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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPB Minutes 1983-07-05 TOWN OF ITHACA PLANNING BOARD JULY 51 1983 The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met in regular session on Tuesday , July 5 , 1983 , in Town Hall , 126 East Seneca Street , Ithaca , N . Y ., , at 7 : 30 p . m . PRESENT : Chairman Montgomery May , Barbara Schultz , Bernard Stanton , Carolyn Grigorov , David Klein , James Baker , Lawrence P . Fabbroni ( Town Engineer ) , Peter M . Lovi ( Town Planner ) , Susan C . Beeners ( Town Landscape Architect ) , Nancy M . Fuller ( Secretary ) . ALSO PRESENT : Ann M . Ceurvels , Ronald F . Ceurvels , D . M . D . , Frederick Beck , Esq . , Jane Abbattista , Carl Abbattista , Milton Greene , Gladys Blatchley , Claude Robb , James T . Berg , Yogesh Amin , Ellen Robb , Ann Goldfarb - Clapp , James Clapp , Bruce Ryan ( WHCU News ) , Renee Starzyk ( WVBR News ) , Jim McKinley ( WTKO News ) . Chairman May declared the meeting duly opened at 7 : 35 p . m . APPROVAL OF MINUTES - MARCH 2 , 1982 MOTION by Mr . Bernard Stanton , seconded by Mr . James Baker : RESOLVED , that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board Meeting of March 2 , 1982 , be and hereby are approved as written . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Stanton , Klein , Grigorov , Schultz , Baker . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . APPROVAL OF MINUTES - MAY 3 , 1983 MOTION by Mr . Bernard Stanton , seconded by Mrs . Carolyn Grigorov : RESOLVED , that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board Meeting of May 3 , 1983 , be and hereby are approved as written . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Stanton , Klein , Grigorov , Schultz , Baker . Planning Board 2 July 5 , 1983 • Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . APPROVAL OF MINUTES - MAY 17 , 1983 MOTION by Mr . Montgomery May , seconded by Mr . Bernard Stanton * RESOLVED , that the Minutes of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board Meeting of May 17 , 1983 , be and hereby are approved as written . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Stanton , Klein , Grigorov , Baker . Nay - None . Abstain - Schultz . REPORT OF THE TOWN ENGINEER , LAWRENCE P . FABBRONI Mr . Fabbroni reported that a lot of his departments ' activities have been related to the new sewage treatment plant , beyond getting some last minute things in by the June 30th deadline , much effort was put into the draft Sewer Use Law for the three entities . Most of the effort has come on a week - to -week basis for more information requested from the people in Albany who are prioritizing this project . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the word seems to be good so far with respect to funding for next year , commenting that that is the best news . Mr . Fabbroni stated that Don Kinsella , City of Ithaca Superintendent of Public Works , deserves a lot of the credit , adding that the completion of this project will be the culmination of a six to seven year process . Chairman May commended everyone who had worked on this project for a job well done . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the localities will have been saved 4 . 5 million dollars by receiving 75 % versus 55 % Federal funding . The State may have funded some of the difference down the line . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the Town is also looking at long - term alternatives for Northeast Transit in terms of purchasing a vehicle with Appalacian Regional Commission ( ARC ) funds and Section 18 Transit funds . There is a grant already written for the equipment but there is a need to agree on a particular vehicle ; they are leaning toward a transit vehicle rather than a beefed - up school bus , i . e . , a 12 - 15 year life cycle bus . The Town runs all facets of transit in a route - - stop and go - - highway travel - - so this type of vehicle would be most • appropriate . A great many specifications will have to be met in choosing this vehicle . Planning Board 3 July 5 , 1983 • Mr . Fabbroni stated that , additionally , much work has been pointed toward the next six weeks in terms of summer help . He has been going over assignments of work with everyone . The program involves the County Summer Youth Employment Program ( SYEP ) and CETA . The workers will be working with Bob Parkin , the Town Highway Superintendent , Mike Ocello , Assistant to the Town Engineer , and Susan Beeners , our landscape consultant . Application was made to CETA for a work crew of 12 and the Town received 11 workers . Last year the SYEP had 60 applicants at the Town of Ithaca , and this year we had to stop applications at something over 150 applicants . The job market does not appear to be particularly good for the 18 - 19 year olds , so some of the 14 , 15 , and 16 year olds got left out . Applicants selected were looked at in terms of their ability to operate power equipment , enthusiasm , clerical ability , etc . Mr . Fabbroni reported that the Stone Quarry Project had been pretty much completed , adding that it was quite a big project . He stated that he is now preparing to pave Stone Quarry Road with the exception of the Railroad area which ties in with the drainage project . He commented that he has gone over this with the City Engineer and it appears that their Capital Projects program makes it necessary to schedule part of the work next year with a 1985 completion . Mr . Fabbroni noted that the Burns Road matter is an Agenda Item and thus will be covered in detail later . Chairman May thanked Mr . Fabbroni for his report . REPORT OF THE TOWN PLANNER - PETER M . LOVI Mr . Lovi reported that the majority of his time had been spent in setting up the Summer Youth Employment Program and getting the workers together for the next six weeks . Mr . Lovi also commented that over 150 applicants came to the Town Office in a one -week period ; 80 applicants were interviewed , and 29 were selected to fill positions . Workers will work a 72 - hour day with 1 crew working Monday and Tuesday and 1 working Wednesday and Thursday . The work day will run from 8 - 4 with a 2 - hour lunch . The summer workers will be working in six different areas : brush cutting crew , construction crew with Susan Beeners and Richard Schoch , park maintenance and landscaping crew , office work crew , and surveying crew . Mr . Lovi commented that there is a grant proposal in process for the landscaping aspect under the Small Business Administration , Mr . Lovi reported on the delivery of a new superstar transit that will be used by Mike Ocello for survey work . The equipment will cut down , considerably , the amount of time involved in surveying from the sending the survey crew out to the field to • the final drawing of the map . Mr . Ocello has some 10 to 15 miles of surveying to do and those on his crew will be those who have some aptitude in surveying . Mr . Lovi stated that , in addition Planning Board 4 July 5 , 1983 • to . this , Mr . Ocello and Miss Beeners have been developing some interesting ways to use the Diazit machine we presently have to expand our graphic capabilities by superimposing information and coming up with composite maps from original base maps . This will also cut map making time down considerably . This new technique they have devised has been put to good use already in connection with the Six Mile Creek Committe . Mr . Ocello prepared some graphics for them showing the City property and adjacent landowners - - in the Watershed . With regard to the Six Mile . Creek Committee , Mr . Lovi reported that no meeting had been held since the recent death of the swimmer in the reservoir . Mr . Lovi stated that he did not know the direction that might be taken as a result of this tragedy . He was encouraged with the progress of the Committee although it is going slowly and there seems to be somewhat of a " wish - list " philosophy . Mr . Lovi also noted that Burns Road is an Agenda Item for discussion later . Chairman May thanked Mr . Lovi for his report . REPORT OF THE TOWN BUILDING INSPECTOR - LEWIS D . CARTEE The Building Inspector ' s Report of Building Permits Issued for the month of June 1983 had been received by the Planning Board members with their Agendae . Such report shows that 10 permits were issued in the month of June 1983 for $ 163 , 500 . 00 in • improvements , as compared to 12 permits in June 1982 for $ 231 , 650 . 00 in improvements . REPORT OF THE PLANNING BOARD REPRESENTATIVE TO THE COUNTY PLANNING BOARD , CAROLYN GRIGOROV Mrs . Grigorov reported on the June 8th meeting of the County Planning Board and stated that the EMC representative reported that the EMC is in agreement with the concept of the Natural History Museum but not the project , since the location has not been decided . Mrs . Grigorov further reported that there was some discussion of whether or not the relocation of Route 13 was a " dead issue . " There has been organized opposition to all feasible solutions . Without consensus , the Department of Transportation will not act . The Tompkins County Planning Board endorsed a route some time ago - - November 197. 9 . Mrs . Grigorov reported that the Six Mile Creek Study Group reported at the meeting on suggestions that joggers and ski - dooers should be limited to the old railroad way that NYSEG owns . Mrs . Grigorov noted that Bed & Breakfast places are the • _ trendy thingandthe State has no regulations for houses that can take fewer than ten . Localities may need to establish some regulations standards need to be in place . • Planning Board 5 July 5 , 1983 • Mrs . Grigorov stated that a great deal of the meeting involved discussion of economic development concerns . Mr . Tom Mailey , Director of Cornell University Industrial / Research Park and Executive Vice President of the Tompkins County Area Development Corporation was the guest speaker . The Corporation has the following goals and objectives to guide their activities . The Corporation acts as a communicator - as a facilitator - to cut down red tape to a minimum , act as a coordinator and a matchmaker by putting available resources together . The agency has a facility of 150 , 000 sq . ft . of which 25 , 000 sq . ft , is presently available to those who can fit into the overall framework and purpose of Industrial / Research Park activities . Mr . Mailey pointed out that the agency was organized into various committees in order to concentrate on different assignments at the same time . He cited some of the agencies with which the corporation has a working relationship and is represented on several of the Boards : NYS Industrial Development Task Force , Southern Tier East Regional Development Board - Economic Advisory Committee ( this helps establish prospective contacts ) , Regional Industrial Development Team , Central New York Hi -Tech Council ( this is a consortium of State - University - Industry - private sector ) , TIDE - NYSEG ( Team Industrial Development Group ) , Tompkins County Economic Advisory Board , Business Development Center ( TC3 has already started one ) , Occupational Education Committee -TC3 , and the NYS Economic Development Council ( this is the former NYS • Chamber of Commerce ) . The Council has a mailing list of 6 , 000 who have a SIC code as major manufacturers . It conducts training schools , outreach programs , and sharing of ideas . Mr . Mailey said the corporation acts as a liaison between and has regular contacts with other agencies such as - - SBA , UDC , JBA- Job Development Authority , Science and Technical Foundation , New Business NY Development Corporation , and Farmers ' Home Administration . He pointed out that the purpose of the corporation is not only to make an effort to provide space for industrial and research purposes , but to show the overall desirability of the area and the quality of life as well . He said that the region in which Tompkins and Broome Counties are a part of ( a five county area ) is second to Silicon Valley ( California ) for hi - tech activities . When asked if a particular size of operation is favored , Mr . Mailey stated that usually small operations are favored because of their flexibility and variety of resources . Chairman May thanked Mrs . Grigorov for her report . PUBLIC HEARING : CONSIDERATION OF PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION APPROVAL FOR PROPOSED EIGHT ( 8 ) LOT SUBDIVISION ALONG SLATERVILLE ROAD AND HONNESS LANE ( AS PHASE I ) : A PORTION OF TOWN OF ITHACA TAX PARCEL NO . 6 - 58 - 2 - 39 . 2 , KNOWN AS 131 HONNESS LANE , GLADYS BLATCHLEY , OWNER / DEVELOPER . • Chairman May declared the Public Hearing in the above - noted matter duly opened at 7 : 50 p . m . and accepted for the record the Clerk ' s Affidavit of * Posting and Publication of the Notice of Planning Board 6 July 5 , 1983 Public Hearing in Town Hall and the Ithaca Journal on June 27 , 1983 and June 30 , 1983 , respectively . Chairman May read aloud the Notice as published and as noted above and asked Mrs . Blatchley to speak to the matter . Mrs . Blatchley presented a final subdivision map of Gladys W . Blatchley Lots dated May 27 , 1983 , prepared and sealed by Milton A . Greene , L . L . S . She stated that Mr . Greene was present to answer any questions . Mrs . Blatchley stated that the proposal was for five lots on Slaterville Road and two on Honness Lane with the eighth lot being also on Honness Lane and achieved by draining the pond presently there and filling it in . An access road into the interior of the subdivision , off Honness Lane , is planned in Phase 2 . Chairman May asked if there were any comments at this point from the public . Mrs . Ann Goldfarb - Clapp , 120 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and asked where on Slaterville Road this development was located . Mrs . Blatchley stated that it was located at 1430 Slaterville Road on the upper side of the road , east of Hillside Alliance Church . Mr . Stanton asked if the developer planned to have access on • Slaterville Road for each of the five lots . Mrs . Blatchley stated that that was correct . Mr . Stanton noted that all the lots have 100 feet or more frontage . Mrs . Schultz asked about the pond draining . Mrs . Blatchley stated that they are in the process of getting that started . Chairman May asked how long the pond had been in its present location . Mrs . Blatchley stated that it was built in 1955 . Mrs . Schultz wondered about problems with it filling up . Mrs . Blatchley stated that they planned to back the pond up where the source of flow for it was and bring it around on the lot lines to drain it to Slaterville Road . Mr . Carl Abbattista , representing Mrs . Blatchley , stated that the arrows on the plan represent the diverting of the spring on the proposed lot line into the proposed culvert to eventually come down the ditch and meet with drainage presently east of the church property . Water will be diverted in the direction of the arrows on the diagram . The drainage of the pond will occur in the same direction . The water will come down to meet the ditch and run , taking a natural course , down the ditch and run 60 - 70 feet behind the property there . Frederick Beck , Esq . , 309 North Tioga Street , Attorney representing Mr . and Mrs . Douglas Armstrong , spoke from the • floor . The Armstrong property is immediately west of the proposed road running south of Honness Lane , Mr . Beck stated that the Armstrongs have serious concerns with respect to this Planning Board 7 July 5 , 1983 • project which relate to the matter of drainage . Mr . Beck asked Mr . Abbattista if the drainage plans had been discussed with Mr . Fabbroni and Mr . Lovi in depth . Mr . Abbattista stated that they had been discussed in depth - at least he thought so . Mr . Beck stated that , as Mr . Abbattista knew , there has been a flow of water in times of heavy rain and there are underground springs . Mr . Beck described severe damage that has occurred over a period of years with respect to the Armstrong property which has not made them very happy . Mr . Beck further stated that his clients ' biggest concern , whatever the drainage might be , is that the plans that are proposed by the developer are such that the Town Engineer and the Town Planner would be satisfied and that the Armstrongs could be assured that , whatever was going to be done , the problem of drainage would be taken care of so problems such as they experienced in the past do not occur . Mr . Abbattista explained in more detail the plans of drainage that would be of concern to the Armstrongs . He stated that removing the pond and removing it properly would make Mr . and Mrs . Armstrong very happy . Mr . Abbattista also commented that Elton Reed is the person they have hired to do this ; Mr . Reed is very knowledgable in the field . He stated that , depending on the weather , the work will be done within a week or so . Mr . Abbattista described the work involved such as the use of a backhoe , digging back to the dike area wall on the pond to • the south end . He stated that they are not going to cut into the dike or bank . He described the siphoning out of the water into a ditch by means of a 14 " to 12 " plastic pipe . The water will follow the ditch 60 - 70 feet behind the Armstrong property . Mr . Abbattista stated that Mr . Reed has been in contact with Mr . Lisle Crandall , Senior Technician with the Soil Conservation Service , under whose direction the pond was built in the first place in 1955 . As to the spring , which is the source of the pond , it will be diverted and once the lot is developed will be put underground . Mr . Beck stated that Mr . and Mrs . Armstrong are not unhappy with the proposal , but , they want to be sure that the problems from the past will be alleviated . He asked what the plans were as to construction progress - - Slaterville Road lots first or Honness Lane lots . Mr . Abbattista stated that it was a matter of demand but they would be starting with the first 8 lots . Mr . Beck asked about the road . Mr . Abbattista stated that the Honness Lane lots would not be developed until they were absolutely assured that the problems of drainage had been taken care of , adding that after the pond is taken care of that will be the last lot to be developed . Mr . Fabbroni commented that he had pointed out to the Armstrongs that the Town would be as concerned about the drainage under the road as they about their backyard . The Town sees the • ditch on the high side of the road as critical regardless of drainage flow or sub - surface condition . The ditch would cut off the sub - surface condition as much as possible and run off , Planning Board 8 July 5 , 1983 • draining to the south and southwest . The topography works in that direction as well so it is not working against the topography . However , in regard to Lot 8 , the exact location of the spring and the ability to completely drain off that lot is yet to be determined with the key aspect being how any water on the east lot line is brought along . It must be isolated to be successful .in producing a dry Lot 8 . It is very difficult now with the pond in there to tell the exact location of the spring and what is feeding the pond on the high side , that will be key . Mr . Fabbroni stated that he was satisfied with the plans , at least as much as he can be , that the plan we see and the ditch proposed on the east side of the road , with good sub - base , will produce a successful dry base for that lot and also for the Armstrongs ' backyard . With respect to the drainage on the whole eight lots , Mr . Fabbroni stated that his question for the Board and the applicant is that in some way in the action that they take they should tie down who is actually going to perform the drainage that Mr . Greene has outlined in enough detail on the plan now , i . e . , how does the overall drainage scheme get accomplished ? If the lots are sold individually , the plans should specify how the overall drainage scheme gets accomplished . If the developer does not do it prior to the sale of the lots , the potential buyer has to be alerted to the fact that it is their reponsibility . The Town • will not issue a certificate of compliance until that drainage is in place . Mr . Abbattista stated that as of this meeting it was their intention to do the drainage work themselves prior to the sale of the five lots on Slaterville Road . Mr . Fabbroni added - - and , obviously , prior to the sale of lot 8 . He also added that lots 1 and 2 are less of a problem . Mr . Klein asked how deep the pond was . Mrs . Blatchley stated that at one time , in the middle when it was brand new , it was 10 feet . Mr . Lovi stated that it was no deeper than 10 feet . Mr . Klein stated that he would have some question about having that filled in , adding that whoever builds there is going to build on fill . He stated that his question would be - - is that particular lot going to be a nightmare for somebody ? Mr . Abbattista responded that that remains to be seen . Mr . Klein stated that extreme care must be taken in filling that pond . Chairman May asked Mr . Fabbroni if he thought Lot 8 should be removed from the proposal , wondering if he would feel better if it were . Mr . Fabbroni responded in the negative , stating that he thought it should be addressed , so that a potential buyer is • aware , by pointing out the difficulties , perhaps by including a copy of this plan with the various documents at the time of closing , so that they know this was a pond - - also , the diversion Planning Board 9 July 5 , 1983 ditch - - otherwise , how does the Building Inspector police that this information is passed along . Chairman May asked if anyone from the public wished to be heard . Attorney Beck asked about the timetable . Mr . Abbattista stated that the first stage is a question of demand ; the development will move as fast as the lots will move . The second stage is a little difficult to pinpoint but they are thinking of within two years as an outside guess . Phase 2 involves the interior part . Mr . Beck asked if they planned to do the drainage ditches as soon as approval from the Board was obtained . Mr . Abbattista stated that that was correct . Mr . Abbattista further stated that the subject of the pond drainage was not a issue . Mr . Stanton stated that the pond was not contingent upon the subdivision . Mr . Fabbroni explained about a drainage easement for five of the eight lots , indicating an easement through all of the five lots on Slaterville Road for back lots . The Town has asked that some kind of structure be built where the stream comes down to Route 79 drainage ditch and makes a right angle turn and that this structure as well should be built in conjuntion with this phase . Some responsibility must be taken as to how this structure is to be accomplished . Mr . Fabbroni commented that • this is a little unusual because the developer will not be building the houses . He stated that the plans do what he wanted - - a conceptual scheme for remaining land and two means of draining down through easements and a swale and down along the future right of way between Multari and the other lot that Mrs . Blatchley owns ; some concept for future open space . Mr . Fabbroni spoke here of the following letter , a copy of which each Board member had received : " May 27 , 1983 Town of Ithaca Planning Board Ithaca , New York This letter will serve as notice that it is our intention to donate a parcel of land located on the property owned by me , adjacent to the proposed eight - lot subdivision along the Slaterville Road and Honness Lane , known as Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No . 6 - 58 - 2 - 39 . 2 . This land will be donated to the Town of Ithaca within the next two years and will represent at least 10 per cent of the total square footage of said subdivision . Signed , ( sgd . ) Gladys W . Blatchley Gladys W . Blatchley 131 Honness Lane Ithaca , New York " Planning Board 10 July 5 , 1983 • Continuing , Mr . Fabbroni noted that there are no utility concerns other than easements properly indicated on the survey . The lots on Slaterville Road would require water to be brought across the road at the developer ' s or future landowner ' s expense . Referring to the access plan , Mr . Fabbroni noted that the Board had thoroughly discussed this at two prior meetings . Chairman May asked if there were any more questions . There were none . Chairman May closed the public hearing at 8 : 20 p . m . Chairman May asked the Board to consider the Environmental Assessment Form ( Long Form ) . Mr . Stanton wondered why the Long Form had been used . Mr . Lovi explained that the Long Form was completed because of the consideration of the entire subdivision in terms of environmental assessment as to the scope and the drainage even though Phase I is the particular item for which approval is actually being considered at this time . Mr . Lovi commented that the Long Form would probably be in order next time . Mr . Stanton suggested that it would be helpful if in the future Question # 29 were answered more in laymen ' s terms with the soils ' " real " names rather than chemical formulae . Mr . Baker commented that the numbers are important because they designate erosion factors . • Chairman May noted that Mr . Lovi had reviewed the EAF on June 27 , 1983 , making the following recommendations : " Type of Action : Unlisted Re : Question # 9 - I would estimate 2 . 4 acres of roadway given the present plan for Phase II subdivision . Re : Question # 48 - The estimated number of persons in the subdivision following the Phase I subdivision is 36 . RECOMMENDATION : Negative Declaration The subdivision , as presented , should not create any adverse environmental problems . Particular care should be taken to ensure that the existing pond drains properly and that all other drainage works are constructed as approved . " MOTION by Mr . Bernard Stanton , seconded by Mr . James Baker : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board , acting as lead agency in the review of the proposed eight ( 8 ) lot subdivision along Slaterville Road and Honness Lane ( as Phase I ) , being a portion of Town of Ithaca Parcel No . 6 - 58 - 2 - 39 . 2 , known as 131 Honness Lane , approve and hereby does approve the Environmental Assessment Form ( Long Form ) as completed ; and FURTHER RESOLVED , that pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act , Part 617 , this action is classified as • Unlisted ; and Planning Board 11 July 5 , 1983 • FURTHER RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board , has determined from the Environmental Assessment Form and all pertinent information that the above - mentioned action will not significantly impact the environment and , therefore , will not require further environmental review . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Baker , Klein , Stanton , ' Schultz , Grigorov . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . Chairman May asked Board members to turn now to consideration of the project itself . Mr . Stanton stated that the key item to the approval is that the drainage process be completed and approved in an acceptable manner to the Town Engineer . He asked if the plans presented were acceptable enough in detail for the Town Engineer , i . e . , for the first phase - - eight lots . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the plans show a cross section of a typical ditch along the back of lots 3 to 7 , i . e . , the cutoff swale for these five lots ; his idea of the easement ; and the first phase depicts enough of the • drainage for the pond . Mr . Stanton asked about the structure that was to be constructed . Mr . Fabbroni described what would be to his satisfaction and the idea of the easement . Mr . Greene stated that the structure will be done according to the requirements of the Town Engineer , adding that if it has to be done , it has to be done . He stated that that lot is not feasible until it is taken care of . He suggested that a note could be written on the plans for the Board ' s approval that states this structure would be constructed . Mr . Klein commented that his concern still goes back to Lot 8 . Some sort of language should be included alerting a potential buyer about the fill in this lot which would indicate the need for special foundation requirements , etc . Mrs . Schultz asked how long it takes for fill to settle . Mr . Fabbroni stated that this depends on what type of fill is used and other factors . Mr . Fabbroni stated that he thought it can be worked through , adding that Mr . Klein ' s concerns in terms of a potential buyer are well taken . He stated that most of the embankment material is suitable for fill as long as it is dry and added that it has to be tight material in order to have held the pond all these years . Mr . Fabbroni stated that probably the best suggestion is that the buyer knows the exact height of the fill , adding that the pond looks benched in the first place . Mr . Abbattista stated that anyone buying the lot would be • seeing the map being presented for subdivision approval as it will be recorded in the County Clerk ' s Office . The pond is shown on this map and they should be able to ascertain that this Planning Board 12 July 5 , 1983 • particular lot was once a pond . However , he also stated that perhaps additional language might be appropriate . Chairman May asked if the Board members wished to consider waiving final approval . Mr . Stanton asked what else the Board is going to find out , adding that he thought it better to waive , noting that the Board has discussed this proposed 8 - lot subdivision twice before . Mr . Stanton stated that he thought a waiver made sense . MOTION by Mr . Bernard Stanton , seconded by Mr . Montgomery May : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board waive and hereby does waive consideration of the grant of final subdivision approval for proposed 8 - lot subdivision along Slaterville Road and Honness Lane , as Phase I , being a portion of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No . 6 - 58 - 2 - 39 . 2 , Gladys W . Blatchley , Owner / Developer , said Board having determined that no substantive changes with respect to said 8 - lot subdivision shall occur . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Baker , Klein , Stanton , Schultz , Grigorov . • Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . MOTION by Mr . Montgomery May , seconded by Mr . Bernard .Stanton : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board grant and hereby does grant preliminary subdivision approval which , in this case is final subdivision approval , for an Eight - Lot ( 8 - lot ) Subdivision along Slaterville Road and Honness Lane ( as Phase I ) , being a portion of Town of Ithaca Tax Parcel No . 6 - 58 - 2 - 39 . 2 , known as 131 Honness Lane , Gladys W . Blatchley , Owner / Developer , as set forth on map entitled " Final Subdivision Map of Gladys W . Blatchley Lots , New York State Route 79 & Honness Lane , Town of Ithaca , County of Tompkins , State of New York " , prepared by Milton A . Greene , P . L . S . # 42000 , dated May 27 , 1983 , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that such grant of final approval is contingent upon the following conditions being met : 10 the drainage being completed to the satisfaction of the Town Engineer as stated in Note 4 on said Final Subdivision Map of Gladys Blatchley Lots , and 20 levels being done after the pond has been drained , available • to any future purchaser , such that he or she may establish the amount of fill with respect to Lot No . 8 , and Planning Board 13 July 5 , 1983 • 39 the completing of the swale back lot of the five lots ( Lots No . 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , and 7 ) facing on Route 79 prior to the sale of any of said five lots , and 4e the pond being drained by a ditch as defined in said Final Subdivision Map of Gladys Blatchley Lots . Mr . Abbattista asked about the two lots to the west of the Armstrongs ' property . He asked if it were possible to get approval to sell those lots at any time . Chairman May pointed out that Lots No . 1 and 2 were not mentioned in the Motion on the floor . Mr . Fabbroni explained that a continuous path must be provided to drain the spring to the drainage ditch west of Lot 3 . He stated if that is maintained by the very fact of doing that then he felt that the Armstrongs , Lot 1 , and Lot 2 would be protected . Mr . Fabbroni stated that he had no concerns about the sale of Lots No . 1 and 2 so long as the ditch is done as a part of the draining of the pond . Chairman May stated that he saw no problems with selling Lots 1 and 2 . Mr . Fabbroni also felt this way provided that the ditch described by Mr . Greene was completed . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a • vote . Aye - Stanton , Klein , Grigorov , May , Schultz , Baker . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . DISCUSSION OF 1983 WORK PROGRAM FOR EASTERN HEIGHTS AREA PARK AND CONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATION TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION PLANNING COMMITTEE THEREFOR . Mr . Fabbroni introduced the subject of the Eastern Heights Area Park to the Board by saying that they would remember that there was a meeting of the Planning Board about two weeks ago at which time the Board solicited public input after some review of how we came to be where we were at the present time . A Park Committee meeting was held subsequently at which several residents had presented their input . After receiving this input , Mr . Fabbroni stated that it seemed clear that there were two alternatives for the Board to consider at tonight ' s meeting . The first alternative was essentially a " no " alternative , i . e . , to do nothing more than what is on the site except some additional landscaping / revegetation if the Small Business Administration grant comes through . This alternative is in support of the petition of the various households in this area . • The second alternative , if " to do something " is wanted , could be the " Padamsee Plan " so to speak . Mr . Fabbroni proceeded to describe same briefly , utilizing a drawing appended to the Planning Board 14 July 5 , 1983 bulletin board , indicating expanded children ' s areas , basketball court , one tennis court . Mr . Fabbroni described these as being the types of activities that Eastern Heights residents might ask their neighbors to go up and engage in and , also , would be the types of activities that the residents could not provide in their own backyards for whatever reason . Mr . Fabbroni noted , beyond that staff took those activities and took a look at problem areas , area sizes , orientation to sun or wind , or other factors such as compatibility with adjacent uses , unusual landscape on the site , and then came up with a proposal which could be accomplished in 1983 , and some ideas for the future on the site . Susan Beeners presented two diagrams of alternative plans and gave an explanation of the sitings of the various activities . Ms . Beeners stated that one diagram was basically the same as the Padamsee plan , but some things had been located in areas that are the most appropriate . What could be done in 1983 under this plan would be to install a gravel drive from Tudor Road with five parking spaces at the end ; a half - court basketball court ; park signs ( indicating two ) including the park use law somewhat abbreviated , the play area would be expanded to include swings , see - saw , and benches ; meadow trails extended and expanded to provide more opportunities for cross country skiing and walking , sled hill landings ( indicating two ) with corrogated metal pipe installed so that there would be a smooth landing over both areas , existing parking area holds about two cars very uncomfortably at the moment , therefore , needs to be expanded to the south by about two or three spaces which would involve minimal impact ; drainage swales in the play field should be worked on this summer to mitigate the annual water falls which occur in the spring ; the fireplace described as being destroyed would be repaired ; benches , steps , railings , other park furniture would be upgraded and repaired ; and , pending the Small Business Administration grant revegetation work would be done this year . Along the ridge is the area most suitable for a doubles tennis court , it being difficult to revegetate - there are some drainage problems , but they can be overcome . Also , a storm retention area ( dry pond ) ( indicating on drawing ) similar to what has been done at DeWitt Middle School would be completed , a walkway , as well as new drive mentioned and cul de sac mentioned with five or six spaces . Also , an exercise trail - - not a cinder running track - - would be included ( indicating starting point ) using existing meadow trails and having exercise stations describing sit - ups and push - ups . Mr . Fabbroni addressed the concerns expressed by the public with respect to " expanding " the play field . He stated , for the record , as the plan indicates , the play field is not to be expanded from what it is now . Mr . Fabbroni spoke of safety insofar as concerns about fire . Because of the location of this park and the picnic facilities , two hydrants are located close to the park , with normal response time being the same as in a house on fire , and considering the fact that the Ithaca Fire Department has just added the ability to run well over 600 feet of hose , the Planning Board 15 July 5 , 1983 staff conclusion was that every fire is fightable in this area . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the problem which had been raised as to fires was taken seriously by the staff and the conclusion reached was that with the available water supply , coverage is better than most other parks in areas around Ithaca . Referring now to the proposed Tudor Road completion , Mr . Fabbroni stated that that would be done either at the time the additional parking area is developed or next year and would be strictly timed with the Highway Paving operation . He noted that the grading is already done and the work will be low - level , surface , not a major paving operation , but just an all -weather surface to be able to enter the top part of Tudor Road , Mr . Fabbroni commented that staff did not agree with all the concerns there were about parking . He noted that , from a winter maintenance consideration , it would be much easier from the Town ' s standpoint to have a downhill entry , and would be to everyone ' s best interest . As far as entry to the park , it would be only idle curiosity on the part of a person who would wonder where this street goes , which would cause use of lower Tudor . Chairman May asked Mr . Fabbroni what the number of responses had been concerning this issue of the Eastern Heights Park , apologizing for not being able to attend the June 21st meeting . Mr . Fabbroni stated that the Board had received a Petition • representing about 55 households in Eastern Heights which stated that they wanted nothing else done to this park . Two hundred fifty to three hundred households were notified of the June 21st meeting . Mr . Fabbroni summarized for Chairman May what was discussed at that meeting . Chairman May asked if the half - court basketball and the tennis court really came from the neighbors . The Board members indicated that that was the case and pointed out , in addition , that " boxing off " of the playfield had been desired . Chairman May asked if anyone from the public wished to speak to this matter . James T . Berg , 212 Tudor Road , spoke from the floor and stated that he had owned his home for seven years . He stated that he was very serious in his comment and in no way being facetious , in stating that there is extreme minimal use of this property and in asking what this " urban development dream " is for thirty years down the road that is being propounded for the residents . Mr . Berg urged that the Town wait ten years and see what the need is ; how the population had grown , and what the needs would be . Mr . Berg stated that the residents fear many people , many automobiles , many students , adding that there have been loud , annoying parties often at night . Mr . Berg stated that the residents are positive that the Town has nothing from the public to expand this park and asked that it be left as it is now . . Planning Board 16 July 5 , 1983 Mrs . Grigorov stated that Eastern Heights Park is a day- time park ; night use is illegal . Mr . Claude Robb , 221 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and stated that he has observed people in the park at 3 : 00 a . m . and he has called the sheriff who has not responded to calls . Mr . Robb stated that the alternate plan was only presented in case other things are wanted . He stated that it was the general opinion of Eastern Heights Association to do nothing more with the park , except the landscaping . Mr . Robb stated that there is only one person who wanted the park at all and that person should disqualify himself . Mr . Robb repeated that no one wants anything more done . Mrs . Grigorov stated that someone at the last meeting wanted tennis . Mrs . Ann Goldfarb - Clapp , 120 Eastern Heights Drive , spoke from the floor and stated that one fireplace has been totally destroyed , another bench has been destroyed and asked the Board to check it out . She stated that maintenance is a big deal and it costs money to build and maintain these facilities . She stated that there is no park supervisor , it is not a State park . She stated that it is very difficult to get in touch with the sheriff and then wait until he arrives . She also felt that it • would take a great deal of time for the fire department to arrive at the park in time to fight a fire . She stated that Mr . Fabbroni had said there was no problem with fires because there were two fire hydrants , but again , the fire department response time is just not good enough and a fire station there would be better . Mrs . Goldfarb - Clapp stated again that there is no water source available ; she described the litter and destruction of property further and repeated that the residents oppose further development of the park . She stated that the landscaping aspect is wonderful , but wanted nothing that says " come on in and have a good time " . Dr . Ronald Ceurvels , 214 Tudor Road , stated that the signatures on the petition were those of families living closest to the park and , therefore , most directly affected by the park . He stated that the Board could see that it was the unanimous decision of those most affected by traffic not to develop the park any further . Dr . Ceurvels stated that he purchased his home because of the character of the neighborhood and he sees further development as changing that character . Dr . Ceurvels stated that he has three small children who use the street . He stated that someone is opening a Pandora ' s Box here . He asked whose desire it is to develop this park . Chairman May stated that it was in the overall parks development plan . • Mr . Berg commented that even though it is in a plan , the Board should wait to see what the population is like in a few Planning Board 17 July 5 , 1983 • years ; wait and see what is needed . He stated that Eastern Heights has many places with students - transients who do not care and are simply not interested in this sort of thing . Mrs . Gr_ igorov asked how many homes could have been built if there were not a park . Mr . Fabbroni stated that 45 units , meaning 30 homes with apartments , realistically could have been located in the area . Chairman May asked what else needs to be done to the park to stabilize and maintain it as it stands . Miss Beeners stated that the following needs to be done : 1 ) upgrading and repairing of existing facilities , play field and park furniture , 2 ) smoothing of sled hill landings , 3 ) increase parking slightly , 4 ) revegetation , pending the SBA grant money . Mr . Fabbroni commented that the landscaping / revegetation aspect is sort of endless , adding that if the Jobs Bill grant is received that would be a major shot . Mrs . Grigorov asked what the Board can do about the issue of enforcement . Mr . Lovi stated that there was very little that can be done . Mr . Lovi spoke of the Frandsen land and his development which had been brought up at the June meeting , noting that it is a redesigning of the project on a more local concern and is a good compromise . He stated that phasing over a long period may be good but , on the other hand , you may not get development . Chairman May stated that maybe the Town should spend money where people are more interested . Mr . Stanton pointed out that we are all looking at this map , dated July 5 , 1983 , for the first time . Miss Beeners stated that this map came from the Park Committee Meeting of June 23rd and the Planning Board Meeting of June 21st at which , in both cases , residents were present and plans discussed . Mr . Robb informed the Board that the Park Committee met at noon and a day - and - a - half later after the Planning Board Meeting . He pointed out that most people are working during the day . Mr . May noted that the opinion of the neighborhood is obviously negative . Mr . Stanton asked if this is , as it appears , a controversy , would it not be a good idea to make copies of this map and have it available to the area residents , either sent out or have someone go around to households with copies of the map for • comment . ' Planning Board 18 July 5 , 1983 ' Mr . Klein stated that it was not his intent to participate in a project that is very unpopular even though it is part of the Comprehensive Park Plan and has been evolved in a logical way . He did not feel the Board should put its approval on a development that is not wanted and that the money should be spent somewhere where needed . He was in favor of the more passive , open space area . Mr . Stanton again suggested putting the proposal out for everyone to see . Mr . Fabbroni stated that it was made very clear at the last large meeting that certain people in Eastern Heights would monitor these discussions with names and addresses of those residents asking to receive notification being given to the Secretary . He stated that it was clear also at that time that this would be discussed at the next Planning Board meeting , adding that , if the residents here present are the only ones to show up , these are the only ones interested . Mr . Robb stated that , logistically , this was put out a little late - - he did not receive his notice until Saturday . He stated that a lot of the resident were away on vacation and this was the reason for the small turnout . • Chairman May stated that the Town has tried to make everyone aware ; if this is the group responding , this is the consensus of the neighborhood . Mr . Fabbroni stated that more meetings are fine , but a survey of the neighborhood would be somewhat lacking in credibility unless professionally administered . Chairman May stated that the Planning Board forum was fine with him . Mr . Fabbroni stated that it was more feasible to ask a representative group to come here than for the staff to seek a representative group . Mrs . Grigorov asked what the area designation of the park is , to which Mr . Fabbroni responded , the East Ithaca Area is what we said . Mr . Berg stated that when he finally came up from the City to retire he wanted peace and quiet and that is why he had chosen Eastern Heights , Mrs . Schultz stated that somewhere in the time -- span prior to the adoption of the Town of Ithaca Comprehensive Park and Open Space Plan and the residents who have bought their property in Eastern Heights , there was this open space . The question was , and is , what do you do with it , some part of this plan has worked ; how far do we have to go . Mrs . Schultz stated that this Board is the Planning Board , it plans for now and for the future . She stated that the Planning Board had reviewed and recommended • on the Park and Open Space Plan from 1974 to its adoption in 1975 and its revision in 1977 . It was very carefully and very seriously determined that this is what has to be done because Planning Board 19 July 5 , 1983 ' this is where the population will grow and this is what they will need . Mrs . Schultz described the dilemma of the wants and the do not wants . Mrs . Schultz stated that the Planning Board is very responsive to the people it serves , adding that what the public says and what the Board says are considered seriously and , added to that , is the personal , reasoned , decision of each member such as herself . She said the Park and Open Space Plan reflects that kind of effort on the part of the Planning Board and the Town Board . Mrs . Schultz stated that she grew up in a neighborhood where there was a town park 600 feet from her home . She stated that it had very extensive use , was ultimately lighted , and used for night games , tournaments , etc . She stated that she does not , to this day , really recall it as being that awful . Mrs . Schultz stated that Eastern Heights Park most certainly does not look like that park and yet it is there to serve the people who live here . Mrs . Schultz noted the proposed Blatchley subdivision , the Frandsen subdivision , and stated that each of these has its own need for open space . Mrs . Schultz stated that it is important to set aside this open space and to plan for it . Mrs . Schultz stated that it was her opinion that the more you do use the park , the less vandalism , and the more self - patrolling ; such a chain is a self - generating thing . Mr . Berg agreed that it was important to use the land for something but stated that the important thing to consider is • timing , i . e . , when it is prudent and wise to add to the park , but moving fast in terms of tennis courts , etc . , is neither prudent nor wise . He stated that the park area is just fine as it exists right now . Mrs . Goldfarb -Clapp asked the Board to remember that parks such as Cass Park and Stewart Park are not bordered by homes as closely as this . She stated that the residents have no objection to a nice park in their beautiful neighborhood - - passive - - just for the neighborhood . Mr . Stanton stated that he sees this plan as not being so extreme as some of the residents who are here . He thought that perhaps if the tennis courts were left out the residents would be happier , adding that he would like to see the half - court basketball if he had 8 - to 10 - year - olds at home . He stated that the 5th of July did bother him as not a good time to expect people to come to a meeting and that he thought this plan should be distributed , perhaps a photograph could be taken around to the residents to see what they thought about it . Mr . Stanton stated that , at least if we do not do anything , he would like to feel more comfortable about not doing anything if that is what the residents want , or maybe , we would find out that it is wanted by some . Chairman May summarized the situation at the moment as he • saw it - - two sled hills , parking area , i . e . , the three or four projects described by Miss Beeners , and hold off work for 1984 . Mr . Fabbroni commented that what Mr . May had said could be done , • Planning Board 20 July 5 , 1983 ' adding that if we wait it cannot be done . Mr . May stated that these things seem to him to be stabilizing the site and protecting the site as it exists . Mr . May stated that he was not happy with doing something when it is not wanted . MOTION by Mr . Montgomery May , seconded by Mr . Bernard Stanton : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to the Parks and Recreation Planning Committee of the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca that with respect to Eastern Heights Area Park the following projects be scheduled for completion during the 1983 working season : 1 . The regrading of the landings at the bases of the sled hills , 2 . The extending of the existing parking area by approximately thirty feet ( 30 ' ) to the south to re - establish parking ( for a five car total ) taken by field grading , 3 . The upgrading and repairing of the park furniture ; 4 . The repairing and upgrading of the drainage in and around the play field ; • 5 . The installing of a gravel walk from the parking area to Tudor Road to provide continuous walkway / bikeway circulation from Skyvue Road to Tudor Road , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that the matter of the Eastern Heights Area Park be reviewed again by said Town of Ithaca Planning Board in the latter part of 1983 with respect to 1984 status . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Schultz , Stanton , Grigorov , Klein , Baker . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . Mr . Robb wanted a copy of the map for circulation . Miss Beeners stated that she would provide it , adding that she had the names of the four persons who are acting as representatives of the Eastern Heights area . FINAL REVIEW OF PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE TOWN OF ITHACA SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS AND DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT . Mr . Lovi stated that it would be appropriate at this time for the Board to consider approval of the regulations if there were no major questions at this time . Mr . Lovi further stated that deletions appeared in square brackets and additions were Planning Board 21 July 5 , 1983 • underlined on the Board members ' copies which they had been sent under the May 10 , 1983 memorandum . MOTION by Mr . Bernard Stanton , seconded by Mr . Montgomery May : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board congratulate and hereby does congratulate the Town of Ithaca Engineering and Planning Staff on their efforts in preparing and completing the Subdivision Regulations , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that said Regulations be passed on to the Codes and Ordinances Committee of the Town Board . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Schultz , Stanton , Grigorov , Klein , Baker . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . MOTION by Mr . Montgomery May , seconded by Mr . David Klein : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board move and • recommend and hereby does move and recommend to the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca the acceptance of the Draft Generic Environmental_ Impact Statement , prepared with respect to proposed revisions to the Town of Ithaca Subdivision Regulations , and as presented in the May 10 , 1983 Memorandum to said Planning Board by the Town Planner , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that said Town of Ithaca Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend the review of said D / GEIS by said Town Board at its earliest convenience . There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , . Schultz , Stanton , Baker , Grigorov , Klein . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . BURNS ROAD - CAPITAL PROJECT REVIEW Mr . Fabbroni described the improvements to be made with respect to Burns Road , referring to the project as the proposed Burns Road Relocation , but . noting that the improvements call for a widening of the road in both directions as well as the relocation . He described the hazardous condition of the road as • it exists and has existed for some time , pointing out that both ends of the road are very difficult to pull out of and how the changes should improve the visibility . He commented that it Planning Board 22 July 5 , 1983 • certainly is nobody ' s freeway , noting , as an example , the well - known dip in the road . Mr . Fabbroni set forth the reasons for proposing the Burns Road relocation . He stated that Burns Road is not a good situation and , even by relocating the north end it would not become anyone ' s dream highway . He urged the Board to travel the road and see for themselves , if they have not already done so , and they will see that outside of the project area it could not be that dream highway . Mr . Fabbroni noted that where the relocation is proposed ties in with the County decision that the Burns Road Bridge needs redoing ; it is less than sound and load limits have been imposed on it ; rebuilding the bridge is needed and is going to happen . Mr . Fabbroni commented , in conjunction with this , that there is also a creek and a one - lane structure - - Burns Road has two water crossings . Mr . Fabbroni displayed a diagram of Burns Road and surrounding area and described the proposed changes , noting among others , that what is involved is 1 , 200 feet of relocation to replace what is at least double that and in which there are vertical and horizontal changes in the same vehicular motion . He stated that this is not good by any standards ; it is not a safe condition . He stated that we do not have accident information regarding this road , pointing out that this is a problem throughout the Town because the Town has at least six different responding agencies . Mr . Fabbroni stated that snow maintenance operations have been very difficult . Mr . Fabbroni recalled that once the Town had a near - fatality of its own with the front end of the plow being out • into Slaterville Road and pointed out that it is an unsafe situation even if the hedge is cut down there is not sufficient sight distance back to the City . Mr . Fabbroni pointed out that the proposal is a simple relocations there are no ulterior motives . Mr . Fabbroni continued and spoke of the fill needed . He stated that we do have some fill to consider , there is some valuable and some poor soil down in the valley to work with . He stated that if one plans properly for the drainage and cut materials , dry and compact them properly , one can build on any type of soil . Mrs . Grigorov asked where the reservoir was located with respect to the proposal . Mr . Fabbroni pointed this out on the diagram and recounted some fascinating history of the watershed area , efforts on increasing the storage area in the dam , and the clear existence of a road in just about the same spots as the proposal long , long , ago . Mr . Fabbroni displayed the proposed alignment and elevations and discussed same with the Board . He stated that the plans are to raise the bridge 15 feet above the flat elevation. of the road there now , adding that the source of gravel is important , i . e . , whether it be local or foreign . He stated that if a gravel • source is found locally , the Town could afford to borrow a little more . If a local source cannot be found , the vertical alignment of Burns Road will have to be compromised . He noted that the Planning Board 23 July 5 , 1983 area involves all City - owned land , the nearest house is at least one - quarter mile distant . Mr . Fabbroni continued to use the diagrams to describe the proposed project . He indicated a NYSEG power pole right of way and pointed out how the site distance would be much better in both directions with a flat entry onto Route 79 , Mr . Fabbroni stated that he has talked to people who live nearest to the intersection and they have stated " Anything you can do to that intersection would improve our life . " As to the total scope of the project , Mr . Fabbroni stated that , at this particular point , we did not have the final design ; we have existing profiles ; we are looking at soil conditions ; the reservoir area will be screened from this right of way . Mr . Fabbroni pointed out the area in which the City has been dumping silt , commenting that it is a wasteland that has not been reclaimed . The area does have ferns that will have to be carefully handled since these particular ferns are recognized as those which should not be disturbed ; mitigating measures will be taken to avoid damage . Mr . Fabbroni stated that it is appropriate for the Board to make any kind of comments they may have because they could still • be incorporated in plans . He further stated that it is important that the Board understand the project and give some support too , adding that that would be good from his standpoint as Town Engineer . He noted that the environmental review process will take most of the summer . After the soil studies are completed , he hoped to do some major earth moving to create a surcharge situation to let nature take its course . He stated that the County will need access to the bridge if they rebuild in 1984 or even 1985 . Mr . Fabbroni spoke of the swap of an existing right of way and land as part of the proposal . He noted that the new entrance onto Slaterville road will be about 500 feet farther away from the City . Chairman May stated that he hoped to goodness Mr . Fabbroni is able to do it before anybody gets killed there . Mr . Fabbroni commented that his preference is to swap gravel with the City , swapping with our gravel in Forest Home . Mr . Stanton wondered who could possibly oppose this project , adding a conjecture that perhaps the Six Mile Creek people may . Mr . Lovi stated that he has not heard much from them in this regard and they are aware of it . Mr . Lovi also recounted some history of the area . He stated that the City built the 30 - foot dam in 1903 . They realized they needed another reservoir and in 1911 , they built the 60 - foot dam . At that time , believe it or not , Burns Road was a " Lake Shore Road " . There was no silt dam , there were no trees and consequently the area filled in at a Planning Board 24 July 5 , 1983 • prodigious rate . Everything existing in this loop dates from no more recently than the First World War . The siltation pond was built in 1925 . He stated that the situation now , is one where you have a low - lying marshy area characterized by man -made , silty , soils which are not the best thing when they are wet and not good as a base when wet . You can keep it dry by proper drainage that works such that the road bed is suitable . Mr . Lovi stated that we need to get in in the Fall to have compaction occur over -the winter ; then the bridge ; and then the road up to grade . Mr . Lovi described the timetable regarding the environmental review process . The D / EIS will go before the Town Board on Monday , July 11th ; fifteen- day waiting period in re the lead agency status , forty - five day waiting period for comment on D / EIS - - now into August ; Final Impact Statement ready for filing and acceptance for the Town Board ' s September meeting , then a 30 - day waiting period after that . Mr . Lovi commented that we are basically looking into the Fall as far as the excavation goes . Mr . Lovi stated that Miss Beeners is preparing a fairly well detailed map of the vegetation existing in the area , as well as the existing wildlife , forests , rabbits , woodchucks , deer . With respect to the important access to the reservoir , which is a concern , Mr . Lovi stated that we plan , as part of the • revegetation scheme , the incorporation of existing vegetation with some burrs . Mr . Lovi pointed out that it is primarily soils and drainage that are being looked at environmentally . Mrs . Grigorov asked where the money comes from for this project . Mr . Fabbroni stated that $ 20 , 000 has been budgeted , commenting that a linear project like this moves so much quicker than some realignments and adding that the major excavation work would be hired on a daily basis . MOTION by Mr . Montgomery May , seconded by Mr . James Baker : RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board inform and hereby does inform the Town Board of the Town of Ithaca that said Planning Board is keenly aware of the Burns Road Relocation Project and also the environmental review thereof presently in process , and that said Planning Board sees no special problems with what said Planning Board views as a very excellent project , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that the Town of Ithaca Planning Board inform and hereby does inform said Town Board of the Planning Board ' s commendations of the staff ' s efforts with respect to this very much needed improvement , and FURTHER RESOLVED , that said Planning Board recommend and hereby does recommend to said Town Board that the matter of the Burns Road Relocation proceed with all due haste . Planning Board 25 July 5 , 1983 J� There being no further discussion , the Chair called for a vote . Aye - May , Baker , Klein , Grigorov , Stanton , Schultz . Nay - None . The MOTION was declared to be carried unanimously . ADJOURNMENT At this juncture , Mr . Fabbroni informed the members of the Board that the improved decor of the Town Hall Meeting Room was the responsibility of the Town Supervisor . He stated that the beautiful , original , color , photographs of sites within the Town of Ithaca were taken by Mr . Ocello who was responsible for the enlarging of his negatives and the framing in such a highly appropriate fashion . The Board was very impressed and commented very positively on the pictures . Upon Motion , the Chair declared the July 5 , 1983 meeting of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board duly adjourned at 10 : 30 p . m . Respectfully submitted , iNancy M . Fuller , Secretary , Town of Ithaca Planning Board .