very little input taken from the community about the shaping of this park , adding that a lot of people did not even know it was going on at all . Mr . Padamsee talked about the two meetings that were held with area residents , one of which was with Mr . Fabbroni , and the discussion of alternatives that were agreeable with the people . Thirty households had been represented . Mr . Padamsee stated firmly that the people are in favor of a park for the neighborhood only ; they are against outsiders . Mr . Padamsee presented a plan which , he stated , after much work , had been agreed on by 17 households . The plan shows no pavilion ;. it is not wanted or needed ; it should be replaced with a picnic area instead , with picnic tables . Elminate the fireplaces which had been discussed but were objected to because of there being no water . A Frisbee field and a play area with climbing structures was wanted . Half - court basketball could be • played on the field and a track could be constructed around the frisbee field for adults . Mr . Padamsee spoke of a bicycle track with obstacles to prevent racing . With this plan , adults , older children , and children could use the facilities and it would still be relatively open . The road could be left as gravel with accommodations for five , rather than ten cars . The money saved could be used to construct a large tennis court rather than a parking lot . Keep the road open - do not close it - therefore , additional parking area is not needed . The area left open could be seeded and a beautiful rock garden or flowers could be planted in the middle . Mr . Padamsee discussed other points of this proposed plan . Mrs . Pat Cornell stated that she lives at the bottom of Park Lane next to the park and asked Mr . Fabbroni how long he would think people would stay in the area . Mr . Fabbroni surmised four or five hours , probably . Mrs . Cornell stated that she had talked to John Andersson at the Health Department who indicated to her that with use over any length of time there should be water and sanitary facilities . Mrs . Cornell stated again that she lives next to the smaller park in the Eastern Heights area and since spring has had two instances of vandalism around her house ; she did not know why . She stated that she called the Sheriff twice for more protection ; she has seen no one . Mrs . Cornell expressed her concern for safety , adding that people are out of the area during working hours . She stated that more supervision is needed . 16 • ' l Planning Board 17 June 21 , 1983 . Mrs . Raffensberger spoke of the Park Use Law as to numbers , sound , etc . She stated that under that Law there were certain activities which were prohibited . She stated that the Town Attorney had suggested that the most effective way to handle vandalism and the like was to require a permit , adding that only the Town Board can issue a permit for a party of 30 and thus limit those activities over which the permit is issued . A permit is also required if an amplifier is to be used . Any other activities that should be controlled could be listed in this park law . To her knowledge , no one had ever asked for a permit from the Town Board , Mr . Claude Robb , 221 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and stated that Eastern Heights Park is right in his backyard . He stated that he very much supported Mr . Boriakoff and his petition . Mr . Robb described an incident that occurred approximately two years ago with a group of individuals using the park for a picnic . There were about 30 or 40 cars and amplifiers were playing ; the Sheriff was called . The police broke it up but the people were very disruptive in leaving . Mr . Robb stated that he has seen out - of - state hunters in the park . He has called the Sheriff ' s Office and the Conservation Department and they told him that if it is not posted , they can do nothing . Mr . Robb stated that he has had to put out fires in the park ; there have been several down in there . Mr . Robb further stated that if the money for an area park had to be spent he would be in favor of Mr . Padamsee ' s plan . Mrs . Goldfarb spoke again about fires and asked Mr . Fabbroni how long it would take the fire department to respond . Mr . Fabbroni stated that it would take the same time as it would if they were responding to a fire at her home . Mrs . Goldfarb stated that that was not good enough . Mr . Robert Kohut , 214 Eastern Heights Drive , stated that he , too , was in favor of Mr . Padamsee ' s plan . Mr . Kohut stated that he was not sure about where we are in this park planning and asked what the residents are looking ahead for in the next six months . Mr . Fabbroni stated that that is one of the reasons for this meeting , adding that he expected that the Planning Board would discuss the issues , discuss Mr . Padamsee ' s plan , and make recommendations to the Park Committee both for 1983 and what was planned in the alternative . He stated that , out of that discussion , the staff would know whether to proceed with anything in 1983 and what to plan for 1984 . Any changes involved would go to the Town Board . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the staff is on hold with regard to the pavilion and the second parking area at this time . Mr . Fabbroni stated , with respect to the seeding , that he will have to act on that because of erosion . Mr . Boriakoff stated that , in the survey that he did , people were apprised of the Padamsee plan , adding that also there were 17 Planning Board 18 June 21 , 1983 . 14 people who refused to sign the petition . Mr . Boriakoff spoke of a desire to keep the road as a cul de sac and presented the following letter to the Planning Board sent by Ann and Ron Ceurvels , 214 Tudor Road , dated June 21 , 1983 : " We reside at the top of Tudor Road ( 214 ) which is quite close to the park being developed by the Town . We are pleased to see the landscaping & seeding being done at the park but we would not want to see it progress further . We feel that if it is developed more , we will have too much traffic on our street , which is now a cul de sac . An increase in traffic would also endanger our children who must use the road to walk on when coming home from school or when visiting a neighbor . P . S . Our house was purchased with the understanding that there would be no development which would alter the cul de sac . The park development would increase the traffic flow in our area which would negate the quiet appeal of this area , resulting in a decrease in property values . " Mr . Gary Wojdyla , 210 Tudor Road , spoke from the floor and stated that he has interest in the park in that he has three children and has been working for three years to get a flat area in his yard . Mr . Wojdyla stated that he has a tendency to favor passive type development . He wanted to keep traffic at a minimum . He stated that when you add active things , such as • tennis courts and tracks , there is the burden on the Town in terms of maintenance . Mr . Wojdyla expressed his concern about safety , especially with the dry pond ; what happens if it fills up . If it should rain , younger children may fall in if there are no protective devices to keep children out of the area . Mr . Fabbroni stated that fencing could be installed around the pond but that there was no way to completely fence the children out . Mr . Patrick Hughes , 220 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and stated that he favored switching more to types of facilities that would serve the local neighborhood rather than drawing in other people . Mr . Hughes expressed his concern about traffic and parking , noting that it is a quiet , residential area . Mr . Hughes expressed his concern about the buffering , stating that it seems very thin and very close to residences . He stated that it does not do much in terms of buffering . Mr . Hughes stated that the sledding hill just ends and he wondered where the kids go at the bottom . Mrs . Kate Milnor , 106 Skyvue Road , spoke from the floor and stated that she lived next door . She expressed her deep concern about large groups of people coming into the area and with permits for groups from all over . She was in favor of Mr . Padamsee ' s ideas for the park , adding that there should be more things in there . Mrs . Milnor stated that the majority of the • people in Eastern Heights were in favor of the landscaping work that Mr . Fabbroni had described . 18 w Planning Board 19 June 21 , 1983 Mrs . Jaimini Amin , 104 Skyvue Road , spoke from the floor and stated that she , too , was in favor of Mr . Padamsee ' s idea . She further stated that she would request the Town Board to review the neighborhood or the area . Mrs . Amin stated that she was very much against the Park getting any larger that what it is , one reason being that the roads are too small . She stated that the Sheriff does not heed their calls . Mrs . Amin stated that she wanted to see less traffic and less attraction for other peoples she wanted just people like them walking up there . Mr . Robert Marion , 1463 Slaterville Road , spoke from the floor and stated that he was not a resident of Eastern Heights but has lived in the area for many years . Mr . Marion stated that he had just been informed at this meeting that there was an additional park planned for Slaterville Road and asked for further clarification about the on - going development in this area . Mr . Fabbroni stated , if Mr . Marion were referring to the Blatchley land , that at the upcoming meeting of the Planning Board a subdivision plan would be presented for lots along Slaterville Road and Honness Lane and also interior subdivision . Mr . Fabbroni stated that there will be a loo taking for open space - - either for park land or drainage control . He commented that discussions have taken place with respect to a 32 acre play field . Mrs . Judith Hughes mentioned briefly the purposes of the 14 acre park as being 7 acres for general purpose and 7 acres for park land . Mrs . Hughes asked about the John Marion land also in the area . Mr . Fabbroni discussed this open land , describing other needs which could be met by open land taken , such as drainage , water tank , etc . Mr . Fabbroni stated that there has not been much discussion of the Marion land , but it will move some day . He commented that Mr . Marion has recently passed away . Mr . Paul M . Cheny , 116 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and stated that he would have signed this petition that was brought around if he had been given a chance . He further stated that the Town Board should give the public enough information beforehand so that residents can voice their opinions and the neighborhood ' s welfare can be protected . The following letter was presented to the Planning Board signed by Richard & Elizabeth Panz , 216 Eastern Heights Drive , and dated June 21 , 1983 : " We are unable to attend tonight ' s meeting but wanted our feelings on the proposed park in our neighborhood known . We would like to see the park area left in its present • state , if at all possible . If , however , some development must be done in the area , we would be in favor of ' minimal development ' s 19 s R - Planning Board 20 June 21 , 1983 . such as , a basketball court , swings , a tennis court , etc . We are opposed to a soccer field or pavilions of any kind . Thank you . " There being no further comments , Vice Chairman Grigorov closed the Informational Public Hearing at 9 : 55 p . m . IN RE AGENDA ITEM : FINAL REVIEW OF PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE TOWN OF ITHACA SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AND DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT . MOTION by Mr . David Klein , seconded by Mr . Edward Mazza : RESOLVED , that Agenda Item with respect to final review of proposed revisions to the Town of Ithaca Subdivision Regulations and Draft Environmental Impact Statement be and hereby is tabled until the July 5 , 1983 meeting of the Planning Board where it will be the first item on the Agenda . There being no further discussion , the Vice Chairman called for a vote . Aye - Grigorov , Schultz , Klein , Baker , Mazza . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . • PLANNING BOARD DISCUSSION FOLLOWING INFORMATIONAL PUBLIC HEARING IN RE EASTERN HEIGHTS AREA PARK , The Board members discussed the various issues which had been raised at this meeting . Mrs . Raffensperger pointed out that letters had been sent to those persons involved with respect to the buffering at Eastern Heights Park ; no objections were received . MOTION by Mr . Edward Mazza , seconded by Mrs . Barbara Schultz : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Parks and Recreation Planning Committee of said Town of Ithaca that the revegation plans for Eastern Heights Park proposed to be undertaken under that portion of the Federal Jobs Bill in which the Small Business Administration will grant 100 % funds , proceed during 1983 , if funded . There being no further discussion , the Vice Chairman called for a vote . Aye - Grigorov , Baker , Schultz , Klein , Mazza . • Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . 20 V Planning Board 21 June 21 , 1983 After brief discussion , it was the sense of the Board that any further recommendations ) by the Planning Board to the Parks and Recreation Planning Committee with respect to a 1983 work program for Eastern Heights Park will be discussed as an Agenda item at its July 5 , 1983 meeting . ADJOURNMENT Upon Motion , Vice Chairman Grigorov declared the June 21 , 1983 meeting of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 10 : 17 p . m . Respectfully submitted , Nancy M . Fuller , Secretary , Town of Ithaca Planning Board . a 21