Development News for De Witt, New York

Miller Auto Proposal for Commercial Garage Use Faces Scrutiny Over Parking, Use Classification, and Site Details

The planning board heard a presentation for Miller Auto regarding site plan approval and resubdivision of two lots into one. The project involves improvements to driveways, resurfacing and paving of a parking lot, new pavement markings, and landscaping along the road frontage. The proposed use is a commercial garage for leasing and servicing trucks (box trucks and trailer trucks, but not semi-trailers). The property was previously used as a school bus yard by Durham. The applicant argues the new use will have less impact due to fewer and smaller vehicles and reduced employee count compared to the previous use. Concerns were raised regarding the classification of the use (commercial garage vs. warehouse vs. industrial), parking requirements (a deficit of 12 spaces was noted for office use), and compliance with zoning definitions. The board requested further information on the specific breakdown of uses within the building (office, warehouse, garage), confirmation of outdoor storage, and clarification on dumpster screening and site design, particularly regarding the gravel area and landscaping. The applicant agreed to provide additional details and explore options, including a potential variance for parking.

Planning Board Tables Decision on East Jennesee/Jamesville Road Zoning Change Amidst Comprehensive Plan and Impact Concerns

The planning board engaged in an extensive discussion regarding a proposed zoning change for parcels on East Jennesee and Jamesville Road, currently zoned R2 but with a history of non-conforming use (BT) when Topps occupied the property. The board considered criteria such as consistency with the comprehensive plan, reasonable development, public good, and compatibility with adjacent uses. A key point of contention was the loss of non-conforming use status after Topps vacated, reverting the parcels to R2 zoning. The board debated whether a zoning change would serve the public good or primarily benefit the property owner, considering the potential impact on adjacent residential parcels and the existing buffer. Concerns were raised about potential spot zoning, loss of buffer, parking deficits, and the alignment with the comprehensive plan, especially since updates to the plan are anticipated. The board also discussed the complexity of split-zoned parcels and the possibility of subdivision or combination with adjacent lots. Ultimately, the board decided to table the discussion for their next meeting to allow for further review and deliberation, emphasizing the need to consider the downstream effects on other R2 parcels and the potential precedent set.

Planning Board Reviews Zoning Map Updates and Battery Storage Law, Recommends Zoning Map to Town Board with Comments on Battery Storage Law

The planning board reviewed proposed modifications to the town's zoning map and discussed a local law regarding battery energy storage systems. For the zoning map, it was noted that no zoning on any parcels would change; it would primarily incorporate overlay districts and updated parcel data. The transportation and distribution node overlay district was added to two parcels. The board made a recommendation to the town board regarding the zoning map as presented. For the battery energy storage system local law, discussions focused on specific requirements, including sound rating (60 dB dT at the water), a 15-foot height maximum, and underground wiring for interconnecting wiring. Concerns were raised about why the sound rating differed from town code and the rationale behind the height limitation. The board decided to send the local law to the town board with comments for further discussion, highlighting considerations for height limitations, insurance requirements, and underground wiring for internal connectivity.

Planning Board Discusses Multi-Tenant Signage Standards for 6870 East Jennesee Street

The planning board reviewed a site plan application for a multi-tenant sign at 6870 East Jennesee Street, specifically for Bayar Uniforms. The proposed sign is a flush-mount channel letter sign, illuminated through the face, with red and blue colors for the 'Bay' and logo. The applicant confirmed the sign would abide by town codes and stay within maximum square footage limits. Discussion points included the exact details of the sign construction (flush mount channel letters versus aluminum cabinet), the removal of existing signs, and the establishment of a standard for multi-tenant signage for the building. The board indicated a preference for flush mount channel letters but requested clarification on return colors and emphasized the need for the building owner's agreement on a future standard for all tenants. The applicant agreed to provide revised details and potentially a written standard.