MM Notes: Planning Board

June 02, 2009

Present: Tom Beaumont, Chair, Bob Alley, Josh Mackey, Jim Shequine, Neil Wilson, Don Hanson

Mr. Beaumont opened the meeting at 7:05 a.m.

Millbrook Matters: Mr. Beaumont stated that at the May meeting he spoke out strongly against Millbrook Matters for the articles they have written about the planning board. He continues to stand behind what he said. He has been in contact with Millbrook Matters and they have arranged to meet in the hopes of defusing the situation.

Tuxis Corporation/Millbrook Commons, 3814 Route 44 Mabbettsville: Chair Beaumont stated that the ZBA denied Tuxis Corporation’s application to increase the number of storage sheds on their Mabbettsville property because it did not meet the restrictions laid out in the residential/commercial ratio criteria.

Minutes for April, 2009: Mr. Beaumont stated that one correction is necessary to the draft minutes regarding the letter from Millbrook Matters. The letter under discussion was a letter regarding the approval of the Mabbettsville Market and convenience store, not vernal pools. The minutes were approved with this one correction.

Bittner Special Permit — 371 South Road: Mr. Bittner is running a yoga studio out of his home which requires a special permit. This was discussed at the May meeting where Mr. Bittner indicated that he refused to apply. Mr. Beaumont has since contacted Mr. Bittner who indicated that he is looking for commercial property to rent. Mr. Bittner stated that he needs an extension as he will need until Labor Day to find an appropriate rental. Mr. Bittner was informed to write a letter to Mr. Neubauer, the Planning Board, and the Town Board outlining his proposal.

Evangelical Free Church Site Plan, 2450 Salt Point Turnpike: The plan before the board is to build a 7,000 - 8000 square-foot church in the spring of 2010. Mike Grey, representing the church, stated that both the Clinton and Millbrook fire departments have been contacted and they indicated that they will submit their approval of the plan in writing in the very near future. Fire Department approval is critical to this application because the roof height is 48 feet, 13 feet above code allowance. ZBA has already granted a height variance. Mr. Wilson stated that since the property splits between two towns, the application needs to be reviewed by the county. Mr. Fegan, P.E., stated that he will have a final site plan ready within the next few days in time for Mr. Wilson to submit a copy to the county and for the board to discuss at their next workshop. Mr. Wilson stated that the three critical areas are the following: erosion control, lighting, and grading; and these areas need to be included in the site plan. Mr. Grey indicated that there will be minimal parking lot lighting close to the building; most of the lighting will be on the building itself. The board approved waiving the contour requirements since the land is relatively flat. There was some discussion as to the location of the well, which Mr. Grey indicated will be decided upon soon after consulting with the Department of Health. A public hearing will be scheduled for July.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:05.