1978-02-15
-2"1
·1'
Official Minutes of the QUEENS BURY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
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held February 15, 1978 at 7:30 P.M.
There were present: Kirkham Cornwell, Chairman
George Kurosaka
Ted Turner
Sjoerdje Richardson
Charles Sicard
Mather Reed
Alfred Franco
being members of the Board.
Guests: George Liapes
On a motion by Mr. Sicard, the minutes of the December 2l, 1977,
minutes were approved. This was seconded by Mrs. Richardson. Carried.
On a motion by Mr. Kurosaka, the minutes of the January l8, 1978,
meeting will be approved at the March meeting, due to the length of the
minutes. Mr. Turner seconded the motion. Carried.
OLD BUSINESS:
Variance #520 - R. J. Grasse C-3 Zone
Northway Plaza (R6ute 9)
(Warren County Planning Board)
Mr. Kurosaka disqualified himself on this variance.
Ordinance as it refers to maximum square footage for the business
it advertises. Also to vary from the sign ordinance by locating the
sign above the roof line.
Mr. Cornwell stated that this has been the second hearing on this
and he asked Mr. Liapes if this had been amended. Mr. Liapes stated that
the only amendments to this is the fact that they made the sign alittle
small~r.
~~~
Mr. Cornwell stated that the reason the Board was unable to act on
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Variance # 520
Page2
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this variance at the last meeting was that there were not enough members
present to allow Mr. Grasse a fair hearing.
Mr. Platt and Mr. Grasse appeared before the Board.
Mr. Platt stated that this is really the fourth time they have come
before the Board on this matter. Mr. Platt stated that there has been
a problem gètting a quorum.
Mr. Cornwell stated that it won,tt be necessary for Mr. Platt to go
over all the grounds and show all the displays unless helis asked to
or if he has something new to tell the Board. Mr. Platt stated that it
is the same argument as before, however, there are some new members of
the Board who would not be ab!~~o vote on the variance unless they heard
about it. Mr. Cornwell stated that he does want the new members to ask
questions and to hear everything Mr~ P:latt. has ,tQ say.
Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Franco if he was familiar with the sign in
question. Mr. Fra~ stated that he was not familiar with the sign in
question. Mr. Cornwell stated that this sign is the sign directly south
of the Dee's Card Shop sign in the Cale Development part of Montgomery
Wards. It is cailed Northway Plaza. The applicant is applying for, well
what it amountsto,is the applicant has the sign that is roughly 62 square
feet. Mr. Cornwell stated that the earlier discussion was centered on
both the size and the position of the sign. Mr. Cornwell stated that at
this time the Board is only concerned with whether Mr. Platt can demonstrate
the case for putting the sign above the roof line, which is not conforming
Page 3
Variance # 520 ~ 98
with the new sign ordinance. Mr. Cornwell stated that the Dee's sign is
a pre-existing sign and is above the roof line. Mr. Cornwell stated that
Mr. Grasse's present sign is roughly the same size and shape as Dee's.
Mr. Cornwell stated that right now Mr. Grasse's sign is mounted in a legal
position on the building. Mr. Cornwell stated that the sign is not shown
there (indicating on drawing) in a legal position, you can see the green
line is down below the roof line, that is where the sign is now. Mr. Platt
statedtthat that is where the sign is now and they are requesting a variance
to move the sign up 2'. Mr. Franco asked if the sign was in the same
position as the orange line in the drawing right now. Mr. Platt stated
that it was. Mr. Platt stated that he has located the sign on the sketch
on the proposed location, not the actual location.
Mr. Reed stated that he was not familiar with the sign and asked if
it is the bottom or top of the sign, what are we looking for? Mr. Cornwell
stated that the top of the sign is not allowed, in the new sign ordinance,
to be above the roof line. The green line in the sketch is above the roof
line. Mr. Cornwell stated that what Mr. Grasse is actually åsking"fdr'
is to have his sign the same height as the Dee's sign. The Dee's sign
would not be permitted under the new ordinance.
Mr. Franco asked if the sign is located presently where the ora~ge
is on the sketch. Mr. Platt replied no. Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Platt
to put a dotted line on the sketch to show where the present sign is
located.
Variance # 520
Page 4
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Mr. Platt stated that he guesses the various shapes and configurations,
that he has drawn on the sketch is confusing people. Mr. Platt stated
that the blue outline, the big outline here (pointing out on sketch),
this was the previous Mr. Walt's sign, this is the area that the previous
Mr. Walt's sign took up, which was 5' 9" high by 20' long. The old Mr.
Walt's sign encompassed approximately ll5' square feet. Mr. Platt stated
that the new Queensbury Sign Ordinance only allows a sign, this small
size here (indicating on sketch), the orange outline, and that would be
about approximately 30 square feet, alittle bit over 30 square feet. Mr.
Platt stated that he was asking for the sign in this green outline(indicat-
ing on sketch) which was going to be 62 square feet. Mr. Platt stated
that he received a permit and erected the sign on the fascia of the build-
ing but it is only, this is the roof line here(indicating on sketch), the
law says that you can not raise the sign over the roof line so that it
changes the appearance of the roof line.
Mr. Platt stated that he did want to mention the reason for this
is that on page 10, paragraph l4, refers to the part of the ordinance
that he is requesting a variance for. Page lO, paragraph 14 of the
Queensbury Sign ordinance states: "Signs which project above any roof
ridge line or parapet line shall not be permitted. Signs which change
the profile of the building shall not be permitted." Mr. Platt stated
that the law is a good one and it was written up by the sign review com-
mittee to avoid a situation like this, where a building would have its
Page 5
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Variance # 520
roof line like this (indicating on sketch) and then sticking a sign
up like this (indicating on sketch) so that it sticks up over the edge.
Or conversely speaking, if you were looking at the building from this
point (indicating on sketch) putting a sign here, something like that
(indicating on sketch) and putting the bracing back here (indicating on
sketch) which would alter the outline of the roof of the building. Mr.
Platt stated that it ~,i~ pretty obvious that we are all in favor of that
particular law, that part of the law. Mr. Platt stated that this is
one of the worst ways to put up a sign, it is not eye appealing at all
and is certainly one of the least desirable methods of hanging a sign.
Mr. Platt stated that when the sign ordinance was written, Mrs. Richardson
will probably agree with this, the writers of the ordinance put this
law in for this particular reason, and it is a good part of the laws.
Mr. Platt stated that,however,when it comes to this situation, this isn't
that kind of a situation where you have a house that has been made over
into a shop or store or little restaurant ,or whatever, this situation
here the reason we are asking to raise the sign up 2' above the rid,ge
line is for really two reasons. First of all for sight value, so that
the sign lines up with Dee's sign here (indicating on sketch) which is
also 4' high and is also l8~ wide and is also 72 square feet instead of 62.
The second reason is if you remember the location of R. J. G's Hairstylist
is, it is in the corner of the shopping plaza, and as the corner comes
this way (indicating on sketch) it is Montgomery Wards on this end here
Variance # 520
(indicating on sketch) and the beauty shop sign and area doesn't get
very good exposure no matter where it is, especially if you are walking
up to it, closer to it, this canopy here (indicating on sketch) extends
out this way (indicating on sketch) and even if you look up you miss the
sign so to speak and because it is located in the corner it is kind of
a hard place to see and a difficult place to properly advertise which
Page 6
36/
leads us to bring forth to this Board a request to raise the sign just
2' and help Mr. Grasse and his advertising problem.
Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Platt if it was his intention to have the
sign be seen over the roof of Montgomery Wards when approaching the
mall from the south. Mr. Platt stated that he was afraid not. Mr.
Cornwell stated that 2' will show about half. Mr. Platt stated over the
top. Mr. Sicard stated that you could see the edge of it. Mr.Cornwell
stated that from up at Levi's and over by the Montgomery Wards big sign
you can see the top of the sign. Mr. Platt stated that you can't see
the advertising on the sign.
Mr. Platt stated that in effect this was the reason for putting that
in the ordinance and here we have an entirely different situation and if
the Board addresses itself to page 23 of the sign ordinance concerning
the approval of variances it seems to him that there is really more
questions the Board faces concerning this variance. Mr. Platt reads
from page 23 of the Queensbury Sign Ordinance, "where the variance would
otherwise be in general harmony with restrictions established for the area,"
and he stated that he guesses everybody will agree that it is a shopping
Page 7
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Variance # 520
plaza, it has many stores congregated closely together, and they do have
many signs down there. Mr. Platt stated that if the Board granted this
variance it would be in general harmony with the area. Mr. Platt read
from page 23 of the sign ordinance, "and where it shall find that the
request made is the minimum variance that will accomplish the necessary
objectives intended," and he stated that he does feel that 2' is the
best height over the roof line, he is not asking for 8' or 10' to keep
in harmony with the other sign adjacent to it here, we are asking to
ràise the sign for the minimum amount of 2'. Mr. Platt reads from page
23 of the sign ordinance,"and that the granting of the variance will be
in general harmony with the general purpose and intent of this Ordinance
and with the master plan of the Town of Queensbury, " and Mr. Platt stated
that as you look at the other signs in the plaza, as you look at the
general area here, he doesn't think he is outsxæ the intent of the ordinance
or conflicting with the master plan of the Town of Queensbury. Mr. Platt
read from page 23 of the sign ordinance, "and will not be otherwise
injurious to the neighborhood or detrimental to the public welfare. "
Mr. Platt stated that this is one of his signs that he has crews out
everyday putting up and the signs are safe and he doesn't think they are
injurious to the public welfare. Mr. Platt stated that as far as being
injurious to the neighborhood, you are in an area that there is a number
of signs, a lot of people come there, it is a big parking area, and he
doesn't think it is injurious to the neighborhood.
Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Platt if he has addressed himself to the first
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Variance # 520
part of the variance, paragraph there, which is an important part,
which requires that the variance, strict application of the ordinance
would result in substantial difficulty of unnecessary hardship, deprives
the owner of the sign reasonable use and that can not be a hardship, it
has to be a hardship that is not suffered by all the other people who
keep their signs below the parapet. Mr. Cornwell asked how many people
there were keeping their signs down, how many of the stores? Mr. Platt
stated that he can't really answer the question but he is sure that every-
body else does, but he is thinking of Peter Harris and a few other stores.
Mr. Cornwell stated that he thinks it is all but 3 or4. Mr. Platt stated
that some of the other signs were put up before the ordinance was enacted
so they are over the roof line. Mr. Cornwell stated that the majority
of the signs are below the roof line. Mr. Platt replied that Mr. Corn-
well was correct. Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Platt how he answered that for
his client. Mr. Platt stated that Mr. Grasse's place of business is
located in the corner and it is very hard to see, as a matter of fact,
driTing into the shopping center from down around the corner of Mont-
gomery Wards from the entrance off Quaker Road or the entrance off Glen
Street, you can't even see Mr. Grasse's business. Mr. Platt stated that
if Mr. Grasse's business was located up on the other side of the Big N
he wouldn't even consider getting a variance.
Mr. Cornwell stated that most of the potential clients approaching
from the Glen Streetarêastart out by looking down, so height isn't
Page 9
do'-(
Variance # 520
really a factor, is it? Mr. Platt stated that he has stated his case and
he guesses that he can't really produce any answers for the situation,
this is the way we see it and we are just asking for a variance for this
ordinance. Mr. Platt stated that he is sure it doesn't make any difference,
it is an attractive sign.
Mr. Bodenwiser appeared before the Board.
Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he
is the owner of some adjacent pro-
perty and he is looking right at the area that they are talking about.
Mr. Bodenwiser asked what is going to happen,when the sign ordinance
is finally enforced at the end of the time lapse period, with Dee's, are
they going to have to conform or go for a variance.or will their sign
have to come down. Mr. Cornwell stated that the Dee's sign will have
to come down. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that here the Board is suggesting
'\
to put up a sign to conform with Dee's Card Shop and if the Board grants
a variance to the beauty shop they no longer will have to conform, they
have got the variance. Mr. Cornwell stated that Dee's sign will have
to come down and the Board hasn't acted on Mr. Grasse's application yet.
Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Grasse is asking to have his sign up with
Dee's as long as he can. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he understood that
but what he is considering here is two factors. Mr. Bodenwiser stated
that what he is looking at from his own place of business or from the
standpoint of hardship on the basis of Dee's Card Shop, is Dee's Card
Shop actually going to have to come down, because we are talking about
conforming and if Dee's has got to come down at a later date then I am
Variance # 520
Page lO
305
assuming that possibly the Board will pass on this, then will this
variance if it is allowed, allow Mr. Grasse to keep his sign and have
Dee's Card Shop sign come down. Mr. Cornwell stated that this variance
if granted would probably have an expiration date of 1986. Mr. Bodenwiser
asked if the sign, even though it would be conforming for the néxt 7
years, would have to be changed in 1986. Mr. Cornwell replied yes. Mrs.
Richardson stated that the Board has to stipulate that Mr. Grasse will
have to conform in 7 years. Mr. Bodenwiser asked if the Board didn't
stipulate that Mr. Grasse's sign conform after 7 years, then could his
sign stay up. Mrs. Richardson stated that she thought it could. Mr.
Bodenwiser stated that then you have the problem with Dee's and çonformity
no longer exist.
Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he looks right at the sign and he makes
no objection to Dee.' s or the new sign proposed. The signs effect Mr.
Bodenwiser not only as a businessman but also as a person that lives in
the town. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that in relation to the corner Mr. Grass's
business is located in, in fairness to the business, he thinks it is a
hardship. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that even coming down the driveway, if
Mr. Grasse put up the orange size sign (indicated on sketch), if you were
within 50' of building going in that driveway, the sign is obliterate.
Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Grasse is not going to be that far down.
Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he is talking about if the Board makes Mr.
Grasse go to that point. Mr. Cornwell stated that low but not that small.
Variance # 520
Page II
30~
Mr. Grasse stated that it is the fact that it is as low as it is
that it is obliterated by the canopy coming from Wards, which is about
RO' out, which is very liable to collapse inasmuch as the water has been
falling out of there all winter long.
Mr. Bodenwiser stated that in his own personal opinion he does not
object to the sign from his standpoint as a citizen but he doesn't think
where as the other sign has to come down we are going to loose the con-
formity again. Mr. Bodenwiser stated if both the signs had to come down
it would be a different story.
Mrs. Richardson stated that she thinks in all fairness to the sign
committee the drawing Mr. Platt showed, what the sign committee wrote
was for that and that (indicating on drawing), the sign committee had
both of them on. Mrs. Richardson stated that she didn't think 2' up
is going to make that much difference, she still thinks the sign will be
obliterated until you get to a certain point in the parking lot. Mrs.
Richardson stated that there are only 3 stores in the whole shopping
plaza, Singer's, Thom McAn's,and Dee's, that have signs above the roof
line. Mrs. Richardson stated that she didn't know totally how ~any stores
are in the plaza but that all the other signs are conforming. Mr. Corn-
well stated that there are 27 to 30 stores in the plaza.
Mr. Turner read,"The Board of Appeals may vary or alter or adapt the
strict application of any of the requirements of this ordinance in the
case of exceptional physical conditions which applies here; whereby such
strict application would result in substantial difficulty or unnecessary
Page 12 301
Variance # 520
hardship that would deprive the owner of a sign or reasonable use of the
same~'
Mr. Cornwell stated that he agrees with that statement but he would
like to know from Mr. Platt how much visibility he expects, does he expect
the sign to be seen from around Montgomery Ward's, because as it is now
as you drive down the center roadway from Route 9 you see the aign then
you loose it and you don't see it again until you get about l50 yards
from the sign? Mr. Cornwell stated that the sign is very visible in
strength at about 90° of arc. Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Grasse is
going to have to place the sign even higher than 2' if he wants to be
seen on the road and the other part of the parking lot.
Mr. Turner stated that he didn't think Mr. Grasse wants to have his
sign be seen on the other side of the road but that he wants to be in
the same prospective as the sign adjacent to him. Mr. Platt stated that
Mr. Turner was correct. Mr.. Cornwell stated that not all the signs can
be seen from the road. Mr. Turner stated that most of the peoplé enter
the plaza from Quaker Road and you can not see that sign, you have to
get a third of the way up in front of Neisner's and then go back, it is
obliterated, you can't see it, it is obscure.
Mr. Reed stated that his only question is being 2' above the roof
line and is it going to make a difference. Mr. Reed stated that he didn't
think it would. Mr. Platt stated that placing the sign 2' above the roof
line is not going to be a great help and Mr. Grasse is in a bad situation.
Mr. Platt stated that it would be some help to raise the sign 2' above the
Variance # 520
Page l3 '3 OJ
roof line. Mr. Reed stated that Mr. Grasse just bought or rented a hole.
Mr. Grasse stated that at $775.00 a month he doesn't feel as if he has
rented a hole. Mr. Reed stated that he meant as far as the sign goes.
Mr. Grasse stated that he has just spent $3,000.00 to decorate so he is
not considering it as a hole. Mr. Reed stated that as far as the sign
goes it is in a very tough spot. Mr. Grasse agreed with Mr. Reed.
Mr. Cornwell asked the audience qf there was anyone in opposition or
in favor of this variance.
The Warren County Planning Board (November 10,1977) disapproved this
variance. Their comment was by approving new signs it is conflicting with
the new sign ordinance.
The Queensbury Planning Board (November 2, 1977) approved this variance.
Mr. Sicard made a motion that Variance # 520 be approved. Mr. Sicard
stated that the Board went through this 3 or 4 times, we have had these
people up here, we have heard pros and cons on this, and he thinks we
are pretty much in agreement that this i! a hardship, inasmuch as; the
motion would be carried that it complies with the plan of táking the signs
down at the end of the moratorium, whatever time we agree on,and it isn't
any higher than the adjacent sign of Dee's. Mr. Cornwell polled the
Board. Mrs. Richardson, Mr. Franco, and Mr. Reed voted against'.appl1Qyal
of this variance. Mr. Turner and Mr. Sicard voted for approval of this
variance. Mr. Cornwell stated that there are 3 nos and ~ yeses and the
motion is denied.
Mr. Platt thanked the Board for their timEr and ct0l'ls::ideration.
Page 14
Variance # 520
30';
Thè Board:
RESOLVED: THE BOARD DENIED THIS VARIANCE.
Variance # 533 - Texaco, Inc. C-3 Zone
Route 9 at Exit 20 Northway
(Warren County Planning Board)
Mr. Cornwell asked the audience if there was anybody who is appearing
on behalf of this application. No one appeared.
This variance was tabled last month because no one appeared and Mr.
Cornwell stated that he understood that no one appeared at the Planning
Board on behalf of this variance.
Mrs. Richardson made a motion that Variance # 533 be denied due to the
lack of information. Mr. Kurosaka seconded the motion. Carried.
The Board:
RESOLVED: THE BOARD DENIED THIS VARIANCE FOR NON-APPEARANCE.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variance # 534 - Ray Supply Inc. C-3 Zone
Upper Glen Street (Miller Hill)
(Warren County Planning Board)
Mr. George Goetz appeared on behalf of this application. Mr. George
Goetz introduced Mr. John Goetz, President of Ray Supply. Mr. George
Goetz is Vice-President of Ray Supply.
Variance # 534 is to place a 50 square feet free standing sign at 0'
setback in lieu of the required l5' setback. Location would be 190' from
south entrance.
Variance # 534
Page l5
~D
Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. George Goetz if he had a display to present
to the Board. Mr. Goetz stated that he did have a display to show to
the Board.
"Practical difficulty" ii the grounds within the framework of the
Town of Queensbury Zoning Ordinance for granting the application. In
1969 N~ York State Dept. of Transportation took approximately 1),000
square feet from front of the property for the widening of Route 9.
Now existing is 22' of state land from Route 9 to fence bordering park-
ing lot at Goetz-Lapham property(Ray Supply parking lot).
Mr. Goetz stated that most of the Board is familiar with Ray Supply.
Mr. Goetz stated that Ray Supply is now in their 41st year of 5usiness.
Mr. Goetz stated that Ray Supply is a local firm and moved from the
City of Glens Falls to the Town of Queensbury about 27 years ago. Mr.
Goetz stated that at that time Ray Supply was the very first building
on Route 9 in that location. Since then you have seen a tremendous
development of buildings and signs.
Mr. Goetz stated that the reason why Ray Supply has to come here in
front of the Board is first of all, you may be familiar with my wife, Susan,
who has been here in fromt of the Board several times representing the
League of Women VoteFs, and she has harassed us considerably about our
current noneonf6rming sign. Our present sign is nonconforming to the
new Sign Ordinance that will take effect in 1986. Our present sign is
oversized and to high. The Board can also see that the poles are rusting.
It is not an attractive sign. Mr. Goetz stated that you also can't see
Page 16 311
Variance # 534
the sign as you approach Ray Supply from the north because since the
sign was put up there has been a tremendous growth of pine trees between
the Ray Supply property and between the residential property north of Ray
Supply.
Mr. Goetz stated that he thou~ht the Ray Supply sign was going to
be a pretty easy sign to conform. Mr. Goetz stated that Ray Supply has
plenty of property and there is a lot of room between the front of their
store and between Route 9. But in finding this out we found, 'we discovered
that àeetback does!"not include ,state property. Mr. Goetz stated the
location that they want to put the new Ray Supply sign in is about 25'
from Route 9, however, unfortunately that is state property that was
taken away from Ray Supply in 1969 when Route 9 was widened. It is
because of that purpose that Mr. Goetz has to appear before the Board
at all because otherwise the new 'sign is conforming all the way to the
new Sign Ordinance.
Mr. Goetz stated that to give the Board an idea to what the State
did to Ray Supply, this is the property as it appeared in 1969 (showing
Board photograph of property). It was very pretty. There were maple
trees, beech trees and nice shubbery and Ray Supply maintained the hill
which went down to Route 9. Mr. Goetz stated that now of course Ray
Supply can't maintain the hill and the State is suppose to do it and
they have annihilated the beautyof the land.
Mr. Cornwell stated that as he see it Mr. Goetz's only problem that
the Board can help him with is to ~tv~ him a setback variance, that is all
Page l1
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Variance # 534
you require. Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Goetz has sweetened the offer-
ing here alittle bit by offering to fix up your other signs and do some
beautification which is not required, am I correct? Mr. Goetz stated
that Ray Supply went to the Beautification Committee and told the
Beautification Committee that they wanted to improve the looks of their
building, they wanted it to be a better looking place for the Town of
Queensbury and showed them the plans for their new sign and asked them
for some recommendations. The Beautification Committee recommended that
Ray Supply plant a maple tree or another beech tree or some type of tree
like that and they also requested us to put some flowers kind of in the
middle of our windows, in the center of the Ray Supply store. Mr. Goetz
stated that they have agreed to do these things.
Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Goetz what his understanding of the duration
of any variance that might be grantedcis. Mr. Goetz asked Mr. Cornwell
what he meant by that. Mr. Cornwell stated that does Mr. Goetz under-
stand that the sign would be subject to review in 1986 or that it would
go on for the life of the property or any other duration. Mr. Goetz
stated that their hardship is going to go on forever and forever. Mr.
Goetz stated that he would like to make a difference between hardships.
Mr. Goetz stated that the hardship that the Board saw just before he came
in, is what he classifies as a self-imposed hardship. Mr. Goetz stated
that when Ray Supply goes to put in a new store in Burlington or Albany,
before we even find a location, we find out what are the local ordinances.
-
Varia,mce # 534
Page IB
313
and we always comply with the local ordinances.
Mr. Goetz stated that
if they find a location that isn't going to be suitable because of the
lack of the sign that is that important at that time, then they don't
take the location. Mr. Goetz stated that their hardship is a hardship
that they had no control over. Mr. Goetz stated that Ray Supply was
there long before anyone èlse was, long before the State decided to
widen Route 9. We have to live with this hardship forever and ever.
Mr. Goetz stated that Ray Supply is trying to conform but just because of
the fact that the State took that land, they can't conform.
Mr. Goetz stated that to do this investment¡when Ray Supply is just
trying to be the nice gu~ would not be a good business decision to have
a stipulation on it.
Mr. Cornwell asked if the Board was to rolhthe clock back to where
the road was in 19--, whenever the State took the land from Ray Supply,
would the proposed location then qualify in all respect to the Sign
Ordinance. Mr. Goetz stated that it would propose in all ways; all
ways, shapes and forms.
Mr. Sicard stated that just for the record, the last statement the
Mr. Goetz made concerning the last incident the Board had here, when
Mr. Grasse rented the beauty shop down there, the sign was up, the existing
sign was up, the original sign was up, and after the lease was signed am
so forth, it was my understanding that the previous tenant took the sign
down. Mr. Sicard stated that had the Mr. Walt's sign been left up, the
sign would have been much btgger than what Mr. Grasse'wanted, but it would
Variance #534
Page 19
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have been legal and all Mr. Grasse would have had to done is change the
wording on the sign, but the original owner took the sign down whether
by night or what it was. This caused the hardship, Mr. Grasse didn't
buy the hardship. Mr. Sicard stated that the sign was there and Mr.
Grasse just assumed he was going to use it and it is his understanding
that the original tenant took the sign down. Mr. Goetz stated that he
wasn't trying to knock Mr. Grasse but that he was just trying to use
that as an example to clarify that there arè 2 types of hardship.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that Ray Supply doesn't have to show hardship,
just practical difficulty. Mr. Goetz stated that he is trying to show
practical difficulty. Mr. Cornwell stated that he thinks the applicant
is showing that practical difficulty was put upon by the State not by
himself. Mr. Kurosaka stated that practical difficulty is the shape of
his property. Mr. Cornwell stated that the State made it worse. Mr.
Kurosaka stated that before the State stepped in, it was a nice piece of
property, nice big front yard.
Mr. Kurosaka asked Mr. Goetz that when the State stepped in, it cut
Ray Supply parking lot in half. Mr. Goetz stated that it took l3 square
feet off our parking lot, it took l3,000. square feet from off our land
and it lowered the size of our parking lot from around 35 cars to around
26.
Mr. Goetz stated that if you put the sign 15' back from the fence, there
is a big fence which separates the State land from the Ray Supply land,
it would be in the middle of the parking lot and would last for about
5 minutes.
Page 20
Variance # 534
3/6
Mr. Reed asked right where the person is standing in this photo.
Mr. Goetz replied yes. Mr. Goetz stated that this is where he is stand-
ing (indicating on photo) and he should be over here (indicating on photo)
because he forgot about, he just marked off l5' from the fence but it
actually has to be back further because of the overhang, the sign can't
overhang the fence.
Mr. Franco asked if the guardrail was the property line. Mr. Goetz
stated that the guardrail was the property line.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that the State took an awful lot of property
when they widened Route 9.
Mrs. Richardson asked about how much distance from this light (in-
dicating on photo) to the guardrail, about 15'? Mr. Goetz asked from
where. Mrs. Richardson pointed out the light she is referring to on photo.
Mr. Goetz stated that this light here (indicating on photo) is way down
at the other end, that is at the end of the fence and the fence runs
from here (indicating on photo) up along. Mr. Goetz stated that there
is a post right here (indicating on photo), this middle post which has a
big flood light,and that post is coming down. Mrs. Richardson asked Mr.
Goetz how far that post was from the guardrail. Mr. Goetz stated that
the post is about 7' from the guardrail. Mr. Goetz stated that they are
going to put it back about 7' so there will still be a foot between the
edge of our sign and the guardrail, there is no way it will go over on
State property.
Mr. Franco asked where the existing flood light is going to go, is it
Page 21
3/&
Variance # 514
going to be incorporated with the sign? Mr. Goetz stated that that is
right, it will be put on the edge of the sign, right here (indicating on
photo). Mr. Franco stated that what Ray Supply is actually doing is
removing the post that is there now supporting the flood light. Mr. Goetz
stated that that was right and the pole that is holding up the sign is a
24 gu~epaint grip metal, which will be painted a rustic type of color,
it will be a rustic type of sign.
Mr. Kurosaka asked Mr. Goetz if they are going to put the beams on
the sign this time. Mr. Goetz stated that these beams are basically
their trade signs. Mr. Kurosaka stated that that was what he means and
he ~emembers the beams from the last sign. Mr. Goetz stated that the
last sign they came in and the Board wouldn't allow the beams on the
sign. Mrs. Richardson stated that she didn't mind the beams as long
as they didn't flash.
Mr. Goetz stated that the sign will be illuminated but there is not
going to be any flashing arrows or anything. Mr. Kurosaka asked if the
sign was going to be internally illuminated. Mr. Goetz stated that the
sign was going to be internally illuminated.
Mr. Reed asked if the sign was going to be plastic. Mr. Goetz stated
that it would be a plastic sign.
Mr. Goetz stated that they got the idea for this sign through a guide-
book that the State-of New York put out where the types of signs that the
State felt fit into the Adirondacks.
Variance # 534
Page 22
3/7
Mr. Sicard stated that he and Mr. Goetz talked alittle bit about
this sign today and he asked Mr. Goetz if he understood him to say that
the wording on the small sign on the' bottom was going to change or is it
going to remain the same~ Mr. Goetz stated that about 30 days out of the
year they may have, and this again will be rustic and blend in with the
sign, a sign which might say "Kodak Sale Today" or it might say "Scaners",
there will be no prices on it, it will be done in good taste, and it will
blend in with the sign. In fact to make this sign blend in correctly, it
will cost us about $95.00 each, so we aren't going to have a lot of them.
Mr. Cornwell asked if that picture was to scale or is the little sign
going to be alittle bigger than that. Mr. Goetz stated that the little
sign will be slightly bigger and this will be slightly smaller. Mrs.
Richardson asked if the little sign is included in the total square footage,
the whole sign. Mr. Goetz stated that it was, there is no way it will go
over 50 square feet.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that the little sign at the bottom is a temporary
sign anyway, is that right, you are only going to take it on and off there
a couple times a year or are you going to leave it up? Mr. Liapes stated
the whole total sign, part of it would be changeable copy. Mr. Goetz
replied that that is right.
Mr. Bodenwiser appeared before the Board. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that
Ray Supply is his adjacent neighbor andhe has always been impresäed by the
way they maintain their property. Mr. Bodenwieer stated th~t he thinks this
sign will enhance Ray Supply's property very much and it reflects on what is
Variance # 534
Page 23
3/,6
going on down t he line.
Mr. Bodenwiser stated the we did this with Pizza
Htit and Long John Silver's and we got them to refrain from doing things that
we didn't like in there, I am talking about the Town did, and he appreciates
this very much and in appearance to what is there at the present time, he
is very much in favor.
Mr. Cornwell asked the Board if there was a motion for or agåinst this
application.
Mr. Cornwell stated that as he sees it here, the Board only has to
make a motion that setback variance be granted tø the applicant because
of the hardship imposed upon them by the Statedof New York,Department of
Transportation with the stipulation that this will be not expiredbut'.will
be reviewed when all other signs are reviewed in 1986.
Warren County Planning Board recommended app'roval·IQf'~Þ~s\:y~ri¡éiE1,ç~.
;'ff'he Queensbury Planning Board approved this variance. They stated
that the sign will have to conform at the time that the non-conforming
signs,as of August l4, 1986,must conform. The Board recommends approval
of this variance.
Mr. Cornwell stated that thé sign: conforms. Mr. Gaetz stated that that
is improperly written, that is the old one. Mr. Goetz stated that the
Queensbury Planning Board did not put the stipulation on, they discussed
that fact and said that it was ridiculous to do because Ray Supply is
trying to conform and there is no way we can't conform. Mr. Liapes stated
that that was his error. Mr. Cornwell stated that the sign is conforming
already.
Mr. Goetz stated that the Board is going to be beseiged at that
Page 24
Variance # 534 3 11
time by all kinds of people coming in for a review. Mr. Kurosaka stated
that it won't be a review, you know what it is going to be, they'll be
non-conforming signs and the Board is going to have to conduct hearings
on everyone of them. Mr. Goetz stated that is why the Queensbury Planning
Board decided not to put that in, they thought they would be causing them-
selves a hardship.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that he didn't think the Board should put a stipu-
lation on this variance. Mr. Kurosaka stated that this sign conforms in
everywa:y except setback.
Mr. Cornwell stated that on this particular situation where it is
a geographical impossibility to change it, it is rather academic. Mr.
Cornwell stated that they are not going to put him out of business in
1986.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that if the Board is going to be talking about
truly non-conforming as to size and shape and everything else, then we'
are talking a~different ball game and that is when we should be stipulating.
Mrs. Richardson stated that sh~ would like to commend Ray Supply
for conforming 8 years before they have to.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that he thought it was a very, very fine sign
and that the previous sign wasn't that bad either.
Mrs. Rièhardson made a motion to approve Variance # 534 for minimum
reasonable use of property.
Mr. Cornwell stated that he thinks the Board has to put in there
that practical difficulty has been shown by the de.onstration of the
bJ:::€
Variance # 534
Page 25
3~û
l3,000. square feet having been appropriated by the State.
Mr. Cornwell
stated that he thinks it is important to put in the real reason that they
are having problems.
Mr. Franco seconded the motion. Carried.
., Mr. Goetz thanked the Board for their support and confidence and he
assured them that they would do their best to uphold their plans.
The Board:
RESOLVED: THE BOARD GRANTED THIS VARIANCE. PROPERTY ACQUIRED BY NEW
YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR HIGHWAY PURPOSES.
MINIMUM REASONABLE USE OF PROPERTY.
Special Permit #70 - Marty Mesick C-2 and C-3 Zones
Aviation Road
(Warren County Planning Board)
Mr. Turner read the application for Special Useperm±t #70.
Mr. Marty Mesick appeared before the Board.
Mr. Cornwell stated that this property is in a C-2 and C-3 Zone, he
believes the line goes through the middle, is that correct? Mr. Mesick
stated that the line does gOi,through: the middle.
Mr. CQrnwell stated that the automobile reparr shop is for special
permüted usage in that area so the Board has to determine several questions.
Special Use
THE BOARD FINDS:
1. The use is one specifically enumerated in the district. Mr.
Cornwell stated that Mr. Mesick dQe~nft have to tell the Board that.
2. Such use will not be prejudicial to the character of the area.
Mr. Cornwell stated that some members of the Board might have questions
to ask Mr. Mesick about the character of his operation.
Special Permit # 70
Mr. Kurosaka asked if this was the old town barn.
Page 26
3:</
Mr. Mesick stated
that it was. Mr. Kurosaka stated that Mr. Mesick would not be doing
very much different than what the Town was doing. Mr. Mesick stated
that the only thing different would be that there would be no trucks out-
side.
3. The Board determines that there is appropriate provision for
access facilities adequate for the estimated traffic from public streets
and/or highways and that there are pedestrian walkways so as to insure
public safety and to avoid traffic congestion. Mr. Cornwell stated that
the Board would like to hear ali ttle bit more about Mr~, Me$if::k's pláns
bnrthis,because ac~.~s~torAi±ation Road he doesn't believe is the Board's
paraview, is it? Mr. Cornwell stated that access to Aviation Road is
something that you would have to get a permit from the Department of
Transportation to make a cut. Mr. Mesick stated that he believed that
there was a penníttfor a cut on Aviation Road requested by Aviation Diner,
they are asking for a right-of-way on that land. Mr. Cornwell asked Mr.
Mesick if he was going to share it with Aviation Diner. Mr. Mesick stated
that he doubted it, he wouldn't have any use for it, he is not going to
have lOa vehicles going in and out of there everyday.
4. That there are full adequate parking areas and off-street loading
spaces, in conformity with the proposed parking requirements of the zoning
ordinance of the Town of Queensbury and all other related ordinances. Mr.
Cornwell stated that he doesn't think this really applies.
Special Permit # 70
5. That suitable planting
Page 27
~'1 ~2
Dr screening has been required as follows:
Mr. Cornwell stated that there is no mention of that in here but some
members of the Board may ask Mr. Mesick some questions about the screen-
ing that is already there and whether he is going to disturb any of it.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that it is an existing faèility and asked Mr. Mesick
if he was going to have a short term lease. Mr. Mesick stated that he
was going to have a short term lease. Mr. Cornwell asked how long is the
lease. Mr. Mesick stated that the lease is for 6 months with an 8 month
option.
Mr. Reed asked what the activities were in each of the buildings. Mr.
Mesick stated nothing at the moment. Mr. Reed asked Mr. Mesick what the
activities will be. Mr. Mesick stated that the large building toward
the new Aviation Road will not be used, the smaller building toward the
old Aviation Road will be used.
Mr. Turner asked Mr. Mesick if his entrance in will be from the old
Aviation Road. Mr. Mesick stated that his entrance would be in from the
old Aviation Road. Mr. Kurosaka asked Mr. Mesick if he had any need for
coming in from the side road. Mr. Mesick stated no, there is no call for
it. Mrs. Richardson asked Mr. Mesick if that was the only entrance and
exit they would use, old Aviation Road. Mr. Mesick replied yes.
Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Mesick's previous application to the
Planning Board suggested that he might want to go on to',new AviatidnRQad,
have you withdrawn on that? ~r. Mesick stated that if they do cut the right-
Special Permit # 70
Page 2g
3~3
of-way through that lot we can also use that but at the moment we are
going to have to use the old Aviation Road entrance. Mrs. Richardson
stated that she doesn't understand, if who cuts and where is the cut,
right-or-way? Mrs. Richardson stated that she strongly disapproves of
that. Mr. Mesick stated that he guesses that the Aviation Diner is going
to cut a right-of-way through there. Mrs. Richardson stated that the
Aviation Diner has an exit-entrance where the light is. Mr. Sicard
asked Mr. Mesick if that what he is saying is that he would be using
the Aviation Diner's cut. Mr. Mesick stated that their cut would be
on the property that he is going to lease. Mrs. Richardson asked if the
Aviation Diner is asking for another cut. Mr. Mesick stated that he
believes so, that is what he understands.
Mr. Kurosaka asked Mr. Mesick if he was going to apply for a cut
himself. Mr. Mesick stated that he didn't believe so, he is not going to
be in there long
enough. Mr. Franco stated that the property owner has
to apply for the cut, not the leasee.
Mrs. Richardson stated that she thinks it is a legitimate concern,
it is on curve, it is a high speed, even though it is a curve, and you
have thE~ light at Aviation Diner, and she would hate to see a cut just
$JC~~h
beyond the light. Mr.~n~~ stated that he doesn't think there would
be another cut, the State wouldn't allow it. Mrs. Richardson stated that
she doesn't assume things like that.
Mr. Mesick stated that his shop was not going to be like Aviation Mall
,
one or ~o cars going in a day. Mrs. Richardson stated that even one or
Page 29
Special Permit # 70 .3.2 Lf
two is to dangerous for the traffic that is 'coming and going. Mrs.
Richardson stated that she would strongly recommend that if Mr. Mes±~k is
thinking of a cut that he ask Aviation Diner to use their exit where the
light is, use a common entrance-exit. Mrs. Richardson asked Mr. Mesick
if he adjoins the parking lot of Aviation Diner. Mr~ Mesick replied yes.
Mrs. Richardson stated that Aviation Diner has an exit-entrance by a
traffic light and she thinks it is the only safe entrance-exit into Aviation
Diner and Mr~ Mesick's property.
Mr. Cornwell stated that he doesn't think this matter concerns the
Board here. Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Mesick would have to get per-
mission from the D.O. T. and they would be more concerned with the traffic
light than this Board would. Mr. Kurosaka stated that the D.O.T. is more
concerned about traffic safety than the Board will ever be.
Mr. Cornwell stated that the Board might be concerned with what would
happen with the slight screen of new trees that have been planted along
there, does anybody know if they were put down by the Beautification
Committee? Mr. Mesick stated that the trees are not on his property, they
are on the other property line. Mr. Liapes stated that the trees were
planted by the old gentleman that owned the property there for years. Mr.
Cornwell stated the new trees, right along Aviation Road.
Mr. Kurosaka stated that he had about 3 calls from neighbors and as
far as he could tell they had no objections, they just wanted to know
where it was, what was going on, and what buildings were effected.
Page 30
8Decial Permit # 70
3~~
Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Mesick specifically states here this
is for automobile service and repair, is it true that it is more specifical-
ly body shop work? Mr. Mesick stated that it would be for botb,body shop
and mechanical.
Mr. Cornwell asked Mr. Mesick if everything would be done inside and
would there be storage outdoors. Mr. Mesick stated that there would be
no junk cars on the outside, these cars would be kept inside and he is
not going to be doing any work on the outside. Mr. Cornwell stated that
there is a tendency in some body shops to branch out and have alittle bit
of a resvoir of sheet metal. Mr. Mesick stated that Mr. Cornwell is right,
Mr. Me§ièk'8 father is a perfect example, he has a junkyard~. Mr. Cornwell
stated that Mr. Mesick is then aware of the Town of Queensbury's re-
quirements for fencing junky(n~ds,·o!l'·aþplt±tlg"'f6r:a.. jµnkya:rrd 'permit
if he:'were¿tb keep ears outdoors'.
Mr. Reed asked Mr. Mesick where the signs would be, it is an awful
long way from the road to even see a sign. Mr. Cornwell stated that the
signs are conforming. Mr. Mesick asked Mr. Reed if he has seen the build-
ing. Mr. Mesick stated that there are doors in the front of the building,
the doors face Route 9 and you can put a conforming sign right over the
doors, and you can see it from Route 9.
Mr. Sicard asked if the signs
are conforming. Mr. Mesick stated that the sign is going to conform,
there is just going to be one sign on the front of the building.
Warren County Planning B.8&rd recommended approval of this S~ecîal;':permit.
The Town of Queensbury Planning Board recommended approval of this
~.'di;al "',permi t.
Page 31
Special Permit # 70
3~
Mrs. Richardson asked Mr. Mesick that when he says signs, does he
mean one freestanding and one wall. Mr. Liapes stated conforming signs.
Mrs. Richardson stated that she knows but is wondering what exactly Mr.
Mesick is going to put up. Mr. Cornwell stated that Mr. Mesick is allow-
ed anything that he wants as long as it conforms.
Mr. Sicard asked Mr. Mesick if he was going to have any gasoline sales
here. Mr. Mesick replied no. Mr. Mesick stated that there is an old
gasoline tank there but they are going to take it out this spring. Mr.
Bodenwiser, Fire Marshall, stated that he sent a letter to the Town Board
and to the Planning Board in regards to the tank underground, the owner
of that property talked to me the other day and he says that if Mr. Mesick
rents the building, that he will take the tanks out. Mr. Bodenwiser
stated he would like it if it could possibly be brought into the wording
of Special Permit # 70 and the Board accepts this special permit, that he
would like to have a stipulation on these tanks. Mr. Bodenwiser stated
that there is an agreement with the owner's attorney and the Town's
attorney that because of the weather and what not, there is a 90 day
extention beginning December 5th, based on the fact that the place was
not being used at the present time and if and when they decided whether
they are going to tear the buildings down and put something up, they will
conform, he has this letter from Mr. O'Connor, Mr. O'Connor, Mr. Bren-
nan and he wrote this agreement. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he just wants
to make sure the owner is going to do what he says he is going to do.
Special Permit # 70
Page 32
.3 .;L 7
Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he ,as Fire Marshall,has to grant Mr.
Mesick a permit. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that a paint shop is based upon
a gallon or more of paint a day. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that in a bOdy
and fender shop, if you know much about it, he knows alittle about it
only from his education, to use a gallon of paint you have to paint from
g o'clock in the morning until midnight. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that
it takes very little paint to paint a car and he doubts very much that
they are going to paint that much.
Mr. Cornwell stated that he doesn't believe, the enforcement of taking
out the tank is a matter of enforcing any applicable fire regulations, and
that this Board is only concerned here is granting a permit for a Permitted
Special Use in a C-2 and C-3 zone. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that he thought
it just should go on the record, the Board's consideration of variances
or special use permits are based upon facts, and there have been some
problems with other places stemming from this issue. Mr. Cornwell stated
that he expects that before Mr. Mesick starts operating Mr. Bodenwiser
will have to issue him á permit and before Mr. Mesick sta.rts his operation
he will h~ve to pay the rent and that Mr. Mesick won't pay the rent to
the owner unless he takes the tanks out so that Mr. Mesick can get his
permit. Mr. Bodenwiser stated that that isn't the way it has worked in
a couple instances but that he hopes that Mr. Cornwell is right.
Mr. Bodenwiser stated that Mr. Mesick did work in another shop in
town where they had violacions and he just wants to present the fact
that they cleaned them up and took them away and th h
e s op was left in
Special Permit # 70
Page 33
~~
presentable condition when they left that shop.
Mr. Turner made a motion to grant Special UsePt!rmit # 70, to operate
an automotive and repait shop in a C-2 and C-3 Zone. Mr. Sicard seconded
the motion. Carried.
The Board:
RESOLVED:
l. THE USE IS ONE SPECIFICALLY ENUMERATED IN THE DISTRICT.
2. SUCH USE WILL NOT BE PREJUDICIAL TO THE CHARACTER OF THE AREA.
3. THE BOARD DETERMINES THAT THERE IS APPROPRIATE PROVISION FOR
ACCESS FACILITIES ADEQUATE FOR THE ESTIMATED TRAFFIC FROM PUBLIC
STREETS AND/OR HIGHWAYS AND THAT THERE ARE PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS
SO AS TO INSURE PUBLIC SAFETY AND TO AVOID TRAFFIC CONGESTION.
4. THAT THERE ARE FULL ADEQUATE PARKING AREAS AND OFF=STREET LOADING
SPACES, IN CONFÐRMITY WITH THE PROPOSED PARKING REQUIREMENTS OF
THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF QUEENSBURY AND ALL OTHER
RELATED ORDINANCES.
5. THAT SUCH USE IS OF THE SAME GENERAL CHARACTER AS, OR WILL NOT
BE INJURIOUS TO, THE SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOOD OR DISTRICT.
Variance # 535 - Carswell Truck Center Inc.
Carswell Motors and Tire Inc.
685 and 6~1 Upper Glen Street
(Warren County Planning Board)
C-2 Zone
Mr. Kurosaka made a motion to table this variance. Mrs. Richardson
seconded the motion. Carried.
The Board:
RESOLVED: TABLED.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 P.M.
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Minutes of the public hearing of the QUiENSBURY ZONING BOARD OF
APPEALS held February l5, 1978 at 7:30 P. M.
There were peesent:,
Kirkham Cornwell, Chairman
Theodore Turner, Secretary
George Kurosaka, Jr.
Charles Sicard
Sjoerdje Richardson
Alfred Franco
A. Mather Reed
..,
"
being members of the Board.
Motion by Sicard to approve minutes of December 21, 1977
meeting. Motion seconded by Richardson and carried. Motion by
Kurosaka to table approval of minutes of January l8, 1978 meeting
to give members time to read them. Motion seconded by Turner and
(
carried.
~ OLD BUSINESS:
Variance #520. R. J. Grasse - to vary from the sign ordinance
on the property situated at Northway Plaza, Route 9 - C-3 Zone.
George Kurosaka disqualified himself on this variance. Robert
Platt from Signs of Progress was present with Mr. Grasse. The sign
has been amended to a smaller conforming size. This is the fourth
time this Variance has been before the Board. The only request
before the Board at this meeting is to place top of sign 2 ft. above
roof line. Board discussed hardship. The Board feels 2 ft. above
roof line would not be much help in this location. Motion by Sicard
that Variance #520 be approved. Motion seconded by Turner. Vote was
Richardson, Franco and Reed against motion. Sicard and Turner for
motion. Motion denied.
-1.-
The Board:
RESOLVED: Variance #520 denied.
..
Page 2
Variance #533. Texaco. Inc. (Littlefield & Boqdan. Attorneys) -
;1,
to place a free-standing sign less than 15 ft. from front property line
in a C-3 Zone on the property situated at Route 9, Exit 20 of Northway.
Motion by Richardson that Board deny Variance #523 as no one has
appeared for 2 meetings and due to lock of information. Motion seconded
by Kurosaka and carried by unanimous decision of the Board.
The Board:
RESOLVED:
Variance #533 denied as no one has appeared for
2 meetings and due to lack of information.
NEW BUSINESS:
Variance #534. Ray Supply Inc. - to place a 50 sq. ft. free-
standing sign at zero ft. setback in lieu of the required 15 ft.
in a C-3 Zone on the property situated at Upper Glen St. (Miller Hill).
George Goetz, Vice-President and John Goetz, President of Ray
Supply Inc. were present. George Goetz discussed this variance with
the Board. He stated that 13,000 sq. ft. was taken by the State from
front of property for widening of Route 9 in 1969. Now existing is
22 ft. of State land from Route 9 to fence bordering parking lot at
Goetz-Lapham property (Ray Supply parking lot). The present sign is
nonêonforming as it is oversize and too high. Present sign can not
be seen from the north due to growth of pine trees. Proposed sign
will be conforming excep~ for setback. Applicant has met with the
Queensbury Beautification Committee and has offered to improve property
by planting trees and flowers. Applicant stated that hardship was not
self imposed as Ray Supply has been in this location for 27 years, and
the State took l3,000 sq. ft. for widening of Route 9. Warren County
Planning Board and Queensbury Planning Board recommended approval of
this Variance.
'-
........
Page 3
The Board:
-~II-
RESOLVED: Application for Variance #534 be approved as
minimum reasonable use of property and as
practical difficulty has been shown by the
demonstration of 13,000 sq. ft. having been
appropriated by the State.
Motion to approve Variance #534 made by Richardson and
seconded by Franco. Motion carried by unanimous decision of
the Board.
Special Permit #70. Martv Mesick - to operate an Automobile
Service and Repair Shop in C-2 and C-3 Zones on the property
situated at Aviation Road.
Marty Mesick was present on this application. He stated
that entrance to this repair shop will be from Old Aviation Road.
He stated that body shop and mechanical repair work will be done
in the building with no junk cars or work outside of the building.
Conforming signs allowed. Applicant stated that there will be a
sign on building over doors.
Boards recommended approval.
The Board:
RESOLVED: Application for Special Permit 70 b~granted.
Queensbury and Warren County Planning
THE BOARD FINDS:
1, The use is one specifically enumerated in the district.
2. Such use will not be prejudicial to the character of the area.
3. The Board determines that there is appropriate provision for
access facilities adequate for the estimated traffic from
public streets and/or highways and that there are pedestrian
walkways so as to insure public safety and to avoid traffic
congestion.
4. That there are full adequate parking areas and off-street
loading spaces, in conformity with the proposed parking
requirements of the zoning ordinance of the Town of Queensbury
and all other related ordinances.
~..
Page 4
That such use is of the same gener~l character as, or will
not be injurious to, the surrounding neighborhood or district.
Motion to grant this Special Use Permit made by Turner and
5.
seconded by Sicard. Motion carried.
Meeting ad~ourned 9:30 P. M.
Dated
Signed ~~
~.;.
!