HomeMy WebLinkAboutEnfield-Comprehensive-Plan-and-Survey-enfield-draft-complete-nov8TOWN OF ENFIELD, NY
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT
NOVEMBER 1, 2019
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Enfield Town BoardRoy BarriereVera Howe-StraitChris HernDebbie TeeterAnn RiderBeth McGeeMichael CarpenterVirginia BryantHenry HansteenMimi MehaffeyMichael MilesBecky Sims
Enfield Planning BoardVirginia BryantAnn ChaffeeJoe DawsonDawn GeorgeSteve GivinHenry HansteenCalvin RothermichRich TeeterMarie VandermarkDan WalkerPoney CarpenterAlan Teeter - Code Enforcement Officer
Comprehensive Plan Committee
Resident MembersJudy HymanNancy SperoSue ThompsonJon YatesJoe Dawson
Comprehensive Plan Committee
ConsultantMatthew JohnstonCover art graciously provided by local artist William Benson
The members of the Enfield Town Council and the Enfield Planning Board would like to extend their sincerest thanks to the Enfield residents who participated in the development of this Comprehensive Plan. Without their goodwill towards and concern for the community as a whole, this document could not have been completed. This Plan is a reflection of their vision.
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TABLE OF CONTENTSAcknowledgements ......................................................................................................................................................... i
INTRODUCTION Purpose and Process ............................................................................................................................................. 1 How to Read this Document ............................................................................................................................... 2
TOWN OF ENFIELD OVERVIEW History ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Population ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Income ........................................................................................................................................................................ 4 Town of Enfield Community Dynamics ........................................................................................................... 6 2050 Community Vision ...................................................................................................................................... 7
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENTS Heritage and Historic Preservation .................................................................................................................. 9 Municipal Services ................................................................................................................................................ 13 Agriculture ............................................................................................................................................................... 27 Land Use ................................................................................................................................................................. 35 Environment and Natural Resources ............................................................................................................ 43 Built Environment: Public Utilities, Infrastructure, and Transportation ............................................. 51 Housing .................................................................................................................................................................... 57 Economy and Community ................................................................................................................................ 61
CONCLUSION Planning our Future .............................................................................................................................................. 73
APPENDICES Appendix 1: List of Figures and Maps ........................................................................................................... 75 Appendix 2: Links of Reference ....................................................................................................................... 76 Appendix 3: 2013 Survey of the Residents of the Town of Enfield ....................................................... 78 Appendix 4: 2013 Survey Results .................................................................................................................... 83
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Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Introduction (DRAFT)
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<<INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE AND PROCESSA comprehensive plan serves the community by giving residents a voice in the long-range community planning and decision-making process, recognizing the needs of current and future generations. As a working document, the Comprehensive Plan enables the Town to apply for county, state, and federal funding to achieve community-defined goals and objectives. It also facilitates cooperation between Town and other governmental agencies in the planning and implementation of capital projects.This Comprehensive Plan is the product of The Town of Enfield Town Board, Planning Board, and Enfield residents, who came together in a community effort to define the needs and desires of the Town of Enfield. All Enfield residents were invited to participate in this process.The Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan is to be used by all members of the community, as well as any other person or organization interested in the future of the Town. The many citizens and officials who have prepared the plan hope it is a useful, easy-to-read document for all who use it.Working Groups were organized for each area of interest. Building on The Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan 2001, the following topics have been determined by the participants: •Heritage and Historic Preservation •Municipal Services •Agriculture •Land Use •Environmental and Natural Resources •Built Environment: Public Utilities, Infrastructure, Transportation •Housing •Economy and Community
The Survey of Residents was created for all Town of Enfield residents asking for their opinions on a variety of topics to inform this update of the Comprehensive Plan and gather fundamental demographic information. This survey was distributed to approximately 950 households as an insert to the community newsletter. All members of each household were invited to complete the survey. The survey was made available for completion online. 182 surveys were returned, a nearly 20 percent response rate. The survey data informed many areas of the comprehensive plan.A draft plan was developed in 2013 for Town Board comment. In 2014, a Comprehensive Plan committee was developed to build on that document and bring a full plan to completion. This plan is the product of the entire process.The Enfield community treasures the rural qualities of the Town, including its historic buildings, beautiful natural areas, agricultural foundation, and peaceful way of life. Through this Plan, it is our hope to maintain our best features and enhance and improve those areas where these features are lacking.
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Introduction (DRAFT)
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HOW TO READ THIS DOCUMENT
2050 Vision Statements: In this Plan, each section begins with a Vision Statement. Each Vision Statement will express what we hope the conditions in the Town of Enfield will be in the future after following the Goals and Actions set forth in this Plan.The current conditions are described in each Introduction. Each section will conclude with a set of Goals and Actions recommended to achieve the Vision Statements. Goals and Actions are described as follows:
Goal: A general end towards which the Town will direct effort.
Action: A program, activity, or strategy carried out in response to an adopted policy to achieve a specific goal or objective.
Quotes: All quotes were taken from resident comments offered in the 2013 Comprehensive Plan Survey.
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Town of Enfield Overview (DRAFT)
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<<TOWN OF ENFIELD OVERVIEW
HISTORYLocated in the rural, west central portion of Tompkins County, the Town of Enfield encompasses 36.9 square miles. The Town is bordered on the east by the Town of Ithaca, on the north by the Town of Ulysses, on the west by the Town of Hector in Schuyler County, and on the south by the Town of Newfield. Enfield Center runs along Enfield Main Road from Route 79 to Harvey Hill Road. Enfield Center is approximately seven miles west of the City of Ithaca. This is a very small residential area that currently holds the Town Hall, Community Building (which includes the Code Enforcement Office and Town Court), a Grange Hall, the Fire Company, and several active and inactive churches.The Enfield area was first settled in 1804 by Judah and Lydia Chase Baker. It first registered to become a township in November 1820, and was officially registered with the State of New York on March 16, 1821. The Town was formed from thirty-six lots of the southern portion of Military Township lot No. 22, Ulysses.Agriculture was a way of life for most residents. By 1865, 80% of the Town's land was used for farming. By 1866, five sawmills operated on Five Mile Creek. After the Civil War, the Federal Government encouraged the establishment of farmers' organizations. Thus, the Enfield Valley
Grange No. 295 was founded. In 1925, local residents built a grange hall and meeting space. By 1995, it was the only grange hall still officially functioning in Tompkins County, New York.Enfield Falls lies in the southeastern part of Enfield, within Robert H. Treman State Park. Named in honor of Robert H. Treman, who presented the land to New York State in 1920, Treman Park is a local natural and recreational area as well as a tourist attraction. The Grist Mill located in the park was constructed in 1838-39 and was in use until 1916. Today, there is a group, The Friends of Robert H. Treman State Park, who support the park by conducting educational and history-related programs and tours of the park and mill.In 2019, retail establishments located in Enfield include Dandy Mart, a convenience store/gas station, and Dollar General, a location that offers residents needed items without having to travel to outside towns. Both are located at "Millers Corners", the intersection of Mecklenburg (State Route 79) and Halseyville/Enfield Main (State Route 327) Roads.Throughout its history, Enfield has enjoyed a dynamic community feeling, rich in the tradition of rural America.
The Enfield Valley Grange No. 295,
constructed in 1925 by residents of the Town.
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Town of Enfield Overview (DRAFT)
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POPULATION
2000 - 2016 Statistics: The 2010 Census indicate that Enfield's population has increased by 4.2 percent since 2000, to a total of 3,616 people. Population density in Enfield has also increased to 95 persons per square mile.Families constitute 63.3 percent of Enfield households of which 43.8 percent are married couples. The average household size is 2.43 people, and the average family size is 2.92 people. Almost half of Enfield's population is 25-54 years of age, indicating that most residents are of working-age.
INCOME
2010 Income: The U.S. Census Bureau defines household income as the sum of income received in a calendar year by all household members 15 years or older, including non-family household members. A total list of income sources can be seen online. A partial list appears below: •Wages or salary •Interest and dividends •Net rental income •Royalty income
•Income from estates and trusts •Social Security or Railroad Retirement income •Supplemental Security income (SSI) •Public assistance •Retirement, survivor, or disability pensionsThe table on the next page shows the estimated 2016 median household income for Enfield and Tompkins County were approximately $57,906 and $54,133, respectively, both of which were lower than the $60,741 median household income estimate for New York State. It also shows estimates of the percentage of families within each jurisdiction whose income in the prior year was below the poverty level, as defined by New York State.
2016 Population
104,926
3,616
3,512
TOWN POPULATION, 2000-2016
Figure 1 - Town Population (Source: American Community Survey, 2016)
2010 Population
2000 Population
101,564
96,501
3,369
Topkins County, % Change = 8.7%
Town of Enfield, % Change = 7.3%
Tompkins County
Town of Enfield
New York State
Town of Caroline
Town of Enfield
Town of Newfield
New York State
Tompkins County
Town of Newfield
Town of Enfiled
Tompkins County
Town of Caroline
New York State
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Town of Enfield Overview (DRAFT)
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Tompkins County
Town of Enfield
New York State
$54,133
$57,906
$60,741Figure 2 - (Source: American Community Survey, 2016)
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME, 2016
Town of Caroline
Town of Enfield
Town of Newfield
New York State
Tompkins County Figure 3 - Town Population in Poverty, 2016 (Source: American Community Survey, 2016)
PERCENT OF POPULATION BELOW POVERTY LINE, 2016
7.9%
8.4%
15.5%
13.6%
20.21%
Town of Newfield
Town of Enfiled
Tompkins County
Town of Caroline
New York State Figure 4 - Town Per Capita Income, 2016 (Source: American Community Survey, 2016)
PER CAPITA INCOME, 2016
$27,487
$28,747
$28,940
$28,888
$34,212
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Town of Enfield Overview (DRAFT)
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TOWN OF ENFIELD COMMUNITY DYNAMICSThis snapshot identifies Town of Enfield strengths and weaknesses as well as some of the opportunities and the threats faced by the municipality in order to help develop a fuller understanding of our community and assist in both strategic planning and decision-making.
STRENGTHS
Community activism
Citizen engagement
Quality of life
Small town atmosphere
Town historian
Agricultural appreciation
Farmland preservation support
Quality croplands
Natural capital (forests, waterways, parks)
Enfield elementary school
Residential growth
Small business development
Oldest grange
Local fire company
Town recycling center
Well-managed recordkeeping
Updated highway facilities
Compatible renewable energy potential
Natural gas activities ban
WEAKNESSES
Community divided by 4 school districts
Dispersed residents limits social connection
Limited housing opportunities
Aging population
Low-income households
Poverty challenges
Abandoned buildings
Dangerous transportation network
Disheveled properties cluttered with junk
Lack of public water and sewer
No road use agreements
Poor municipal facilities
Treman park swimming area out of Town
Viability of agricultural land
OPPORTUNITIES
Establish vision for ‘Town Center’
Plan goals for development types
Affordable and senior housing
Community center and recreation
Capitalize on town history, appeal for tourism
Movement in Ag friendly environment
Recreation in Upper Treman Park, elsewhere
Signage for Town attractions/destinations
Update historical records with progress
THREATS
Few local job opportunities
Low income rates and wages
Food insecurity
Crime
Dangerous traffic
Unsafe property conditions
Declining economic viability of agriculture
Environmental hazards from industrial farming
Environmental degradation and pollution
Heavy industrial development
Deficient telecommunication infrastructure
Not many future planning projections
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Town of Enfield Overview (DRAFT)
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2050 COMMUNITY VISION
The Enfield Comprehensive Plan is a community effort to retain the unique qualities of the Town
of Enfield, plan for its future growth and improvement, and manage change.
The Town of Enfield preserves its open rural environment and recreational assets, as well as the
historic character of its architectural structures, main thoroughfares, and buildings on outlying
roads.
The quality of Enfield's water supply and natural resources are protected for sustainable growth
in a wholesome, small-town atmosphere. Responsible development oversight in our township
has preserved the rural character of our town.
We preserve the welcoming, socially diverse nature of our community and strive to strengthen
ties among community groups.
Residents collaborate and cooperate to improve health, safety, and access to care. Safe,
affordable housing stock is abundant. Quality of life is enriched for youth and seniors through a
balance of community group programs.
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<<COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENTS
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Heritage and Historic Preservation (DRAFT)
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<<
2050 VISION
SECTION 1 — HERITAGE AND HISTORIC
PRESERVATION
INTRODUCTIONHeritage and historic preservation may include buildings, memorials, and landscapes along with the cultural practices, oral traditions and knowledge of the community.Many buildings, now private homes, within the town were once used as stores, churches, and schools. This helps preserve the building and makes it important to share and remind the residents of the original usage of these buildings and share the history of residents who were involved. It is also important to recognize the agricultural heritage within the community.
Cemeteries are an important reminder of Enfield's heritage. In addition to marking the final resting places of our ancestors, they yield information about our Town's social, religious, artistic, and cultural heritage. They also contain genealogical information that cannot be found anywhere else.The only buildings in Enfield with a formal "Historic Designation" are those in Upper Robert H. Treman State Park, which are administered by the federal government's National Register of Historic Places and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historical Preservation. There are no historic preservation ordinances currently administered by the Town of Enfield.
The Town of Enfield values and works to preserve its history through collecting, preserving, and
educating the community about its heritage. The Town Historian contributes to this important
endeavor by encouraging residents to share their own personal and family history as it
relates to the community. The Town supports the Historian by utilizing area resources to fund
events and exhibits of interest to visitors as well as for safe preservation of historic items and
documents.
Located in Upper Robert H. Treman State Park (off State Rte
327), this gristmill was built in 1838-1839 by Jared Treman. It is
no longer in operation, but open to visitors. It contains a small
museum with exhibits about the Civilian Conservation Corps
Camp and the early Enfield Falls community.
“I like that we have history here. I
know our family’s land like the back
of my hand. My head is full of stories
from relatives long lost and of my own
experiences tromping through a swamp,
learning to drive a tractor under the
instruction of my granddad.”
2013 Resident Survey
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Heritage and Historic Preservation (DRAFT)
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MAP 1 - TOWN OF ENFIELD SURVEY MAP, 1866
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Heritage and Historic Preservation (DRAFT)
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Support NYS Law 57.07 Local Town Historian appointments - Enfield Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian 1a. Appoint yearly the Enfield Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian1b. Work cooperatively with the Records Management Officer, to protect Town government records and Town Historian's Collection utilizing the services of the Enfield Town Historian, Deputy Town Historian, and the programs and grants available through the New York State Archives program1c. Preserve historic records and important documents2. Encourage efforts that promote the history, culture, and heritage of the town 2a. Increase public education about and appreciation for local history by utilizing the knowledge of the Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian along with various Historical organizations within the Tompkins County area2b. Work to become aware of community groups within the town to help protect their heritage, specifically the Enfield Valley Grange, Enfield Community Council, and Friends of Robert H. Treman State Park2c. Work specifically and cooperatively with the Tompkins County Municipal Historians group and Tompkins County Historian
HERITAGE & HISTORIC PRESERVATION —
GOALS AND ACTIONS
GOAL ACTIONS
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Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Heritage and Historic Preservation (DRAFT)
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4a. Direct visitors to historic sites throughout Enfield through promotion and incorporation into local historic trails and registries4b. Create signage to increase interest and visitors to area sites of historic interest
HERITAGE & HISTORIC PRESERVATION —
GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS3. Identify and encourage preservation of significant historic and cultural lands, sites, and structures that contribute to community identity and character
3a. Preserve the Town's character and the history of the area by taking advantage of county and state programs3b. Collect and preserve the "historical" heritage of homes and farms, including family history of property owners. This specifically includes the buildings now privately owned and once used as stores, churches and schools3c. Support and encourage the preservation and maintenance of cemeteries within the town3d. Work cooperatively with historic organizations such as Historic Ithaca, NY State Historic Preservation Office, Tompkins County History Center, and Ulysses and Newfield Historical Societies, to identify, record, and protect community features with historical or archaeological significance3e. Encourage interested residents to partner with the current Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian, to learn the documentation and preservation process to encourage continued preservation for future generations4. Increase tourism through use of historic points of interest within the town
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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<<2050 VISION
SECTION 2 — MUNICIPAL SERVICES
INTRODUCTIONNew York State encourages municipalities to identify the goals, objectives, principles, guidelines, policies, standards, devices and instruments for their immediate and long-range protection, enhancement, growth and development (General City Law section 28a(3)(a); Town Law section 272-a(2)(a).Local government plays an integral part in the success of our municipality, as it is charged with carrying out the work of the electorate and all residents who are impacted by the efficiency of its operation.Providing services that benefit all residents in a rural community, while keeping the tax impact manageable for the population, is challenging for municipalities. The Enfield community has little in the way of infrastructure, including sewer and water systems that would make business or housing development more attractive, and thus its rural residential and agricultural residents bear the bulk of the expense needed to finance operations of the Town.
Results of the 2013 Residents Survey indicated that residents feel Town government in Enfield has become more responsive in recent years, welcoming public input and assistance. The Enfield community has benefited from public participation, open process, and working collaboratively to achieve long-term goals. A shared vision, planned goals, and community participation provide a path forward for a municipality that has long struggled to grow and provide quality services, while building community. As a result, the Town welcomes further resident involvement in such municipal affairs.The structure of the Town of Enfield Local Government begins with the Citizens of Enfield. As we move forward to achieve the goals of this Comprehensive Plan, there will be many opportunities for Enfield residents to engage on long and short-term committees and projects. The input and participation of local residents is an invaluable resource that helps local elected representatives facilitate the initiatives the community has determined are important.
The Town of Enfield maintains a positive civic image. The town cooperates with neighboring
communities to provide efficient and prudent services to the residents of Enfield. The governing
board appoints and assigns responsibilities to designated boards and committees, as well as
collaborates with local residents, businesses and elected or appointed individuals to address
the issues facing the residents of Enfield in a timely fashion.
The protection of the health, safety, welfare and property of town residents serves as a
guidepost for all development decisions that may impact the rural landscape and quality of life
they enjoy.
The municipality functions in a transparent, inclusive, and participatory manner to build
community among its residents. Enfield provides services to residents as cost effectively as
possible, without sacrificing quality. Enfield seeks opportunities to invest in the future security
of the municipality and its residents by exploring innovative methods for providing excellent
service efficiently, economically, and with environmental awareness.
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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Finding ways to communicate these opportunities and invite resident involvement will be crucial to meeting the 2050 vision set forth in this plan. Connecting and communicating with residents has proved challenging with little telecommunications infrastructure or physical spaces where community members can gather socially. The Town's website provides tools for communicating with residents and easy access to many resources. These resources include tax bill payment services, decades of archived minutes, audio meeting recordings, town laws, updates for residents, and much more. Among comparable municipalities in New York State, Enfield provides impressive electronic services. Municipal facilities in Enfield are aging and inefficient, adding to the cost of operations through high energy bills, maintenance, and repair. Development of a new building to house the town's municipal services could provide savings to residents and ease confusion regarding location of each service such as town court, town
TOWN OF ENFIELD GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE
Citizens of Enfield
Town Justice Highway Superintendent Supervisor Town Board Town Clerk
Court Clerk Deputy Highway Superintendent Deputy Supervisor Code Enforcement Deputy Town Clerk
Bookkeeper
Confidential
Secretary
clerk, and code enforcement offices. This is a high priority in order to provide cost-effective services to residents.Town Supervisor, Highway Superintendent, and Town Clerk serve two-year terms. Each position has a steep learning curve. Much time, often more than a year, is spent learning the law and the obligations of each job.The Town of Enfield, as a municipality, is organized as follows.
ENFIELD TOWN COUNCILThe Enfield Town Council (Town Board) consists of five elected officials, including four Councilpersons and one Supervisor. The Town Board serves as the executive, administrative and legislative body of the Town.The Town Board is transparent and welcomes community input and assistance. The tone of public meetings is one of respect and professionalism. A commitment to a common
Figure 5 - Town of Enfield Government Structure
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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ENFIELD HIGHWAY DEPARTMENTThe Enfield Highway Department maintains 86.2 miles of Town-owned roads. Maintenance includes road construction, repair, drainage, and repair of roadways culverts and bridges as well as snow and brush removal.A Capital Inventory Replacement Plan has not been implemented due to financial constraints, resulting in an aging and heavily burdened stock of machinery to complete the tasks of road and bridge maintenance. Coupled with increasing extreme weather events, such as flooding, severe road damage has occurred, and the Highway Department struggles to keep pace with the demand of the Town's requirements. In 2015 and 2018, large equipment purchases were approved and completed, providing the Town with much needed equipment for its heaviest maintenance activity. Continued equipment replacement going forward will be necessary to provide continued quality road maintenance service for safety and financial benefit to residents.
“I enjoy the sense of community and public
involvement that appears to be growing
in Enfield.”
2013 Resident Survey
vision for the growth and benefit of the Town of Enfield has created an environment where many projects directed at providing quality services responsibly to residents is the priority. These include: •Increasing public transportation opportunities by cooperating with Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) to extend routes and enhance mobility options for residents •Providing Clean Up Days to better manage waste and collection of debris and junk through collaboration with local metal recycling and solid waste collection businesses. The Highway Department staff facilitates this effort at the Highway building for one week each year •Encouraging programs, such as Solar Tompkins, HeatSmart Tompkins, and Button Up Enfield for reducing energy consumption and increasing the use of renewable energy •Providing efficient municipal facilities and maintaining them responsibly •Providing quality infrastructure maintenance and development for a growing community •Completion of an aquifer study to identify and protect local water resources Attention to Enfield's growth in housing, as well as renewable energy development (wind and solar), building needs, and equipment replacement for road maintenance have dominated the work of Enfield's municipal government. All of these expenses present challenges to keeping tax rates low while providing expected services. Efforts to consolidate services with neighboring municipalities as well as Tompkins County have become increasingly necessary, as mandated programs and other costs increase and funding from New York State decreases.
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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A small staff and an elected Superintendent, this group coordinates their many skills to complete much of the necessary equipment maintenance and repair, saving residents money and providing timely service.The Highway Department building that was completed in 2011 is in need of capital improvements as a result of deficient construction. Fiscal limitations have limited the Town's ability to take corrective action.Inter-municipal cooperation contributes significantly to the Highway Department's ability to complete many important tasks in the town.
Total General Repairs
Total Machinery
Total Employee Benefits
Total Interfund Transfer
Total Snow Removal
Total Improvements
Total Bridge Repair
Total Brush/Weed Removal
$351,958
$161,000
$154,400
$132,500
$124,014
$104,154
$20,000
$17,000 Figure 6 - Town Highway Expenditures, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
Tax Levy
CHIPS
Culvert Fees
Interest
$959,372
$104,154
$1,200
$300
2019 HIGHWAY EXPENDITURES - $1,065,026
2019 HIGHWAY REVENUE - TOTAL: $1,065,026
Figure 7 - Town Highway Expenditures, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
Continued efforts to find ways to collaborate are necessary to provide safe and efficient Highway services to the residents of the Town of Enfield.
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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ENFIELD TOWN CLERK SERVICESEnfield Town Clerk is an elected official who serves as manager of all town records and as recording secretary of all Town Board meetings and Public Hearings. The Clerk provides licensing for marriage, hunting, dogs, fishing, and handicap parking and other important communications with residents, including the Town website.The Town Clerk also serves as the Tax Collector.The Clerk's duties are affected by several other positions in Town Government. Facilities in varying locations for each service creates challenges for the community and Clerk alike. Outdated and inefficient buildings do not project a professional image to the public. Attempts have been made to maintain current physical assets, however maintaining or renovating such old buildings continues to be an inefficient use of Town funds, and an area of improvement the Town is committed to.
“I appreciate the responsiveness of the Town
Board to community concerns and have
faith that it bodes well for Enfield’s future.”
2013 Resident Survey
ENFIELD TOWN COURTThe Enfield Town Court consists of one Justice who hears both civil and criminal matters. The Civil proceedings may not exceed $3,000 and criminal proceedings include the prosecution of crimes and violations that are committed within the town's boundaries.Current concerns for the Enfield Town Court include:1. Inadequate office space2. Security concerns with office location and public access to the building3. Lack of conference space, appropriate facility for jury trials and deliberation
4. Concerns about the ability to meet the continually changing court standards required by New York State.Many of these points could be met with a new facility where all town services are provided efficiently and effectively with adequate space and security.The Enfield Town Court, like all town offices, is faced with new, unfunded mandates that make providing services more demanding each year.
ENFIELD TOWN CODE ENFORCEMENTThe Enfield Office of Code Enforcement provides guidance, inspection, and permitting for land use and development issues such as building, signage, junkyards, mobile home parks, communication towers, wind energy facilities, parcel sub-division, solar installations and facilities, and more. The Enfield Code Enforcement office implements the New York State Building and Fire Codes, as adopted by the Enfield Town Board.Code enforcement is enhanced through the Town of Enfield Site Plan Review Law, Wind Facilities Law, Subdivision Regulations, Prohibition of Gas and Petroleum Activities, solar installation permitting and solar facilities law.Communicating information and educating the public regarding building and property maintenance codes is a challenge for the Code Enforcement office. Maintenance and repair may be financially out of range for many residents, making enforcement difficult. However, consolidation of Code Enforcement positions
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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and expansion of office hours has improved the ability of the Code Enforcement Officer to engage with the community for fire and safety inspections. Town residents are welcome to make an appointment with the Code Officer for information about regulations and compliance.Town Clean-Up Days, a service administered by the Town Board, has become a popular offering that provides residents a way to get rid of collected junk. This compliments Code Enforcement efforts to keep properties safely maintained and free of unsightly material, debris, and collected junk, a persistent concern of residents.Wind and solar activity in the Town of Enfield is on the rise, with 67 permitted residential solar installations and 3 commercial solar facilities through 2018. The increase in renewable energy development requires more training and fieldwork for the Code Enforcement office due to permitting and inspection needs. Continued growth in renewable energy development may necessitate increased hours for this office if the pace of such development in the town continues, as is the case across Tompkins County.
ENFIELD PLANNING BOARDThe Planning Board consists of five individuals appointed by the Enfield Town Council to serve five-year terms (with 2 alternate appointees). The regulatory authority specifically delegated to the Planning Board is the power to review
subdivisions and site plan applications that meet thresholds in the Site Plan Review Law. The Planning Board also has advisory power and offers advice on land use regulations, studies, maps and reports, budgets, Comprehensive Plans, area variance requests, and proposed actions by other boards.The Planning Board meets once monthly with annual rotating volunteer membership appointed by the Town Board. As development in Enfield is encouraged, the responsibilities of the Planning Board will increase.Local Law # 2 of 2012, Enfield's Site Plan Review Law, has offered the Planning Board a guide to advise development within the boundaries of the town, and residents and developers alikestandards in building design and construction. The Town of Enfield Subdivision Regulations providesome guidance with regard to development. This set of local laws is enforced by the town Code Enforcement Officer.
PUBLIC SAFETYPublic safety in the Town of Enfield is provided by the Tompkins County Sheriff's Department, New York State Police, and New York State Park Police.Public safety is a priority in the Town of Enfield. A satellite police presence could reduce response times for local law enforcement requests.The Town of Enfield is legally obligated to provide fire protection services to residents and does so through the Enfield Fire Protection District.The Town of Enfield contracts with the Enfield Volunteer Fire Company for Fire, EMS, natural disaster response and other emergencies. A tax levy is administered to cover the expenses. The Enfield Volunteer Fire Company is like many others in the State, in that their workforce is aging and there is decreasing volunteer support. Financial constraints and levy limitations may also strain budgets and hamper equipment replacement efforts in the future.
Worker's Comp
NYS Firefighters Cancer Benefit
Contract - Enfield Vol Fire Co
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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Effective communication between the Town Board and Fire Company is crucial to providing this important service. Enhancing community awareness of the functions of the Enfield Volunteer Fire Company may increase participation and community support. Encouraging open communication and accountability between the Town Board and the Fire Company Board of Directors and volunteers is a priority, as these efforts can ensure the viability of emergency services long into the future.
Residential
Agricultural
Commercial
Vacant Land
Public Services
Community Services
Wild, Forested, Conservation Lands & Public Parks
Recreation & Entertainment
$161,964,400
$21,420,400
$12,952,200
$10,998,200
$6,966,946
$5,868,600
$2,406,200
$2,339,000 Figure 8 - Land Use by Total Assessed Value, 2018 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
LAND USE (PROPERTY CLASS) BY TOTAL ASSESSED VALUE
$516,171Industrial
Worker's Comp
NYS Firefighters Cancer Benefit
$320,093
$27,000
$2,400
2019 FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT EXPENDITURES - $349,493
Contract - Enfield Vol Fire Co
Figure 9 - Town Fire Protection District Expenditures, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Municipal Services (DRAFT)
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MUNICIPAL REVENUES AND
EXPENDITUIRES During the 2019 Budget process, much thought was given to the path Enfield is on. A commitment has been made to better understand the long-term needs of the Town and how to develop a more predictable path forward for residents.Efforts have been made to explore how we procure goods and services to make more responsible choices regarding town funds. The Town Board has committed to creating a long-term plan that will help local government map out, control future spending, and provide a more predictable tax levy each year. With expenses that leave us little control or long-term perspective, this task is difficult, but necessary.Increases in revenue are harder to capture, as municipalities are very limited in their options for increasing this resource. Mortgage tax,
HAZARD MITIGATIONLocal governing boards face increased challenges in a changing world. Climate change, natural disasters, and political unrest present many dangers for which emergency response has become a necessity. In recent years, Enfield has faced several flood events with extensive financial loss, and predictions indicate severe weather events will likely increase.The Town of Enfield has participated minimally in the Tompkins County Hazard Mitigation Plan, but has not created a local plan for responding to events such as massive winter storms, flooding, long-term power outages, public health crises, or unexpected threats to our community that could find us unable to manage local services residents expect.Safety of residents, their homes and property are paramount. Cooperation of local Enfield services to create a Hazard Mitigation Plan, as well as facilitating FEMA Flood Mapping positions a town and its residents to protect themselves not only in the moment of an Emergency, but through mitigation and insurance before an event occurs.Flood mapping may allow homeowners to insure their property against flooding and affords the municipality the opportunity to apply for funds to mitigate the risks of these events as well as recovering from them.A Hazard Mitigation Plan prepares a community to respond quickly in an organized fashion to return to the quality of life they have come to expect. Cooperation with other local governments and services is predetermined for effective action. A coordinated effort to complete this Plan will establish a guide the governing board can follow to mobilize emergency services and provide much needed amenities to members of the community in their time of need.
THREATS AND HAZARDS
FACING NEW YORK STATE
Flooding
Hurricanes/Tropical Storms
Tornadoes
Winter/Ice Storms
Wildfires
Algae Blooms
Earthquakes
Drought
Infrastructure Failures
Transportation Accidents
Hazardous Materials Incidents
Terrorism
Active Shooter Situations
Cyber Attacks
Pandemics/Public Health Emergencies
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“I’m optimistic that increased involvement
in local Enfield government by many
thoughtful residents can help build a
more prosperous and caring community
for the 21st centruy.”
2013 Resident Survey
AD VALOREM TAXES PAID
BY TOWN RESIDENTS, 2019
WHO GETS YOUR TAX DOLLARS?
21.00%
Town
21.70%
County
68.30%
School
Figure 10 - Ad Valorem Taxes Paid by Town Residents, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
Payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreements for development, franchises, and levies are the most common sources of revenue for Towns, and the most reliable way to increase these amounts is through new development and housing improvements.Energy usage for inefficient, aging buildings is at an all-time high. Finding ways to reduce consumption, while making town spaces safe and comfortable is a priority for both cost and energy savings.Protecting and upgrading town assets and infrastructure are challenging goals that must continually be met. Finding creative and effective ways to accomplish these goals will be the challenge of the Town going forward.
Tax Levy
Mortgage Tax
Revenue Sharing
Licenses and Permits
Tax Items
Court Facilities - JCAP Grant
Department Income
$40,000
$16,000
$14,500
$7,029
$7,000
$5,877
$1,100 Figure 11 - Town General Fund Revenue, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
2019 GENERAL FUND REVENUE - $573,178
$350Interest and Earnings
Miscellaneous
$481,322
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Highway Bond
Buildings
Highway Superintendent
Culture/Recreation
Employee Benefits
Public Safety
Justice
$102,950
$68,600
$60,568
$59,036
$54,000
$52,402
$44,500
$37,451
Figure 12 - Town Expenditures, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
2019 GENERAL TOWN EXPENDITURES - $590,488
$32,254Town Clerk
Special Items
Supervisor
Attorney
Town Board
Home and Community
Garage
Bookkeeper
Print, Mail, Records
Street Lighting
$21,011
$15,000
$14,038
$11,978
$11,400
$3,500
$1,500
$300
Highway
General Town
Fire
$590,488
$349,493Figure 13 - A-Fund Comparison of Town Expenditures, 2019 (Source: Town of Enfield, 2018)
2019 EXPENDITURE COMPARISON
$1,065,026
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Decrease risk to management of Town resources 1a. Explore a proposal for an increase in length of term for Highway Superintendent, Town Supervisor, Town Clerk1b. Audit Town finances every five years as turnover increases risk of malfeasance1c. Update Town policies bi-annually to reflect new State laws and changes in municipal practice; including Site Plan Review, Road Use Agreement, Personnel Handbook, and others as they become necessary1d. Promote and enhance transparency and documentation of Town business1e. Increase training opportunities for governing board members1f. Consider increasing the frequency of official Town Board meetings to accommodate the amount of new and existing business the board is responsible for2. Increase public safety 2a. Maintain the Emergency Management Plan in cooperationwith Tompkins County and New York State2b. Encourage the installation of a law enforcement satellite office within the Town of Enfield2c. Ensure that emergency service providers are equipped and trained to respond safely and effectively to local emergencies2d. Educate the community regarding current and emerging public health issues and resources3. Address hazard mitigation 3a. Develop a Floodplain Management plan or ordinance for the protection of homes and property of residents3b. Develop an Emergency Management Plan to protect the lives and property of residents3c. Identify community resources such as equipment, skillsets, and other resources residents may be willing to contribute in the event of a community emergency
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GOAL ACTIONS
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4. Increase public involvement in the democratic process 4a. Communicate meeting times and topics of discussion in a more widespread and timely manner4b. Provide documentation of board and committee work (minutes) in a timely manner4c. Encourage community involvement through volunteer opportunities on long and short-term projects4d. Provide efficient systems for residents to respond to safety and environmental concerns
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GOAL ACTIONS
5. Reduce mandated program costs for more control over the budget process 5a. Continue to seek opportunities for consolidation of services with other municipalities to decrease municipal liabilities5b. Bolster relationships with other municipalities to communicate ideas for reduction of mandates at the State level6. Encourage and responsibly manage renewable energy and environmental development in the Town of Enfield in a way that is compatible with our rural way of life
6a. Research development of renewable energy regulations that speak to the concerns residents have expressed with all forms of siting and operation of energy development facilities6b. Determine need for management of renewable development planning and construction within the Town6c. Insure that regulations are met and appropriate compensation to the Town of Enfield is negotiated for all development6d. Update and improve laws and regulations as new information becomes available to protect the health, safety, welfare, environmental resources and property of town residents
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7. Encourage community organizations for increased resident participation in Town events and programming
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GOAL ACTIONS
8. Establish outdoor community areas 8a. Define open green spaces to accommodate outdoor activities, playground space, community gardens, and a sports field8b. Explore opportunities for bike paths to provide safe travel to community facilities9. Commit to maintaining, restoring, or building municipal facilities to provide efficient and accessible services to all residents of Enfield
9a. Pursue the development of a new municipal administrative facility that is accessible, energy efficient, and viable for future generations as the Town of Enfield grows in a coordinated, well-planned manner9b. Find suitable uses for unused municipal properties and restore or maintain them for community purposes (ex: gardening, education, recreation)9c. Pursue solutions to Highway facility problems9d. Upgrade existing facilities to comply with building codes and accessibility standards
7a. Increase the availability of programs for education, recreation, entertainment, literacy, life skills7b. Encourage the development of a multi-use facility that can function as a meeting space, youth center, senior program space, recreational center, and community room7c. Foster community feeling and connection by expanding existing programs to include more residents and diverse offerings7d. Prepare a resource guide of information for residents to include neighborhood and civic organizations and other topics such as annual events and services, emergency preparedness, agricultural and environmental issues, beautification, and communicating with municipal services7e. Encourage volunteering, including youth and seniors, to assist in providing community services. Recognize volunteers to show appreciation
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Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Agriculture (DRAFT)
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<<2050 VISION
SECTION 3 — AGRICULTURE
INTRODUCTIONSince its founding in 1821, agriculture has been the predominant economic activity within the Town of Enfield. Presently, Enfield agriculture is experiencing a period of resurgence. Many of the established farmers are expanding their operations. Simultaneously, beginning farmers are establishing new farming operations and associated local retail enterprises within the Town.The scope of agricultural production within the Town covers nursery/landscape, forages, small grains, beans, livestock (equine, bovine, ovine, porcine and camelids), produce, nurseries, silviculture and conservation plants. Conventional, all-natural and organic farming techniques are all utilized within the Town and the results are enjoyed throughout the community as well as Tompkins County.
ENFIELD FARM FACTS
Source: Compiled by Cornell Cooperative Extension using
data from Tompkins County Assessment, Tompkins County
Planning, and NYS Certified Agricultural District surveys
FARMS
Number of farms: •Approximately 40 farms receive agricultural assessment, nine of which are based outside of the town in bordering communities
The Town of Enfield is a welcoming community where Agriculture can thrive.
Through sustainable farming practices, stewards of the land preserve the soil for future
generations in order to grow and nourish the Town's agricultural character.
Preserving farmland, cleared mostly by hand over the course of 200 years, and creating an
inviting economy for new and existing agriculture endeavors is a priority for the town and its
residents. Small farming operations and the business that support them remain economically
viable through community support. •Numerous small farms (produce, equine, beef and other livestock) are located in Enfield, but are not large enough nor earn enough farm income to qualify for agricultural assessment •Genex Breeders, a cattle genetics firm, is partially located in the Town, but does not receive agricultural assessment
Total acres of farmland: •10,658.74 acres (about 45 percent of the town) •Owned acres: 4144.25 receiving agricultural assessment •Rented acres: 5895.58 receiving agricultural assessment •618.91 Genex acres
Average size of farm: •Enfield farms range from 20 acres to over 1000 acres. •Because town and county boundaries are artificial constructs, and many farms cross these boundaries. For example, several farms that own land in the town are based outside of the town; their 300 acres in the town could be part of a 1000 acre farm.
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Cropped acres: •There were 2700 acres of farm-associate woodlands in 2013 and remained nearly unchanged.
CROPS
Traditional crops: •Most of the farmland in Enfield is used to grow crops, by crop farmers as well as dairy farmers. •Farmers generally grow hay, soybeans, and corn in rotation. Much of the hay and corn production stays local or regional and is used by dairy and beef farms (all three crops) and other livestock such as horses, sheep, goats, and alpaca (hay). •Soybeans, and some corn, are also sold on the international market, travelling by tractor trailer and train to the ports in New York and Michigan. At least one farmer in Enfield has a grain roaster, increasing the value of and demand for his harvest. •Small grains (oats, rye, triticale, etc.) are also grown in different acreage quantities from year to year.
Emerging grains (hops or others): •One of the owners of Farmer Ground Flour (located in the Town of Enfield), rents approximately 540 of his 1200 acres for grain production in Enfield. The mill also works with nine associate farms to raise grain for the mill, one of which is in Enfield (two others are nearby - one each in Trumansburg and Ovid). The mill produces 13 types of flour and has close to 150 outlets over six states, and if the mill continues to grow there may be additional production opportunities for interested farmers.
•There is some experimentation with hops in Enfield, although the extensive infrastructure required and the unknown demand for the crop has kept farm investment low. •Hemp cultivation may be on the horizon, for Enfield as well as state-wide, as the current governor has authorized NYS Ag and Markets to prioritize getting the needed research done and getting farms into production. The governor is aware of the need for processing infrastructure to handle production, and until these are in place scaling up of production is not expected.
“I support small to moderate scale,
traditional as well as new economy
(e.g., organic) agriculture in Enfield.”
2013 Resident Survey
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MAP 2 - AGRICULTURE PARCELS
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DISADVANTAGES OF THE TOWN'S
AGRICULTURAL BASEDespite the Town of Enfield's rich history and committed future, its agricultural community also faces several concerns. •Large-scale farming operations contribute to low viability of smaller farming operations. -Small farms struggle to compete with the volume of large farm operations. -Large farming operations increase land holdings of higher quality soil areas -Containment and/or disposal of waste presents a risk to the environment •Difficulty of maintaining farming operations. -Working and safety conditions of farm operations -Extreme weather events due to a changing climate -Regulations that favor other industries -Unpredictable economic conditions •Impact of farming changes on community. -Less small farms often equates to less community support and connection -Resident farmers face challenges of continuing operations, as industrial sized farming operations dominate the market. -Studies show that as land holdings of independent farming operations become acquired by larger farming operations, less local spending and higher crime and poverty rates result. (NY State Comptroller 2010: Bet on the Farm: Farmland Protection as a Strategy for Economic Growth and Renewal)
ADVANTAGES OF THE TOWN’S
AGRICULTURAL BASE •Farmers and their business activities can promote land stewardship, maintaining the natural beauty of the rural countryside. Farmlands established through contour farming, no-till, grain-drill and other conservation cultivation practices provide vegetative buffer zones, hedgerows, wetlands, pasture and grasslands; improving watershed and reducing stormwater runoff. Many Enfield farmers have worked with the County Soil and Water Conservation District to establish Best Management Practices (BMP's) including replacement and/or installation of approximately four miles of livestock fence as well as buried water lines, frost free hydrants, wells in livestock pastures, pressure tanks, and watering tubs. •Farmers ease the tax burden of non-farming landowners when their land is leased to viable farming operations. This relationship provides eligibility for agricultural assessment for the landowner. •Farmers keep land viable and preserve natural capital for agricultural use both now and in the future.
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Support the Town's existing agricultural base 1a. Partner with the Enfield Grange and other local agricultural organizations to offer educational workshops and speakers on agricultural topics relevant to Town farmers and other residents1b. Encourage the development of value-added agricultural enterprises that complement and build on traditional agricultural operations within the Town1c. Ensure that Enfield is represented on County Advisory Boards such as the EMC (Environmental Management Committee) and WRC (Water Resources Council)1d. Appoint a Town Agricultural Advisory Board to provide comment on local proceedings and trends that may impact agriculture1e. Develop a resource whereby the Town can disseminate program information from agricultural agencies to Town farmers1f. Provide annual training opportunities for Town Official(s) in NYS Agricultural District Law to ensure that the Town adheres to NYS Agricultural District Law1g. Educate residents regarding the New York State Right to Farm Law, in particular as it pertains to Towns in designated NYS Agricultural Districts
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3. Encourage the consumption of locally produced agricultural goods 3a. Facilitate the development of a local produce market or swap3b. Explore farm-to-school initiatives that can be implemented in the Enfield Elementary School3c. Create a list of active small farm businesses that sell their products on site or at local markets and retailers
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GOAL ACTIONS
4. Foster the use of best management practices for all forms of agriculture 4a. Encourage agriculturalists to utilize the educational resources available from local universities, Cooperative Extension, government agencies, and agricultural professionals
2. Cultivate an Agriculture-Friendly community 2a. Educate the non-farming public about the realities of living in an agricultural community by encouraging farming relationships through community events and upon issuance of new building permits, provide copies of: •The NYS Agricultural Districts Law •The NYS Right-to-Farm Law •Relevant documents such as Cornell Cooperative Extension's flyer Living in the Country2b. Publish in the Town newsletter and on the Town web page seasonal reminders about typical farming activities, how to support them and how to stay safe2c. Apply for NYS grant funding to develop a Town Ag & Protection Plan
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5. Establish an Enfield Agricultural Community 5a. Foster positive interactions among all agriculturalists: •Create new social media sites to build community interest •Promote the existing Enfield Agriculture Facebook page •Add resources to the Town of Enfield website •Utilize a Town-wide Email list •Encourage membership to the Enfield Grange and other relevant local agricultural organizations
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GOAL ACTIONS
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<<2050 VISION
SECTION 4 — LAND USE
INTRODUCTIONThe Town of Enfield is committed to maintaining its rural landscape by ensuring that existing and potential development enhances the safety and quality of life of our residents. Enfield residents wish to maintain a balance between the land entitlements of individual property owners and the goals of the community at-large. The Town aims to provide adequate public services, practice good planning principles, and ensure that growth is thoughtfully incorporated into the existing Enfield community as to enhance a variety of land uses.The Land Use section reflects a commitment to all aspects of this Plan, informing us as to how our use of the land and what is built therein in the Town of Enfield supports the goals and actions of each section. The Comprehensive Plan serves as a tool for policymakers, citizens, and developers.
The Town of Enfield is a community residents are proud to call "home". We are a regional
leader in environmental preservation, agriculture, and safe and compatible renewable energy
development.
Enfield values its farmland and the infrastructure that supports it, recognizing that an
agricultural base provides for the rural landscape we so enjoy. Preserving prime farmland is a
priority for the town.
Residential renewable energy installations, as well as conservation efforts, show a conscious
effort to protect our environmental and resources in the present and for future generations.
Commercial renewable energy development is managed to provide a balance between energy
needs that safeguard our environment and respect for our rural agriculturally productive
landscape.
The Town of Enfield offers opportunities for affordable housing and commercial economic
development respective of our rural character and natural beauty, while protecting the
property rights of landowners.
The town has adequate resources and infrastructure to support our thriving community.
Enfield continues to provide a safe and beautiful environment in which to live and do business.
Residents actively work to advance common values and goals to preserve our rural landscape
for generations present and future to live with.This section will serve to inform interested parties of the intentions for development and growth presently and with forward vision.The Town of Enfield is comprised of 36.9 square miles in Tompkins County, New York. It also includes the unincorporated hamlet of Enfield Center. This is a small residential area in which the Town Hall, Highway Department storage facility, Community Building/Town Court, Grange Hall, Volunteer Fire Company, and existing and former church buildings are located.In addition to a growing number of single-family homes, farms constitute a large percentage of the land use in the Town of Enfield. Most of the acreage is part of a protected Agricultural District. Enfield is also home to several recreational parks and preserves.Several large-scale solar PV operations have been constructed by Renovus Solar and Delaware River Solar in the Town of Enfield since 2016.
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Figure 14 - Land use by type, 2018
NUMBER OF PARCELS BY LAND USE TYPE (PROPERTY CLASS)
TOTAL PARCELS = 1,725
Residential
Vacant Land
Agricultural
Wild, Forested, Conservation Lands, & Public Parks
Commercial
Public Services
Recreation & Entertainment
1,150
334
Industrial
Community Services
91
46
44
31
15
7
7
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND
LOCAL LAWSArticle 16 of the NY State Town Law states that the purpose of a comprehensive plan is to establish a consensus about a community's future, prepare it for future demographic and economic changes, protect its natural and agricultural resources, and provide direction to the Town and other governmental agencies in the consideration and enactment of future land use policies and regulations. According to the State, enabling statutes and land use regulations must be in accordance with a comprehensive plan. NY State also recommends that municipalities review their Comprehensive Plans every five years to assure their continuing vision and alignment with Town activities.The Town has enacted four significant laws regarding Land Use since the 2001 Comprehensive Plan. Municipalities may review and update existing laws at regular intervals, and develop new ordinances in accordance with current understanding of impacts to health, safety, welfare and property of the residents of the municipality.
Local Law #1 of 2009, "Wind Energy Facilities Local Law", regulates commercial wind-powered electricity generation facilities as well as the installation of small wind generators for homeowners. Changes to the Wind Energy Facilities Local Law have been proposed, as the current law is being improved for the safety of residents and the environment through the creation of a Renewable Energy Advisory Committee, charged with assessing our renewable energy development regulations. Local Law # 2 of 2012, "Site Plan Review", protects the value of land throughout the Town; encourages orderly and sensible development of land and its uses; prevents the pollution of air and water; assures the adequacy of proper water management with regard to drainage and runoff; provides for the preservation of open spaces; abates and mitigates nuisances; encourages the preservation of natural features, topography, and resources; and generally protects the health, safety and public welfare of the residents of the Town. This Local Law ultimately promotes the conservation, preservation, and guides development in the Town, while also helping to prevent and mitigate certain unwanted and
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Land Use (DRAFT)
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MAP 3 - LAND USE AND LAND COVER, 2015
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Land Use (DRAFT)
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deleterious impacts that may arise from the unregulated development of land for certain allowed uses.Local Law No. 1 of 2013, the "Prohibition Within the Town of Gas And Petroleum Exploration And Extraction Activities, Underground Storage Of Natural Gas, and Disposal Of Natural Gas Or Petroleum Extraction, Exploration, And Production Wastes" is the culmination of a two year effort by an engaged Enfield community to show that heavy industry of this type is not compatible with the preservation of Enfield's rural character. Local Law No. 1 of 2017, Moratorium on Commercial Wind and Solar Energy Facilities, was passed for one year in response to proposals for an industrial wind farm and several solar operations. Residents asked the Town of Enfield to evaluate the impact of these changing technologies. A Renewable Energy Advisory Committee was developed to make recommendations on guidelines for solar and wind development and this timeframe would allow for the completion of the Comprehensive Plan update, development of commercial solar oversight, and a review of the Wind Facilities Law.These four laws demonstrate leadership that ensures the residents of the Town of Enfield are both invested in and benefit from the ongoing preservation of the natural resources, land security, rural history, and future of their community.The Tompkins County Comprehensive Plan states the following: "When we think of places we have visited or lived, some stand out as models of natural beauty and human comfort, supported by thriving local economies. These communities do not grow by accident or without public debate and agreed-upon guidelines. Collaborative planning processes and comprehensive plans are the building blocks of such great communities."One of the goals of the Enfield Comprehensive Plan is to guide the uses of land by employing planning techniques and practices that encourage responsible growth and respects the
beauty and comfort that residents of Enfield have always enjoyed.
COMMUNITY PLANNING IN
CONTEXTAccording to the Comprehensive Plan Survey (results in appendix), Town residents most appreciate Enfield's open spaces. Land use planning and activity must reflect the desires of the community to maintain these characteristics and safeguard the way of life enjoyed by those who live here.Agricultural endeavors have been the foundation of economic sustainability for much of Enfield, as approximately 10,000 acres are farmed, representing over 40% of the acreage in the town. It is important to this community to create a friendly environment for sustaining existing, and inviting new, agricultural projects to the Town. Responsible agricultural practices contribute significantly in cultivating the rural character residents appreciate.Through the Enfield Community Survey of 2013, residents registered concerns about agricultural practices that would diminish Enfield's ability to sustain farming as a viable economic endeavor for generations to come. Among those mentioned are large-scale industrial farming practices and CAFOs (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations) that are not compatible with sustainable preservation of and may threaten land and water resources.Land uses that preserve and protect land and water resources are important to the residents of Enfield and encouraged in the Town. Climate predictions and economic challenges make this community mindful of the future need for more locally sourced food and renewable energy opportunities. The Enfield community has demonstrated a commitment to reducing the use of fossil fuels and exploring renewable and energy efficient development that is compatible with the rural landscape central to the Town's identity.
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Nearly 70 solar permits have been issued in Enfield since 2014, the bulk of which were installed during years when Tompkins County was participating in cooperative initiatives that incentivized solar installations, such as Solar Tompkins. Residents can, and many are, now taking advantage of community solar and commercial solar opportunities for meeting their energy needs that don't require installing solar arrays on their properties and therefore saving both cost of equipment and having to alter their land or homes with the required infrastructure. A lack of telecommunication systems in Enfield has historically challenged the Town's efforts to engage and educate residents. However, with new communication technologies reaching more homes in Enfield, informing residents and keeping them connected with municipal programming has improved participation and awareness of local issues. Continuing this trend of engaging our citizenry is a primary goal of the Town as connective technologies and the infrastructure that is necessary for their implementation continues to support and improve Town services. Through time, residents have struggled to help actively plan for the future of the Town and how it takes shape. This update of our comprehensive plan and local laws now in place are a strong start that we hope will reverse that trend and encourage greater access to and engagement in the planning process that protects and simultaneously enhances our municipality. Having a defined community vision and menu of planning tools will aid the Town in involving residents to participate indecisions involving community development, and spur civic participation that advances the Town's best interests for quality of life.
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Respect Enfield's Rural Character 1a. Encourage homesteading and farming1b. Limit high-density of development1c. Develop, define, and preserve the Town Center1d. Preserve and provide private and public open spaces by protecting environmentally sensitive areas and scenic vistas, and promoting agricultural and forrestal lands1e. Clearly articulate and communicate the Town's future land use goals, development standards and requirements to the development community and the general public1f. Scrutinize industrial land uses before approval1g. Actively support residents in housing upkeep and maintenance
LAND USE — GOALS AND ACTIONS
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2. Maintain a balance between property rights of individual landowners and the community at large 2a. Encourage developers to work with surrounding property owners and tenants to resolve community concerns prior to formalizing development plans2b. Provide oversight for noise, light, and other pollutants produced by land uses to minimize impacts on nearby properties2c. Educate residents about property rights, responsible land use practices, and encourage community input2d. Provide opportunities for concerns to be expressed without legal actions3. Provide adequate public services 3a. Protect the integrity and quality of water resources in the Town3b. Support communication--cellular, cable, Internet--access 3c. Develop and enforce a road preservation law to establish limitations of our local town roads in order to protect them (Exempted could be agricultural operations, school buses, law enforcement, fire-fighting equipment, military vehicles, and municipal vehicles engaged in road work)
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4. Utilize good land development planning principles 4a. Update and implement responsible subdivision, site design and development oversight to minimize environmental impacts within the Town. Residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural development or redevelopment should meet or exceed federal, state, or local regulations to minimize impacts of soil erosion, storm water run-off, and pollution4b. Explore programs to encourage energy efficient residential and commercial buildings4c. Have municipal boards use detailed Town map and land-use data to make informed decisions relative to the concerns in this Comprehensive Plan4d. Ensure growth is thoughtfully incorporated into the existing community establishing a priority growth area that supports a Town Center vision4e. Consider the compatibility of development with surrounding uses. Utilize strategies such as landscaping or other buffering techniques along with modification of site design to minimize impacts and facilitate compatibility4f. Update Site-Plan Review Law and subdivision regulations, as necessary, to address future community needs
LAND USE — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS
5. Preserve and support the agricultural resources of the town 5a. Inventory vacant land and tax parcels to identify potential sites for future local food production and other agricultural community uses5b. Promote environmentally and economically sustainable agriculture through which the industry of farming is protected, agricultural soils are conserved, and agriculture is maintained as an economically viable land use for this and future generations in the Town of Enfield
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LAND USE — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS6. Encourage land uses that follow sustainability principles 6a. Encourage renewable energy that is compatible with the Enfield community's stated goals and concerns6b. Encourage energy efficiency and conservation6c. Create buffer zones to control air, soil, and water quality6d. Encourage land preservation techniques among the agricultural community6e. Maintain the ban on gas drilling activities
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<<
2050 VISION
SECTION 5 — ENVIRONMENT AND
NATURAL RESOURCES
INTRODUCTIONAs a rural, primarily agricultural town in the popular, tourism-rich Finger Lakes region of New York State, natural beauty is a key feature of what makes Enfield an appealing location to live. Abundant clean water, protected forests, gorges and waterfalls are cherished resources of the Town.Enfield is committed to the conservation and preservation of our water, air, land, and other natural resources for sustainable use by generations to come.
HYDROLOGICAL RESOURCESMost of the town lies within the Cayuga Lake watershed and Great Lakes Basin. The Southwestern corner lies within the Cayuta Creek watershed and Susquehanna River Basin. The St. Lawrence Continental Divide crosses through Enfield to create these watersheds. Designated protected wetlands make up 56 acres of the town.Enfield has engaged with the USGS to study the aquifer underlying Enfield Creek, which consists of both confined and unconfined sand and gravel aquifers. The rest of the town is made up of till
and/or bedrock aquifers. No municipal water system exists in Enfield and all residents obtain their drinking water from private wells or springs.Enfield is the only town in Tompkins County that has not identified 100-year floodplains for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is used to establish flood insurance premiums.The landform of the Finger Lakes Region in which Enfield lies is a result of the most recent ice age approximately 200 million years ago. Retreating glaciers carved deep gorges and the Finger Lakes, leaving steep hills and valleys throughout southern Tompkins County. Deposits of sedimentary rocks (shale, siltstone, and limestone) make up the bedrock geology of the town. Closer to the surface, deposits of kame, till and till moraine make up the surficial geology.
The Town of Enfield meets the commitments of today without compromising the needs of future
generations. Enfield respects and manages its natural resources in a way that is sustainable for
the natural environment and protects our rural, scenic beauty.
Enfield continually educates and informs residents regarding the protection of natural resources
and environmental concerns and opportunities.
Enfield strives for safe, clean energy opportunities and reduction in energy use to preserve and
protect our resources.
Enfield is well prepared to manage its resources in the event of infrastructure and population
growth, natural disaster, and environmental preservation.
“I like that it’s quiet and beautiful, the
water is pure and the air clean. I
love growing my garden and walking
in the woods, seeing the wildlife, flowers
and trees.”
2013 Resident Survey
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MAP 4 - WATERSHEDS, WETLANDS, AND UNIQUE NATURAL AREAS
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Environment and Natural Resources (DRAFT)
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Enfield is home to magnificent natural beauty, most prominently, Enfield Creek as it runs through the Robert H. Treman New York State Park, including the well-known Lucifer Falls. There are 9 Unique Natural Areas (UNAs) in the Town, totaling 923 acres. The Tompkins County Environmental Management Council defines Unique Natural Areas as "an area of outstanding environmental qualities that deserves special attention for preservation in its natural state. UNAs have locally rare plants, animals, or interesting assemblages of plants and animals that are locally uncommon." The Finger Lakes Land Trust holds conservation easements on two properties totaling 167 acres. The Stevenson Forest Preserve, at 83 acres, and the Lower Nature Preserve, are both open to the public. 786.84 acres of Robert H. Treman New York State Park and a small portion 186.7 acres of the New York State Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area lie within the town, and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.The Bock-Harvey Forest Preserve was once part of the military tracts owned by the Harvey family, who settled in southwestern Enfield in 1807. For over 200 years, descendants of Harveys worked the farmland and preserved the family's woodlands. Six generations hence, the Bock family donated 48 acres to a partnership of the Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC), the Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT), and the Cayuga Trails Club (CTC). Crossed by the Finger Lakes Trail, the Bock-Harvey Forest Preserve features a lean-to campsite, views of the Enfield valley, and a walking loop
through 12 acres of old-growth maples estimated to have stood there for 250-400 years. Foresters say this may be the finest virgin maple forest in the state.The Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area is also considered an "Important Bird Area" by the National Audubon Society. There are 856 acres of nationally or federally designated wetland within the Town. The Robert H. Treman Park attracts thousands of visitors each year, however, residents of Enfield may find the parking fee prohibitive and explore other natural areas instead.
ENERGY RESOURCESEnfield holds potential for the production of energy resources and wishes to be careful and deliberate about how these resources are utilized and managed. Decisions regarding energy production, such the Black Oak Wind Farm and Oil/Gas Ban have taken place with widespread citizen engagement, indicating the importance of energy resource development as well as safety and quality of life for Enfield residents.Natural gas resources are present in the Town and historically have been exploited by drilling wells. Since the passage of "Local Law No. 1 of 2013 to affect a Prohibition within The town of Natural Gas And Petroleum Exploration And Extraction Activities, Underground Storage Of Natural Gas, And Disposal Of Natural Gas Or Petroleum Extraction, Exploration, And Production Wastes" was passed on June 12, 2013, natural gas drilling activities and exploration ceased permanently.
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Renewable energy resources offer great potential for development in Enfield, including solar, wind, geothermal, micro-hydropower and bioenergy. The town wishes to support residents and businesses in developing renewable energy systems safely at the home and commercial scale.Solar energy is increasingly affordable and incentives via local entities such as Solar Tompkins and local solar installer programs, as well as NYS tax subsidies, have resulted in a significant increase of solar installations in the Town of Enfield. In January 2016, New York State's first residential solar facility with separate remote net-metering and a capacity of 190 kilowatts (kW) went online in The Town of Enfield, serving 23 residential customers. Construction of a second facility with an additional capacity of 290 kW serving 30 customers was completed in 2017. Renovus Solar, a local company headquartered in neighboring Town of Ulysses, NY constructed the projects, and Delaware River Solar completed a 2 mega-watt solar facility in 2019. Recognizing the need to reduce energy costs and reliance on fossil fuels, the Enfield Town Board engaged with NYSERDA in their Clean Energy Communities program and received a grant in the amount of $50,000.00 to complete a solar array approximately 24kW in size and capable of providing nearly 30,000 kW per year. It is forecast to save the Town approximately $70,000.00 in utility cost over 20 years, as well as offset 8.5 million metric tons (MMT) of greenhouse gas emissions. Through this initiative, the Town is demonstrating its present and future commitment to actively conserving energy and utilizing renewable energy resources.Ongoing innovations in bio-energy and bio-products research will provide future opportunities for grasses and other perennial plants to be grown for fuel. The amount of vacant agricultural land within the town offers promising potential renewable energy development and potential for gains in energy efficiency.Further, Black Oak Wind Farm LLC proposed
a 7-turbine, 11.9 megawatt wind farm on approximately 33 acres on Black Oak Road. The project is no longer viable as of 2017. This proposal raised many concerns over the compatibility of such heavy industry in the Town of Enfield with regard to setbacks and health and safety concerns. Finally, three commercial solar developments were permitted over a two-year period, raising questions about the impact of this changing technology on the town.In June of 2017, Local Law #1, Moratorium on Commercial Wind and Solar Energy Facilities, was enacted to evaluate how best to incorporate renewable energy developments in the Town.
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Protect land, air, soil, and water resources within the Town through environmental planning and coordination with review and oversight of development activity
1a. Discourage commercial activities which threaten environmental health, such as oil and gas extraction, associated containment, storage or transfer, and other heavy industries1b. Uphold municipal protections, and add new statutes as it becomes necessary to protect the health, safety, and public welfare1c. Support community organizing efforts that support the protection of natural resources and development of renewable energy and reduction of energy use, such as Solar Tompkins' HeatSmart campaign and the Button-Up Enfield program1d. Engage residents in public visioning and or information sessions to collect input when considering new development1e. Support land conservation through easements with Finger Lakes Land Trust and similar organizations1f. Utilize information generated by the USGS aquifer study to identify the location, quality and quantity of groundwater resources
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES —
GOALS AND ACTIONS
GOAL ACTIONS
<<
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ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES —
GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS2. Protect land, air, soil, and water resources within the town through education and outreach 2a. Promote environmental education opportunities offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension, Groundswell, and other resources2b. Encourage community organizing efforts that support the protection of natural resources and development of renewable energy, such as Solar Tompkins and Cornell Cooperative Extension2c. Encourage and educate the community regarding ways to limit the use of fossil fuels and promote the use of renewable energy2d. Protect the quality of surface and groundwater resources against degradation, through actions such as formalizing stream corridor protections, supporting the documentation of water quality through volunteer water monitoring partnerships with the Community Science Institute, and encouraging practices that reduce erosion and sedimentation of water bodies, including agricultural practices2e. Engage youth through environmental education and employment opportunities2f. Increase awareness of household hazardous waste and recycling opportunities2g. Increase education and outreach for energy conservation initiatives
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3. Protect land, air, soil, and water resources within the Town through preservation and conservation 3a. Preserve the quality of surface and ground-water in order to protect against environmental degradation3b. Encourage all practices which minimize contamination of the environment3c. Encourage all practices which safeguard waterways from excessive erosion and sedimentation3d. Decrease drainage of organic and inorganic contaminants into Cayuga Lake and wetlands3e. Use data from the USGS aquifer study to determine the quality and quantity of water in Enfield and appropriate measures for preserving the aquifer3f. Consider protections recommended for Unique Natural Areas (UNAs) as identified by the Tompkins County Planning Department3g. Research and identify other possible UNAs and Critical Environmental Areas (CEAs) for official designation3h. Identify and promote state and local programs and opportunities for home and commercial energy efficiency and conservation3i. Explore participation in the National Flood insurance Program (NFIP) to mitigate and reduce the impact of flooding on private and public structures within the Town
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES —
GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS
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<<
2050 VISION
SECTION 6 — BUILT ENVIRONMENT: PUBLIC
UTILITIES, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND TRANSPORTATION
INTRODUCTIONThe major transportation routes through the town are NY State Route 79 (Mecklenburg Road) and NY State Route 327 (Enfield Falls/Enfield Main Road). There are 12 center-line miles of State road and 24.7 center line miles of County road in Enfield. The 44.45 center-line miles (86.2 lane miles) of Town road are laid out in a grid pattern, reflecting the agricultural history of the community. The Enfield Highway Department is responsible for all maintenance of Town roads.Transportation by residents of the Town is mainly achieved by automobile. However, more and more residents find that public transportation as well as bicycling and walking are becoming attractive options for getting around. Residents are concerned with the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists and look forward to improvements to the environment and additional infrastructure that will make these options safer, easily accessible, more popular, and connected to more destinations.The Town of Enfield is clear that it values its rural character and natural resources; it does not welcome heavy industry. Nevertheless, it is important for Enfield to implement a Road Use agreement law to protect itself from the
potential of high road repair costs incurred by heavy industrial traffic beyond that for which our roads were built. Such an agreement establishes the amount of compensation and/or repair/reconstruction for which the company causing the damage would be responsible. Heavy industrial use, such as the installation of a commercial renewable energy facility, is one example of additional use of Enfield's roads that would cause such wear. Understanding these challenges and mitigation techniques is imperative to maintaining our roadway infrastructure and keeping our residents safe.
The Town of Enfield enjoys accessible roads, and safe and economical transportation options
that meet the needs of residents and others who travel through it, regardless of their method
of transportation. Solutions that reduce the need for automobiles, save energy and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions are encouraged.
Residents and businesses have access to modern communications systems necessary to be
competitive in today's education and economic environment, be it in the Town or across local
borders.
Enfield has a clear understanding of its resources and the potential for growth of infrastructure
such as water, wastewater, solid waste, roads, telecommunications and energy needs.
“We need a sustainable model of
development that includes improved
Internet access (and) improved public
transportation access.”
2013 Resident Survey
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MAP 5 - STATE, COUNTY, AND LOCAL HIGHWAY ROUTES
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PUBLIC TRANSPORTATIONIn 2016, the Town of Enfield and TCAT implemented a Park and Ride location on Enfield Main Road, across from the Town Hall, providing residents with an accessible place to park and take public transportation to and from the City of Ithaca as well as a direct route from Enfield to Cayuga Medical Center, with connection to Watkins Glen, Montour Falls and Schuyler Hospital (via Schuyler County Transit). An additional bus stop is provided at the Town of Enfield Highway facility, but without parking. More of these pick-up/drop-off locations are desired by the community.
COMMUNICATIONAnother hindrance to the Town of Enfield's growth is deficient communication services. Cell phone service both in the center of town as well as in outlying areas is deficient or non- existent. High-speed internet is not available in sections of Enfield. This inhibits the ability of businesses to compete. Lack of adequate communication infrastructure has a negative impact on residents seeking education, employment, or other services, which now heavily rely upon Internet connectivity. Low quality internet service makes formal distance learning and self- education nearly impossible. Enfield government and community services communicate important information to residents using online methods and aim to improve connectivity to benefit operations and social, community-based interaction alike.
The Park & Ride location on Enfield Center Road allows
commuters to park and take public transportation to multiple
destinations throughout Tompkins County.
WATER AND SEWERThe Town of Enfield does not have municipal water or sewer services. Because of the low density of homes and businesses, it would be difficult and costly to provide such services town- wide. However, the lack of municipal water and sewer may be an impediment to economic development as some businesses may find well-water unsuitable, or septic costs prohibitive.Enfield contracted with the USGS (United States Geologic Survey) to complete an Aquifer study. Four pairs of wells (eight total) were drilled along the Enfield Valley aquifer. Each pair consisted of a shallow (12 - 60 feet) and a deep (61 - 143 foot) well. Wells were monitored for water depth and temperature over a multi-year period. Wells were sampled and tested for inorganic nutrients and metals, some of which have drinking water quality standards, and many do not. In most cases, drinking water quality standards were met, where they exist. The exceedances were primarily found in two deep wells (TM1075) and (TM1077), although other wells also exceeded certain drinking water quality standards. The study also looked at surface water quality in Enfield Creek from five locations during a sampling event in September 2015.
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MAP 6 - TOWN OF ENFIELD AQUIFER MAP, 2015
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Increase safety of Enfield residents and visitors traveling within the Town of Enfield 1a. Determine dangerous areas for all traffic- automobile, pedestrian and cyclists- within the Town of Enfield and explore methods to mitigate these dangers1b. Determine appropriate caution signage that will assist in making drivers aware of chronically dangerous road areas and conditions, as well as warnings about pedestrian and bicycle traffic1c. Seek ways to improve roadside safety conditions to provide and encourage safe passage of pedestrian and bicycle traffic
GOAL ACTIONS
<<BUILT ENVIRONMENT: PUBLIC UTILITIES, INFRASTRUCTURE,
AND TRANSPORTATION — GOALS AND ACTIONS
3. Improve communication services in the Town of Enfield 3a. Survey the Enfield community to map areas that lack sufficient cellular, internet, and cable services3b. Using information obtained about local deficiencies in services, solicit service providers who can expand their offerings to the Enfield community3c. Continue to seek technology grants and other funding that may be available to communities for economic growth and expansion, as well as opportunities for expanding communication technology services to the Town of Enfield3d. Establish agreements with providers to the community that maximize benefits to the Town
2. Increase accessibility to public transportation 2a. Increase the connectivity and mobility of Enfield community members as well as the Town's accessibility to visitors2b. Encourage the use of the Park and Ride locations and other transportation services that would best serve residents and engage TCAT and other regional transportation programs in implementing more options
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BUILT ENVIRONMENT: PUBLIC UTILITIES, INFRASTRUCTURE,
AND TRANSPORTATION — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS4. Improve understanding of, and protect water resources in the Town of Enfield 4a. Define the water resources in the Town of Enfield with data obtained by the Aquifer Study in cooperation with Tompkins County and USGS4b. Determine what protections are needed for the water resources entrusted to the Town by its residents4c. Prepare Enfield for future growth by understanding the resources available and what protections may be necessary for future residential population increases, associated development and changes in water use5. Prepare the Town of Enfield for the potential of heavy traffic changes 5a. Assess the need for a Road Protection Law to guard the Town and residents from liabilities and dangers of these road uses5b. Coordinate with other towns that have experienced these changes and learn what dangers and challenges they present5c. Encourage training for Highway Department Superintendent and employees to address the changes that may occur in the event of heavy use of the roads in Enfield6. Provide adequate equipment and services for road maintenance in order to keep town routes safe for travelers 6a. Prepare and maintain a replacement and maintenance schedule for aging equipment for the Enfield Highway Department. Make inventory replacement a priority for proper care of transportation routes6b. Continue to provide training opportunities for Highway Department staff6c. Maintain a quality workplace for Highway Department staff in order to draw and keep quality employees committed to the care of our transportation routes
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<<2050 VISION
SECTION 7 — HOUSING
ENFIELD HOUSINGAccording to the latest U.S. Census, in 2016, there were 1,631 housing units in Enfield, an 18 percent increase over the year 2000. Of the 1,631 total dwellings, 68.3 percent were owner-occupied, 26.1 were renter-occupied, and 7.8 percent were vacant.The 2010 U.S. Census also shows that the Town of Enfield has a density of 38.8 homes per square mile, an increase of 3 homes per square mile since 2000, with 124 vacant housing units in Enfield (7.8 percent of the housing stock). The vacancy rate represents an increase of 0.2 percent since 2000. In 2010, there were 580 mobile homes in the Town, or 37 percent of the housing stock, an increase of 3 percent since 2000. The 2016 estimated median home value in Enfield was $139,668. The estimated median home value in Tompkins County overall is $201,500.
The Town of Enfield welcomes residents of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds and offers
a variety of housing opportunities. Enfield encourages affordability in housing types to those
who wish to rent or own a home in the community.
New development, as well as the restoration of older homes are on the rise as newcomers and
long-time residents alike foster community and grow economic and social stability here.
The Town of Enfield encourages housing choices and types designed to meet the diverse needs
of those residents of generations past, present, and future while encouraging their celebration
of all Enfield has to offer.
Single family
residence
on under
10 acres551
Single family
residence on
10+ acres,
no ag use115
Single family
residence on
10+ acres w/
ag use50
2-family
residence on
under 10
acres31
Apartment,
more than
three units23
Multiple
houses on
a property22
3-family
residence on
under 10 acres4
Residential w/
commercial
use (typically
a B&B)3
Seasonal
residence2
TYPES OF HOUSING IN ENFIELD
Figure 15 - Types of Housing in Enfield
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ENFIELD HOUSING
STATISTICS, 2016
TOTAL HOUSING UNITS = 1,631
Figure 16 - ESRI demographics (Source: U.S. Census Bureau and American Community survey data)
68.3%
(1,082)
Owner-
occupied
units
28.1%
(486)
Renter-
occupied
units
7.8%
(124)
Vacant units
MEDIAN HOME VALUE = $139,668
AVERAGE HOME VALUE = $320,268
Historically, the Town of Enfield has struggled with a high poverty rate, diminished investment in infrastructure, and deteriorating municipal facilities. The absence of public water and sewer services as well as limited internet and cellular services are challenges that impede our ability to attract new housing starts and generate business development. As we focus efforts on removing these impediments through the stated goals in this chapter, Enfield can become a strong contender for future endeavors, such as those explored in the Economic Development chapter, that add to the quality of life of current residents as well as serve as a beacon for attractive, affordable community development for residential and business newcomers alike.
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Improve the standard of housing and the quality of life for Enfield residents, so all Enfield residents may enjoy safe and affordable homes
1a. Identify programs to assist in building new or upgrading existing housing options1b. Inform residents of state and local programs for first time home buyers that support upgrades and improvements1c. Educate residents on low-cost improvements that can make properties safe, accessible and may improve, property values1d. Encourage replacement of older, inefficient mobile homes with those meeting current standards1e. Educate residents about methods of making their homes energy-efficient and encourage sustainability practices, to reduce utility bills and improve home values
HOUSING — GOALS AND ACTIONS
GOAL ACTIONS
<<
2. Strengthen our tax base by encouraging new residents of diverse personal and professional backgrounds to move into the Town of Enfield
2a. Explore opportunities and investors for multi-family and senior housing to provide quality, affordable housing for new and existing residents2b. Encourage the creation of a community center that provides support to all residents in Enfield. A socially connected community is attractive not only to existing residents but to potential home buyers and builders2c. Promote Enfield to the greater public to encourage new residential, agricultural, and business growth3. Protect and serve residents through proper management and planning of housing and other development that meets the community goals to maintain its rural character while advancing economic, environmental and social well-being
3a. Regularly review and update as necessary the Town's Subdivision Regulations and Site Plan Review standards to determine changes and trends in housing and development that should be addressed3b. Develop a Floodplain Management plan or ordinance for the protection of homes and property of residents3c. Develop an Emergency Management Plan to protect the lives and property of residents
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<<2050 VISION
SECTION 8 — ECONOMY AND COMMUNITY
INTRODUCTIONEconomic development is key to achieving the goals and objectives defined in this Comprehensive Plan and to improving civic and community activities in Enfield.Currently there is an intermingling of residences, small businesses and farms throughout the town. Positive support of this diverse mix strengthens the vitality and stability of the town while offering economic opportunity and growth for Enfield residents and business owners. This intermingling can sometimes cause conflict, too. It is important for the Town to recognize and address areas of conflict by working with residents, farms and businesses when necessary.Enfield residents value and wish to maintain the rural character of the Town. To that end, development should be discouraged that would damage air and water quality, increase noise levels, worsen pollution, create traffic problems, adversely affect Enfield visually, or otherwise degrade the Town's rural nature.
CURRENT INDUSTRY AND
EMPLOYMENTDespite the fact that many small-scale or "family" farms have disappeared or been incorporated into larger scale operations -- a trend in many areas of New York State and the country -- farms remain the primary industry in Enfield. There are other small businesses scattered throughout Enfield, many of which are sole-proprietorships or family-owned. The Dollar Store, a national chain, opened a new store Enfield in 2018 and has a regular customer base. Non-agricultural commercial uses of land in Enfield represent 3.1 percent of total parcels. Agricultural use represents 5.8 percent of total parcels. Most Enfield residents earn their primary income in the City or Town of Ithaca, located approximately 8 - 10 miles away, and not within the Town of Enfield.As shown in the following table, the two sectors that employ the most Enfield residents are educational services, healthcare, social services and retail. These sectors account for the greatest share of County-wide employment, too, with several major employers being our academic institutions, manufacturing, municipal, medical, and retail services.Enfield has an emerging opportunity to diversify local employment opportunities by building its reputation as a renewable energy leader. By
The Town of Enfield provides an excellent setting for affordable living within an easy distance to
several business and employment centers.
Enfield has a great balance of businesses, schools, parks, cultural/artistic centers, and
community facilities that make living here convenient and enjoyable.
Development that is compatible with the character of Enfield is actively sought after and
encouraged to grow an economic base that supports the needs of the community.
Residents are actively engaged in the community and planning for its future through the
economic development process.
“Enfield (has a) unique economy, comprised
of people who know how to do just
about anything.”
2013 Resident Survey
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encouraging the location of businesses and the development of products that are safe and compatible with the goals set forth in this plan. Further, trends in agri-tourism are consistent with economic development that is compatible with the Enfield Community, such as farms and beautiful natural areas. Activities that bring visitors to the town to build appreciation for farming, farm heritage, food production, nearby vineyards, animal husbandry, gardening, activity trails, parks, outdoor events, and accommodations like bed and breakfast and retreat centers. These are just some of the opportunities Enfield has to capitalize the assets that currently exist here, without having to rely on public services that are not yet available in such rural areas.
“There is room in Enfield for industry,
commerce, multi-family homes, etc…but
we must have a plan that is realistic for
keeping traffic reasonable, allowing space
for recreation, and not disturbing the
existing rural character of Enfield.”
2013 Resident Survey
There is ample acreage in Enfield that can be considered for development, and an effort to seek and match developers with willing land owners could be beneficial to the future of the Town, and mitigate impacts of undesirable development proposals.
Educational services, and health care and social assistance
Retail trade
Other services, except public adminstration
Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services
Manufacturing
Construction
Professional, scientific, and management, and admin and waste management services
725
242
161
156
136
125
116
103
Figure 17 - Enfield resident employment (Source: American Community Survey, 2016)
RESIDENT EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY, 2016
49Public administration
Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Wholesale trade
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Information
32
21
19
10
8
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COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND
PROGRAMS The Town of Enfield supports a number of long-standing community events and diverse programs for its residents. While these are not municipal events and programs, they receive significant support from the municipality through funding and facility use. These include summer camps for children, youth and senior programs, a Fall Harvest Festival, a food pantry, a community council, and an active Grange. The 2018 renovation of community space in the lower floor of the Enfield community building was a positive step toward improving facilities for social activities.The Town of Enfield owns a municipal plot totaling 59 acres that currently houses only the Enfield Highway Department. Expansion of this property for new municipal services buildings and other community uses may be desired to provide better services and more community opportunities to residents of the Town. As per mention in Chapter X, the vision of a Town Center for Enfield would accommodate land and facilities able to host an array of local programs and uses, as well as encourage development in close proximity. The Enfield Community Council offers a Summer Camp for Enfield children aged 4-13, which provides opportunities for free Summer meals and activities, as well as employment training for Enfield teens. Throughout the year, the support of youth programs serves over one hundred young people, from fifth grade up. Enfield Seniors enjoy connecting through regular meetings and social events, such as sharing meals and traveling together for shows and tours. The Enfield Food Pantry is housed in the Enfield Community Building and serves an average of 370 adults, 250 children 18 and under, and 50 seniors in the Enfield area. In 2018, significant local investment was made to update the Enfield Food Pantry to secure its ability to serve the Enfield Community long into the future.
YOUTH AND SENIOR PARTICIPATIONMaintaining a strong youth presence and making "aging in place" affordable is crucial to building community and attracting families to live and thrive in Enfield. Some programming is provided by various area organizations, Tompkins County offices, and the Enfield Community Council, however, the need is still great. Childcare resources are limited, yet imperative for those who wish to make a home or find employment here. Continued support by the Town of Enfield for these types of programming will continue to be necessary for strengthening our resident base.The construction of fully accessible, multi-function community facilities that ensure educational, cultural, social, and economic opportunities can
Fishing and
hunting
NEARBY PROGRAMMING
& ACTVITIES
Hiking trails
and camping Summer camps
and programs
Music
festivals
Food pantry and
senior meals
Seasonal
activitiesFigure 18 - Nearby Programming & Activities
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MAP 7 - PARKS, PRESERVES, FINGER LAKES TRAIL
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help stimulate growth and provide an appealing environment to attract new residents. A facility such as this may encourage interaction between residents of all ages and physical ability to deepen our community roots and connections to one another.To remain a viable community for future generations, the success of Enfield's continued economic development will be determined by our ability to broaden the economic base of the town by promoting small businesses that complement the goals in this plan and engage residents of all ages and abilities.
NATURAL ASSETSLess than ten miles from Ithaca, Trumansburg and Watkins Glen, the Town of Enfield offers easy access to hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, boating, auto racing, music festivals, wine touring, skiing, ATV sports, snowmobiling, and more. Enfield also includes much of Robert H. Treman State Park and is in close proximity to Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. Golfing in Enfield is enjoyed by the public at Hillendale Golf Course.
“I have loved getting to know so many
people who live here. Really, it’s such a
small population, it is possible to know
nearly everyone here in some capacity
sooner or later. The more we know one
another, the more committed we are to one
another in making our community strong.”
2013 Resident Survey
Robert H. Treman State Park
CHALLENGES TO BUILDING
COMMUNITYBy nature, communities are connected by cultural groups, age, economic status, religious organizations, and other demographics. Often, schools provide a unifying point of contact in communities through sports, parent organizations, and school events. However, Enfield is divided by four school districts, which impedes our ability to maintain and grow these social connections. Families and other residents that may thrive in a single school community lose this positive point of cohesion to neighboring Towns and their communities.The four school districts dividing Enfield are Ithaca, Trumansburg, Odessa-Montour, and Newfield. Enfield Elementary, located on Enfield Main Road, is the only public school building located in the Town of Enfield, and is part of the Ithaca City School District. Presently there is no central location or facility that fully accommodates existing and future community programming. While efforts are made to sustain building operations, numerous constraints--ADA accessibility, paved parking areas, potable water---in existing facilities limits their expansion or renovation for hosting a spectrum of community gathering needs.
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTEnfield residents are actively involved in their community through various organizations, such as Town Government, Enfield Community Council, Enfield Seniors, Enfield Volunteer Fire Company, the Enfield Grange, and the Food Pantry. These organizations operate independently of each other. Given the limited resources of our community, it may be beneficial to look for ways to work together at times to maximize our impact.
ENFIELD STUDENTS IN EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT, 2018
Ithaca
Trumansburg
Odessa-Montour
169
Newfield
360
7
15 Figure 19 - Enfield Students in Each School District
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The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above.1. Engage the community in economic development 1a. Form a community-based Economic Development Task Force (ie: "Envision Enfield"), tasked with seeking out economic development in accord with the goals set forth in this plan, encourage municipal cooperation for such endeavors, and actively invite these opportunities to Enfield to encourage community involvement1b. Directly encourage and support community members to start and expand businesses through the following actions: •Identify and recruit businesses that would be good for Enfield •Create greater networking opportunities through community events •Identify residents interested in starting businesses •Recruit mentors to help residents start and grow businesses •Identify potential business opportunities and encourage residents to start businesses to fill those needs •Create a small business survey of existing businesses within the Town •Publish a periodic directory of local businesses in and around Enfield
ECONOMY & COMMUNITY — GOALS AND ACTIONS
GOAL ACTIONS
<<360
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2. Utilize external resources to foster economic development 2a. Reach out to local and regional development organizations to ask for assistance. These include, but are not limited to: •Tompkins County Area Development and Chamber of Commerce •Small Business Administration •Empire State Development Corporation •U.S. Department of Agriculture •Alternatives Federal Credit Union •Groundswell Center for Local Food and Farming •Cornell Cooperative Extension, Small Farm Program, and Diverse Supplier Program2b. Educate Enfield residents of all ages of resources available such as: •Job opportunities •Financial assistance •Energy efficiency and financing assistance •Micro-loan programs •Tax breaks •Job or vocational training opportunities •Education opportunities •Internet training opportunities2c. Provide direct assistance to residents trying to utilize resources by providing help with: •Grant writing •Job applications •Business plan coaching
ECONOMY & COMMUNITY — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS
3. Work to improve infrastructure which would enable greater economic opportunity for Enfield residents 3a. Foster greater access to public transportation3b. Work to ensure better access to high speed internet3c. Research whether it would help to provide space for office, light manufacturing, or other business activities3d. Work to establish a recognizable "Town Center" to encourage a new economic growth area that meets the goals of this Plan
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4. Foster greater sharing of resources between Enfield residents 4a. Encourage the development of a community center or common area where information can be centralized and accessed easily by residents4b. Expand the library of resources available at the Town Hall
ECONOMY & COMMUNITY — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS
5. Discourage development that would negatively impact air and water quality, traffic density and noise levels6. Discourage development that challenges local, state, and federal laws designed to protect our community and quality of life
7. Preserve recreational and natural areas 7a. Attract more people to Enfield by publicizing its convenient7b. Encourage Eco- and Agro-Tourism through County and State programs7c. Pursue additional opportunities for public open space and recreational amenities
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8. Increase the use of recreational areas within the Town 8a. Work with state and county agencies to increase the availability of recreational areas. For example: reinstate camping at Upper Treman Park, offer free admittance to Town of Enfield residents, and/or provide shuttle service from Enfield Center to Lower Treman swimming area8b. Increase the usage of and extend Finger Lakes Trails by: •Documenting current usage (Cayuga Trails Club) •Researching issues of private property easements •Encouraging State Park funding for camping and swimming areas •Exploring the possibility of free entry for Enfield residents to encourage local ownership and pride in the upper Robert Treman Park, located in the Town of Enfield.
ECONOMY & COMMUNITY — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS
9. Engage the community 9a. Encourage more community-wide events9b. Utilize the proposed Enfield Economic Development Task Force for community event development and promotion9c. Post Enfield Elementary School playground hours and provide better signage. Encourage use for community activities9d. Explore events opportunities that bring multiple community organizations together for greater impact in achieving goals
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10. Increase the membership and impact of the Enfield Community Council with existing organizations' mutual support and cooperation, to strengthen the sense of belonging, support, and community to all of Enfield's residents
10a. Share with the community the objectives and workings of the Enfield Community Council10b. Engage a representative from each of the following groups: •Enfield Volunteer Fire Company •Grange •Food Bank •Churches •PTA -- Schools •Teens (middle school to high school) and young adults •Senior Citizens •Environmental and other local organizations10c. Provide, encourage and participate in programs for residents of all ages10d. Publicize and hold Enfield Community Council meetings in a public space to allow for more residents to attend meetings10e. Encourage ECC participation in the implementation of the goals of the Economy and Community section of the Comprehensive Plan
ECONOMY & COMMUNITY — GOALS AND ACTIONS CONTINUED >>>
GOAL ACTIONS
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Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Planning our Future (DRAFT)
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<<PLANNING OUR FUTURE
THE ENFIELD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN is designed to serve as a road map to the future for our Town. It was created with a common vision in mind. A vision is not a binding goal, and may not be achievable in the lifetime of those who have participated in drafting this Comprehensive Plan, or even the next generation. However, the long-term thinking embodied in this plan is a hopeful look at how Enfield can grow into the future while maintaining all of the characteristics the Community treasures.The Comprehensive Plan may be implemented through the actions of the Enfield Town Board, Planning Board, and other boards and councils, as well as community members. Implementation may occur through adoption and revision of ordinances and regulations, annual budgeting and capital improvement, and empowerment of community groups. While it is important to work toward the vision in this Plan, it is intended to be a living document and may grow and change as local conditions change.This Plan may, at times, be amended as circumstances change. Amendments are subject to Public Hearings and assessment of impact of changes. In addition, it is recommended that periodic evaluation of the Plan be conducted involving the Enfield Town and Planning boards, as well as the greater community. A review of the data herein is advised after the completion of the 2020 Census, to project the most accurate view of conditions in Enfield. Through continued reference and evaluation, the Vision set forth here may be realized for the betterment of our future as a community.
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APPENDIX 1 - LIST OF FIGURES AND MAPS
FIGURES PAGE1 Town Population, 2000-2016 ............................................................................................................................ 42 Median Household Income, 2016 ...................................................................................................................... 53 Percent of Population Below Poverty Line, 2016 ......................................................................................... 54 Per Capita Income, 2016 ..................................................................................................................................... 55 Town of Enfield Government Structure ........................................................................................................ 146 2019 Highway Expenditures .............................................................................................................................. 167 2019 Highway Revenue ....................................................................................................................................... 168 Land Use (Property Class) by Total Assessed Value .............................................................................. 199 2019 Fire Protection District Expenditures ................................................................................................... 1910 Ad Valorem Taxes Paid by Town Residents, 2019 .................................................................................... 2111 2019 General Fund Revenue ............................................................................................................................ 2112 2019 General Town Expenditures ................................................................................................................... 2213 2019 Expenditure Comparison ........................................................................................................................ 2214 Number of Parcels by Land Use Type ......................................................................................................... 3615 Types of Housing in Enfield ............................................................................................................................... 5716 Enfield Housing Statistics, 2016 ....................................................................................................................... 5817 Resident Employment by Industry ................................................................................................................ 6218 Nearby Programming & Activities ................................................................................................................. 6319 Enfield Students in Each School District....................................................................................................... 66
MAPS PAGE1 Town of Enfield Survey Map, 1866 .................................................................................................................. 102 Agriculture Parcels .............................................................................................................................................. 293 Land Use and Land Cover, 2015 ..................................................................................................................... 374 Watersheds, Wetlands, and Unique Natural Areas ................................................................................. 445 State, County, and Local Highway Routes .................................................................................................. 526 Town of Enfield Aquifer Map, 2015 ................................................................................................................ 547 Parks, Preserves, and Finger Lakes Trail ..................................................................................................... 64
Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan — Appendix 2: Links of Reference
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Town of Enfield Website: TownOfEnfield.orgTown of Enfield History: TownOfEnfield.org/historyTown of Enfield Code Enforcement Office: TownOfEnfield.org/general-information-code-enforcementTown of Enfield Permits and Fees: TownOfEnfield.org/licenses-and-permits-2Town of Enfield Highway Department: TownOfEnfield.org/general-information-highway-departmentTown of Enfield Road Information: TownOfEnfield.org/enfield-road-informationTown of Enfield Survey: TownOfEnfield.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Comprehensive-Plan-Survey-Report-2013.pdfTown of Enfield Survey Comments: TownOfEnfield.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Comprehensive-Plan-Survey-Complete-Comments.pdfEnfield Aquifer Study: TownOfEnfield.org/enfield-aquifer-studyEnfield Town Laws: TownOfEnfield.org/town-lawsEnfield Site Plan Review: TownOfEnfield.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Site-Plan-Review-Local-Law-2-2012.pdfEnfield Volunteer Fire Department: EnfieldFireCompany.comEnfield Community Council: EnfieldCommunityCouncil.orgBock-Harvey Forest Preserve: www.fllt.org/preserves/bock-harvey-forest-preserve/Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area: www.DEC.ny.gov/outdoor/9331.htmlRobert Treman Grist Mill Society: FriendsOfTreman.wordpress.com/who-was-robert-h-tremanRobert Treman Park: parks.ny.gov/parks/135/details.aspxFinger Lakes Trail: FingerlakesTrail.orgCayuga Trails Club: CayugaTrailsClub.orgCayuga Lake Watershed Inter-municipal Organization: CayugaWatershed.orgCornell Cooperative Extension: cce.cornell.eduCornell Small Farm Program: SmallFarms.cornell.eduGroundswell: GroundswellCenter.orgSolar Tompkins: SolarTompkins.org
APPENDIX 2 - LINKS OF REFERENCE
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Community Science Institute: CommunityScience.orgTompkins County Environmental Management: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/emcTompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT): TCATbus.comTompkins County Hazard Mitigation Plan: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/planning/haz_mitTompkins County Board of Elections: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/boeTompkins County Tax Parcels: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/assessment/taxmapsTompkins County Sheriff's Department: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/sheriffTompkins County Planning: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/planningTompkins County Tourism: TompkinsCountyNY.gov/tourismTompkins County Area Development: TCAD.orgTompkins County Industrial Development Agency: TompkinsIDA.orgTomkins County Chamber of Commerce: TompkinsChamber.orgNew York State Police: troopers.ny.govNew York State Code Office: DOS.ny.gov/dceaNew York Historic Preservation Office: parks.ny.gov/shpoNew York State Farm Bureau: NYFB.orgDEC Hunting and Fishing: DEC.ny.gov/permits/365.htmlNew York State Comptroller's Office: osc.state.ny.usFEMA: FEMA.govCensus: Census.govAmerican Community Survey: census.gov/programs-surveys/acsHomeland Security: DHS.govNational Flood Insurance Program: FEMA.gov/national-flood-insurance-programUnited States Geological Survey: USGS.govDepartment of Agriculture: USDA.govSmall Business Association: SBA.gov
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A Survey About the Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan Your voice matters! Let’s work together to ensure that the Comprehensive Plan represents the wishes and needs of the Enfield community! Thank you for completing this survey. WHAT THIS IS ABOUT AND WHY YOU SHOULD COMPLETE IT The Town of Enfield is beginning the job of updating its Comprehensive Plan. A Comprehensive Plan is a document that describes the history, current state, and future vision for the community. It acts as a road map to guide future growth and development while promoting the health, safety and general welfare of the people.
The Planning Board is overseeing this process and hopes to submit a draft of the revised Comprehensive Plan to the Town Board by the end of February 2013.
If you are interested in reading Enfield’s current Comprehensive Plan, which was written in 2001, you can find it online at http://townofenfield.org (click on Comprehensive Plan on the right side of the web page). Or you may request a paper copy from the Enfield Town Hall, 168 Enfield Main Road, 607-273-8256. WHO SHOULD COMPLETE THE SURVEY The Comprehensive Plan should reflect the ideas and opinions of the community’s residents. EVERY Enfield resident and/or property owner is invited to complete this survey. Each person may submit the survey to the Town once. CONFIDENTIALITY Your survey responses will be kept confidential. When your survey is received, this front sheet will be separated from the rest of the survey. If you submit the survey online, your personal data will be separated from the rest of the survey. WHEN TO SUBMIT YOUR SURVEY Please submit your completed survey by November 10. Estimated time to complete the survey: 15 minutes. HOW AND WHERE TO SUBMIT THE SURVEY ON PAPER Drop it off at the Town Hall or send it by U.S. mail to: Comprehensive Plan Survey, Enfield Town Hall, 168 Enfield Main Road. If you need additional paper copies of the survey so that each member of your household may participate, feel free to photocopy it. Or you can download it and print it from http://townofenfield.org (click on Comprehensive Plan on the right side of the web page). You can also pick up additional copies free of charge at Enfield Town Hall, 168 Enfield Main Road (open Monday through Thursday, 3:00-6:00 pm). If you want to write additional comments on your survey, feel free to extra paper.
ON-LINE To complete the survey on-line, go to http://townofenfield.org (click on Comprehensive Plan on the right side of the web page). Do you still have questions about how to complete or submit this survey? Write to enfield.comp.plan@gmail.com or call 607-273-8256. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Your name ______________________________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ E-mail _____________________________________ ___ Resident of Enfield ___ Non-resident Enfield land owner Would you like to serve on a committee to help with the Enfield Comprehensive Plan? ___Yes ___ No Do you want to be included in the Town of Enfield’s e-mail list? ___Yes ___ No Do you want to receive the Town of Enfield’s paper newsletter? ___Yes ___ No
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Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan Survey
Please answer as completely as you can. 1. Current employment status: ___ Full-time ___ Part-time ___ Self-employed ___ Unemployed and looking for work ___ Unable to work ___ Full-time homemaker ___ Retired ___ College/university student ___ Grade/middle/high school student 2. Where do you work/attend school?
Town of Enfield ___Town or City of Ithaca ___ Elsewhere in Tompkins County ___ Outside Tompkins County ___ Not applicable 3. What mode of transportation do you most often use to get to work/school? ___ Walk ___ Personal vehicle ___ Carpool/rideshare ___ TCAT bus ___ School bus ___ Bicycle ___ N/A (work at home/not employed/retired) ___ Other: _______________________ 4. How many people live in your household? _______________________________________ 5. Your age bracket: ___ Under 18 ___ 18-25 ___ 25-44 ___ 45-64 ___ 65 or older 6. How long have you lived in Enfield? ______________________________________ 7. Do you rent or own your home/land? ___ Own home, live in Enfield ___ Rent home, live in Enfield ___ Own property in Enfield, live elsewhere ___ Rent property in Enfield, live elsewhere
8. Do you consider your housing to be: ___ Above average ___ Average ___ Below average ___ Poor 9. Do you have any problems with your private drinking water well? ___ No problems ___ Quantity ___ Quality ___ Other: __________________________ 10. If you own land, how many acres? ___ <1 ___ 1-4 ___ 5-49 ___ 50-99 ___ 100 or more 11. What type of structure is your home? ___ Single-family ___ House/building with 2 units ___ House/building with 3-4 units ___ House/building with 5 or more units 12. Where is your home? ___ Rural residential (including single-family and apartments) ___ Residential park ___ Working farm 13. How do you use your home or property? (check all that apply) ___ Residence ___ Business (non-agricultural) ___ Business (agricultural) ___ Other ____________________________ 14. What school district are you in? ___ Ithaca ___ Trumansburg ___ Newfield ___Odessa/Montour 15. If you have children in school, what school(s) do they attend? ____________________________________
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16. Household income (optional): ___ Under $25,000 ___ $50,000-$75,000 ___ Over $100,000 ___ $25,000-$50,000 ___ $75,000-$100,000 17. Do you participate in outdoor recreation? (check all that apply) ___ Hunting ___ Jogging/walking ___ Fishing ___ Snow mobile/ATV ___ Hiking ___ Biking 18. How would you prefer to get information about community news/events, Board meetings, etc.? Please number your top 3 preferences: ___ Town of Enfield website (http://townofenfield.org) ___ Direct paper mailings ___ Town of Enfield e-mail list ___ Town of Enfield newsletter ___ Newspaper ___ Other (please specify) _____________________________ 19. Please check one box for each reason why you choose to live in Enfield and what you value about it.
REASON YOU LIVE IN ENFIELD VERY IMPORTANT SOMEWHAT IMPORTANT NOT VERY IMPORTANT NOT APPLICABLE Rural character Natural beauty Public transportation Grew up here Housing cost Proximity to Ithaca School district Businesses Sense of community Town size Lack of zoning/reduced regulation Investment opportunity Proximity to State Parks Other (specify):
20. For each of the services below, please indicate whether you think the level of service is appropriate, should be increased, or should be decreased. (Please check only one for each service.)
SERVICE APPROPRIATE INCREASE DECREASE NO OPINION Road maintenance Snow plowing Police protection Fire protection/rescue Town hall services/hours Building code enforcement Junk code enforcement Dog control Internet connectivity
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SERVICE (continued) APPROPRIATE INCREASE DECREASE NO OPINION Cell service Street lights Public transportation Pedestrian/bike lanes Hiking trails/bike paths Community events Services/activities for youth (e.g. recreational, job placement, gathering place)
Services/activities for senior citizens Recycling Notification about proposed development in your neighborhood
Availability of buildings (school, firehouse, etc.) for public use
Public recreational opportunities Other (Specify)
21. Would you encourage or discourage the following land uses in ENFIELD? Check one for each.
LAND USE ENCOURAGE DISCOURAGE NO CHANGE NO OPINION Residential development: single family homes Residential development: multiple unit dwellings
Townhouses/condominiums Mobile home parks “Green” building construction Affordable housing Senior/assisted living Organic agriculture Conventional agriculture Public green space Town park for recreation Commercial development Sidewalks Bike paths/lanes Protection of natural areas/open space Protection of air, soil, and water (streams and groundwater) quality
Large-scale solar installation (commercial) Wind farm High volume drilling for natural gas (fracking)
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22. What type of business/municipal development would you like to encourage or avoid in Enfield? Check one for each.
TYPE OF DEVELOPMENT: BUSINESS/MUNICIPAL
ENCOURAGE OR INCREASE DISCOURAGE NO OPINION Community Center Library Additional gas station/convenience store Grocery/retail stores Businesses centered on tourism (e.g. bed & breakfasts, restaurants, gift shops, eco-tourism)
Professional offices (medical/dental/legal/technology) Service businesses Business offering “green” energy services (weatherization, solar, wind, geothermal)
Home-based businesses Day care Elder care Organic farming Conventional farming Farmers market Light industrial/manufacturing Other (specify)
23. What do you like most about Enfield? 24. What is your biggest concern about the future of Enfield? 25. What would you change in Enfield? 26. On a scale of 1-5, do you believe Enfield is changing for the better or worse? (Circle one number) BETTER NOT CHANGING WORSE 1 2 3 4 5 Why? __________________________________________________________________________________ Feel free to write additional comments below. You may attach additional paper, if you like.
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TOWN OF ENFIELD, NY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SURVEY 2013 RESULTS
182 Surveys returned
The Comprehensive Plan Survey was made available to all residents of Enfield and non-resident land-
owners. A paper copy was inserted in the Enfield Community Currents/Town of Enfield Newsletter,
which is mailed to approximately 950 residences. It was made available on paper at the Enfield Town
Hall. It was also available for either printing or completion on-line at the Town of Enfield web site.
The survey was developed by a committee of residents using elements from comparable surveys from
the towns of Freeville, Hector, Newfield, Caroline, and Ulysses.
A summary of the data collected follows.
1. Current employment status (181 responses)
Status Count %
Full-time 85 47.0
Self-employed 26 14.4
Part-time 19 10.5
Retired 37 20.4
Full-time
homemaker 3 1.7
College/university
student 3 1.7
Grade/middle/high
school student 4 2.2
Unable to work 3 1.7
Unemployed 1 0.6
2. Where do you work or attend school? (178 responses)
Location Count %
Town of Enfield 21 11.8
Town or City of Ithaca 83 46.6
Elsewhere in
Tompkins County 23 12.9
Outside
Tompkins County 9 5.1
Not applicable 42 23.6
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3. What mode of transportation do you most often use to get to work/school? (180 responses)
Mode of transportation Count %
Personal Vehicle 128 71.1
TCAT bus 7 3.9
Carpool/rideshare 6 3.3
Walk 4 2.2
Bicycle 1 0.6
N/A 34 18.9
4. How many people live in your household? (173 responses)
# of
people Count %
1 20 11.6
2 87 50.3
3 32 18.5
4 19 11.0
5 9 5.2
6 5 2.9
8 1 0.6
Mean:
2.59538
Median:
2
5. Your age bracket (182 responses)
Age bracket Count %
Under 18 2 1.1
18-25 9 4.9
25-44 38 20.9
45-64 100 54.9
65 or older 33 18.1
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6. How long have you lived in Enfield (177 responses)
Five respondents answered “All my life”.
Theses were excluded from the chart as it was
not possible to determine how many years they
had lived in Enfield. These five answered
question 5 “Age bracket” as follows:
45-64 1
25-44 2
18-25 1
Under 18 1
7. Do you rent or own your home/land (181 responses)
Rent or own Count %
Own home,
live in Enfield 167 92
Rent home,
live in Enfield 10 6
Own property in Enfield,
live elsewhere 4 2
8. Do you consider the quality of your housing to be? (180 responses)
Housing Count %
Below average 12 6.7
Average 123 68.3
Above average 45 25.0
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9. Do you have any problems with your private drinking water well? (182 responses)
Water well issues Count %
Quality 30 16.5
Quantity 10 5.5
Quality/Quantity 1 0.5
Sulphur/Quantity 1 0.5
Sulphur/ Iron 2 1.1
Sulphur 4 2.2
High calcium 1 0.5
Minerals 1 0.5
No problems 130 71.4
Not sure 2 1.1
10. If you own land, how many acres? (173 responses)
Acres Count %
Less than 1 3 1.7
1-4 52 30.1
5-49 81 46.8
50-99 23 13.3
100 or more 6 3.5
N/A 8 4.6
11. What type of structure is your home? (182 reponses)
Type of Structure Count %
Single-family 175 96.2
House/building with 2 units 6 3.3
House/building with 3-4
units 1 0.5
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12. Where is your home? (181 responses)
Type of location Count %
Residential park 2 1.105
Rural residential 166 91.713
Working farm 13 7.182
13. How do you use your home or property? (180 responses)
Type of use Count %
Residence 178 98.9
%
Business
(Non-Ag) 23 12.8
%
Business (Ag) 9 5.0%
Other farming 8 4.4%
Rental 3 1.7%
Other 1 0.6%
“Other farming” included subsistence growing, homesteading, wood lot, hay fields, tree farm. A
decision was made to place these in the category “Other farming” because the respondents had declined
to categorize them as “Business (Ag)” though there is probably overlap.
14. What school district are you in? (179 responses)
School district Count %
Ithaca 121 67.6
Newfield 8 4.5
Odessa/Montour 2 1.1
Trumansburg 48 26.8
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15. If you have children in school, what school(s) do they attend? (39 responses)
School Count
EAC Montessori 3
Home school &
Northern Light
Learning Center
1
Ithaca 18
New Roots 1
Odessa/Montour 1
Trumansburg 6
16. Household income (147 responses)
The data for this question is invalid. An error was made on the on-line version of the survey such
that one of the income ranges was not represented.
17. Do you participate in outdoor recreation (171 responses)
Activity Count
Jogging/Walking 136
Hiking 119
Biking 74
Fishing 43
Hunting 25
Snowmobile/ATV 11
None of the above 7
18. How would you prefer to get information about community news/events, Board meetings, etc.?
(181 responses)
Data represents overall number of first, second, and third choices. First
Choice
Second
Choice
Third
Choice
Town of Enfield website 61 0 0
Town of Enfield newsletter 19 31 59
Town of Enfield e-mail list 51 58 2
Direct paper mailing 50 8 0
Newspaper 0 1 11
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19. Reason you live in Enfield
Very important reasons (in descending order):
Reasons N/A Not very
important
Somewhat Impt Very
important
Total
4 1 15 157 177 Natural beauty
2.26% 0.565% 8.47% 88.7%
3 4 31 138 176 Rural character
1.70% 2.27% 17.6% 78.4%
4 7 50 115 176 Proximity to Ithaca
2.27% 3.98% 28.4% 65.3%
7 18 66 82 173 Proximity to State
Parks 4.05% 10.4% 38.2% 47.4%
21 15 64 76 176 Housing cost
11.9% 8.52% 36.4% 43.2%
40 44 37 53 174 School district
23.0% 25.3% 21.3% 30.5%
Somewhat important reasons (in descending order):
Reasons N/A Not very
important
Somewhat Impt Very
important
Total
11 32 86 44 173 Sense of community
6.36% 18.5% 49.7% 25.4%
12 39 79 43 173 Town size
6.94% 22.5% 45.7% 24.9%
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Not very important reasons (in descending order):
Reasons N/A Not very
important
Somewhat Impt Very
important
Total
40 96 25 9 170 Businesses
23.5% 56.5% 14.7% 5.29%
23 80 41 27 171 Lack of zoning/
reduced regulation 13.5% 46.8% 24.0% 15.8%
59 75 29 8 171 Investment opportunity
34.5% 43.9% 17.0% 4.68%
41 55 47 28 171 Public transportation
24.0% 32.2% 27.5% 16.4%
Not applicable reasons:
Reasons N/A Not very
important
Somewhat Impt Very
important
Total
121 8 10 31 170 Grew up here
71.2% 4.71% 5.88% 18.2%
20. Level of service
Services to Increase (in decreasing order):
Service Appropriate Decrease Increase No
opinion
Total
38 0 128 12 178 Internet connectivity
21.3% 0% 71.9% 6.74%
59 0 115 4 178 Cell service
33.1% 0% 64.6% 2.25%
58 2 102 18 180 Public transportation
32.2% 1.11% 56.7% 10%
55 1 98 24 178 Notification of proposed
development 30.9% 0.562% 55.1% 13.5%
49 6 95 30 180 Pedestrian/bike lanes
27.2% 3.33% 52.8% 16.7%
69 4 82 23 178 Junk code enforcement
38.8% 2.25% 46.1% 12.9%
73 2 77 25 177 Hiking trails/bike paths
41.2% 1.13% 43.5% 14.1%
47 1 75 56 179 Services/activities for youth
26.3% 0.559% 41.9% 31.3%
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Services at an appropriate level:
Service Appropriate Decrease Increase No
opinion
Total
158 2 6 12 178 Fire protection/rescue
88.8% 1.12% 3.37% 6.74%
146 1 28 3 178 Recycling
82.0% 0.562% 15.7% 1.69%
140 5 30 5 180 Snow plowing
77.8% 2.78% 16.7% 2.78%
135 0 13 31 179 Town hall services/hours
75.4% 0% 7.26% 17.3%
131 4 42 3 180 Road maintenance
72.8% 2.22% 23.3% 1.67%
127 3 33 17 180 Police protection
70.6% 1.67% 18.3% 9.44%
117 3 27 30 177 Building code enforcement
66.1% 1.69% 15.3% 16.9%
116 15 21 26 178 Street lights
65.2% 8.43% 11.8% 14.6%
112 2 29 34 177 Dog control
63.3% 1.13% 16.4% 19.2%
95 0 60 22 177 Community events
53.7% 0% 33.9%% 12.4
95 0 52 32 179 Public recreational
opportunities 53.1% 0% 29.1% 17.9%
94 1 44 38 177 Availability of buildings for
public use 53.1% 0.565% 24.9% 21.5%
Services with no opinion:
Service Appropriate Decrease Increase No
opinion
Total
53 2 59 65 179 Services/activities for seniors
29.6 1.12 33.0 36.3
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21. Land Use Development
Development to Encourage:
Types of development Discourage Encourage No
Change
No
Opinion
Total
1 173 3 1 178 Protection of air, soil, and
water quality 0.6% 97.2% 1.7% 0.7%
3 168 4 0 175 Protection of natural
areas/open space 1.7% 96.0% 2.3% 0.0%
1 158 10 9 178 “Green” building construction
0.6% 88.8% 5.6% 5.1%
2 155 8 13 178 Organic agriculture
1.1% 87.1% 4.5% 7.3%
8 137 19 14 178 Public green space
4.5% 77.0% 10.7% 7.9%
15 137 11 13 176 Wind farm
8.5% 77.8% 6.3% 7.4%
14 129 20 15 178 Town park for recreation
7.9% 72.5% 11.2% 8.4%
17 127 15 16 175 Large-scale solar installation
(commercial) 9.7% 72.6% 8.6% 9.1%
5 121 45 6 177 Affordable housing
2.8% 68.4% 25.4% 3.4%
8 121 29 18 176 Senior/assisted living
4.6% 68.8% 16.5% 10.2%
12 116 29 22 179 Bike paths/lanes
6.7% 64.8% 16.2% 12.3%
21 98 52 6 177 Residential development:
single family homes 11.9% 55.4% 29.4% 3.4%
25 69 49 32 175 Sidewalks
14.3% 39.4% 28.0% 18.3%
11 49 33 6 99 Conventional agriculture
11.1% 49.5% 33.3% 6.1%
Development to Discourage:
Types of development Discourage Encourage No
Change
No
Opinion
Total
161 8 8 3 180 High volume drilling for
natural gas (fracking) 89.4% 4.4% 4.4% 1.7%
120 2 50 7 179 Mobile home parks
67.0% 1.1% 27.9% 3.9%
66 40 58 11 175 Townhouses/condominiums
37.7% 22.9% 33.1% 6.3%
65 51 40 15 171 Commercial development
38.0% 29.8% 23.4% 8.8%
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Development to keep the same:
Types of development Discourage Encourage No
Change
No
Opinion
Total
64 36 68 8 176 Residential development:
multiple unit 36.4% 20.5% 38.6% 4.6%
22. Type of Development: Business/Municipal
Development to increase (in decreasing order):
Type of development Discourage Encourage or
Increase
No Opinion total
0 160 17 177 Organic farming
0% 90.4% 9.60%
5 150 20 175 Businesses offering
“green” energy services 2.86% 85.7% 11.4%
5 149 22 176 Farmers market
2.84% 84.7% 12.5%
5 148 23 176 Home-based businesses
2.84% 84.1% 13.1%
9 136 32 177 Community center
5.08% 76.8% 18.1%
11 135 28 174 Business centered on
tourism 6.32% 77.6% 16.1%
3 131 40 174 Elder care
1.72% 75.3% 23.0%
1 124 48 173 Day care
0.578% 71.7% 27.7%
23 114 40 177 Library
13.0% 64.4% 22.6%
22 98 50 170 Service businesses
12.9% 57.6% 29.4%
28 92 54 174 Professional offices
16.1% 52.9% 31.0%
30 91 48 169 Conventional farming
17.8% 53.8% 28.4%
40 89 45 174 Grocery/retail stores
23.0% 51.1% 25.9%
53 66 57 176 Additional gas
station/convenience store 30.1% 37.5% 32.4%
58 64 46 168 Light
industrial/manufacturing 34.5% 38.1% 27.4
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Summary of Question 23:
What do you like most about Enfield?
163 people responded to this question. Their responses have been grouped by category. In cases where
more than one topic was addressed by a respondent, that person’s response was split as appropriate
where possible. There were some cases, however, where it was not possible to split the response and so
a judgment was made as to which category to include the comment. No comment was repeated for the
sake of having it represented in more than one category.
The complete comments can be found at: http://townofenfield.org/content/Generic/View/15
Categories and topics # of people
Natural Environment
Natural beauty 73
It is rural 72
Peaceful/quiet 43
Parks, trails, national forest 25
Clean water 17
There is open, undeveloped space and it is not crowded 13
Clean air 11
Outdoor Recreation
Hiking/walking 7
General outdoor recreation 4
Swimming 2
Cycling 2
Cross country skiing 2
Hunting 1
Fishing 1
Farming/Agriculture
Farming (general) 8
Gardening, growing own food 3
Organic agriculture 1
Lack of heavy industry
No fracking 4
No heavy industry 2
No heavy industrial farming 1
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Proximity to other places
Proximity to Ithaca 38
Proximity to Trumansburg 3
Proximity to Watkins Glen 2
Proximity to Elmira/Corning 1
The People
Sense of community 11
The people (general) 5
Good neighbors 4
Friendly 2
Less greed than in city 1
Laid back 1
Resourceful 1
Regulation
Affordable/low taxes 6
No zoning/minimal government interference 2
Services
Excellent fire protection 2
Roads 1
Excellent police protection 1
On TCAT bus line 1
Buildings
Historic structures 1
New highway building 1
Quality of life
Small town 15
Low traffic density 6
Privacy 5
Healthy living 2
Ithaca City school district 2
Nice place to raise children 1
Progress
It is now coming into the 21st century 1
Wind farm coming 1
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General
Grew up here/family land here 8
My home 1
Being steward of my land 1
Best place to live 1
Summary of Question 24:
What is your biggest concern about the future of Enfield?
166 people responded to this question. Many people wrote comments addressing more than one topic.
The text responses were organized by category. Within each category items are in order by the number
of responses from high to low.
The complete comments can be found at: http://townofenfield.org/content/Generic/View/15
Categories and Topics # of people
Agriculture
Industrial farming 4
Loss of farmlands 1
Restrictions on farming 1
Use of chemicals on the soil 1
Environment & Health
Fracking 114
Quality of water 2
Losing access to parks/lakes 1
Pollution 1
Governance
Too many family members in town government 1
Growth & Development
Over-population/overbuilding/no safe pedestrian spaces 7
Increasing taxes 4
Increased commercial development 2
Takeover by oil companies 2
Too much growth 2
Deteriorating housing stock 2
Commercialization of natural resources 1
Concerned that Enfield might not welcome industry 1
Large landowners making money-driven decisions bad for community 1
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No plan for infrastructure 1
Overexpansion of public buildings 1
Sprawl, strip malls, etc. 1
Too many Indians and not enough chiefs 1
Traffic on 79 and back roads 1
Too much section 8 housing 1
Junk vehicles and trash 1
Lack of Services
Lack of high-speed internet 2
Better gas station 1
Lack of cell service 1
Lack of public transportation 1
Rights & Restrictions
No zoning, regulation 7
Loss of property owner’s rights/ increase of restrictions 2
Large landowners getting unfair advantages 1
Nosy neighbors pushing their agendas on others 1
Rights of the minority being trampled by the majority 1
Threats & Nuisances
Drugs 3
Flophouses, dumpy surroundings 2
Break-ins to rural homes 1
Lack of dog control 1
Road racing 1
Transients 1
Welfare will be primary employer 1
Summary of Question 25:
What would you change in Enfield?
145 people responded this question. Many people’s comments addressed more than one topic. The text
responses were organized by category. Within each category items are in order by the number of
responses from high to low. The second column shows how many people commented on each item.
The complete comments can be found at: http://townofenfield.org/content/Generic/View/15
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Categories and topics # of
people
Town Government
Town management needs improvement 4
Acknowledge contributions of people who run the town 1
Improve the town-wide e-mail list 1
More inclusiveness in policy and planning 1
Land owners should have more input on major financial decisions 1
Greater transparency of fire company 1
Community
Work toward increased/stronger community and mutual respect 16
More recreational opportunities 4
Use fire hall for community events 2
Too much Ithaca influence 1
Don’t split us into so many school districts 1
New or Improved Infrastructure desired
Stronger, more developed town center 13
Improve internet 12
Bike paths/lanes 6
Community center building 5
Sidewalks 3
Grocery store 2
Improve cell service 2
Town water/sewer 2
Park/playground 1
Improve town hall and meeting facilities 1
Designate a place for lawn clippings, leaves, Christmas trees 1
Replace Kuma’s with a regular tavern 1
Movie theater 1
Cleanup encouraged
Clean up town center 2
Move gravel piles out of center of town 1
Demolish old store 1
Develop a shooting range 1
Energy
Anti-frack 24
Encourage wind power 6
Embrace renewable energy 4
Energy independence 1
Open to “safe” gas drilling 1
Increase energy efficiency of all buildings 1
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Agriculture
Encourage organic farming and related businesses 5
Encourage farmland protection 2
Discourage CAFOs 1
Housing
Limit manufactured housing 1
Improve substandard housing 1
More housing 1
Roads and Transportation
Improved public transportation 10
Better road maintenance/repair 2
Improved plowing 1
Regulations/policies
Better code enforcement 7
Zoning to maintain rural, agricultural character 6
More planning/controls/zoning 5
Control speeding 3
Noise ordinance 3
Stop open trash burning 2
Control farm and animal run-off 1
Less recreational gun usage 1
More law enforcement 1
Fewer restrictions on commercial farmland use 1
No road racing 1
Zoning to improve properties 1
Discourage ATV or dirtbike track 1
Limit growth 1
Don’t tax disabled vets 1
Discourage road racing 1
Business/Services
Encourage small, low impact business 1
Elder care 1
More food pantry times 1
More educational resources 1
Environment
Encourage open space 3
Encourage public green space 3
Encourage nature/wildlife 2
Protect the water 1
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About change in Enfield
In favor of no change 7
Unsure 2
Summary of Question 26:
Do you believe Enfield is changing for the better or worse and why?
166 people responded to the numeric portion of this question which asked for a numeric assessment on
scale of 1-5 whether Enfield was changing for the better or worse.
Response Count %
Better 1 22 12.7%
2 63 36.4%
3 49 28.3%
4 21 12.1%
Worse 5 11 6.4%
No response 7 4.0%
126 of these also included written comments. Many people who wrote comments addressed more than
one topic.
The text responses were organized by category. Within each category items are in order by the number
of responses from high to low. In some cases seeing whether the comment was coming from a negative
or positive point of view is helpful for understanding the intention. The second column shows this. The
third column shows how many people commented on each item.
The complete comments can be found at http://townofenfield.org/content/Generic/View/15
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Categories and topics
Positive
or
negative
# of
people
Town Government
Town Board and its meetings have improved P 16
Planning Board issues need to be addressed N 5
Community
Better community in Enfield P 25
Appreciative of community events P 4
Enfield is becoming polarized/political N 4
Supportive of “new blood” in Enfield P 3
Enfield has no sense of community N 1
Large land-owners’ agendas are not good for the community N 1
Non-permanent residents should have no say about land use N 1
Physical environment
Appreciative of beautification effort, parks, overall improved overall
cleanup, environmental considerations, recycling
P 14
Love Enfield the way it is P 3
Appreciative of new highway building P 1
Old “Greggs” building is an eyesore N 1
Need improved junk cleanup including removal of old town barn N 1
Truck traffic has increased N 1
Energy
Anti-fracking - 34
Supportive of wind farm - 6
Supportive of solar energy - 3
Opposed to large scale wind/solar because of current technology
limitations
- 1
Agriculture
Enfield should continue to enhance conditions that support increasing
organic agriculture and related businesses
- 6
Enfield should continue support both conventional and organic agriculture - 1
Housing
Too much section 8 and low quality housing (along with influx of crime) N 4
Too much sprawl N 3
People are taking pride in their homes P 1
Roads and Transportation
Appreciative of current road maintenance P 2
Would like to see improved TCAT service - 1
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Regulations
Enfield needs zoning - 2
Enfield needs improved code enforcement N 1
Enfield has too many rules and regulations N 1
Appreciative of leash law and junk car law P 1
Taxes
Opposed to tax increases N 2
About change in Enfield
No change perceived - 11
Not here long enough to have an opinion - 7
Change has been too slow N 4
Too many people looking for easy fixes - 1
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TOWN OF ENFIELD, NY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2013
COMPLETE COMMENTS
182 Surveys returned
The Comprehensive Plan survey was made available to all residents of Enfield and non-resident land-
owners. A paper copy was inserted in the Enfield Community Currents/Town of Enfield Newsletter,
which is mailed to approximately 950 residences. It was made available on paper at the Enfield Town
Hall. It was also available for either printing or completion on-line at the Town of Enfield web site.
The survey was developed by a committee of residents using elements from comparable surveys from
the towns of Freeville, Hector, Newfield, Caroline, and Ulysses.
See the document Comprehensive Plan Survey Results Report 2013 for the survey results, including
summaries of the comments submitted.
See below for the complete comments.
OVERVIEW:
The complete free-form comments for questions 23 to the end follow. The text responses to each
question have been grouped by category. In cases where more than one topic was addressed by a
respondent, that person’s response was split as appropriate where possible (sometimes resulting from a
comma at the end of the comment below). There were some cases, however, where it was not possible
to split the response and so a judgment was made as to which category to include the comment even
though it applies to more than one category. No comment was repeated for the sake of having it
represented in more than one category. Thus these categories are only meant to facilitate a general
understanding of the comments.
These comments appear exactly as people submitted them (no spelling, grammar, or punctuation was
changed or corrected) except in a handful of instances where references to a specific name or address
was masked with asterisks or, in 2 cases, removed from the text to maintain confidentiality or eliminate
personal attack from the final document. The Planning Board has seen the unedited document.
Question 23 comments: What do you like most about Enfield?
Natural Environment
• Rural, open spaces
• The beauty and peacefulness.
• The rural atmosphere, with plenty of open space for agriculture, recreation, hunting, etc.
• like that it's rural and quiet
• There is lots of space.
• I like that it's quiet and beautiful, the water is pure and the air clean. I love growing my garden and walking in
the woods, seeing the wildlife, flowers and trees.
• Rural environment, clean water
• Rural residential areas. Natural Beauty. Quiet.
• Rural setting
• Rural living with clean air and water
• Quiet rural atmosphere
• Rural character;
• The natural beauty, tranquility,
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• The beauty of the natural surroundings
• Rural character;
• natural beauty
• the land and the amazing quality of water
• Rural settings.
• I like the rural agricultural character, natural beauty and views.
• SMALL
SIZE
• Its
rural
landscape,
the
size,
the
beauty,
• Rural character and that I have cows for neighbors
• what the country has to offer - natural beautiful setting!!
• It is quiet, still retains a lot of undeveloped areas,
• rural landscape, clean water and air
• Natural beauty, quiet
• The rural character and natural beauty;
• The water. We have the best water in the area. Wildlife.
• Natural Beauty and privacy. It's quite and peaceful most of the time. The waterways and state park are also
jewels.
• Rural environment, amount of forest
• The natural beauty, uncrowded spaces, clean water and air
• Open space
• Rural character, landscape, hills
• Rural, tranquil, clean air and water
• Farms, parks, historic structures,
• rural
• Rural, peace and quiet, natural beauty,
• Rural character, natural beauty,
• The open spaces
• the rural nature of the town
• The rolling green hills, frame and open land
• The rural environment,
• Living in the country. Quiet, beautiful vistas throughout the town. The mix of farms, and forests.
• rural character, birds, and wildlife
• open space
• Scenery
• I like the rural characteristic of Enfield and its state parks and natural beauty.
• I love the rural aspect of our community.
• Rural Beauty, peace and quiet, parks, trails.
• The rural character
• its rural setting
• The natural beauty
• The falls
• quiet, rural, peaceful character; natural beauty;
• Small Town rural area
• I like it alot,it is quite, beautiful colors in the fall, some snow, nice breeze in the summer.
• natural diversity of native plants and animals on our land
• Quiet, rural living, our great water that is now in jeopardy
• Beauty, relative quiet, lots of open space
• natural beauty/rural
• Natural beauty; hills, fields, forests, streams; Treman park, especially Upper Enfield.
• Rural character,
• Open Space
• Natural beauty
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• Rural character
• Natural beauty.
• Open space & natural beauty.
• Rural character.
• very scenic
• Natural beauty.
• Beautiful, quiet countryside.
• Natural beauty and rural character
• The quiet country setting
• Rural natural beauty
• The rural feel
• That I was born/raised here and it's still as beautiful.
• The beauty,
• Natural environment small town feel with close proximity to Ithaca.
• Natural areas, beauty
• Small size, open spaces, serenity
• Rural setting
• Quiet, rural character & natural beauty.
• Quiet, beauty, privacy.
• The natural beauty, rural character, clean air, clean water,
• The fall leaves
• The beautiful farm scenery.
• Every beautiful rock that catches my eye in the sunlight as I walk the fields with our dogs, the different places
berries pop up each year to our surprise. I love this place for its beauty and for the feeling of 'being rooted'
that it gives me.
• Rural, close to nature, peaceful
• Stunning beauty, air and water quality
• Rural character, scenery,
• Beauty, water , rural nature,
• Rural setting, parks,
Outdoor Recreation
• lots of great places to hike
• fishing, swimming, hiking
• recreational opportunities nearby;
• The access to the outdoors for recreation, Treman State Park, the Finger Lakes Trail, etc.
• good cycling, great access to parks,
• hilly terrain with some relative wilderness to hike and bike and cross country ski in,
• Access to trails for cross country skiing and hiking,
Farming/Agriculture
• Room for farming
• Farming
• opportunities for organic agriculture,
• , farming community.
Lack of heavy industry
• It's small and there's no heavy industry,
• and no fracking or heavy industrial farming,
• The environmental concerns re. No hydrofracking or green industry
• fracking moratorium.
• Small size, rural, no industry.
• It's a great rural town, but I'm worried about fracking. Otherwise, there's no place I'd rather be.
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Proximity to other places
• Rural location, but close to Ithaca.
• it's people, close enough to city, but far away enough to enjoy the peace and quiet( but that's changing due to
slum lord rentals. bad for peace and quiet and land values.
• proximity to Ithaca, the natural beauty of the area
• close to Ithaca.
• close commute to Ithaca
• The fact it's close to Ithaca, but still far enough away to be rural.
• proximity to Ithaca
• Proximity to Ithaca and surrounding parks,
• close to state parks
• Rural country living near to Ithaca.
• When purchasing our home, it was very important that we are in the Ithaca City School district and near a
TCAT bus line.
• It's rural atmosphere with proximity to Ithaca;
• the proximity to Ithaca, Treman Park.
• I like that it's rural and close to Ithaca.
• and is a nice proximity to Ithaca, Trumansburg, etc.
• State parks
• I like being close to T-burg and Ithaca but the feel of being out in the country.
• closeness to Ithaca, Watkins Glen, and state parks.
• The proximity to Ithaca.
proximity to Ithaca/Elmira/Corning,
• close to Ithaca,
• distance from Ithaca and Watkins Glen. Robert Treman State Park.
• Closeness to Ithaca and parks
• I can get to Ithaca in 20 minutes,
• It's beauty and proximity to parks and Ithaca.
• and proximity to Ithaca and state parks.
• We are close to Ithaca, part of the Ithaca City School District, but have a lot of access to land for gardening,
hiking, and other outdoor activities.
• nearby parks, lakes
• The abundance of natural landscapes, the clean water & air, the rural character,
• I like the rural nature of the town and that it is close to the state parks, the national forest and close to Ithaca
and Trumansburg.
• proximity to Ithaca and Treman park.
• Its rural nature as well as its proximity to the cultural offerings of the Ithaca area.
• Its rural character, yet it is very close to Ithaca.
• home price and proximity to Ithaca combo,
• Proximity to parks.
• proximity to Ithaca
• close to Ithaca
• & proximity to Ithaca
• It's small and rural but close enough to Ithaca for convenience.
• proximity to parks, the lake.
• The countryside is what brought me here along with the close proximity to Ithaca
• Beautiful rural setting close to services in Ithaca
• proximity to Ithaca.
• It's rural natural setting and its proximity to Ithaca for work.
• close to Ithaca
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The People/Community
• and sense of community.
• it's sense of community.
• FRIENDLY NEIGHBORS, LAID BACK RURAL CHARACTER
• Great community.
• people
• & the sense of community
• community involvement and good neighbors
• Enfield's unique economy comprised of people who know how to do just about anything.
• I also enjoy the sense of community and public involvement that appears to be growing in Enfield.
• Quirky nature loving residents,
• the growing sense of community.
• the community mindedness of so many people.
• & concerned neighbors
• Peaceful atmosphere, neighbors.
• Rural community
• Sense of community
• friendly community,
• the people.
• Lived here since a baby, sense of community.
Regulation
• Lack of zoning
• Low taxes, minimal government interference
• but the countryside is getting too junky. There are a lot of homeowners who do not are about their properties
and a code enforcement officer who does not enforce NYS code etc.
Services
• and the excellent police and fire protection services.
• fire protections, roads
Quality of life
• The low density of traffic on Enfield's roads is a real bonus.
• Its quiet for the most part.
• My home and the sense of community Events, activities and planing should support the live-ability of Enfield
balancing the cost benefit ratio. No more "Shudaben" development where the taxpapers have to pay to bail
out residents from greedy developers.
• peace and quiet
• quiet;
• low impact/volumn of traffice;
• lack of traffic
• The peaceful setting.
• Small, quiet
• Relaxing atmosphere primarily. Room to breath, quiet to think. Privacy
• Beautiful, good quality water, quiet, not much traffic,
• peace and quiet, privacy, clean air, clean water, I can walk for recreation and exercise and not get run over by
trucks or (in general) chased by unleashed dogs.
• being able to live in close to nature and grow my own food, being the steward of my land
and live in a healthy way , while also being in close proximity to Ithaca.
• That you can swim in a local spring-fed pond and know that water is about as clean as it can get. More
affordable than most towns in Tompkins County.
• dark and quiet nights out here.
• That it's a small town
• I like the privacy we get in other rural towns it doesn't seem the same as here.
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• PEACE AND QUIET
• low population density,
• There is not a lot of traffic and noise, except on 79,
• Good quality of life, fresh air and water.
• The fresh air and natural beauty, the peace and quiet,
• Rural, clean and
• Sleepy; pretty, mostly quiet, nature around me.
• affordable living
• I can afford to live here. Would move outside Tompkins county if that changed.
• Rural, small community
• Nice place to live & raise children.
• not expensive.
• It is a small quiet little community that should remain so.
• I love that it is a small town full of natural beauty and seems to be less tainted by greed than many of the big
cities.
• Country setting, away from city, quiet
• Quiet rural setting
• Small, quiet
• Small town.
• Quiet,
Progress
• that a wind farm is opening up! That's so exciting! I will cry for joy when it happens.
• That it is now coming into the 21st century.
• I've seen some new improvement like new Enfield Highway Building.
General
• It's where my families land is located.
• I know everybody because i grew up here.
• I grew up here its my home I love it. My family lives next door to me. I really like that we can share this
space together and be so close.
• Best place to live.
• Always home
• I like that we have history here. It feels right to be here and to consider this the place we will always be. I
know our family's land like the back of my hand. My head is full of stories from relatives long lost and of my
own experience...tromping through the swamp, learning to drive a Ford 9N on my own under the instruction
of my granddad.
Question 24: What is your biggest concern about the future of Enfield?
Agriculture
• I am strongly opposed to industrial farming/"right-to-farm policies" that produce toxic air and can
contaminate water.
• Recent so-called "conventional" farming that destroys hedgerows, lovely woods, creek valleys.
• My biggest concern is for the possible commercialization of the town. Many remember the "Pig Farm" years
ago. I certainly do, as I lived downwind of it. This type of commercial farming, as in the Town of Lansing,
can downgrade the environment of the town and should be discouraged.
• I would not support CAFOs as they are essentially agriculture fracking.
• Loss of farmlands
• Restrictions on Farming
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• It is extremely important to protect the environment by enacting regulations which prevent practices such as
spraying of chemicals on the soil. We need to encourage green energy, organic farming, and preserving the
land for future generations to enjoy.
Environment & Health
• I am very concerned that heavy industrialization associated with fracking or other heavy industries will ruin
our roads, pollute our aquifer and deplete our clean water resources.
• I am strongly opposed to hydrofracking that produces toxic air and can contaminate water.
• I am very concerned about the possible effects of natural gas development (fracking) on our community. The
effects on water quality and the increase in truck traffic and noise are of particular concern. I believe it would
so degrade the quality of life here that we would be forced to move.
• Hydro-fracking ruining the water & roads
• Fracking
• My biggest concern is that our community and water will be destroyed by hydrofracturing.
• fracking could wreck everything
• I am very concerned that fracking will ruin not only my well water but also the air and noise quailty of my
home. I moved here for the natural beauty and quiet. I don't want these taken away because of fracking.
• fracking
• fracking would change everything and could destroy my land and water
• That they allow Fracking in Enfield or any were else. Because Fracking will ruin the land and destroy
everything. I dont want to have to live with all the spills, loudness and most improtantly traffic. I also dont
want my water to catch on fire.
• The potential negative consequences of hydro-fracking.
• The possibility of fracking. I am part owner of a lake property in PA and we worry greatly about the quality
of both our lake and our well water. There have been many instances of contaminated well water in
neighboring communities. I can't take a drink from the tap and not wonder if it's safe to do so. I can't say
how comforting it is to know that my water here is safe for myself and my dogs. It seems as though people
take clean well water for granted, particularly those who have never experienced the fear of contamination.
• Hydrofracking, polluted water and air, unsafe deteriorating roads, homes surrounded with trash, junk,
garbage and vehicles.
• That fracking will destroy the water supply and general health of the area.
• Fracking
• The threat of fracking.
• Changes that will occur if hydrofracking comes to town
• That frackers come! I will hit them over the head with a baseball bat if they come on my land! Maybe we
should frack their land how would they like that! I don't want my land and water contaminated!!!!!!!
• protect Enfield lands from activities such as hydraulic fracturing and other such damaging activities
• Worried about fracking & wall water, fracking & beauty, fracking & incoming of rough necks.
• Gas drilling
• Hydrofracking's impact on environment
• being overrun by oil and gas exploration companies.
• The effects of fracking, including traffic and water quality.
• Fracking
• Industrial development/hydrofracking
• Fracking
• High volume slick water hyrdrofracking is a danger to the community and could easily destroy our wonderful
community.
• Nothing is even remotely more important than to ban fracking
• RIGHT NOW WE MUST BAN HIGH VOLUME SLICK WATER HORIZONTAL HYDROFRACTURING
• Fracking
• impact of fracking either in or nearby Enfield
• concerned that fracking will be allowed
• Allowing an irrevesable hyrofracking in our community
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• Fracking
• hydrofracking
• That fracking will destroy the area.
• Hydrofracking
• The risks and side effects of fracking
• Fracking! Don't let it happen!
• economic pressures to exploit resources of water, land, natural gas will lead to environmental degradation and
contamination.
• My biggest concern is that Enfield will be negatively impacted, environmentally and economically by
fracking.
• Hydrofracking
• NO FRACKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
• The occurence of fracking.
• I'm most concerned about gas drilling. It would be a fatal mistake to allow gas corporations to come in and
run roughshod over all of us just for a few residents to benefit financially. Please no gas drilling!!
• The possibility of high volume drilling for natural gas. I am not opposed to other forms of natural gas
development.
• The possible industrial development of hydraulic fracturing for natural gas. I have deep concerns about the
negative effects of that industry on the Enfield community (as well as other rural towns), especially relating to
air and water quality, road maintenance and overall quality of life.
• being "run over" by gas drilling companies
• I do not want to see ANY fracking or oil drilling.
• I'm very concerned about the possibility of fracking. I see no positive gains and only a multitude of
headaches and problems if that type of gas drilling is allowed to go forward. The residents of Enfield stand to
gain nothing but only to lose our health, and wealth of natural beauty.
• It is extremely important to protect the environment by enacting regulations which prevent practices such as
hydrofracking.
• I believe that fracking would decrease property values, drive people and healthy business/agriculture away
from Enfield, and degrade the environment and health of the people who live here.
• I believe that industrial scale agriculture is also harmful to the environment. Also, concentrated animal
feeding operations (CAFOs) should not be encouraged in Enfield. Large-scale farms should be held to high
standards in relation to air, water, and noise pollution. Small scale organic operations should be encouraged
in Enfield.
• The consequences of hydro-fracking on our land and water.
• Fracking. If it happens we will move. We have our first child on the way and we aren't raising her in a gas
field.
• My biggest concern currently is that fracking will NOT be banned. I would like to see a comprehensive ban
on fracking in the town of Enfield.
• I believe that industrial scale agriculture is also harmful to the environment. Also, concentrated animal
feeding operations (CAFOs) should not be encouraged in Enfield. Large-scale farms should be held to high
standards in relation to air, water, and noise pollution. Small scale organic operations should be encouraged
in Enfield.
• Fracking spoiling the town & our water
• My biggest concern is the potential for water contamination due to hydrofracking.
• My biggest concern at this point is that we protect our community from the big gas corporation's plan to frack
our community and that our water will be poisoned for generations to come. I have children, we drink from
our well. They need not to be exposed to cancer cause chemicals. I love where we live. Everyday when I go
for a run in the morning, I am in awe of the beauty that surrounds us. Please protect this beautiful
community.
• fracking would ruin the town for me
• Hydrofracking
• Destruction of natural resources, e.g. fracking
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• that hydrofracking will come and poison everything
• Fracking will change the entire rural nature of the town, destroy natural beauty, destroy water, air and
community.
• Fracking for natural gas and its impact on the environment, especially water quality
• do not want gas drilling here
• Hydraulic fracturing for natural gas and the pollution that will ensue.
• I'm most concerned that gas drilling will be allowed in the area, placing a hazard on our water table, air
quality and rural nature of the town. I'm concerned that we will lose the agricultural nature of the town and
would like to encourage more farming and less industrial development.
• hydrofracking will turn the town into an industrialized zone for years and i'll be forced to sell my home at a
reduced value and leave..
• The possibility of fracking. Leave the gas in the ground.
• I dread extraction of natural resources of any sort without long term considerations of sustainability. Right
now it is fracking. Global warming is coming to all of us and that is actually my largest concern. We need to
get off fossil fuels.
• Hydrofracking
• Fracking would destroy enfield and must be avoided at all costs.
• The possibility of fracking makes me hesitant to buy a home or start a business as I do not believe that in the
event of water and land contamination that anyone will be held responsible in a reasonable amount of time
which means there is no deterrent for those seeking profit.
• I am concerned that Enfield could become industrialized due to natural gas extraction techniques and other
large scale commercial agriculture or industrial ventures. I want to continue to live in a healthy , quiet rural
environment. We need to protect our air, land and water and the overall quality of our rural life.
• I really do not want to see it become a fracking town I know of people that live in Pennsylvania in a tracking
town before they came in it was great another wonderful rural town in the United States one four corner stop
sign with a small town store the fracking company's came in the roads are thrashed they have to wait at a stop
light for sometimes up to fifteen minutes for a long line of gas trucks. They were invaded they can't sell there
land because no one wants to buy it in a town over run by fracking company's they are concerned about there
children's health.
• The most awful future I can imagine is an Enfield dotted with gas drilling rigs pounding 24/7, spewing diesel
fumes into the air & turning clean water into chemical stew. We have such a treasure of beautiful woods &
streams, farmland & meadows--how can we even consider turning such an environment into a dirty industrial
zone?
• hydrofracking and wind farms changing the landscape and noise levels
• That hydrofracking will ruin the water supply and cause many homes to be worthless.
• That the town become home to increased heavy-industrial activity and accompanying pollution that goes
along with fossil fuel extraction. It's really important to protect our valuable and thus far plentiful water
supply through an aquifer study and local laws.
• My home is my biggest investment and if hydrofracking is allowed its diminished value is assured. Lower
land values will lead to diminished tax base for town maintenance and repair of the destructive nature of the
drilling practices so apparent in Pennsylvania. The noise air and water pollution will prompt many to leave, it
is a slippery slope that has left many communities in desperation. I do not want to leave Enfield but am not
willing to live in the midst of these installations.
• That hydro fracking will be allowed and a spill will contaminate our water. Even if there is no spill the
industrial development of Enfield would most likely drive us away at great cost to us.
• That we won't adequately protect our community against high volume natural gas drilling- Ban fracking in
Enfield!
• Possibility of fracking, at this time.
• Messing up the place with fracking.
• I am very concern about fracking. We are on a well and I would really HATE to loose our water supply.
• That hydrofracking or other heavy industrial development will destroy the clean air, water, peacefulness and
quality of life that we have here.
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• 1. That hydrofracking NOT be allowed here, and that we have the right to determine that as a town.
• Possibility of hydrofracking
• No Fracking! No fracking! No drilling! No, No, No!
• Fracking
• Fracking- Don't Want!
• Fracking and what it could do to our water and air, especially 2 years down the line when the chemicals have
had time to disperse and seals have had time to break.
• High volume drilling for natural gas (fracking)
• Allowing fracking for gas wells
• Don't want to see hydro-fracking and the heavy industrial look that accompanies it.
• Fracking coming here
• Although I am not necessarily opposed to developing natural gas, I am none the less concerned about the
effect it will have.
• The big businesses and gas drilling will come here. We NEED to encourage solar and wind energy.
• Hydrofracking will render homes uninhabitable, destroy property values, increase taxes by destroying tax
base and increase infrastructure maintenance cost.
• Stop fracking!
• I'm very concerned about fracking.
• Threat of hydrofracking
• Eventual approval of hydrofracking and resulting environmental and traffic impacts
• Fracking
• Pollution of air and water. Industrialization through natural gas development or CAFOs.
• Hydrofracking. We will leave town if it comes.
• Fracking
• Fracking is a huge threat to our quality of life. I strongly oppose drilling and hydrofracking in the Town of
Enfield.
• I'm concerned that our community will change...it's way too small of an area to invite huge industrial
operations like gas drillers in to disrupt and pollute this beautiful landscape. I'm saddened that people who
claim to be the most concerned about the land have more regard for making money at the expense of their
neighbors than really, and seriously considering the damage that will occur to the land if high volume slick
water hydraulic fracturing is allowed to commence. Even if there was never to be a spill, the toll that this type
of activity will take on the surface, the landscape, the terrain...it will change it forever. This type of mindset
is disappearing. It isn't realistic in today's society and it isn't sustainable in a community the size of ours.
• losing access to parks and lakes
• Increased pollution
• Water well protection.
• Pollution of ground water and bodies of water.
Governance
• EVFC Members should not serve on the Town Board. The Town employs too many family members. Town
clerk, code officer, brother and sister, councilperson married to code officer, etc. Conflicts!
Growth & Development
• Commercialization of natural resources
• That decisions being made now are based on fear and speculation. This town could use an economic boost
and writing an entire industry out of a plan is short-sighted. This town should welcome ANY industry into
our tax base. So my biggest fear is creating a plan that prohibits the growth of this community.
• Development
• That it is not over-developed, or the countryside ruined for someone's profit
• Currently I would be most concerned about property taxes continuing to go up
• Taxes will become so high that residents will sell and move because of affordability. We need to think long
and hard before spending beyond our basic needs. We cannot continue to increase taxes at the expense of our
residents.
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• Cost of services and taxes for unfunded state and federal mandates
• Increasing Property taxes- especially for residents on fixed incomes.
• I'm concerned about what the large landowners will do with their land to make money. I can only hope that
they will consider the community when making decisions.
• No plan for the infrastructure to meet the future needs of the town. No in town housing for the elderly, no
community center or recreational space (ball fields, basketball courts, etc.)for our young. We don't even have
a decent Town Hall and the center of our town in distened for slum lord city!
• Commercial development
• Development with no safe pedestrian spaces.
• Increased population
• over population
• Lack of proper land use, ie small home/lot sizes. Min size 3 ars.
• It will lose its rural charm.
• Over development of industry.
• Over expansion of public buildings
• Sprawl development ruining the rural area. I grew up outside Philadelphia in a rural area where farms were
replaced completely by strip malls and housing developments, each uglier than the last. Result is no
community identity, no way to walk or use public transport to services. No beautiful landscape. Just endless,
characterless sprawl and crowded roads and everyone living atomized lives. I think fostering community and
stewardship of land and resources should be the top priorities.
• Take over by "oil companies"
• Big brother (oil co) taking over
• too many indians and not enough chiefs.
• Growth.
• I'd hate to see it become like Ithaca, over run by students with no respect for those who live and work here.
• traffic on t. 79 and back roads
Housing Quality & Maintenance
• Come look at the properties on either side of me! Deteriorating buildings. The "newest" buildings made out
of scrap.
• Deteriorating housing stock.
• too many welfare section 8 housing opportunities. attracting bad acting and scary people to our area.
Lack of Services
• That we get a better gas station and for the TCAT to come out here more and for the town to get a program
for people that need help with services and food and the children.
• Lack of good cell service.
• 2. The lack of affordable high-speed internet service, except for those who have Haefele TV, which provides
internet services.
• Lack of choices of Internet providers.
• Lack of public transportation.
Rights & Restrictions
• Planning should not change the character of Enfield so large landowners can make a buck on the backs of
hardworking middle class residents as has happened in past.
• Losing its free rural lifestyle.
• loss of property owner's rights through poor planning
• Lack of zoning will lead to undesirable uses establishing businesses near my home or my neighbors.
• Lack of zoning, lack of code enforcement.
• Unregulated buildings.
• Lack of building/zoning regulations
• unplanned growth
• Unregulated housing development, esp. mobile homes.
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• Lack of zoning
• NOSY NEIGHBORS PUSHING THEIR AGENDAS ON OTHERS
• Rights of the minority are being trampled by the majority.
Threats & Nuisances
• Break-ins to rural homes
• Drugs.
• Road racing.
• Drugs.
• Lower class people making it a dumpy area.
• Slum landlords w/flop houses.
• Dogs across the road left out all the time, barking and whining (SPCA will not do anything unless formal
charges are pressed).
• Drugs.
• Continued transient, low or no income people wandering around.
• Welfare will be the primary employer
Question 25 Comments: What would you change in Enfield?
Town Government
• More planning, controls
• Some consistancy in our Town mamnagement would be a plus
• I would hold more referendums to encourage inclusiveness in Town of Enfield policy & planning.
• I would like to see more of the kind of community involvement in Town events and governance we've seen
over the last couple of years.
• I'd like to see the Town make a greater effort to create and maintain a town-wide e-mail list so that
announcements about meetings and laws are more readily available. People could be encouraged to stay in
touch with the Town website more than they do. We'd become a more cohesive community.
• Find a way to acknowledge the contributions of the few residents that keep the town running and safe (elected
officials, employees, fire company personnel -- all volunteer far more time than most residents realize).
• the town board, too many conflicts of interest
• Transparency of the Fire Company
• focus of town government
• New people in town Gov.
• Land owners should have more input on major financial decisions.
Community
• To see everyone work for the common good of our community. We have a lovely firehouse but no
community events can be held there, why? Would like to see more community involvement and support with
our Grange.
• I would like to see more community socializing. While it would be great to have an actual community center
building to meet in, I think we could be creative as a community until the time that's possible. Perhaps some
open houses a few times a year or once a month...open our homes for snacks and meeting new people. Maybe
a progressive dinner a couple times a year. I have loved getting to know so many people who live
here. Really, it's such a small population, it is possible to know nearly everyone here in some capacity sooner
or later. The more we know one another, the more committed we are to one another in making our
community strong.
• more recreational opportunities
• too much influence from ithaca
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• I wish there was more of a community here - more gatherings or a place to gather (cafe?). Would be nice to
have some small businesses here or kid-orientated activities for families to come together.
• Enhancing sense of community
• Idealistically, I would work on changing the attitude that "what I do on/with my land is nobody else's
business". Fostering an attitude of "I care that what I do on/with my land affects my neighbors" could be a
worthwhile goal.
• More community events to bring residents together and to "get to know" some of our neighbors
• There seem to be a lot of people living in very marginal-looking structures. Info and connections - perhaps via
the website - about how residents could help neighbors in need would be nice.
• feed the hungry, encorage our young people, and have more of a sense of a caring community
• More activities for children.
• Get people to get to know each other better. Have more opportunities to meet your neighbors.
• repurpose fire hall to a community facility,
• increase communication and cooperation of citizens on individual and community projects.
• I would like to see more opportunities for the kids- a bigger space for them to gather in, more resources for
after school activities and programming.
• Less sense of "I can do whatever I want to my property" and greater awareness of the public good.
• Encourage more community learning opportunities and use of facilities for adult classes and education.
• That more to be done to encourage the community to stay small.
• People like me who are not involved enough. I/we should be. More engaged with neighbors. Can we start a
community cafe like Dryden? Need better relationships between new comers & old timers. Less arrogance
from new-comers towards rural families. More mutual respect.
• I would build a community center for all to use.
• Need a community center so people have a place to run into each other.
• I would increase the sense of community by not splitting us into so many different school districts.
New or Improved Infrastructure desired
• We need a sustainable model of development that includes improved internet access, improved public
transportation access
• I would also really LOVE to have high speed internet!
• High speed internet availability.
• I would improve cell service and internet options to invite small, home-based businesses into our community.
• Develop high speed internet access
• We need improved internet access that is more affordable- we don't have cable or DSL. Satellite internet
access is expensive and not always reliable.
• I've only lived in Enfield for 6 months, but I am very happy with everything so far and glad to have bought
property here. If I had to pick one thing, access to high-speed internet would be really nice. I am only able to
access that at work.
• Modernize ie Internet - High speed
• Poor cell phone coverage and no legitimate Internet access. Needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
• I'd bring in affordable high-speed internet service. The state broadband map has been wrong. It shows Time
Warner Cable serving Enfield, and also shows other internet services that are not available. I have been in
touch with the state Broadband Commission on numerous occasions to help them correct the errors on the
map, because they need to know that there is little to no high-speed internet service in Enfield.
• Bike paths on major roads. So it will be safer for the people who are biking.
• make the busy roads safer by creating bike paths.
• More safe pedestrian spaces -- sidewalks and walking/bike trails.
• a town water system, sewer system, connection to the world due to cable, telephone cables, maybe a small
movie theather, etc. for residents to enjoy.
• More commercial activity and urban landscaping in Enfield town center.
• I would bring on the farms/restaurants/parks/bike lanes/ all the other good ideas mentioned above.
• More public green space, perhaps more local businesses in the center of Enfield
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• Make a real town center (see below). Add sidewalks and more street lights so pedestrians stop walking in the
road, especially on Enfield Main. Encourage *small* business development and better quality affordable
housing, and elder care. Elder care would need to come with proper public transportation and a small grocery
store in the center of town. Above I indicated that I wanted to increase certain types of housing, but I would
not want to see massive housing developments with identical houses on postage-stamp sized plots of land. If
housing is increased I would want it to be done thoughtfully, and with priority placed on keeping the rural
nature of our community.
• maybe start a park to encourage some sort of visiting to the area. Start small and grow.
• It would be wonderful to have our roads more pedestrian and cyclist friendly. It would also be great to have a
recreational park nearby with a playground.
• I would love to see some storefronts in downtown Enfield.
• The town area needs a little renovation.
• Historic preservation and re-purposing of existing structures in a planned focused way to build a community
center.
• A restaurant or two would be nice, but maybe unrealistic.
• I would like to see sidewalks along Enfield main road and a proper bus stop across from the town hall.
• develop bike paths
• I would build a stronger town center area
• Build a bus shelter for riders.
• Better internet service,
• Replace Kuma's with a regular tavern.
• Make a nice center of town. People associate Valley Korner as the center and that doesn't promote the gentle
character of Enfield.
• Make the village center more attractive.
• Shooting range-
• The establishment of a traditional general store would serve as a community "watering hole", community
center, grocery and retail store, while fitting with the character of the community.
• A place to bring lawn clippings, leaves, Christmas trees, etc.
Cleanup encouraged
• Improve condition of buildings and maintenance of green areas,
• I'd also like to see the gravel piles moved out of the center of town to the new highway department site.
• get ride of junk sites near the roads
• Improve the town hall and meeting Facilities
• Demolish the corner store- bring in new store with a paved parking lot and affordable prices.
Energy
• people shouldn't be wishy washy about this -- just ban it before it's too late
• the weather, but if you can't do that at keast stop the frackers!
• I'd definately want to leave if fracking were allowed.
• Pass a ban on gas drilling to protect us from fracking and other high volume industrial drilling techniques
which will ruin our way of life here in Enfield.
• Ban Fracking forever.
• And I would like to see a ban on high volume hydrofracking in the town.
• Change the moratorium to a ban on hydrofracking.
• I would like to see Enfield focus on green energy, like the wind farm that is going to be built on Black Oak
Rd and
• Introduce a moratorium on fracking.
• A ban on fracking until it can be done safely.
• the moritorium on fracking to a complete ban on fracking
• I would change the fracking moratorium to a fracking ban
• make the moratorium into a ban on fracking
• I would enact a ban on high volume hydraulic fracturing.
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• Institute a Ban on Hydrofracking
• Slowness of relictivity (?) to ban fracking
• ban hydrofracking,
• Put a ban on Hydro Fracking in place.
• The slow move to ban fracking. It needs to be done NOW!
• Natural Gas drilling when safer forms would be Ok
• ban tracking.
• Town should adopt a BAN on Hydrofracking.
• Ban hydrofracking
• Reduced cost electrical power through wind energy and a ban on hydro-fracking would make me very proud.
• Also, if farmers are allowed to "frack" their land, the environment of the town will be so adversely affected
that it becomes beyond repair.
• I would institute a ban on fracking as soon as possible.
• also green renewable energy sources in more abundance I think it's great the outside lights in the parking lot
at the school are solar powered cudos that's great
• more emphasis on energy conservation, development of renewable energy technologies.
• I do think that every effort should be made to incorporate green energy wherever possible. A wind farm
would only be an asset. Any other moves toward green energy would be welcome.
• increase energy efficiencies of all buildings.
• Build/approve wind farm and solar generation. Energy independence without toxic waste.
• The addition of a wind farm.
• Complete wind farm
Agriculture
• and "new agriculture" ventures that do not contaminate the land or air, and that have genuine respect for the
well being of neighbors in what is becoming a more residential area.
• I would encourage farmland protection laws and any programs that would encourage farmers to keep large
tracts of farmland intact.
• Explore ways to enable land to stay open space so that it's available for current and future (green) agriculture.
• Farmers used to be the primary protectors of the land. Ever increasingly, they use and abuse the land to
maximize profits. The increasing use of herbicides and pesticides will eventually adversely affect all aspects
of the environment,
• I would love to see huge embrace of development of renewable energy and organic farming. We are in the
perfect place for it with Ithaca so close by.
• Not much it would be nice to see more organic farmers in the area
• fostering of small-scale agriculture,
• NO MORE CAFOs!
Housing
• More housing
• improve substandard housing
• Limit manufactured housing
Roads and Transportation
• More bus service.
• Better public transportation to more areas of Enfield. For example, the Enfield Falls area is not served at all.
A small feeder bus along Rt.327 four times a day to connect to the lines at the Enfield Town Hall or on Route
13 would be nice. Could be served by some 8 passenger van. There is a need, but there may not be enough
folks using the service in the beginning, thus a relatively small public transport vehicle would suffice.
• I don't understand the resistance to having a bus stop at the new highway facility. I think it would be very
useful to have a bus stop there.
• public transportation options,
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• reroute TCAT to a loop that runs to the new highway barn crosses over to Bostwick Rd. and over Sheffield to
Meck Rd. ;
• Stop digging such huge trenches on the sides of the roads. Drainage is one thing but standing water (now a
problem in front of my place) leads to more mosquitoes (West Nile virus problem) and big problems for
minor skids in the winter.
• Bus service to all of Enfield
• Better Winter plowing.
• Better road repair
• Small TCAT buses or vans operating more frequently and coming out to S. Buck Hill Rd. (County/Town line)
Regulations/policies
• Enforcement of junk yard code / dog licensing.
• More zoning and more enforcement of property code requirements; it's embarrassing to drive visitors around
certain areas of Enfield, the way some of the properties look
• stricter codes and enforcement regarding property maintenance.
• Develop a long term plan for sustainable development. Countryside residents across the country have realized
too late that zoning would have protected them from big trucks running over their dogs, or that loud noise that
keeps them up at night, and the traffic that doubles their commute. There is room in Enfield for industry,
commerce, multifamily homes, etc... but we must have a plan that is realistic for keeping traffic reasonable,
allowing space for recreation, and not disturbing the existing rural character of Enfield.
• I would encourage stronger land use planning/ zoning to maintain the rural and agricultural nature of the
community. I am concerned about the effect of substandard housing on the nature of the community and the
schools.
• Realistically, I would like the town to explore the idea of land use zoning to see if some form of it would
work for Enfield.
• Put in place a noise ordinance.
• Get farm/animal run-off under control.
• stricter rules to prevent industrial development
• At least enforce building codes and maybe have some zoning regulations
• I would love to see zoning in Enfield, like you see in every other town in the country.
• I would like to see the sheriff's dept. out here more often setting up speed traps.
• I also have some concerns about recreational gun usage.
• I am very glad that the ATV track on Shudaben Rd. closed. That was quite a noise nuisance and is a
concern. I would discourage the development of another ATV or dirtbike track.
• I would like to see some sort of code to help people learn to keep junk cars and junk trailers and general level
of extremely unsightly waste limited, behind fences and NOT right along our beautiful creeks. I hike at night
and smell burn barrels all the time. I don't know how to locate exactly where they are coming from.
• I'd like more zoning, more protective ordinances, as an example no single-wides. Would like noise
ordinances on dirt bikes and four wheelers.
• Much less illegal shooting on properties adjacent to mine.
• Well, we need zoning...
• consider zoning and get some law enforcement protection full time. I think the town could provide free
housing to a young police officer willing to make this area their home for their family.
• It would be nice if junk laws were enforced- Clean up our town- get rid of junk cars-
• To enforce the speed by the school and
• Impose fewer restrictions on commercial farm land use.
• get rid of road racing, loud car stereos.
• Disabled veterans in most of the United States pay no school tax and no land tax. Why not here, please tell
me why. Cornell is tax free.
• Now that Bostwick between Applegate and 327 has been so improved, speeding (esp. vehicles w. little or no
mufflers) and littering is out of control...speed bumps, signage? Enforcement.
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Business/Services
• incubator for small businesses to get started and employ more Enfield residents.
• I would encourage small, low impact businesses
• encouragement for small businesses and definitely another grocery/gas station store
• more education, better access to educational resources
• more food pantry times in this town.
Environment
• Enfield's pure air and water, its natural beauty , its organic gardening and maple syrup industries are very
important to me.
• Not sure how, but more encouragement of nature and wildlife.
• Control water use and contamination from all sources, including agriculture, industry and residents. Control
outdoor burning to minimize environmental impact.
• As little as possible about the natural environment.
• Encourage responsible land use regulating to preserve open space and view sheds.
• The water is extremely hard.
About change in Enfield
• Nothing
• Nothing. What's wrong with a small town? Evrything doesn't have to change. If it works, leave it alone.
• Nothing special at this time.
• Peoples stubbornness to change
• not sure
• Not much.
• nothing at the moment
• Not sure
• Nothing- Leave it alone!
• Not much.
• More of what is suggested
Question 26 Comments: Do you believe Enfield is changing for the better or worse
and why?
Town Government
• it's taken awhile to get away from the families that usually ran the town "residents are slowly getting things
done by vote, better local government leaders, etc.
• For reasons stated above. No plan and the lack of caring out a plan if there was one. We have a huge turnover
rate with our elected officals which adds to this problem.
• When I grew up politicians and political appointees looked out for those who they represented verus their
personal interest. Can you folks who are charged with planning really tell me you are looking out for the
concerns of all residents or positioning yourselves to make more money at the expense of the rest of us, You
call it capitalism and it's okay when in fact you've benefited from tax breaks and government subsidies which
is socialism.
• I appreciate the responsiveness of the Town Board to community concerns and have faith that it bods well for
Enfield's future
• Town is attempting to make improvemens for a better Enfiedl.
• I am concerned that the planning board may not represent the wishes of the majority of the Town who would
welcome some reasonable land use regulation.
• The Town Board listens to the concerns of the people and neighbors help each other through the fire
department , the churches and the school.
• same kind of problems, no matter who is "in charge"
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• I believe that the town of Enfield Board is thoughtful and caring about this community.
• don't know..maybe better as the town board meetings are now so open and inviting?
• I think the effectiveness of our Planning Board & Town Bpard is also on the rise. Their effectiveness will
certainly be put to the test during the next year as the issue of a hydrofracking ban comes front & center!
• town government is becoming more responsive to the voice of the citizens-including the newcomers,
• Environmental concerns are being addressed appropriately by the Town.
• The Town Board meetings have become very respectful, and more welcoming of input from residents.
• I am glad the Planning Board is inviting community participation on their committees for updating the
Comprehensive Plan.
• there is some forward thinking, planning, but not enough and not fast enough.
• Finally a town board that works in relative harmony for the betterment of the town.
• The town leaders are asking the right questions and seeking input from town residents.
• it's thinking carefully about its future and trying to do what's best for most of us.
• Lots of great new/old board members
• Town board seems to have forgotten the fact that they are charged with protecting our town and posterity (?),
new small business, the board needs to be more pro-active instead of re active - protect our land and water.
• The Board seems less concerned about water/environmental issues and appears to be preparing to let "oil
companies" do damage.
• Town board that works together. More town info available through website, ENSAW mailings, etc.
• I am so pleased to see a new mindset on the Town Board. Including the constituents in the process is the
American way.
Community
• Lots of new people taking an interest in the town
• If we can continue that success with a complete ban on fracking, the community can come together to
continue this model of engagement and development that meets the needs of more of Enfield's citizens.
• People are getting involved more and more, and that's a good thing.
• I'm optimistic that increased involvement in local Enfield government by many thoughtful residents can help
build a more prosperous and caring community for the 21st Century.
• Enfield appears at a cross roads with large old time resident land owners wanting to making a financial wind
fall at the expense of folks who enjoy living here.
• i guess this is what its like to live in a growing community
• Sense of investment and real care for the place amongst the community.
• This is how community is built.
• I live in the area and hear nothing, ever, about anything. There is no sense of community involvement that I
have felt in 18 years.
• Being new to Enfield, I am heartened by the number of people who actively care about the town and want to
• Involved community members.
• more community involvement
• I think youth are the life-blood of a community. They bring energy and fresh ideas.
• I like Enfield's community events like the chicken barbecues and fall harvest festival.
• However, I do want you to know I appreciate the attempt to build community with chicken bbq's, fall harvest
festivals, and the like, and the yearly (spring) dumpster in the center of town has been hugely beneficial for
us. Please continue these efforts.
• The continuing harvest Festival & ECC programs
• I am feeling more sense of community among the residents here.
• too many political agendas of large land owners
• People care and are willing to work hard to keep each other safe and healthy.
• Far too political
• becoming polarized
• Perhaps because of the hydrofracking threat, Enfield's citizens seem to be getting more involved in the
political process.
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• Also ENSAW and this survey are good indicators of positive change because they indicate community
activity.
• There have been more opportunities for community gatherings like movies and dances, and more public
information presentations.
• Citizens are paying attention to things that affect their lifestyle..
• Just a gut feeling. Seeing lots of people get involved in ENSAW (including my wife and mother in law) give
me hope that things can change.
• More people are becoming involved/taking action to protect the town and quality of life here.
• A few landowners want to become oil tycoons and the expense of everyone else.
• Only permanent residents should have say regarding land use.
• Residents are becoming more progressive minded & want to plan for the future.
• Not enough co-operation by political opposites.
• I think people are trying hard to build bridges and increase communication and respect in the community.
• Organization & community awareness.
• Seems to be more citizen input, more intellectual discourse. More of a community feel to the town.
• Relatively new (10-20 yrs) residents are becoming involved in community events
• It's a blessing to work with our fellow neighbors to make our community better and to keep it safe.
Physical environment
• seems like the large truck travel is getting worse
• I like the new lamp posts along Enfield main road and I am looking forward to all the gravel piles being
moved out of the center of town. The recycling / dump program that Enfield conducted every spring for the
last few years was also a great service.
• When we paid taxes to have the new highway building built, I expected the eyesore of the old town highway
building to be addressed - preferably torn down. Especially the piles of road materials need to be relocated to
the new building. The center of town needs to be improved now that that new highway facility exists; instead
it continues to languish unattended. Please finish what we paid you to start!
• Junk has been getting cleaned up in general but I think there is still a little ways to go.
• The beautification of Enfield Center.
• Nice treatment of Enfield Center with the plantings, signs, streetlights
• town remains rural
• Because I love this place.
• Its being cleaned up.
• New highway dept. building,
• It seems there is an effort to keep Enfield looking good.
• Enfield center is more attractive than it used to be. The Enfield is top-notch. could something be done with
the old "Gregg's Market"? It's a eye-sore.
• Recycling, road maint., parks
• I would like to create a natural world healing and education center and have Enfield be its home. As a small
town that has not yet been taken over by big business and greed/selfishness, we have a rare opportunity to be
a model town that thrives while still existing in harmony with our earth and each other!
Energy
• The passing of a moratorium on hydraulic fracturing is a very positive first step toward protecting the natural
resources on which this community will thrive. The people that have worked together to bring this about
have helped create a new sense of community that was lacking in the past.
• It depends on whether or not fracking is banned
• don't know, it depends on whether or not they allow fracking
• better to have a wind farm but it'll be a nightmare if they allow fracking
• That depends on whether or not Enfield bans fracking
• Fracking
• Hydrofracking is even a possibility
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• The culture of non-education leads to carelessness regarding protection of natural resources. Acceptance of
hydrofracking will quickly lead to wholesale destruction of those resources. Poisoning the water will make
agriculture impossible. Affluent citizens, including those who make money from frackin leases, will leave,
and rising food costs means that low income residents will be in worse trouble than ever. In short, fracking
will drive the local economy into the ground.
• amazing turnout by residents to speak from their hearts against fracking
• Ban on hydrofracking.
• I am pleased with the sense of community that has developed in opposition to the possibility of fracking. I
was pleasantly surprised to see so many people in our community stepping forward to protect the Town. I
hope to see further action towards a full ban and an aquifer study and aquifer protection law.
• Because our little community is under the direct threat of HVSWH hydrofracking, it forces us to get out there,
meet & talk to each other & start thinking about questions 23-26.
• The community involvement around hydro-fracking has been very positive. I am also excited about the
potential of the wind farm.
• Until a ban on fracking is put in place, and until there is some good zoning, I can only give this a 3 instead of
a 1.
• Moratorium on Hydrofracking
• I can't say that we are changing for the better until the board finally agrees to a ban on hydro-fracturing in the
Town of Enfield. We have fought long and hard to be heard, now it is time for the Town Board to take a
stand on behalf of its residents.
• Better because the fracking moratorium was passed. If a permanent ban isn't passed then things will be worse.
• We're making progress toward banning hydrofracking, and a wind farm is going to be built.
• They are committed to stopping the oil companies from destroying our way of life and the health of our
children.
• The time and energy that the Board has dedicated to learning about the issue of fracking is heartening and I
am grateful that the Board passed the moratorium and am very hopeful that the Board will pass a ban on
Fracking
• Well that's to be determined. I now that the majority of the land is owned a few people and most a pro
fracking I hope that the town doesn't get ruined by the greed of a few
• I've seen the outpouring of concern for Enfield as far as the fracking issue is concerned. Many residents have
devoted time and effort and study and outreach with the belief that the possibility of going forward with that
kind of gas drilling could have dire effects not only for us who live in Enfield, but for many future
generations. I've heard the many perspectives of those who oppose fracking and it's only reminded me to
appreciate what we have and also what we stand to lose.
• alternative energy is being explored,
• The major change I have seen in my time here is the election of town board representatives that worked to
move the wind farm project ahead instead of holding it back. Green energy is good for the world, and I would
rather look at and hear a wind tower than look at the coal fired plum across the lake.
• Regarding Wind farm and large scale solar- with current technology, not cost effective for Enfield area.
• Because people are getting together and fighting against the gas companies.
• I'm impressed by the large number of citizens who oppose and are willing to fight hydrofracking.
• I like the wind farm and similar green projects.
• Well we were told a wind farm was coming to Enfield. Where is it? The high cost of electricity through
NYSEG is over the top. Why aren't there a solar energy here in Enfield encouraging everyone to use it and or
wind.
• Decrease in organic farmers moving in to the town/ starting agricultural businesses as they fear that gas
drilling may be permitted. Documented cases of farmers refusing to purchase until the matter is settled.
Decrease in real estate purchases for the same reason.
• Against fracking
• Interested buyers waiting to see how fracking issue is resolved. Problems for real estate agents selling in
Enfield.
• No complaints now but am concerned about future development, especially hydrofracking.
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Agriculture
• growth of organic farming
• We are a community small enough to be self-sufficient in a whole host of categories including food & energy.
• I think that Enfield is attracting young people with a strong interest in the environment and new agriculture.
• We have at least one successful organic farmer in the town.
• I see many people moving here who are starting organic farming activities and other healthy environmental
activities who care about Enfield and want to participate to make it a better place.
• smaller scale agriculture is on the rise,
• encouraging farming
• Also, a lot of contemporary agricultural endeavors are making their home Enfield. From seedling businesses
to organic grain growers and millers...they give me hope that there will be a sweeping change in the way we
treat our land for the purposes of growing.
Housing
• Too much section 8 housing with sex offenders and drug users; residents allowed to build ugly and probably
dangerous buildings that are an eyesore and lower property values;
• increased influx of homeless and drug court people being moved out of Ithaca city and into Enfield multi-unit
houses, apartments and the trailer parks contribute to unsafe feeling of long time residents. Enfield has 3
unsolved murders over the past few years.
• There has been a lot of housing development in our neighborhood, and some of the rural character has been
lost.
• Too much low quality housing being built that doesn't generate enough of a tax revenue increase to balance
increased services and drains resources--especially groundwater
• home improvement.
• Increase in poorly constructed apts.
• People taking pride in their homes.
• Development-sprawl from Ithaca for cheap housing
Roads and Transportation
• A real bus stop in the center of town would help a lot of people who use public transportation - just to let
people get out of the rain, snow, and wind while they're waiting.
• I see that Enfield has gotten so populated now with people it seems good. But the TCAT don't.
• Also, kudos to Buddy and his crew for doing such a good job on our public thoroughfares.
Regulations
• Again, the community needs to better support the organizations that it has. We also need zoning so that we
can clean up the "junk",makes the town look trashy, or maybe code enforcement can help accomplish this.
• Since we bought property in Enfield, the Town has adopted a leash law and junk car law.
• Even though planning has emerged in the town, and a junk code has been put in place, many ares of the town
are essentially trash heaps, which are not only unsightly, but tend to degrade the environment and lower
property values. However, county assessment does not believe so. These "trash heaps" are also unsightly. I
speak from experience, as several years ago the properry was purchased next to my beautiful home, and has
been allowed to become a disgusting junk yard. Too bad there is not a real and enforceable junk law on the
books.
• Too many rules & regulations.
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Taxes
• I haven't seen any changes except tax increase.
• I also think that the increasing residential population is good for the tax base.
• I have not seen any growth nor anything being done to correct its present situation. It's all about money and
doing
• less but yet take the money, increase taxes for less services.
About change in Enfield
• Haven't noticed much changing.
• I haven't lived here long enough to know
• N/A Have only been here 3 years...not sure at this time if things are better, not changing, worse.
• I see great if not unlimited potential in Enfield. Let's make it heaven on Earth.
• I have lived here from the age of 5 and I have not noticed that Enfield has changed that much.
• Haven't lived here long enough to identify how things have changed.
• I haven't lived here long enough to answer.
• To slow of a process to get things done
• HAVEN'T BEEN HERE LONG ENOUGH TO TELL
• can't tell
• It doesn't seem like it is changing too much and I think that that is good. I would like to accentuate the good
qualities of the town.
• In the year I have lived in enfield I have seen no development of any kind. Once I did witness two road
workers slap some tar into pot holes on my road. Beyond that I have not seen or heard any mention of
progress or growth.
• I have not noticed any major or rapid changes. Growth has been steady and within the natural capacity of the
environment.
• I don't do much with the town of Enfield.
• We do not see any changes, so we can not answer this.
• Too many people looking for easy fixes.
• Since I've been here, I haven't seen a lot of change.
• Quickly enough
• Same as it was years ago.
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FEEL FREE TO WRITE ADDITIONAL COMMENTS BELOW (organized by topic)
About the Survey (14 Comments)
• THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MAILING ME THAT LITTLE POSTCARD!
• I HAD NO IDEA THERE EVEN WAS A townofenfield.org!
• I GENUINELY FEEL THAT MY INPUT IS IMPORTANT.
• THANK YOU FOR ASKING ME.
• WHOEVER HAD THE IDEA FOR THIS ECP SURVEY NEEDS A PROMOTION!"
• Thank you for considering my comments! ….
• This survey is a sign by itself, that we are on the right path.
• Thank you for offering this survey.
• Thank you for your work and consideration.
• Thank you so much for creating this way for all of us in Enfield to have a voice.
• Thank you for doing this survey and for the public service that you are providing.
• Thank you for all your time and hard work on this very important document!
• Congratulations to the Planning Board for the care in constructing this survey.
• Thank you, neighbors, for working on this plan.
Town Government (9 Comments)
• ….The town board is proving to be a great asset in the furtherance of democracy.
• ….I am also happy with the current supervisor and town board.
• Town clerk and deputy clerk do not have to be at the Town Hall the same time-this is an area that can be cut
back on!
• The process of putting new members on the planning board should be more democratic. Either have our
elected officials nominate and put them in or have them run in an election, voted on by the public.
• Question #20- Checked “Increase” for Town Hall svcs/hours- also commented: or at least install a drop box
outside
• For the last couple of years the town board has been more open to listen to residents and I applaud
them.....Let's keep it that way. If we all work together for a common goal we will accomplish so much more.
• Page 1 Comment- I would love to be on the committee, but as a single mom, would need to bring my kids to
meetings. Would this be OK?
• I love this town. I am proud of the Town Board and the way it has become a professional group of
individuals with the goals of a whole community in mind. I would like to see the behavior of the Planning
Board members checked. It is often very unpleasant, and not impressive at all, to see the way a select couple
of Planning Board members obstruct processes that benefit our community and don't take their charge
seriously. I'm disappointed to say the least. It shows a lack of respect to the community and is a shameful
way to conduct themselves.
• People are in office for their own personal gain….
Roads (7 Comments)
• Roads are very hazardous for joggers and cyclists. 70 mph with no shoulder and lots of dips in the road means
the fairly late number of joggers, cyclists and walkers are constantly in danger. The desire of residents to use
roads for recreation is quite clear. They should be made safe for this use because I don't think you can
disallow it. Bike lanes are expensive. But in the meanwhile we could work on the culture so that drivers and
pedestrians and cyclists can more safely share the roads. there could be info campaigns about safe speeds,
reflective lights and clothing, etc.
• Please complete the road use agreement.
• #20. Re: Snowplowing. We have been plowed in with 4 feet of densely packed snow, more than once, when
the plow turns right from **** Rd onto **** Rd.
• Too much unnecessary and destructive work being done- road maintenance- ruining the small roads with huge
equipment, damaging trees, unnecessary road widening, can this be stopped? Snow plowing seems too
frequent…. Pave the dirt roads.
• Snow plowing is excellent.
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• No selections in #20 but comments as follows: Under the “decrease” column for Snow Plowing was the
comment : poor
• …. I love the Highway Department! They are professional, thorough, conscientious & responsive. I'm very
impressed with the quality of service. Thank you Highway Dept!
Fire Protection (3 Comments)
• The taxpayers pay too much for nothing (Fire protection)
• Not many fires now, more of a rescue service. Fire company has too much equipment that never gets used at
tax payer's expense. Town board needs to get a back bone and cut back the EVFC!
• No selections in #20 but comments as follows: Under the “appropriate” column for Fire Protection/rescue
was the comment: good
Police Protection (2 Comments)
• No selections in #20 but comments as follows:
• Under the “decrease” column for Police Protection was the comment: very poor
• Look at the roads where people are road racing, spinning tires. 1. Motorcycles 2. race cars 3. Spinning tires
(late at night) boom boxes in cars 4. garbage burning
Zoning – Housing (8 Comments)
• I'd be glad to share "before" pictures of our property--the code enforcement officer has already seen them.
We've worked hard to make our place look nice, only to have our neighbors make us wish for 12-foot fences.
• The major trailer park in the town should also be seriously looked at by town officials, It is an eyesore and
and a magnet for crime, especially domestic violence. The owners of the park should be required to enhance
the aesthetics of the park and take steps to work with local law enforcement agencies to reduce the crime rate
in the park. The owners are simply taking money in from the park and giving nothing back to the community.
How about a tree or two?
• 5 because I am concerned about the increase in sub standard housing. Residential development, multiple unit
dwellings, mobile home parks, townhouses/condominiums, and affordable housing should only be
encouraged if kept up and looking nice.
• There are some “dumps” in the town of Enfield, one being the trailer on right of road just before Waterburg
Rd coming from Enfield."
• More residential/townhouse/condo/mobile home parks can be developed if public transportation improved.
Building code enforcement- Need better enforcement- junk code same, too much junk in Enfield and getting
worse all the time
• Years ago it was worth living here. Now there is too much junk and people running the town for their
personal gain.
• Residential multiple unit dwellings- The ones we have now are dumps especially if owned by ***** and/or
*****.
• Also am concerned about large houses in poor repair being turned into multi-person housing, landlords need
to be held accountable for extra burdens these properties put on Town services.
Zoning – Business (3 Comments)
• Grocery/retail stores should be clustered within village. Light industrial/manufacturing depends on specific
impacts: noise, energy, water-use, waste management, etc. needs regulation.
• #22 next to Encourage Light Industrial/manufacturing was the comment: if aesthetically appropriate
• Commercial development can be encouraged depending upon the type.
Zoning – General (5 Comments)
• #19 – some of the criteria listed seem biased; why not have the opposite of lack of zoning/lack of regulation?
It would be very important to me to have more zoning
• Rd: #19. We do not like a LACK of zoning/reduced regulation. It leads to slovenliness and makes the town
look run down.
• There is no zoning, wish there was, or at least better enforcement with NYS Regs.
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• ….we need some basic zoning- campers parked in yards for extended periods, etc. …
• We really do need to face the fact that we NEED zoning, very badly. I don’t care that the “old-timers” say
about having the right to do anything they want; the world doesn’t work that way. We all need to take others
into account, and that will mean zoning, if we want to make it into the 21st (or maybe 20th….) century!
Zoning – Signs (1 Comment)
• I feel shame for our neighborhood every time I drive by *****’s property with those huge political signs. I
know it's freedom of speech, but that's how I feel.
Zoning – Dogs (1 Comment)
Just about everyone has a dog- courts need to be stricter
Site Plan Review (1 Comment)
Thank you for the Site Plan Review. I hope it's being honored…..
I would like to suggest and see included in the plan:
1. Support for an aquifer study, the determination of aquifer and re-charge locations and appropriate protection
areas, and support for the adoption of protection regulations
2. Floodplain and stream buffer protections
3. Protections for Unique Natural Areas, such as conservation zones
4. Protections against fragmenting agricultural lands and intact forest
5. Industrial land use definitions
6. Differentiation between heavy and light industry, and buffers between industrial land uses and other uses
7. Priorities that would support a ban on high volume hydrofracking in Enfield
8. Identification of local Critical Environmental Areas to ensure protection from harm
9. Prevention of any heavy industry that could potentially:
o pollute the local air and water
o create disturbing noise or light pollution
o risk damage to our roads and natural resources
o put at risk the health and well being of the local residents
o risk the lowering of our property values
o interfere with the viability of other already established businesses that depend on clean air, water, and
soil and/or tourism
o interfere with the integrity of, use and enjoyment of Treman State Park
10. Limit uses that might impact the quantity or quality of water in our principal aquifers, streams, and wetlands
11. Define the range of illicit discharges from construction activities or industrial development to be covered by
local law, and specify the enforcement mechanism. Establishment of a reporting and tracking system for those
discharges.
12. If industry attempts to put gathering lines in Enfield (pipelines with smaller diameter and lower pressure that
fall below the thresholds for which the Public Service Commission regulates, and are not regulated by any
agency –except where lines go through environmentally sensitive areas), then regulate gathering lines by
adopting a local law that specifies the conditions and requirements for building and inspecting those gathering
lines.
Fracking (21 Comments)
• I am very against fracking. Thank you for all of the public hearings on the Town Board about this issue.
• The town board, even after multiple meetings still doesn't get it. NO FRACKING . Any board member
having a gas lease should recuse themselves from any voting on the issue because of conflict of interest.
HEY! BAN FRACKING!!!!!!
• I think we have an opportunity to build a very desirable community with a more solid and stable tax base,
long term, by rejecting fracking and industrial farming as part of our comprehensive plan. …. I also think we
need to be very clear that hydrofracturing someone's land is NOT farming/agriculture, or, as some would like
to suggest, "harvesting" the gas! The community is clearly and substantially opposed to the toxicity and
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industrial nature and impact of fracking, and I think that should be reflected in our discussion of agriculture in
the comprehensive plan.
• The things that attract me to Enfield are threatened by the natural gas industry. If it comes, even to Tompkins
County, The things that make this area what it is will slowly disappear even if we get lucky and our water
does not get polluted. Rather than a bucolic rural place, it will become an industrial place. That is not why I
live here. Ban hydrofracking now.
• Fracking may be seen by some as a way to get rich, but after the damage to the environment, those citizens
will not want to stay. The money that they make will likely not be returned to the community. Enfield can not
bear the cost of hydrofracking.
• I like the fact that Enfield “seems” like a laid-back sleepy town, but everyone got together to try and stop
fracking. It shows that everybody does care a great deal about the quality of life in this town.
• Please enact a ban on fracking before the current moratorium expires.
• If fracking is allowed in Enfield we will move to a town with a ban.
• If fracking is permitted in Enfield my answer to the above question (#26) will change to a 5. What bothers
me is how will I live here if I can no longer drink the water? Facking is safe right up to the point where it isn't
and then it's too late.
• ….. Most of all, PLEASE BAN FRACKING!!!
• I really want there to be info about the bad aspects of fracking to be distributed to Enfield residents. …..
• Hyrofracing would bring many negative side effects , in addition to pollution. It would have a boom town
aspect to it. The workers coming in would be a wild bunch bringing in drug and alcohol use, prostitution,
domestic violence, and criminal behavior.
• Please protect our environment from hydrofracking. It will ruin our water and ruin the tourist industry in the
Finger Lakes.
• Without safe water we have nothing. No Fracking!
• because I am pleased with the growing community involvement around the fracking issue and protection of
watershed and natural beauty of the area.
• Have not heard anything positive or safe about hydro-fracking
• Talk of a water treatment plant to add costs to the residents so they don't fight against “fracking”? Most of us
have fine water, why would we want to pay for something extra unless the ""board"" has already decided to
put our water at risk.
• The implications for damage to our lands and water supply by fracking is terrific. I am so personally proud of
my town of Enfield for its leadership in proceeding with such caution about a decision that could impact our
town and our lives forever.
• I have really appreciated the careful cautious approach town officials have taken to date on fracking. I'm just
concerned that they will come under increased pressure to allow it in the future, possibly lawsuits. I hope
they will remain resolute. Fracking is easily the biggest risk we face to our environment, safety, our whole
way of life.
• Question #21- Discourage High Volume drilling for natural gas (fracking) then commented: “I think the
dangers of hydrofracking go way beyond poisoning our water. We need to look at the big picture of what this
will do to our planet.”
• Encourage any natural gas development (future technologies beyond fracking). The person who owns the
land and pays the taxes should protect it. Anyone with common sense isn't going to harm their land, air, or
water. Personally I don't need a plan to tell me how to protect what I own.
Wind Farm (1 Comment)
• Question #21. Next to Wind Farm- Chose “No Opinion” but also commented: ”not enough info”
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Water Quality (3 Comments)
• #9 - I have arsenic in my well water at levels above drinking water standards; I wonder how many other
people have tested for arsenic and whether it is generally a problem?
• I'm concerned about what may be leaching out of the old Enfield town dump on Waterburg Road, that was
buried. This could be quite a liability for the community should there be problems with contamination from
the site down the road, or should someone want to develop this piece of property.
• Water quality should be paramount….
Aquifer Study (2 Comments)
• I would like to support an aquifer study. I though there was going to be a public hearing about it, but don't
see any information....?
• Thank you for moving forward with the aquifer study.
Organic Farming (6 Comments)
• ….I want to encourage organic farming. I don't want to discourage conventional farming. Can conventional
farming exist along side organic farming? If the answer to this is yes, then I wish to encourage conventional
farming. If the answer is no, then I wish to discourage conventional farming.
• ….I would like to encourage organic and small scale farming. I would like to discourage CAFOs. I don't
know quite what is meant by conventional farming.
• I'd rather encourage organic agriculture. but if that isn't happening, then keep the farmland and the farming
going
• I'm happy to see us encourage organic agriculture.
• #22 next to Discourage Conventional Farming was the comment: “encourage change to organic”
• Organic farming is not as good as some people think.
Conventional Farming (5 Comments)
• ….I support small to moderate scale, traditional as well as new economy (e.g., organic) agriculture in
Enfield,….
• …. I think conventional agriculture at the levels we have it is fine.
• I wrote “no opinion” on light manufacturing and conventional farming. These are fine if they do not harm the
environment….
• ….I would encourage small scale manufacturing and farming businesses.
• ….but it just isn't clear that discouraging conventional agriculture is what we need. Conventional agriculture
is better than a lot of other things that could happen
Large or Industrial Farming (7 Comments)
• …..and no industrial zones inluding operations such as the pig farm as they are incompatable with quality
residential living.
• I think we have an opportunity to build a very desirable community with a more solid and stable tax base,
long term, by rejecting fracking and industrial farming as part of our comprehensive plan. but I do not NOT
support farming operations that include and/or create potentially significant/toxic air, water or noise pollution
that puts neighbors' lives and/or lifestyles at risk -- E.g., I'm strongly opposed to allowing the collection and
distribution of large pools of liquid manure, often connected to certain kinds of larger scale livestock
operations. I also think we need to be very clear that hydrofracturing someone's land is NOT
farming/agriculture, or, as some would like to suggest, "harvesting" the gas! The community is clearly and
substantially opposed to the toxicity and industrial nature and impact of fracking, and I think that should be
reflected in our discussion of agriculture in the comprehensive plan.
• I'm opposed to increasing large-scale agriculture if increased use of pesticides, manure lagoons, and other
practices that pollute the air and ground come with it."
• I would not want to see Enfield become a center for industrialization, a treeless expanse of large-scale
housing developments, a place full of large tour buses in the summer, or a place for large-scale commercial
farming, which can pollute our air and water also.
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• I do not want to see large scale industrial farms, such as the big manure type, or manufacturing which is noisy
and pollutes the air/land/water.
• I have a great reluctance about chemical agriculture
• I am concerned about (and hope the plan will address):
o preventing nutrient and pesticide runoff from contaminating our freshwater sources
o preventing the storage and spreading of large quantities of manure produced by large scale dairy
or swine farms
o I don't want natural gas to be considered a harvest-able crop
Public Transportation (9 Comments)
• Rather than adding strip malls, add transport to Ithaca and Tburg.
• TCAT goes up 79, but with no park 'n' ride and no night service, it is impractical for me."
• See that like me I can drive so that's how I go places during the week.
• More park & ride space at old hwy dept or existing site.
• Bus service as far as Mecklenburg during commute hours at their park & ride- carpool
• Restore van ride service
• (Agenda: I walk 1.4 miles to the Park & Ride. I am 67 and don't know how much longer I can do that,
especially in bad weather)
• I use bicycle for primary transportation until the snow flies, then use TCAT.
• Taking the TCAT costs the same as driving!
***** Enfield’s Future *****
Sidewalks & Streetlights (3 Comments)
• Sidewalks along Rt. 79 and to the school. Very dangerous currently between Sandy Creek & the store/gas
station.
• The main road could have sidewalks put in in certain areas.
• Street lights- a few benefit at the tax payer's expense.
Community Events & Facilities (9 Comments)
• A community center for all, Young and mature residents. Center would have, court, town offices, youth
center and gathering space for adults and community gatherings-like family reunions and weddings
• I wish ***** would donate the old fairgrounds for a youth center.
• Community events should be increased- but not under the Community council.
• Youth svcs- parents should be more responsible, very few benefit or use this service now.
• Seniors have a good program now.
• Availability of buildings- Increase- especially the Fire company. We are paying but can't use the facility.
• Community Center- not a lot would benefit only a certain few would.
• Library-not needed.
• A great community center with lots of activities.
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Community Development (13 Comments)
• The town of Enfield needs to develop revenue from other sources than just property taxes.
• I would like to see small shops in the center, especially if they are attractive and inviting. They would give it
more of a community feel.
• Would like to see municipal water on 79 for more businesses to come to Enfield.
• Restaurant and banking.
• I'd like to see Enfield redevelop some of its economic and social independence from Ithaca. More small
businesses clustered in the village, more multi-family units, affordable with good transportation.
• …. You should look to the future and make Enfield self-sufficient, gas banking, restaurant, store, sr. housing,
municipal park, farmer's market, businesses on main street, etc. Make it so medium and higher income
residents would want to live here and quit catering to low income residents and what they will bring to a small
town.
• In #22, a check mark was in both Encourage and No Opinion under the row for "Service business" so no
choice was entered as it was unclear which it would be.
• Question #22- Grocery/retail stores- Possibly a natural food store
• Question #22-Professional offices, etc...Safe natural healing and Western medicine
• Should continue to contract with Tompkins County SPCA in order to ensure appropriate animal care &
emphasis on adoption/reuniting with families. No kill policy
• Green energy will be the future. We should get involved as soon as possible.
• Internet connectivity is a major problem for us
• In order to have our students on an equal footing with those from other towns, we need better internet and cell
phone service. Also, why not make town hall part of the town- put up decorations along street like rest of
town.
General Comments about Enfield (3 Comments)
• If it isn't broken, dont fix it.
• hopefully, i'll live long enough to see some of these changes come to fruition.
• We live in a beautiful place with great opportunities for the future.
Miscellaneous (6 Comments)
• Enjoy Kayaking
• Student who works part time.
• "Question #1 answered Full time AND self-employed.
• In Question #1- Part time AND Retired were selected.
• Question #2- Chose Town of Enfield and Town or City of Ithaca
• Question #14- Trumansburg school district- would really like this to change!