12-22-2020
(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
QUEENSBURY PLANNING BOARD MEETING
SECOND REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 22, 2020
INDEX
Site Plan No. 42-2020 Bill Pogonowski 2.
FURTHER TABLING Tax Map No. 239.8-1-7 & 239.8-1-60
Site Plan No. 49-2020 Jeffrey Godnick 3.
FURTHER TABLING Tax Map No. 289.9-1-84
Site Plan No. 21-2020 David Hartmann 3.
FURTHER TABLING Tax Map No. 239.12-2-15
Site Plan No. 57-2020 Rockhurst, LLC 4.
Tax Map No. 239.12-2-35.2
Subdivision No. 16-2020 Harrisena Church 5.
PRELIMINARY STAGE Tax Map No. 266.3-1-59
Site Plan No. 56-2020 Joseph Leuci 6.
Tax Map No. 290.-1-48
Subdivision No. 20-2020 Foothills Builders 6.
SKETCH PLAN Tax Map No. 279.15-1-85
Site Plan No. 53-2019 APEX Capital, LLC 7.
Tax Map No. 307.-1-29, 315.5-1-3.2, 315.5-1-2
Site Plan No. 59-2020 Penelope D. Townsend 10.
Tax Map No. 227.10-1-22
Site Plan No. 58-2020 Bonnie Rosenberg 14.
Tax Map No. 239.7-1-15
Site Plan No. 54-2020 Luxury Box, LLC 27.
Tax Map No. 296.9-1-13
THESE ARE NOT OFFICIALLY ADOPTED MINUTES AND ARE SUBJECT TO BOARD AND STAFF
REVISIONS. REVISIONS WILL APPEAR ON THE FOLLOWING MONTH’S MINUTES (IF ANY) AND
WILL STATE SUCH APPROVAL OF SAID MINUTES)
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
QUEENSBURY PLANNING BOARD MEETING
SECOND REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 22, 2020
7:00 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT
STEPHEN TRAVER, CHAIRMAN
CHRIS HUNSINGER, VICE CHAIRMAN
MICHAEL VALENTINE
JOHN SHAFER
BRAD MAGOWAN
JAMIE WHITE
MICHAEL DIXON, ALTERNATE
MEMBERS ABSENT
DAVID DEEB
LAND USE PLANNER-LAURA MOORE
STENOGRAPHER-MARIA GAGLIARDI
MR. TRAVER-Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the Town of Queensbury Planning Board
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meeting for Tuesday, December 22, 2020. This is our second meeting for the month of December, our
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19 meeting for 2020 and our 15 meeting under the COVID pandemic guidelines. Please note the
illuminated emergency exit signs. In the event of an emergency, that is your way out. If you have a cell
phone or other electronic device, if you would either turn it off or turn the ringer off so it wouldn’t interfere
with our meeting we’d appreciate it. There are some items for which there are public hearings this evening,
and we have a telephone link available for those watching this meeting on the Town YouTube channel,
and I will remind people in the time where the actual public hearing is to take place, but in the meantime
I’ll just let you know if you want to jot down this number. The telephone number to call, if you wish to
comment by phone, is 518-761-8225. Those of you in attendance if you’re going to be addressing the Board,
when you’re done, there’s some sterilizing wipes on the podium. If you would wipe the mic down so that
it’s clean for the next person we’d appreciate that, and I think with that we have quite a number of
administrative items actually this evening. The first being that this meeting, the last meeting in December,
is our, what we consider our annual meeting, and one of the events that we conduct at that meeting is the
election of officers. We changed our procedure back in 2017 to codify the process by which that takes
place. There are three officer positions on the Planning Board. There’s a Secretary, a Vice Chairman, and
Chairman. The Planning Board votes on the three positions. However, the position of Chairman is
confirmed by the full Town Board typically at the first meeting of the Board in January at their annual
meeting. One of the duties of the Chair, which I am this year, is to check with the current officers in the
month of November to see if they would be willing to serve another term. If they are, then those names
are automatically put in nomination for those positions, but in addition to that, we also accept nominations
from the floor for those three positions. So I’m happy to report that David, Chris and myself are all ready,
willing and able to serve another year in our positions as Secretary, Vice Chair and Chair respectively, and
at that point I will open the nominations from the floor for any of those positions. Are there any
nominations for Secretary, Vice Chair or Chair from the floor? Okay. Then we’ll entertain the motion to
close the nominations and that the Board should vote on the slate of officers according to the draft
resolution prepared by Staff.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
PLANNING BOARD ANNUAL MEETING & ELECTIONS
RESOLUTION TO CLOSE NOMINATIONS AND VOTE ON SLATE OF OFFICERS (FOR 2021)
MOTION TO CLOSE THE NOMINATIONS AND THAT THE BOARD VOTE ON THE SLATE OF
OFFICERS, Introduced by Michael Dixon who moved for its adoption, seconded by Brad Magowan:
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Duly adopted this 22 day of December, 2020, by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb, Mr. Valentine
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-And with that then we will entertain a motion to vote for the current slate of officers for
the 2021 Planning Board.
RESOLUTION TO VOTE ON CURRENT SLATE OF OFFICERS FOR THE 2021 PLANNING BOARD
MOTION TO VOTE FOR THE SLATE OF OFFICERS FOR THE 2021 PLANNING BOARD (–
Chairman,–Vice Chairman, and–Secretary), Introduced by Michael Dixon who moved for its adoption,
seconded by Jamie White;
Secretary – David Deeb
Vice Chair –Chris Hunsinger
Chair –Steve Traver
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Duly adopted this 22 day of December, 2020, by the following vote:
AYES: Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Dixon, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb, Mr. Valentine
MR. TRAVER-All right. So we’ve taken care of that business. I would just like to comment, particularly
to David and Chris, David isn’t with us tonight, but I just want to express my appreciation for all the hard
work. I think we did well this year. We handled some interesting projects and processed them well as
far as I know we have no complaints, formal complaints or litigation based on decisions that we made
during the year. So they say any year you can walk away from as a Planning Board. Right? So we’ll look
forward to 2021. With that we’ll move on. We do have a number of tablings this evening. The first one
is for Site Plan 42-2020 Pogonowski.
SITE PLAN 42-2020 POGONOWSKI REQUEST FOR FURTHER TABLING TO JANUARY 2021
MR. TRAVER-He is requesting a further tabling until next month. Laura?
MRS. MOORE-So this applicant has submitted revised plans. They need to get reviewed by the Zoning
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Board prior to them coming back to this Board. So the tabling should probably be to the 23 of February.
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MR. TRAVER-The 23, and I think we have a draft resolution to that effect.
MRS. MOORE-I’m sorry, not that one. I apologize. Pogonowski will be back in January.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
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MRS. MOORE-And that’ll be the 26.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
RESOLUTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN NO. 42-2020 BILL POGONOWSKI
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant proposes construction of a
672 sq. ft. detached garage with a floor area of 1,114 sq. ft. and associated site work. Existing home is 1,954
sq. ft. (footprint) with a floor area of 3,195 sq. ft. The new garage is to be 23’3” in height. Project includes
combining two lots. Pursuant to Chapter 179-3-040 & 179-6-065 of the Zoning Ordinance, new floor area
in a CEA shall be subject to Planning Board review and approval. Tabled to December 17, 2020. Applicant
requests further tabling to January 2021.
MOTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN 42-2020 BILL POGONOWSKI; Introduced by Michael Dixon who
moved for its adoption, seconded by Brad Magowan:
Tabled until the January 26, 2021 Planning Board meeting with information due by December 15, 2020.
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Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-Next we have a request for further tabling for Site Plan 49-2020, Godnick.
SITE PLAN 49-2020 GODNICK REQUEST FOR FURTHER TABLING TO JANUARY 2021
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-So this applicant requests to be tabled to February and they are updating their plans to
present to the Zoning Board.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Is there a particular meeting date?
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MRS. MOORE-This would be the 23 of February.
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MR. TRAVER-February 23. Okay. So we have a motion for that.
RESOLUTION TABLING SP # 49-2020 JEFFREY GODNICK
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant requests to maintain a 188
sq. ft., 10 ft. high shed to replace a shed that has been removed. The existing home is 4,259 sq. ft. (footprint)
with a site floor area of 5,962 sq. ft., which includes 188 sq. ft. shed. Pursuant to Chapter 179-6-065 of the
Zoning Ordinance, new floor area in a CEA and hard surfacing within 50 ft. of shoreline shall be subject to
Planning Board review and approval. Tabled to the December 17, 2020 meeting. Applicant requests further
tabling to February 2021.
MOTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN 49-2020 JEFFREY GODNICK; Introduced by Michael Dixon who
moved for its adoption, seconded by Chris Hunsinger.
Tabled until the February 23, 2021 Planning Board meeting with information due by January 15, 2021.
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Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
MR. TRAVER-Any questions on that tabling motion?
MR. SHAFER-Just a question. Laura, did you say that they were going back to the ZBA?
MRS. MOORE-Correct.
MR. SHAFER-Can you explain why the, have we seen this one before?
MRS. MOORE-You have. You did a Planning Board recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
MR. SHAFER-Why would a changed plan go to the ZBA first rather than here?
MRS. MOORE-Because it stopped at the ZBA, and this is a change in regards to a permeability request.
MR. SHAFER-So we will see it again as a Site Plan?
MRS. MOORE-Correct.
MR. SHAFER-Okay. Thank you.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, when they get through the ZBA they’ll be back for Site Plan.
AYES: Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-Next we have a request for further tabling from Hartmann, for Site Plan 21-2020.
SITE PLAN NO. 21-2020 HARTMANN REQUEST FOR FURTHER TABLING TO MARCH 2021
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-This applicant, maybe you remember this applicant did not attend the Planning Board
recommendation stage of the review of the application. However the applicant has experienced another
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hardship so they have asked to be tabled to March. So I have March 15 of 2021.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
RESOLUTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN NO. 21-2020 DAVID HARTMANN
Applicant proposes to remove a 1,513.2 sq. ft. home (footprint) to construct a 1,771.6 sq. ft. (footprint) home
with a floor area of 3,474.5 sq. ft. Project includes site work for stormwater, landscaping and septic.
Pursuant to Chapter 179-3-040 & 179-6-065 of the Zoning Ordinance, work within 50 ft. of 15% slopes and
new floor area in a CEA shall be subject to Planning Board review and approval. Variance: Relief is sought
for setback, height and floor area. The Planning Board shall provide a recommendation to the Zoning Board
of Appeals. Applicant request tabling to the first March 2021 Planning Board meeting.
MOTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN 21-2020 DAVID HARTMANN. Introduced by Michael Dixon who
moved for its adoption, seconded by Chris Hunsinger:
Tabled until the March 16, 2021 Planning Board meeting with information due by February 15, 2021.
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Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-Next we have, under Old Business, Rockhurst LLC, Site Plan 57-2020.
OLD BUSINESS:
SITE PLAN NO. 57-2020 SEQR TYPE: TYPE II. ROCKHURST, LLC. AGENT(S):
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN PARTNERS. ZONING: WR. LOCATION: ASSEMBLY POINT
ROAD. APPLICANT PROPOSES TO DEMOLISH EXISTING BUILDINGS TO CONSTRUCT A
NEW SINGLE FAMILY HOME WITH 2,400 SQ. FT. FOOTPRINT AND 4,300 SQ. FT. FLOOR
AREA WITH EXTERIOR PATIO AREAS. PROJECT INCLUDES SITE WORK, FILL AND
GRADING, STORMWATER MANAGEMENT, SHORELINE LANDSCAPING, NEW SEPTIC,
AND WATER SUPPLY FROM LAKE GEORGE. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-6-065 & 179-6-
050 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE, CONSTRUCTION IN A CEA AND HARD SURFACING
WITHIN 50 FT. OF SHORE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING BOARD REVIEW AND
APPROVAL. VARIANCE: RELIEF IS SOUGHT FOR SETBACKS AND HEIGHT. CROSS
REFERENCE: AV 22-2020, AV 8-1993, SUB 5-1993, SP 81-2011; AV 49-2020. WARREN CO.
REFERRAL: DECEMBER 2020. SITE INFORMATION: APA, CEA, LGPC. LOT SIZE: 1.0 ACRE.
TAX MAP NO. 239.12-2-35. SECTION: 179-6-065, 179-6-050.
MR. TRAVER-This application is going to be tabled as well. Laura?
MRS. MOORE-This application went before the Zoning Board of Appeals and that evening they only had
a five member Board. The applicant was given the option to be tabled to have a full Board, and that’s what
this applicant chose to do. So they would have to go back to the Zoning Board of Appeals and then back
to the Planning Board.
MR. TRAVER-So do we have a specific date that they’re requesting?
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MRS. MOORE-January 26.
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MR. TRAVER-January 26. So they hope to go before the ZBA on, what, the 25?
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MRS. MOORE-The 20.
MR. TRAVER-All right, and this application, we did hear this as you may recall when we made a
recommendation to the ZBA, but we will not be seeing them again for Site Plan Review until they do get a
discussion with the ZBA regarding their variances, and we don’t know what changes may take place in
their application, but because we will be seeing this again in January we will open the public hearing.
PUBLIC HEARING OPENED
MR. TRAVER-And I believe we have a draft motion to table this as well.
RESOLUTION TABLING SP # 57-2020 ROCKHURST, LLC
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant proposes to demolish
existing buildings to construct a new single family home with 2,400 sq. ft. footprint and 4,300 sq. ft. floor
area with exterior patio areas. Project includes site work, fill and grading, stormwater management,
shoreline landscaping, new septic and water supply from Lake George. Pursuant to Chapter 179-6-065 &
179-6-050 of the Zoning Ordinance, construction in a CEA and hard surfacing within 50 ft. of shore shall
be subject to Planning Board review and approval. Project has been tabled by the ZBA, therefore request for tabling
to the second meeting in January 2021.
MOTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN 57-2020 ROCKHURST, LLC. Introduced by Michael Dixon who
moved for its adoption, seconded by Michael Dixon:
Tabled until the January 26, 2021 Planning Board meeting.
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Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-The next item is Harrisena Church, Subdivision Preliminary Stage 16-2020.
SUBDIVISION PRELIMINARY STAGE 16-2020 SEQR TYPE: UNLISTED. HARRISENA
CHURCH. AGENT(S): VAN DUSEN & STEVES. OWNER(S): SAME AS APPLICANT.
ZONING: MDR. LOCATION: 1616 RIDGE ROAD. APPLICANT PROPOSES A THREE LOT
SUBDIVISION OF 3.8 ACRE PARCEL. LOT 1 TO BE 1.3 ACRE TO MAINTAIN AN EXISTING
HOME 1,580 SQ. FT. WITH DECKS (FOOTPRINT). LOT 2 TO BE 1.3 ACRES AND LOT 3 TO BE
1.2 ACRES FOR NEW HOMES AND ASSOCIATED SITE WORK. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 183
OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE, , SUBDIVISION OF LAND SHALL BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL. VARIANCE: RELIEF IS SOUGHT FOR LOT SIZE. CROSS
REFERENCE: AV 37-2003 LOT LINE ADJ., AV 45-2020. WARREN CO. REFERRAL: N/A. SITE
INFORMATION: APA, LGPC. LOT SIZE: 3.8 ACRES. TAX MAP NO. 266.3-1-59. SECTION:
CHAPTER 183.
MR. TRAVER-I believe this has asked to be tabled for the same reason, Laura?
MRS. MOORE-Correct. There wasn’t a full Board. They asked to come in front of the Board when there
was a full Board.
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MR. TRAVER-Okay, and I believe they are also to be tabled so we would see them on the 26 as well next
month?
MRS. MOORE-Correct.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. All right.
RESOLUTION TABLING SUB PRELIMINARY STAGE # 16-2020 HARRISENA CHURCH
A subdivision application has been made to the Queensbury Planning Board for the following: Applicant
proposes a three lot subdivision of 3.8 acre parcel. Lot 1 to be 1.3 acre to maintain an existing home 1,580
sq. ft. with decks (footprint); Lot 2 to be 1.3 acres and Lot 3 to be 1.2 acres for new homes and associated
site work. Pursuant to Chapter 183 of the Zoning Ordinance, subdivision of land shall be subject to
Planning Board review and approval. Project tabled by the ZBA, therefore, request to table to the second Planning
Board meeting in January 2021..
MOTION TO TABLE SUBDIVISION PRELIMINARY STAGE 16-2020 HARRISENA CHURCH.
Introduced by Michael Dixon who moved for its adoption, seconded by Brad Magowan:
Tabled until the January 26, 2021 Planning Board meeting.
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Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-Next we have another tabling request from Joseph Leuci, Site Plan 56-2020.
SITE PLAN NO. 56-2020 SEQR TYPE: TYPE II. JOSEPH LEUCI. AGENT(S): MATTHEW
HUNTINGTON. OWNER(S): SAME AS APPLICANT. ZONING: MDR. LOCATION: 277
CHESTNUT RIDGE ROAD. APPLICANT PROPOSES CONSTRUCTION OF A SINGLE FAMILY
HOME. THE HOME IS 2,796 SQ. FT. FLOOR AREA. SECOND FLOOR IS 1,580 SQ. FT. FLOOR
AREA. FOUNDATION/BASEMENT PLAN INCLUDES BOTH UNFINISHED AND FINISHED
BASEMENT AREAS, 1,700 SQ. FT. FLOOR AREA. PROJECT WILL INCLUDE NEW ON-SITE
SEPTIC AND WELL. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-6-060 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE,
CONSTRUCTION WITHIN 50 FEET OF 15% SLOPES SHALL BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL. CROSS REFERENCE: AV 60-2017. WARREN CO.
REFERRAL: DECEMBER 2020. LOT SIZE: 34.20 ACRES. TAX MAP NO. 290.-1-48. SECTION:
179-6-060.
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-This applicant has requested to be tabled because they’re making some changes to the plan,
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and they will be tabled to February 16.
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MR. TRAVER-February 16. It sounds like January and February are going to be interesting months. All
right, and we don’t have a draft resolution for this I don’t believe, but it’s a straightforward tabling.
MR. DIXON-All right.
RESOLUTION TABLING SP # 56-2020 JOSEPH LEUCI
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant proposes construction of a
single family home. The home is 2,796 sq. ft. footprint first floor, 1,700 sq. ft. floor area. Second floor is
1,580 sq. ft. floor area. Foundation/basement plan includes both unfinished and finished basement areas,
1,700 sq. ft. floor area. Project will include new on-site septic and well. Pursuant to Chapter 179-6-060 of
the Zoning Ordinance, construction within 50 ft. of 15% slopes shall be subject to Planning Board review
and approval.
MOTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN NO. 56-2020 JOSEPH LEUCI; Introduced by Michael Dixon who
moved for its adoption.
Tabled to the February 16, 2021 Planning Board meeting.
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Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
SUBDIVISION SKETCH PLAN 20-2020 SEQR TYPE: UNLISTED. FOOTHILLS BUILDERS.
AGENT(S): STUDIO A – MATTHEW HUNTINGTON, PE. OWNER(S): PATRICIA WELLS.
ZONING: MDR. LOCATION: 84 JENKINSVILLE ROAD. APPLICANT PROPOSES 18 LOT
RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION OF A 16.89 ACRE PARCEL. PROJECT IS TO HAVE ONE ACCESS
DRIVE WITH A CUL-DE-SAC. AVERAGE LOT SIZE OF APPROXIMATELY 0.83 ACRES.
PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 183 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE, SUBDIVISION OF LAND SHALL
BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING BOARD REVIEW. CROSS REFERENCE: SUB (S) 11-2020.
WARREN CO. REFERRAL: N/A. LOT SIZE: 16.89 ACRES. TAX MAP NO. 279.15-1-85.
SECTION: CHAPTER 183.
MR. TRAVER-And last but not least, we were alerted also that Foothills Builders, Subdivision Sketch Plan
20-2020 was on our agenda for this evening and they are not going to be doing a Sketch Plan discussion
with us tonight, Laura, I don’t know if you have any additional information. I know you’re going to let
us know when they are prepared to get back on the agenda for discussion.
MRS. MOORE-Correct. They need to work some details out with DEC and possibly some departments
with the Town, and then they’ll provide an updated plan potentially and be back in front of the Board. I
don’t know at what time.
MR. TRAVER-Right. Okay, but we don’t need a tabling motion for that because it’s just a discussion item
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MRS. MOORE-Correct.
MR. TRAVER-So with that I think those ae all the administrative items that we have before us this
evening. So we can actually get some work done. The first section is Tabled Items. We have an item
under Unapproved Development which is Apex Capital, LLC, Site Plan 53-2019.
TABLED ITEMS – UNAPPROVED DEVELOPMENT
SITE PLAN NO. 53-2019 SEQR TYPE: UNLISTED. APEX CAPITAL, LLC. AGENT(S): STUDIO
A LANDSCAPE ARCH. DPC. OWNER(S): SAME AS APPLICANT. ZONING: RC/MDR.
LOCATION: 59 WEST MT. ROAD (MAIN); 47 & 53 WEST MT. RD. (PARKING). (SEQR)
APPLICANT PROPOSES EXPANSION OF THE WEST MOUNTAIN SKI AREA PARKING LOT,
CONSTRUCTION OF A ZIP LINE ATTRACTION, APPROVAL OF AN EXISTING MOUNTAIN
BIKING VENUE AND OTHER ASSOCIATED PROJECTS. PROJECT ALSO INCLUDES A TOWN
BOARD REFERRAL FOR A PETITION FOR ZONE CHANGE PARCELS 315.5-1-3.2 AND 315.5-1-2
FROM MODERATE DENSITY TO RECREATION COMMERCIAL. THE PARCELS ARE TO BE
USED FOR OVERFLOW PARKING. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-15-040 TOWN BOARD
MAY REFER PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE PLANNING BOARD FOR
RECOMMENDATION, AND PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-3-040 OF THE ZONING
ORDINANCE, EXPANSION OF A RECREATION CENTER SHALL BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING
BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL. PLANNING BOARD TO REVIEW SEQR. CROSS
REFERENCE: AV 92-2002 CREATE 2 NONCONFORMING LOTS, SP 22-2008 ADDITIONS &
DECK, SP 34-2011 ALPINE SLIDE & ZIP FLYER, SP 61-2011 SHED ADDITION; SP 60-2018; PZ 584-
2019 RE-ZONING. WARREN CO. REFERRAL: SEPTEMBER 2019. LOT SIZE: 382.34. TAX
MAP NO. 307.-1-29, 315.5-1-3.2 315.5-1-2. SECTION: 179-3-040.
JON LAPPER & MATT HUNTINGTON, REPRESENTING APPLICANT, PRESENT
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-We had this project back in September of 2019 and the applicant has worked diligently
with the Town Engineer and our office in regards to stormwater and other details in the Site Plan and
they’ve come to resolve, and so this Board tonight could potentially do the SEQR review as well as provide
a recommendation to the Town Board for the two parcels that they wish to re-zone.
MR. TRAVER-Right. Okay. Thank you. Good evening.
MR. LAPPER-Good evening, everyone. For the record, Jon Lapper. Spencer Montgomery is here on
behalf of the applicant, and Matt Huntington will be project engineer. Before COVID we were here a
bunch, and then we got delayed. Obviously a more important project because it’s something you can do
outside safely. There’s always been a parking problem so they acquired the two lots along West Mountain
Road. Since the last time we were here, as Laura mentioned, Matt went out with the Town Engineer,
Chazen, and did a site visit, site walk, and came up with some stormwater modifications which we
submitted. So we’re hoping that at this point you’re going to be ready to do SEQR, because you’re SEQR
for both you and the Town Board, make the recommendation to the Town Board so we can go for the re-
zoning on those two parcels and then come back and finalize the site plan with you after that, after the re-
zoning. The two lots would be Recreation Commercial in the front.
MR. TRAVER-And this is specifically for the alterations to the parking area, right?
MR. LAPPER-Correct.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MR. LAPPER-Let me correct that. The zip line is no longer part of the project, but there were also some
modifications for the mountain bike trails.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, which is I think he pre-existing, non-conforming development. Right?
MR. LAPPER-Yes. There were some minor changes to some of the paths, and that required a little more
work.
MR. TRAVER-All right. Questions, comments from members of the Board? We’re looking at SEQR and
if the Board is comfortable we would make a referral recommendation regarding the Town Board’s making
a change to the zoning.
MR. MAGOWAN-I’m happy moving forward.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Are there any environmental concerns? John, you look like you have a question.
MR. SHAFER-The Fire Marshal had a question about the design of the access roads, and I didn’t see a
detailed cross section in the plans. What is the thinking?
MR. LAPPER-That we will comply with the Fire Marshal’s request just about access and lane widths.
MR. SHAFER-For heavy vehicles?
MR. LAPPER-Yes.
MR. SHAFER-Okay.
MRS. MOORE-Mr. Chairman, I do have some public comment to go into the record.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
PUBLIC HEARING OPEN
MRS. MOORE-This is addressed to the Planning Board. “This letter is a response for the public hearing
on 12/17/2020 regarding the re-zoning and subsequent approval of the West Mountain parking lot
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expansion. Our property is the 2 lot from the southern border of the West Mountain property. We are
opposed to the change in zoning allowing a parking lot, where a residential property is currently zone.
Adjacent property owners will lose privacy, be exposed to increased noise, increased light pollution, and
overall decreasing property values. In the event the zoning and parking lot is approved, it is asked that
the following contingencies be considered. 1) True Raised Earthen Berm: The current parking lot site
plan includes a “vegetative buffer” along with a small, elevated berm. This berm is not true earth and is
simply a pile of wood chips left from when the lot was cleared. It is relatively inadequate in providing any
line-of site privacy to the neighboring properties. We request that a real berm, aka. small hill of earth, on
the order of 10 feet tall, lined with evergreen trees be installed along the length of the parking lot. The
current noted “vegetative buffer” on the site plan is limited in the winter when all the leaves are down. 2)
Overflow Use Only: If the parking lot is truly needed for overflow use, then it is reasonable to ask that
parking be restricted in this lot until capacity is reached in the main lot. To ensure limited use, except in
capacity situations, it is asked that an entry barrier such as a gate or rope-off be employed, and only
“opened” when needed. This will also prevent un-wanted activity in the far corners of the parking lot,
which has occurred numerous times (drinking, drug-use, etc.) 3) Lighting: It is requested that the
parking lot lighting only be used, “turned on”, while the parking lot is used. Also, lighting that only
illuminates down and lights the parking lot is requested, as opposed to flood lighting that shines into
neighboring properties. We respectfully submit our feedback and hope that the planning board will hear
and comply with the request of the taxpaying neighbors. Sincerely, Thomas & Mara Powell December
17, 2020” This is also addressed to the Planning Board. “We are writing in opposition to the application
to Application 53-2019 for Zoning Reclassification. Currently we are property owners and residents at 10
Apres Circle, (315.10-1-60). We purchased and had our home built here in 2018. To give a brief background,
we purchased and built this home with the intent of living near the ski operation. Our family frequents the
mountain during the wintertime. We also see the need for a business to thrive and be profitable. This
mountain is a large source of revenue for the town and we'd much rather live near a successful business
than a failing one. It is critical that we support our local business. We have no complaints as to West
Mountain or their ownership however, as a resident, we do enjoy our privacy. We purchased the home
knowing full well skiing operations would be part of our winter life hearing the snow guns, the excess
traffic during peak days, and festivals. All of those are part of what we acknowledged. The overflow
parking and rezoning does present some concerns that should be addressed prior to any approval. As
neighboring residents, we would like the ability to reach a fair compromise. We echo a lot of the concerns
that previous residents raised in prior hearings. The increased noise, air, and light pollution does give us
pause. We live in a two story home that our bedroom faces north toward the mountain's current parking
lot. An excess parking lot without proper barriers causes us to feel like our privacy will be infringed. In
prior hearings some residents proposed some very good points that we support in order to create an
overflow parking lot. We'd like to offer our suggestions in order to compromise on supporting the
rezoning. 1. Have lights set on timers or used only when the overflow parking lot is use, to the satisfaction
of neighboring parcels. These lights should also only face downward, and the type of lighting/bulb should
be considered to reduce impact on surrounding parcels. 2. The overflow parking lot must be strictly for
personal automobiles. Using this for idling busses or trucks is unfair to neighboring parcels. There should
also be no events or festivals held in that overflow lot. There should be no mixed-usage of this lot. The lot
should be locked and only opened on overflow days to ensure it is not used unnecessarily. 3. Create a
satisfactory barrier to all neighboring parties. We have seen suggestions of evergreens, year round greenery,
and/or fencing. We think privacy and security should be a priority. 4. Maintain open communication,
intentions, and transparency between West Mountain Ownership group and neighboring parcels. 5.
Concurrent to point 2, these lots should not be developed in the future for anything other than parking.
These zones should remain strictly for overflow parking indefinitely. There should be no mixed-usage of
this lot. If these issues can be worked out between the neighboring parties, we would support the
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
application. We do not currently see the overflow parking as a necessity. There are a handful of peak days
that the overflow would be preferable to parking on West Mountain. We also understand there are
legitimate safety concerns. If the overflow is the only alternative to making sure no one is hurt or killed on
West Mountain, then it is needed. West Mountain should be allowed to thrive, and residents should be
allowed to enjoy the mountain as well as their privacy. We thank you each for your time.” This is Charles
Mahoney and Meaghan Mahoney, and that’s the only two comments I have.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Well, we have opened the public hearing on this application, and I will remind folks
watching YouTube live that if you wish to comment by telephone, you may call us at 518-761-8225, and,
Laura, when the Town Board discusses and considers a zoning change, petition, there’ll be public comment
at that point as well. Right?
MRS. MOORE-Yes.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. I thought so. Questions, comments from members of the Planning Board?
MR. HUNSINGER-I mean I had some questions, but they’re Site Plan related, and really most of those
comments were Site Plan related as well. They didn’t really have to do with the zone change.
MR. TRAVER-I seem to recall that when we discussed this part of the project some time ago, there were
questions about lighting, when the parking lot, this section of the parking lot was actually going to be
used. I mean we can go over all that again for Site Plan, but I know that we had concerns about that, and
as I recall many of them, if not all of them, were addressed.
MR. LAPPER-Some of those conditions that were requested are absolutely fine. Other ones are a little bit
over board, but we would ask that you get this to the Town Board so that we can get through the zoning
and we’ll work out conditions with you when we get back for Site Plan.
MR. TRAVER-Right. Yes, they’re really Site Plan issues. So first we have to consider the State
Environmental Quality Review Act. Are there any, do any of these proposed changes trigger any concerns
among Board members for environmental impacts? They did complete the Assessment Form. Do you
feel comfortable with this this evening? Okay. Then that’s the first step. We have a draft resolution for
SEQR review in our packet.
RESOLUTION GRANTING NEGATIVE SEQR DECLARATION SP # 53-2019 APEX CAPITAL
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: (SEQR) Applicant proposes expansion
of the West Mountain Ski Area parking lot, approval of an existing mountain biking venue and other
associated projects. Project also includes a Town Board referral for a Petition for Zone Change parcels
315.5-1-3.2 and 315.5-1-2 from Moderate Density to Recreation Commercial. The parcels are to be used for
overflow parking. Pursuant to Chapter 179-15-040 Town Board may refer proposed amendments to the
Planning Board for recommendation, and Pursuant to Chapter 179-3-040 of the Zoning Ordinance,
expansion of a recreation center shall be subject to Planning Board review and approval. Planning Board
to review SEQR and make recommendation to the Town Board.
The Planning Board has determined that the proposed project and Planning Board action is subject to
review under the State Environmental Quality Review Act;
The proposed action considered by this Board is Unlisted in the Department of Environmental
Conservation Regulations implementing the State Environmental Quality Review Act and the regulations
of the Town of Queensbury;
No Federal or other agencies are involved;
Part 1 of the Long EAF has been completed by the applicant;
Upon review of the information recorded on this EAF, it is the conclusion of the Town of Queensbury
Planning Board as lead agency that this project will result in no significant adverse impacts on the
environment, and, therefore, an environmental impact statement need not be prepared. Accordingly, this
negative declaration is issued.
MOTION TO GRANT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR SITE PLAN 53-2019 APEX CAPITAL,
LLC. Introduced by Michael Dixon who moved for its adoption.
As per the resolution prepared by staff.
1. Part II of the Long EAF has been reviewed and completed by the Planning Board.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
2. Part III of the Long EAF is not necessary because the Planning Board did not identify potentially
moderate to large impacts.
nd
Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-All right. So next we consider the request for the zoning change. The Town Board is asking
us, much like the ZBA does when we review variances, they’re asking for a recommendation to the Town
Board regarding our feelings about the re-zone request. They’re asking to go from Moderate Density
Residential to Recreation Commercial for the overflow parking area. Questions, comments for the
representative on that issue? Concerns? How do Board members feel about the request for re-zoning
change? Is that something that we feel comfortable supporting? All right. Then I believe we have a
draft resolution, again, much as we have for the ZBA referral that we make in our packet.
RECOMMENDATION RE: TOWN BOARD RECOMMENDATION RE: SP # 53-2019 APEX
Whereas, an application has been made to the Town of Queensbury Town Board for a zoning change. The
Town Board referred this application to the Planning Board for an advisory recommendation pursuant to
Section 179-15-020;
Whereas, the applicant proposes to rezone parcels 315.5-1-3.2 & 315.5-1-2 currently zoned Moderate
Density Residential (MDR) to Recreational Commercial (RC);
Whereas, the Planning Board will review the applicant’s site plan pursuant to the requirements of Section
179-9-020;
Whereas, the State Environmental Quality Review Act has been completed by the Queensbury Planning
Board and has issued a negative declaration;
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that we find the following:
MOTION FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE TOWN BOARD AS FAVORABLE FOR ZONING
REQUEST FROM MDR TO RC;
Introduced by Michael Dixon who moved for its adoption, and
nd
Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. LAPPER-Thanks, everybody. Hopefully we’ll be back soon.
MRS. MOORE-You still need to close the public hearing.
MR. TRAVER-My apologies. I’ll close the public hearing. Thank you, Laura.
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
MR. TRAVER-All right. Next on our agenda we have Penelope Townsend, Site Plan 59-2020.
OLD BUSINESS:
SITE PLAN NO. 59-2020 SEQR TYPE: TYPE II. PENELOPE D. TOWNSEND. AGENT(S):
HUTCHINS ENGINEERING. OWNER(S): SAME AS APPLICANT. ZONING: WR.
LOCATION: 32 BEAN ROAD. APPLICANT PROPOSES TO REMOVE AN EXISTING 573 SQ. FT.
DETACHED GARAGE TO CONSTRUCT A 676 SQ. FT. FOOTPRINT GARAGE WITH STORAGE
ABOVE. FLOOR AREA OF GARAGE IS 1,352 SQ. FT., HEIGHT TO BE 22 FT. THE PROJECT
INCLUDES A COVERED WALKWAY CONNECTING HOUSE TO NEW GARAGE. THE
EXISTING HOME IS 4,332 SQ. FT. FOOTPRINT WITH PORCHES. NEW FLOOR AREA IS 7,220
SQ. FT. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-6-065 OF T HE ZONING ORDINANCE, NEW FLOOR
11
(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
AREA IN A CEA SHALL BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL.
CROSS REFERENCE: SP 34-1994; SEP 50-2019, 758-2005 DECK, RC 739-2018 GUEST HOUSE, RC
540-2019 ALTERATIONS, SP 68-2019 RENOVATIONS, AV 47-2020. WARREN CO. REFERRAL:
DECEMBER 2020. SITE INFORMATION: APA, CEA, LGPC. LOT SIZE: 1.14 ACRES. TAX MAP
NO. 227.10-1-22. SECTION: 179-6-065.
TOM HUTCHINS, REPRESENTING APPLICANT, PRESENT
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-The applicant proposes to remove an existing garage of 573 square feet and construct a
new garage of 676 square feet. This project will have a floor area of 1,352 square feet with storage above.
The garage height is 22 feet and the Zoning Board granted that height relief.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you. Good evening. Welcome back.
MR. HUTCHINS-Good evening, Board. Tom Hutchins on behalf of owner, applicant Penelope Townsend
and our builder Doug McCall is also with us. We were here last week. We talked about this in general.
What she proposes to do is replace a failing 22 by 26 dimensional garage with a 26 by 26 garage. So it’ll
grow by four feet. The proposed garage will be in essentially the same footprint. Obviously it’ll be a little
bit bigger because it’s four feet wider. She’s done a wonderful job restoring this early 1900’s property. This
is a parcel that a lot of people would have wanted to tear down the house and build a monster house, and
she’s done a really great job maintaining the architecture and it’s beautiful. I hope you’ve been there and
had a chance to look at it. This garage will be matching in architecture. It will look the same as the house
with the shakes up high and the horizontal siding low. It will be connected to the house with an open
walkway out the back of the garage that won’t be visible from the road, but it will allow a connection to
the residence. The septic system is modern. The house is buffered, maybe as well as any shoreline property
that I’ve worked on. There’s maybe not hundreds, but there’s tens and tens and tens of mature trees
surrounding the property. So with that, we’d like your support for Site Plan, and I’ll take any questions.
MR. TRAVER-Were there any changes to the plans based on your discussion with the ZBA from what we
reviewed?
MR. HUTCHINS-No, no changes.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. I remember the discussion we had with the applicant about the moving dishes and
so on up and down the stairs. We had quite a discussion about the need for the second.
MR. HUTCHINS-There is a storage area proposed above this garage. Yes.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Questions, comments from members of the Board?
MR. DIXON-Just a quick question. I know there was a lot of discussion over the height of the garage last
time that you were here. So by the picture and on the plans, the garage doesn’t exceed the height of the
house, as well as the garage height doesn’t even co me close to the roof line of the house.
MR. HUTCHINS-Right. Correct. The garage is 22 feet by, the way we measure height in Queensbury,
which is grade at the garage to the ridge. The house itself is 30 some in the high point. The grade’s a little
bit lower, but, no, the garage will not be nearly as high as the ridge of the house.
MR. DIXON-Okay.
MR. TRAVER-All right. Does the Board feel comfortable moving forward on this?
MRS. MOORE-You need to open your public hearing.
MR. TRAVER-Thank you, Laura. So we’ll open the public hearing on this application, Site Plan 59-2020
for Penelope Townsend, and I’ll remind the viewing public that if they wish to comment they can call 518-
761-8225. (Phone ringing). Hello.
PUBLIC HEARING OPENED
CHRIS NAVITSKY
MR. NAVITSKY-My name is Chris Navitsky. I was calling in for a public comment, please.
MR. TRAVER-Yes. You’re on speaker phone.
12
(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. NAVITSKY-Good evening. Chris Navitsky, Lake George Waterkeeper. We’re not really opposed
to the applicant’s desire to enlarge the garage. We did reach out to them last week with a couple of our
comments. Just wanted to follow up on that. We did have a request to the applicant, and maybe the
Planning Board can consider the condition to require additional stormwater management for the existing
impervious surfaces to maximize stormwater manage., We should take this opportunity to bring the
property more into compliance with the Town Code. We do recognize that there are a lot of mature trees
but still we need, if we’re going to improve the water quality of Lake George, we need to provide
stormwater management to the greatest extent practicable. We did have a question on how the runoff
from the garage was being conveyed to the proposed infiltration basin. We see that there’s a catch basin
by the garage, but we’re not sure if it’s being guttered or how the runoff is being collected and conveyed.
The existing septic system is located right off the paved area near where the construction will be, and we
just wondered if that could be protected during construction with some type of fencing or something along
those lines. So those were our comments and recommendations and if there are any questions, I’d be glad
to take them.
MR. TRAVER-Yes. If I could just ask, when you’re speaking about the, at the beginning of your statement
on the stormwater. Are you speaking about strengthening stormwater beyond that which is required by
the Town Engineer for signoff?
MR. NAVITSKY-That is correct. We are asking, they simply have to provide stormwater for the new
impervious that’s proposed, but there’s a lot of impervious on the site that is not managed to my
understanding and if we could try to capture some of that, that would improve and reduce the stormwater
runoff running towards Lake George.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. All right.
MR. NAVITSKY-It is above and beyond.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you for that. Anything else?
MR. NAVITSKY-No thanks.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. All right. Thank you. Is there anyone in the audience that wanted to comment on
this application this evening? Are there any written comments, Laura?
MRS. MOORE-There are written comments. This is addressed to Steve Traver. “Dear Sirs: We have
spoken with our neighbors regarding their application for a variance to re-build their garage to
accommodate two cars and to raise the height to provide storage space above. We have no objection to
what is being proposed. Sincerely, James David Michaels 30 Bean Rd. Kattskill Bay, NY (adjoining land
owner to the north)” “Dear Sirs: We have spoken with our neighbors regarding their application for a
variance to re-build their garage at 32 Bean Road to accommodate two cars and to raise the height to
provide storage space above. We are in support of what is being proposed. Rita Whiteman”
MR. TRAVER-Is that all the written comment?
MRS. MOORE-Yes, it is.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. So I don’t know if you were able to hear Mr. Navitsky’s comments.
MR. HUTCHINS-Yes, and we conversed last week.
MR. TRAVER-You did. Okay. And this concern is not as much for the new proposed construction,
although he did have a question about stormwater regarding the garage construction I’m sure you can
answer, but he pointed out that there’s pre-existing impervious areas on the property and he’s wondering,
while you’re doing all the stormwater, could you try to address the stormwater management with regard
to the pre-project impervious areas.
MR. HUTCHINS-Certainly. There are a number of stormwater controls presently installed around the
existing house, most particularly with regard to some recent work that has been done and the remainder
of the site is very well managed naturally. There is not, there’s not a stormwater runoff issue. There’s no
concentrated runoff emulating from this property at all. It’s wooded. It’s natural. It’s totally vegetated.
So what we’ve done is in excess of what’s required and you decide how far do you go? Do you take out a
bunch of those trees and put in a big stormwater basin? That really doesn’t make sense to us or the
applicant.
MR. TRAVER-Well if I understood his remark correctly, he wasn’t talking about, he appreciated
apparently that there was a lot of vegetation there. He was talking about the impervious area, not so much
the trees and so on.
13
(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. HUTCHINS-Right, the impervious area being the house essentially. Everything down gradient from
the house is a natural vegetated area with large growth trees. The portions of the house that are recently
constructed, there are stormwater controls. There’s eaves trenching and there’s splash pads, and stone
areas. So we’re quite comfortable that it’s reasonably well managed . The existing impervious is
reasonably well managed, and we are taking provisions to manage the new area, as required.
MRS. MOORE-Right. So I’ve talked to Bruce Frank, who’s our Code Compliance Officer, and this project
was subject to review back in 2019. So Bruce is on site inspecting those changes to the renovation to the
house and to the property and part of the requirements is to have a certified Site Plan at the end and Tom
is working on that.
MR. TRAVER-I see. Good. Thank you, Laura.
MR. VALENTINE-Can I go back? Last time I had mentioned before about you guys having a conversation
in the back, and the two of you had a conversation now and you’re telling us that you had the discussion.
Does he agree with what you’re telling us now about that?
MR. HUTCHINS-I don’t know. We had an email conversation. Okay. Following our last meeting he
sent me an email. We corresponded. I shared his concerns with the owner, and we’re willing to address
it, but to install a current stormwater control for the entire house the way we do it today, typically, you
build an infiltration area. We don’t feel it’s necessary, and it’s not required.
MR. TRAVER-There was also, in public comment, concern raised about protecting the septic system
during the construction phase.
MR. HUTCHINS-Yes, we’re very cognizant of that. In fact I’ve had the conversation with the contractors
recently that we have to be careful around the septic system, and we know we’re fairly near it with our
construction, and that will be a priority.
MR. TRAVER-Right. Okay. Other questions, comments from members of the Board?
MR. MAGOWAN-You’re going to be pulling that water away from the garage that could come on the,
what, say the east side and the back side.
MR. HUTCHINS-The east side, yes, that’s all going to go to the stormwater area.
MR. MAGOWAN-Okay.
MR. HUTCHINS-I mean we don’t always like to use pipes, but in this case we have to use pipes because
there’s going to be a wall there. So it’ll be captured and piped beneath the wall alongside the garage.
MR. TRAVER-Let’s see, did I close the public hearing? All right. Then we will close the public hearing.
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
MR. TRAVER-Additional questions, comments from members of the Board? We’ve heard the discussion
on the stormwater and so on. Do we feel comfortable moving forward? Okay. We have a resolution.
RESOLUTION APPROVING SP # 59-2020 PENELOPE D. TOWNSEND
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant proposes to remove an
existing 573 sq. ft. detached garage to construct a 676 sq. ft. footprint garage with storage above. Floor
area of garage is 1,352 sq. ft., height to be 22 ft. The project includes a covered walkway connecting house
to new garage. The existing home is 4,332 sq. ft. footprint with porches. New floor area is 7,220 sq. ft.
Pursuant to Chapter 179-6-065 of the Zoning Ordinance, new floor area in a CEA shall be subject to
Planning Board review and approval.
Pursuant to relevant sections of the Town of Queensbury Zoning Code-Chapter 179-9-080, the Planning
Board has determined that this proposal satisfies the requirements as stated in the Zoning Code;
As required by General Municipal Law Section 239-m the site plan application was referred to the Warren
County Planning Department for its recommendation;
The Planning Board made a recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals on 12/15/2020; the ZBA
approved the variance requests on 12/16/2020;
The Planning Board opened a public hearing on the Site plan application on 12/22/2020 and continued the
public hearing to12/22/2020, when it was closed,
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
The Planning Board has reviewed the application materials submitted by the applicant and all comments
made at the public hearing and submitted in writing through and including 12/22/2020;
The Planning Board determines that the application complies with the review considerations and
standards set forth in Article 9 of the Zoning Ordinance for Site Plan approval,
MOTION TO APPROVE SITE PLAN 59-2020 PENELOPE D. TOWNSEND; Introduced by Michael
Dixon who moved for its adoption.
According to the draft resolution prepared by Staff with the following:
1) Waivers requested granted; h. signage, j. stormwater, k. topography, l. landscaping, n traffic, o.
commercial alterations/ construction details, q. soil logs, r. construction/demolition disposal s.
snow removal.
2) The approval is valid for one (1) year from the date of approval. Applicant is responsible for
requesting an extension of approval before the one (1) year time frame has expired if you have not
yet applied for a building permit or commenced significant site work.
3) Adherence to the items outlined in the follow-up letter sent with this resolution.
a) The limits of clearing will constitute a no-cut buffer zone, orange construction fencing shall
be installed around these areas and field verified by Community Development staff;
b) If applicable, the Sanitary Sewer connection plan must be submitted to the Wastewater
Department for its review, approval, permitting and inspection;
c) If curb cuts are being added or changed a driveway permit is required. A building permit will not
be issued until the approved driveway permit has been provided to the Planning Office;
d) If application was referred to engineering then Engineering sign-off required prior to signature of
Zoning Administrator of the approved plans;
e) Final approved plans should have dimensions and setbacks noted on the site plan/survey, floor
plans and elevation for the existing rooms and proposed rooms in the building and site
improvements;-
f) If required, the applicant must submit a copy of the following to the Town:
a. The project NOI (Notice of Intent) for coverage under the current "NYSDEC SPDES
General Permit from Construction Activity" prior to the start of any site work.
b. The project NOT (Notice of Termination) upon completion of the project;
c. The applicant must maintain on their project site, for review by staff:
i. The approved final plans that have been stamped by the Town Zoning
Administrator. These plans must include the project SWPPP (Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan) when such a plan was prepared and approved;
ii. The project NOI and proof of coverage under the current NYSDEC SPDES General
Permit, or an individual SPDES permit issued for the project if required.
g) Final approved plans, in compliance with the Site Plan, must be submitted to the Community
Development Department before any further review by the Zoning Administrator or Building and
Codes personnel;
h) The applicant must meet with Staff after approval and prior to issuance of Building Permit
and/or the beginning of any site work;
i) Subsequent issuance of further permits, including building permits is dependent on compliance
with this and all other conditions of this resolution;
j) As-built plans to certify that the site plan is developed according to the approved plans to be
provided prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
k) This resolution is to be placed in its entirety on the final plans
nd
Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSTAINED: Mr. Shafer
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-You’re all set.
MR. HUTCHINS-Thank you very much. Thank you, Board.
MR. TRAVER-The next item on our agenda is Bonnie Rosenberg, Site Plan 58-2020.
SITE PLAN NO. 58-2020 SEQR TYPE: TYPE II. BONNIE ROSENBERG. AGENT(S): DENNIS
MAC ELROY. OWNER(S): SAME AS APPLICANT. ZONING: WR. LOCATION: 73 KNOX
15
(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
ROAD. APPLICANT PROPOSES TO CONSTRUCT TWO RESIDENTIAL ADDITIONS.
NORTHSIDE ADDITION OF 64 SQ. FT. IS ON UPPER LEVEL. SOUTHSIDE ADDITION IS TWO
STORY, 370 SQ. FT. FOOTPRINT WITH 740 SQ. FT. FLOOR AREA. PROJECT INCLUDES NEW
WASTEWATER, STORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND REDUCTION OF DECKS AND FLOOR
AREA. THE SITE HAS ONE MAIN HOUSE AND TWO COTTAGES – 1,855 SQ. FT. FOOTPRINT.
NO CHANGES TO EXISTING COTTAGES ON SITE. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-3-040 & 179-
6-065 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE, NEW FLOOR AREA IN A CEA SHALL BE SUBJECT TO
PLANNING BOARD REVIEW AND APPROVAL. CROSS REFERENCE: AV 48-2020. WARREN
CO. REFERRAL: DECEMBER 2020. SITE INFORMATION: APA, CEA, LGPC. LOT SIZE: .48
ACRE. TAX MAP NO. 239.7-1-15. SECTION: 179-3-040, 179-6-065.
DENNIS MAC ELROY, REPRESENTING APPLICANT, PRESENT
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-This applicant proposes to construct two residential additions. The north side addition
is 64 square feet on the upper level and the south side addition is two stories 370 square feet with a
footprint of 740 square feet. The Zoning Board did grant relief for shoreline setback and side setback and
floor area.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you. Good evening. Welcome back.
MR. MAC ELROY-Thank you. I’m Dennis MacElroy from Environmental Design representing Bonnie and
Stuart Rosenberg for this application for Site Plan Review. As indicated we have been to the Zoning
Board of Appeals and received the necessary relief, the variances that had been requested. Now we’re here
for the next step in the process which is the Site Plan Review. So the project as previously discussed, this
is 73 Knox Road, the property that is towards the end of Knox Road. The Rosenbergs have owned this
property for 35 year, have reached retirement, would like to live here on a permanent or a primary basis,
their primary residence. They propose to make some improvements which we’ve built in a couple of
additions to sections of the house. The site improvements related to that physical improvement to the
house involve a new wastewater system and some stormwater management as required for the new
impervious areas. The wastewater system is an enhanced treatment unit, an ETU. The dispersal area for
that is more than 100 feet from the lake. So in that regard it’s beyond what is required by regulations. The
stormwater management addresses the new impervious areas and the other issue with shoreline buffer.
At the referral meeting the Chairman did comment about that was something you wanted to look at more
significantly. So we have actually addressed that with a plan, and Laura asked me just to prepare a sheet,
it wasn’t part of your original package. It’s something that we’ve addressed since then. Actually it’s the
same Plan Sheet Seven that you had in your packet, just supplemented the planting in certain areas on the
site to be let’s say more in keeping with the buffering requirements. I’d have to say from practice now,
from application, that that’s a relatively new provision in the Ordinance, a little over a year, and you’ve had
experience with it already. I think that there’s some inconsistencies in what it says. The practical
application of it is going to be something that you’ll deal with from here on. I won’t because I am really
retiring. In some cases I get involved with projects. The Rosenbergs happen to be neighbors. So I am
assisting in that effort. That stormwater buffering or shoreline buffering provision, while well intended,
is a bit inconsistent. I think that you’ve experienced this already, it might be a little, the densities required
might be a little significant. So we’ve prepared a plan which addresses some of the additional plantings,
just so that it would be something that would be before you and perhaps that will be adequate, and the
owner certainly is willing and interested to provide additional plantings in that area, but even when I went
through the pre-application meeting, there was still a little bit of uncertainty as to how to approach this,
the mathematical requirements of that ordinance.
MR. TRAVER-Well really the intent is the environmental protection of the lake.
MR. MAC ELROY-Understood.
MR. TRAVER-That’s kind of what you keep in mind when you’re thinking about numbers and calipers
and all these kinds of things. I know that can get a bit into the, excuse the pun, but it gets a bit into the
weeds, but the intent of it is to try to enhance the buffering to protect the lake quality. So we appreciate
that you have made an effort to address that and thank you for that additional material. While we
continue discussing, I want to also open the public hearing and alert people that are watching on the
YouTube channel that if they wish to comment by phone they may do so at 518-761-8225, and I’ll open it
up for questions, comments from members of the Board.
PUBLIC HEARING OPENED
MR. HUNSINGER-I thought this was really helpful, the shoreline plantings plan.
MR. TRAVER-Yes.
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MR. HUNSINGER-And I think it’s, at least in my mind, pretty much what we had talked about.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, that was I think really the main concern that I had with this. Although I should ask,
in your discussion with the ZBA, did that result in any changes at all to what you discussed with us
previously, other than the shoreline buffer?
MR. MAC ELROY-No.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you.
MR. DIXON-Mr. Chairman, I’ll comment. I do like that from what I see is an improvement to the
shoreline, an improvement to the wastewater, and an improvement to the stormwater. Those are all wins.
Very nice.
(Phone ringing)
CHRIS NAVITSKY
MR. NAVITSKY-Good evening. Chris Navitsky calling in with public comment.
MR. TRAVER-Yes. Go ahead. You’re on speaker phone.
MR. NAVITSKY-Okay. Thank you. I didn’t want to cut off the Planning Board member that was
speaking. I apologize for the call in at that time.
MR. TRAVER-That’s all right. As you know this is part of the COVID procedure. So it’s a little bit
awkward but we’re trying to do the best we can.
MR. NAVITSKY-I know. I’d rather be there in person. I went there last week and couldn’t get in the
building, and I know there’s others at times that have tried to do that. Again, Chris Navitsky, Lake George
Waterkeeper. We’d like to recommend more mitigation measures, and I appreciate the submission that
had come in. Obviously haven’t had a chance to take a look at that. So comments may be addressed, but
really for this project that’s located in a Critical Environmental Area, especially in light of the recent
harmful algae bloom, the property exceeds the impermeable by more than 60%, has steep slopes and really
has no current stormwater management. There’s also some questions on the new septic system. We
appreciate that it is an enhanced system, but it’s also a fill system that is being put on steep slopes. So we
feel that the stormwater management plan does not capture and treat all runoff from new impervious
surfaces, and as it was stated it is the minimum. I think that is supported by the Town Engineer letter.
Stormwater management should be greatly expanded for the existing impervious surfaces to offset the
existing impacts of runoff. I had an onsite meeting with the applicant to discuss various options, which
would include eliminating impervious surfaces, installing addition raingardens and install porous pavers
and grass pavers. Again this project is 60% over impervious allowable, and there’s also vivid areas of
erosion. No test pits have been provided or percolation tests. I think this was noted by the Town Engineer
as well, and shoreline buffer, according to us, fails to meet the requirements, but that’s been re-submitted.
I’m surprised about statements on inconsistencies. This was approved, went through a serious committee
process. I think it’s pretty straightforward about a three tiered approach or canopy approach for the buffer
to protect the lake. It’s really straightforward, and we think there should be a determination on whether
the wastewater treatment system meets the requirements of Chapter 136. Unfortunately determinations
for the septic systems apparently aren’t made until later in the process, but it says built up systems, which
this system is, should not be on slopes more than 10%. This is on 16% slopes. It says that they should
only be absorption fields. This is an absorption bed. So we just had questions on that. So thank you very
much, and if there’s any questions from the Board, I’d be glad to try to answer them.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you very much. Anything else?
MR. NAVITSKY-No. Thank you very much.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you. Do you have any comment on that public comment, in response to
that? There seemed to be some question about the compatibility of the waste treatment system. Although
that’s really a Board of Health issue, right, Laura?
MRS. MOORE-At this point Dave Hatin has reviewed this and has found it to be compliant. There’s
obviously other review processes that the applicant needs to go through for the septic, but at this point it
does not need a variance.
MR. TRAVER-Right, but it does need review and approval. Right?
MRS. MOORE-By the Building and Codes Department.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-Right. Okay.
MR. MAC ELROY-Could I just add a comment about the technology involved?
MR. TRAVER-Sure.
MR. MAC ELROY-This is an enhanced treatment unit, or qualifies as such, according to the New York
State DOH. It’s a Purasis Sequential Batch Reactor. It’s a little different technology than maybe you have
seen. You’ve heard of Clares. You’ve heard of Peat systems and whatever. This is the Sequential Batch
Reactor, and that technology is something that’s been used on a municipal level for decades. In fact the
Lake George Village Treatment Plant is that technology.
MR. TRAVER-There was a concern, and I don’t want to present as knowing anything about these systems,
but there was a concern voiced that, something about the slope that the system was installed on. Can you
comment on that?
MR. MAC ELROY-This will be a cut and fill situation. It’s something that we’ve addressed before. It is
something that the Town has found to be acceptable. Laura has indicated Dave has looked at this. The
challenge we face on some of these properties around the lake is that they just, they don’t fit into exact
parameters of a subdivision type lot for instance. So we’re dealing with trying to come up with a solution
that is compliant to an extent, and if not a variance can be applied for, if you’re not 100 feet from the lake,
or if you’re not distance from the property line, but in this case I’m not sure exactly some of Chris’
comments, but I feel comfortable with the design that we’ve provided. It is, again, an enhanced treatment
unit. There’s another comment I saw somewhere about 30% reduction of the field size, and that’s not
accurate. Because it’s an enhanced treatment unit it does get a 30% credit from a conventional system, but
that’s the design. That’s what that enhanced treatment unit earns. I’ll give you a numerical example. An
Elgin system is a system that’s been around a lot longer around the lake. 1999 was the original Elgin system
built on Cleverdale, but they’re very common because they take a smaller footprint, the field area, whether
it’s a bed or a trench. So an example of an Elgin is that for a four bedroom design flow in a nominal perc
rate of 11 to 15 minutes you require 275 feet of a conventional trench, pipe and stone, 275 feet. With an
Elgin unit you require 92 feet. Now that’s 67% reduction, but that’s not requesting a reduction of 67%
field size. That’s what the design is. So just like with an enhance treatment unit, you know, they only get
30%. I guess they didn’t have lobbyist in presenting their information. So that field size is what it is. It’s
not a request for 30% less. It’s what the design calls for because, again, the effluent that’s produced out of
the enhanced treatment unit is of higher quality than a conventional system, and that higher quality
effluent requires less field area to put into the ground. Now there’ll be talk about phosphorus. Well
there’s no standard for phosphorus reduction. There’s not a residential level design or component that
addresses specifically phosphorus removal to the Nth degree or to 90% reduction as an ETU does for other
parameters. The best reduction from phosphorus comes from going through the soil, and I’ll repeat what
I heard today from a person far more educated about this than I am, but the leaves and debris that come off
the trees on the shoreline produce more phosphorus than the properly constructed wastewater system on
the site at a proper distance away from the lake.
MR. TRAVER-I think the goal is really just to try to reduce the overall amount going into the lake. That’s
basically it.
MR. MAC ELROY-Yes, that’s basically it.
MR. TRAVER-Can you comment, in public comment they spoke about additional stormwater and
apparently there were some discussions with the applicant about that, between the applicant and the
Waterkeeper.
MR. MAC ELROY-Yes. The Rosenbergs invited Chris Navitsky to the site to discuss his thoughts about
the project. They reached out to him to get some input. He provided that as he indicated. What’s on
the plan is what is required for Site Plan Review. Now that’s not to say that this owner won’t do other
things to enhance that site, other stormwater management, and there is some stormwater management on
the site. Everybody, just out of, I often say that there’s informal stormwater management because you
don’t want the nuisance of what results from runoff on your property. So you do certain things, and that’s
happened over the years at that property. Is it to the degree of a minor project? Perhaps not, but the
Rosenbergs don’t have any problem with making those improvements. We just don’t necessarily have
them on the plan to be mandated by that approval. I mean they’re certainly interested in providing either
other stormwater devices or a reduction of permeability, but it’s not something that’s shown on the plan
because it’s not needed to show on the plan to go through this Site Plan approval, but it’s not to say that
some of that will be undertaken.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Questions, comments from members of the Board? The public hearing is still open.
If you would like to address the Planning Board on this application, go right ahead. Good evening.
DR. CAROL COLLINS
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
DR. COLLINS-Good evening. My name is Carol Collins. I’ve lived at 79 Knox Road all my life. I also
reside at 35 Knox Road. So I’m very familiar with this property. As a lake scientist and principle founder
and past chair of the Fund for Lake George and importantly as a neighbor I am very disappointed in this
application. Bonnie and Stuart have asked much of this Town to accommodate their interests, but they
have not appropriately proposed to mitigate the high impact of this property. I’m going to switch my
comments around just to follow up on what Dennis was speaking about, and I did submit a letter. So
you’ll probably see that. I did get basically a determination letter or a letter from the Department of Health
on this 30% rule, and I really want to be clear about this. I think it’ll impact everything on Lake George.
So an ETU is very good at removing things that Dennis referred to as other parameters. Well those other
parameters are things like TSS, Total Suspended Solids, and there are also things like biological oxygen
demand which are very important. They have nothing to do, as he said, with removal of phosphorus. So
what this soil absorption field does is it’s responsible for removing the phosphorus. The reason this was
developed, this extra law as part of the 75A, was because of nitrogenous compounds. They were satisfied
that if you reduced this field by 30% or the trench length specifically, you would get enough nitrogen
removal. Phosphorus was not tested. In New York City it’s absolutely not allowed., the reduction of
trench length, because we want that soil absorption field to absorb as much phosphorus to protect the
drinking water source, which is what New York City is all concerned about. This should also be our
concern here with Lake George. So I want to make that clear. If you have any questions right now please
ask me them, but that trench length, if they were to allow at least a full sized field I would be very satisfied
with that removal and we would then get potentially the 30% of phosphorus that’s going to be generated
from a very high populated site. So moving on, as I say, this is a nonconforming lot on very steep slopes,
and Chris mentioned that there is a 60% permeability, the percent permeability on this property is 60%
over Code. Time constraints only allow me to state the obvious. We should eliminate one very large
driveway of the two. We should eliminate a small cabin, which has to require an additional septic field
and an additional septic tank, but regrettably, even with the removal of those two things, it would only
alleviate half of the excess impermeable area. It would only remove 30% of what we should be removing,
and we’re not getting the stormwater removal that we should. So you’re seeing some new plan here. I’m
not sure if it’s compliant or not, but we must remember stormwater is a major pollutant for Lake George
and two small swales that are minimally just treating this very new impervious area is not acceptable. The
Planning Board has the option of requiring a Major stormwater plan. If any site on Lake George requires
one, this would be one that I would say you should require. The stormwater plan on steep and excessive
slopes will remove about 60% of the phosphorus, 55%. In order to make this truly effective is the reason
we put in these shoreline buffer plants. You can get, with a compliant plan, you can get up to 100% more
removal of phosphorus with a compliant plan along the shoreline. These are not big asks . They’re getting
854 new square feet of building, and they’re not giving up anything, and I just feel that this is something
where we could all work together and get a really good project. We put in better stormwater, which
should be approved by you, first and foremost, not just presented here at the meeting or make a promise,
but we should be able to evaluate that plan. Certainly the Town Engineer has asked for more information,
and I think we deserve to see it and evaluate it.
MR. TRAVER-If you wrap up your comments, please. We typically grant three minutes.
DR. COLLINS-I am. Okay. So basically I just want to say given the harmful algae bloom, it’s a wake-up
call, and it means we have to do a lot more on this site, especially in this bay and protect the greatest
resource we have in Warren County, and I do want to thank each of you for paying such close attention to
these matters. Thank you.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you. Is there anyone else that wanted to address the Planning Board on this
application? Yes, sir.
JOHN COLLINS
MR. COLLINS-Thank you. My name is John Collins. I live at 35 Knox Road. I’ve been there for 20 years
as a full time resident and then for the 22 years before that I resided summers at 79 Knox Road with Carol.
I want to follow up on different issues that Carol raised as well as expand on one or two. This is a non-
conforming property and normally when you get proposals to expand a non-conforming use, there is a very
rigorous review process here, and when you look at the letters of support from the neighbors, their focus
has been on put in that new septic system, make a prettier house, make space that is more desirable to you.
I’m in favor of that. That’s not my problem. My problem is expanding the non-conforming use without
any mitigation of the other unique factors of that property that are very severe. We’ve talked, a number
of people have talked about the grade on the property. We’ve talked about the imperviousness of the
property. If you’ve been there or seen the pictures, there’s a lot of pavement and it’s on the steep slope part
of the property. Proposal, Carol had mentioned about taking out one of the two driveways. The driveway
to the north, my calculations, that’s a 22% grade there. It’s not used as the primary driveway and it’s
definitely not used in the winter because the car will end up in the living room of the house. Responsible
ownership on this lake, when you have a challenging property like that, is to address the issues and not
turn a blind eye towards it. Dennis talks about the unique factors of this property. They are unique, and
they’re challenging and they’ve been in existence since the Rosenbergs acquired the property, but now they
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
want to expand their use. They need to do something. They need to address these challenging a aspects.
.So I’ve mentioned the driveway. You remove that north driveway that’s unnecessary, you improve the, or
reduce the impervious soil. In addition, I am proposing, and I’ve written a letter on all this. I’m not
regurgitating everything in the letter. Taking down the small cabin, gee, why would I do that. Well with
this expansion this property just went from a total of six bedrooms to seven bedrooms. That means more
people, and when you look at the proposal it talks about a small change in the FAR. Well, the FAR as a
calculation living space and open deck area. The living space went up by over 800 square feet. Put that
in perspective, that would be like adding another one of those large cabins on that property. So if we were
to remove that cabin it would reduce impermeability. It would provide alternative expansion area for the
septic absorption field and keep the bedrooms at the current six bedroom rate.
MR. TRAVER-Could I ask you to finalize your remarks.
MR. COLLINS-Yes. The other thing I would ask that as a condition there be either a restriction in the
deed or an agreement that runs with the land that prohibits the cabins from being rented. The Zoning
Board, in the meeting there, they had a real concern about that, but they didn’t feel they had any authority
over the rental of that property. The Rosenbergs have said they don’t intend to rent, but we don’t know
what’s going to happen in the future. If they are to their word, they put a restriction in the deed or the
agreement, then that takes the worry of everybody away that that property becomes a massive rental
property which would very negatively impact the character of the neighborhood. Thank you.
MR. TRAVER-Thank you. Is there anyone else that wanted to address the Planning Board on this
application? I think I see someone. Yes, ma’am.
LORRAINE RUFFING
MRS. RUFFING-Good evening. My name is Lorraine Ruffing and I live at 66 Bay Parkway on Assembly
Point. As the two previous speakers have said, the Planning Board is being asked to allow an expansion
on a one half acre lot, which has been over developed for years with the main house and two cabins. This
is probably one of the most precarious properties on Assembly Point. First, there is a very steep slope,
estimates are around 16 to 19%, come off of Knox Road. Second, the property already exceeds the allowable
impermeable area by 60%. If the Planning Board agrees to the Site Plan, there should be a quid pro quo.
At the very least one of the two paved driveways should be eliminated. I don’t believe it was mentioned
before. There are two entrances to this house.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, ma’am. We’ve received comment on the driveways and the extra cabin. So if you
could give us new information, we’d appreciate that. Okay. Well, lastly I guess I’d like to engage in a bit
of nostalgia. This is the first place that my family summered on Lake George, and at that time we rented
the main house and the owners remained in the two cabins in back. The bay in front was ideal for small
children. Sadly today that bay is in very poor shape with excessive algae bloom and a very muddy bottom
compared to the previous sandy bottom. It’s critical that the pervious area be increased and the
stormwater runoff mitigated and a robust buffer is called for. So I ask that you request two conditions.
Eliminate one of the steep driveways and install a very robust shoreline buffer. Thank you.
MR. TRAVER-Thank you. Is there anyone else that wanted to address the Planning Board? Yes, sir. I
see a hand up, and, sir, before you begin, if I could just point out, we’ve received a lot of public comment
on the driveways and the extra cabin and so on. If you could give us new information rather than
information that’s already been provided, we would appreciate that. Thank you.
STUART ROSENBERG
MR. ROSENBERG-Well first of all my name is Stuart Rosenberg. My wife Bonnie and I are very happy
to be here tonight. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman, members of the Board, Staff. Bonnie and I
purchased this camp in 1985. It was a lifelong dream. We’ve been there for 35 years. We love it. I still
get excited when I drive down one of those driveways, and we intend to basically make it our retirement
place. We want to turn it from a camp to a home with a larger bedroom, larger kitchen and eating area. I
realize there’s a lot of challenges to this. The two driveways are one for entrance and one for exit, and
they’re steep and taking away one driveway, one is very circuitous and would not allow any trucks to come
down for construction and the other is kind of a very steep driveway straight down allowing access to the
camp. So those driveways, they were there when we bought it. We’ve used them throughout. For about
five years when they constructed next to us. You may be remembering the property at 67 Knox Road.
The first developers closed the driveway. They blocked it off from us, and we had a difficult time exiting
our house from the driveway because the carriage of my car would hit the road as it came by. So it’s really
helpful for us to have two driveways. My wife comes from a family of three wonderful sisters. Her sisters
use the cabin in the summer. We don’t rent them out. We have no intentions of renting them out. That’s
not what we’re here for. You’ve always asked what have we done. Well, I have taken an active role in
planting trees. We’ve planted over a dozen trees on the property since we first bought it. We’ve improved
one of the best rock gardens on Assembly Point. Every spring I hand out dahlias to all my neighbors. So
I really believe in improving the property and continuing it as a show piece of Lake George. I asked Mr.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
Navitsky to come and give me some ideas, and he was kind enough to visit for an hour and show me how
we could improve the drainage, how we could improve the impervious areas, and I intend to do it. We’ll
use permeable pavers on the flat areas. We’ll put in catch basins by the driveway. We have a lot of ideas
on how to make the property compliant.
MR. TRAVER-Would you be willing to add those to your plan so that we have an idea of exactly what you
have in mind?
MR. ROSENBERG-Sure.
MR. TRAVER-And then you could be given a period of time during which you could actually have that
done.
MR. ROSENBERG-I’d be happy to.
MR. TRAVER-Can you tell me again what you were proposing? You’re talking about putting permeable.
MR. ROSENBERG-In all the flat surfaces, and there are a number of flat surfaces, by the cabins, down by
the house, rather than the blacktop which is impervious obviously, we would add the grass, I don’t know
what you call it, the grass tiles, pavers, that allow aeration.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. So removing the blacktop.
MR. ROSENBERG-I intend to remove as much blacktop as I can possibly remove. Obviously for the steep
areas we can’t, but in the flat areas we would remove the blacktop. I don’t like it as well as anybody else.
By the base of the steeper driveway we would put a catch basin there. I’ve stood out in the rain. I know
where the runoff is. I know where the problem is and I know how to correct it, and I will take it upon
myself to do that and then we could include it in the plans. Dennis has already included it in the plan but
we’ll do all the things you require. So, again, our intentions are to respect the lake as we’ve done for the
last 35 years.
MR. TRAVER-So you would be willing to modify your application to reflect another catch basin for
stormwater management, reduction of the impermeable blacktop to convert that to a permeable paver
type?
MR. ROSENBERG-Yes.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Anything else?
MR. ROSENBERG-We want to make it work.
MR. TRAVER-We can discuss it with your representative I guess. We appreciate that. It does seem, and
it sounds as though you recognize that it is a challenging piece of property. It’s been developed over many
years, in some cases prior to the higher standards for stormwater and so on that we’ve developed, but we
have often found with applicants, and it sounds like you may be one of them, that when you’re undergoing
these types of renovations and developing new changes to the property it’s the best time to do it properly
and, you know, what you have done, and you’ve worked with Environmental Design to improve somewhat
the shoreline buffering. That’s good, but it does sound as though there is a lot of concern, pre-dating
concern, perhaps pre-dating when you even owned the property, about the stormwater issue, and I’m sure
you’re well aware, living in the area, of the concern, the recent concern of the toxic algae bloom, though I
guess it turned out perhaps not to be toxic, but in any case that’s a developing problem that we’re very,
very concerned about and that’s why we have traditionally made an effort to focus on the buffering, to
focus on the stormwater management. So we appreciate that very much.
MR. ROSENBERG-I share your concerns and I will do those changes.
MR. TRAVER-Anything else?
MR. ROSENBERG-Thank you very much.
MR. MAGOWAN-I have one question, if it’s all right, Mr. Chairman. Would you be willing to entertain
removing one of the wooden cabins?
MR. ROSENBERG-That’s a heartfelt question. Heartfelt because we have a wonderful family, and the
family visits us every summer, three sisters who as close as you can ever been from California, Toronto,
Montreal and Albany, and how would I judge what sister to throw out of the cabin? It’s just very, very
difficult to us to consider removing the cabin because we don’t use it a lot. We use it in the summer for
relatives. We use it occasionally on weekends for my daughter and that gives us our grandchildren and
they stay up at the cabin.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-One of the effects I think with the additional cabin is, again, the impermeable. So, again, if
you’re willing to do more with the stormwater management, that’s going to mitigate not removing one of
those cabins, I think.
MR. ROSENBERG-And believe me that would be my priority.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Good. Thank you.
MR. ROSENBERG-Thank you very much for hearing us. Have a great, peaceful happy holiday.
MR. TRAVER-Thank you, you too. Is there anyone else in the audience that wanted to address the
Planning Board on this application?
MRS. MOORE-I do have some written comment.
MR. TRAVER-Sure. Go ahead.
MRS. MOORE-I’ll start with, this is addressed to Mr. Brown. “Please include this letter for the record of
the public hearings for both the Area Variance and Site Plan Review applications for the Rosenberg
property at 73 Knox Road. I am representing my family’s property at 103 Knox Road and as nearby
neighbors I would like to offer our support for the improvements proposed by their applications. I am
aware of the variances required and the house modifications suggested. During their 35 years of ownership
of their lakefront property in our common bay area we have known the Rosenbergs to be considerate and
conscientious neighbors and lake users. Their property, and its use, is certainly in keeping with the
character of the neighborhood and would continue to be. The improvements proposed will not be a
detriment to our neighborhood and the infrastructure upgrades to wastewater and stormwater systems
will only have a beneficial effect on the lake. Thank you for your consideration of my comments and know
that we are in favor of the approval of the proposed improvements. Sincerely, Chris Winslow 103 Knox
Road” This is addressed to Craig. “We are writing this letter in support of the Rosenbergs’ application
for variances at 73 Knox Road. We are summer residents of 79 Knox Road., immediately next door and to
the north of the Rosenbergs. The Rosenbergs have always been good neighbors and good stewards of the
lake. The setback variance from the shoreline that they are requesting is necessitated because of the long-
standing location of the main house. As you are aware, this is not uncommon and there is no real way to
resolve the setback. It is very positive that they are not proposing to encroach upon the existing setback
from the lake at all. In fact, they’re increasing the setback from Lake George by 3 feet with the modification
to their deck that they are proposing. We believe that the modest expansion of their house that they are
proposing is in keeping with the character of our neighborhood and will not be detrimental to nearby
properties. We could not be more pleased with their determination to replace their wastewater system
with a modern, state-of-the-art system and to improve stormwater control. As a Trustee of the Fund for
Lake George, I have been personally involved in the efforts of the Fund for Lake George to stimulate the
replacement of aging septic systems and the improvement of stormwater controls to protect the water
quality of Lake George. As you are aware, the Fund has made significant investments in the Town of
Queensbury to support septic upgrades. We commend the Rosenbergs for their stewardship regarding
wastewater and stormwater control and encourage approval of these variances to support these upgrades.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Tom and Renee West” This is addressed to Craig.
“My name is Stephen Ballas and I own the property at 67 Knox Road in Queensbury. I am an immediate
abutter to the South of 73 Knox Road. I am writing this email in support of the variances being proposed
in the Rosenberg’s application. I feel the proposal is in keeping with the character of the neighborhood
and will not be detrimental to the neighborhood or nearby properties. Further, they are upgrading to a
state of the art wastewater and stormwater runoff mitigation system that will improve and enhance our
beautiful lake. Thank you for your attention to this matter and please feel free to contact me if you have
any questions.” This is Stephen Ballas at 67 Knox. This is addressed to Mr. Brown. “I am writing this
letter in support of the Rosenbergs’ application for variances at 73 Knox Road. These improvements are:
1. In keeping with the character of our neighborhood. 2. Not detrimental to our neighborhood or nearby
properties. 3. Include the addition of a modern, state of the art wastewater system and stormwater runoff
mitigation system that would improve and enhance our beautiful lake. Thank you for your attention to
this matter.” This is Rolf and Luise Ahlers at 105 Knox Road. This is addressed to Mr. Brown. “This
letter is in support of the setback variances requested by the Rosenberg family at 73 Knox Rd. I have no
objection to any of the requested variances. As a somewhat distant neighbor, the property line setbacks
do not impact us directly, but seem reasonable given the totality of the project and existing structures.
Were they immediate neighbors with a similar request, I would support the plan. Regarding the waste-
and storm-water systems, I am whole-heartedly in support of this plan. Upgrading of onsite systems for
existing structures should be encouraged and supported by the neighbors and the Town, even if reasonable
variances are required. The benefit from upgrades more than offsets any encroachment in setback zones
in the proposal. In summary, I recommend approval of this application. Thanks.” This is David Wilcox
at 26 Forest Road. This is, “My name is Bob Glandon. I live at 63 Knox Rd. I am writing this letter in
support of the project application by Bonnie Rosenberg at 73 Knox Rd. The requested variances will allow
a currently small house to be more usable by adding interior space to the current rather small bedrooms
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
and kitchen. Additionally, with these proposed changes, a new modern septic system will be installed
which will be beneficial for the lake. Additions called out for stormwater mitigation are also beneficial.
Thank you for your consideration. Regards, Bob Glandon” And then just to confirm, Dr. Collins and John
Collins both wrote letters. I could read those into the record if you choose to, and then Chris Navitsky
read his letter into the record.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you, Laura.
MRS. MOORE-Do you want me to read those?
MR. TRAVER-I think they’re largely the same as the public comment that was made. Yes, ma’am.
LORRAINE CARBININE
MRS. CARBININE-My name is Lorraine Carbinine and I’m a resident of Assembly Point Road. As an
Assembly Point resident I seem to be surrounded by a parade of variance requests. When a variance
request or multiple requests are made for an already non-conforming lot which many of us do have, I feel
we’re often pushing the envelope for lake health. When looking at the use of the structures on the
property, I do not believe the decisions based on occasional occupancy can ever be accepted. I think we
heard that there will be seven total bedrooms on the property but some are only used occasionally. A
property must be able to fully manage the wastewater based on the existing number of bedrooms and not
how often those rooms are planned to be used. I can personally attest to the value of this. One pandemic
later my occasional use home is now the home to a family of four for the past nine months. I think we’re
so fortunate to have heard input from our Lake George Waterkeeper , certainly an expert on the issues
facing our lake and how we might mitigate any negative effects of this project. Installation of the new
septic system is key, but there are other critical steps to help balance the excess cover on this lot to manage
runoff which our Waterkeeper discussed. While we can stir in a lot of emotion into supporting a project,
I think we all know that it is the environmental science which will help preserve our lake, and I ask you to
listen to the facts and suggestions of the experts. Thank you.
MR. TRAVER-Thank you. I’ll ask again, is there anyone else in the audience that wanted to address the
Planning Board on this project? So if you could back to the mic, Mr. MacElroy. All right. So a good deal
of public comment, as you’re aware. I think, and in a way you began your discussion by speaking about
the Rosenbergs’ interest and intent in improving the stormwater management on the property, and Mr.
Rosenberg graciously agreed to make that a part of this project, recognizing that it was important. In
doing all of this site work, now is the time to do it. He spoke about permeable pavers, replacing blacktop
and an additional catch basin for stormwater. I know you’re the engineer, but can you make those
improvements?
MR. MAC ELROY-Yes, and we’ve talked about devices like that right from the onset of the project, the
design of the project.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MR. MAC ELROY-The difference between what’s required and what might be suggested and desired by
the owner. I would say strongly there’s no one that understands the peculiarities, the difficulties, the
benefit of that property, than the Rosenbergs. They’re there. That’s their home. They understand the
issues with it. They’ve addressed certain things regarding stormwater, just as any property owner will try
to take care of any of those nuisance issues. So I don’t want it thought that they’ve turned a blind eye to
the difficulties.
MR. TRAVER-No, no. It was very clear what he intended to do. For us it would be, what we would like
to see is have these specific measures based on your recommendation, and he suggested a couple of things,
that obviously the engineering has to be involved,. But because if the high permeability of the property, if
we do some additional stormwater and have that a part of the plan, I think that would be appropriate.
MR. MAC ELROY-If that’s the preference of the Board, certainly we can add that to a plan and my question
might be, though, how will that be structured as far as, will we be tabled for that further?
MRS. MOORE-The application has to go before the Town Engineer. I mean at this point in time there are
comments provided by the Town Engineer, and as such those items have to be addressed, and that, again,
is up to the Board, whether they want to table the application or do a condition.
MR. MAC ELROY-And let me just add to that, because that’s an important point that we didn’t discuss.
Chazen has reviewed this. They’ve issued their comment letter which we responded to. The timing of it
isn’t such that we’ve gotten their comments back, but their comments are truly minor, and I’ve done this
enough to know that Chazen will generally give plenty of comments about a project. In this case there
were nine numbered items, and I’ll respond to something, John, you said the other night at the meeting
where there were 21 comments. Well, be familiar with what each of those numbered items are. They’re
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
not all comments requiring some response. Some are just statements in recognition of certain conditions.
So in our case we would get nine comments and six of them really are comments and one of them related
to test pits which Chris brought up, but that’s been done and that’s been provided. A comment about a
silt fence detail. So we’re, I think, in real good shape as far as Chazen’s comments on the plan before you,
but if it’s the preference of the Board to provide some other stormwater devices, and they would take the
form of perhaps either grass block pavers, depending on the location, or permeable block pavers, which get
a credit for permeability from the Town, but also provide a stormwater management device, or, Stuart
mentioned a catch basin but that would then be a dry well perhaps or maybe a raingarden type device.
MR. TRAVER-Well I think that’s, those recommendations probably, they wouldn’t come from us. They
would come from you.
MR. MAC ELROY-Yes.
MR. TRAVER-But the applicant has indicated that he recognizes the need for additional stormwater and
supports doing that at this point. So I think what we would be looking for, and I guess I’d reach out to
other members of the Board, how people feel, about the application as it stands. Do we want to see the
additional engineering stormwater come back on the plan as was suggested by Mr. Rosenberg, or how do
we feel about proceeding with this application?
MR. VALENTINE-I’d rather see something that comes back to us that addresses a lot of the comments on
both sides, either the owner, what he’s willing to do, and then also get in some of the concerns that were
addressed by public comment.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MR. SHAFER-We heard a lot of comments, and so far we’ve only talked about stormwater, but a lot of the
comments we’ve heard had to do with a non-conforming application that was being suggested that
additional square footage be added.
MR. TRAVER-I’m sorry, are you talking about the septic?
MR. SHAFER-No, I’m talking about the FAR. It’s already over the recommended square footage for the
property.
MRS. MOORE-That was granted by the variance, though.
MR. HUNSINGER-I was going to say, that was.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, they requested the Zoning Board of Appeals look at that variance and they did so and
they granted them a variance.
MR. SHAFER-I’m just articulating some of the comments we heard tonight. I don’t know why we should
ignore them. We also have an application that has a seven bedroom, two septic systems on a less than half
acre lot with slopes 30 feet from the road down to the lake. Now I have heartburn about that kind of a
situation. Between FAR, two septic systems, three buildings, seven bedrooms.
MR. TRAVER-Well, the buildings and at least one of the septic systems pre-dates this application that we
have before us. It’s not something they’re proposing to build. It’s a pre-existing, in effect, a pre-existing,
non-conforming structure, and what they’re doing is they’re making modifications to a pre-existing, non-
conforming lot and my own feeling is that is why I think the, my thought is the best way to address it at
this stage is to try to deal with the stormwater, perhaps reduce the impermeability to try to get it more
compliant, and this is a situation that, as you know we’ve faced with a lot of properties around the lake
that date back to the last century, and many of them are non-conforming and we try to improve them when
granted an opportunity. In this case we have the owner who recognizes and intends to address more of
the stormwater issue, and felt that, and agreed with my suggestion with let’s deal with that now while all
this other work is going, but that’s just me. I don’t know how other members of the Board feel about that.
MR. HUNSINGER-I agree with Mike. I think that, you know, based on the comments that we’ve heard
this evening that we would be remiss if we didn’t ask for a table and look at more information.
MR. TRAVER-More stormwater.
MR. HUNSINGER-Rather than just say approve it subject to the engineer’s approval because it sounds
like we need to look beyond what is being called for in the Code in this specific case because of the unique
features and characteristics of the site.
MR. TRAVER-Right.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. HUNSINGER-I think I would agree with Mike that we should table it and ask for more information.
MR. TRAVER-How do you feel?
MS. WHITE-I agree with Chris.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MS. WHITE-I think Chris said it very well.
MR. TRAVER-So, Laura, it sounds as though.
MR. MAGOWAN-No, I have to say this is a very unique project and I have to agree with Mike and Chris
and Steve. The Rosenbergs they bought this property like that. They’ve enhanced it and been enhancing
it going along. I look at it, you know when I first looked at it last Tuesday I’m like, that’s really not a big
addition. It is, it’s very small to moderate, but then I looked at this picture and I saw what was up above
and everything else, but I don’t know why it didn’t dawn on me that it was on a half-acre lot, and then
tonight you hear 60% impermeability.
MR. VALENTINE-No, no, no, 60% above the permeable.
MR. MAGOWAN-Over and above. So I mean this is the time that I think that we need to address it, and
I would really, you know I kind of brought up maybe removing one of the bedrooms, one of the cabins, and
really buffering up that shoreline. It is steep. I mean I understand, some of the driveways I’ve been down,
yet sometimes it’s easier to come in and go out. This is going to be a give and take and try to be compliant
and move everything towards the direction, and I’ve said it before in other meetings. These big homes that
come on to these small lots, especially on the lake, even though we’re enhancing systems, and we’re
increasing and septics are getting better and we’re doing better with our stormwater collection, but
especially when you’ve got a low bay area and I know the Collins’ are always out there and yakking and
taking samples and thank you very much because we need to monitor this. It’s very close, and this is the
time to do it, but that’s just my opinion.
MR. DIXON-Mr. Chairman, I’ll throw my two cents in there, too, since Brad’s over there. So, one, I did
like the improvements that are happening. After listening to everybody, I think we can do better. I’d also
like to think outside the box. So there’s the two cabins on there. I know the recommendation’s to tear
one down. Would there be any possibility of disconnecting all plumbing and everything from one of the
cabins so thereby it would never be able to be rented out in the future, but act as a guest house. So I’m not
telling you that that’s what needs to be done. I’m throwing out some suggestions and, yes, I’d like to see
some ideas come back because Mr. Rosenberg I thought that was very thoughtful of him to offer removing
the blacktop in all the flat areas, but now we need to define what those flat areas are, and I think that’s the
important part that everybody’s bringing up.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, we need the engineering really for that, but I do think it should be noted and
appreciated by the Board that Mr. Rosenberg very graciously recognized that more needed to be done and
documented. So that’s very much appreciated by everybody that loves Lake George and by this Board. So,
Laura, in terms of procedure, we’re looking for additional site plans that, revised site plans to include a
greater amount of stormwater essentially to come closer into compliance with the permeability.
MRS. MOORE-I would word it, use language that it’s updating stormwater management on the site, and
that would be referred to the Town Engineer at this point, just for comment.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. So just leave it general, just updating the stormwater.
MRS. MOORE-Because there’s also details that they provided that sometimes the lawn fixtures that could
be considered a different calculation could be given more credit than a permeable paver.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MRS. MOORE-That’s discussed in our office. So I think that that sort of discussion may give greater
permeability on this site, but that really is something that needs to be presented and discussed.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. And I hate to make more work for you because I know you’re already very busy, but
I would urge that the applicant communicate with you, take advantage of your expertise, to get guidance
as this process goes forward in terms of developing those plans and presenting them.
MRS. MOORE-So at this point I would say if you were going to table it I would table it to a February
meeting.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. VALENTINE-Could I ask Dennis a question before we go on?
MR. TRAVER-Sure, absolutely.
MR. VALENTINE-The force main, knowing that there’s roughly a 16% slope on that northern side, that
the force main and the four inch is underneath a paved area. Is it safe with that being a traffic area?
MR. MAC ELROY-Yes, and the pipe can be installed to a depth that’s certainly acceptable for traffic
grading and in terms of it being under the paved area it’s, we always design these systems so that there’s a
drain back. So it’s not like subject to freezing that force main line. Every time the pump finishes its cycle,
the contents of the force main would drain back. There’s not a check valve.
MR. VALENTINE-I’m assuming the force main would not have to go as low as the four inch pipe. Is that
right, as a force main? I’m just wondering because you’re into that slope.
MR. MAC ELROY-Right, they could be installed in the same trenches.
MR. VALENTINE-And without inverts here working with a force main I didn’t know, is there enough
cover on those?
MR. MAC ELROY-Certainly.
MR. VALENTINE-Okay.
MR. TRAVER-Laura, do you have a preference or a suggestion as to which meeting in February, based on
the?
th
MRS. MOORE-I would do the first meeting which is February 16.
th
MR. TRAVER-February 16.
MR. MAC ELROY-And that’s a Tuesday in February. I don’t know what the Rosenbergs’ schedule might
be, but that is the school vacation week.
MRS. MOORE-I believe that’s correct.
MR. VALENTINE-We should note that it’s only two days after Valentine’s Day, too.
th
MRS. MOORE-So if the applicant cannot make that February 16 meeting, they would know by the
th
January 15 submittal, and they could request an additional tabling.
rd
MR. MAC ELROY-Additional table or placement onto the 23.
rd
MRS. MOORE-You could be tabled to the 23if that works out. So I just want to identify with the
stormwater and going back to the engineer, is that, again, potentially, in addition, above and beyond what’s
required. So the comments that come back from that may not be a requirement. So just remember that,
that these are comments that, yes, this is deemed appropriate or maybe this is, there may be some
additional information needed, but it’s not part of our Code to ask for additional.
MR. TRAVER-Understood. Thank you. All right.
MR. DIXON-Are we going to do a tabling motion, and are we going to require of the applicant that they
provide a stormwater management plan, or is that just?
MR. TRAVER-Additional stormwater management, yes, in response to public comment,
recommendations of the Waterkeeper.
MR. MAGOWAN-Or shoreline buffering.
MR. TRAVER-Well, we have this plan this evening. We didn’t really talk about that specifically, but the
new plan will have this included.
MR. MAGOWAN-Well, do you think that should be reviewed? Remember, we’re 60% above.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, I understand, and the applicant understands that. I can’t really comment on this
because I haven’t really had a, I’ve had something else to do since I was handed this. So I haven’t really
looked at it, but I’m sure that the applicant is aware that, and we had pointed out to the applicant in the
previous meeting that the shoreline buffering was one of our main concerns because of that. So I’ll leave
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
it to the applicant’s engineer to place this along with the other enhancements on the stormwater plan and
we’ll see that when we get it.
MR. MAGOWAN-So I was going to see if, my comments like I said this is the time to do it. So if you’ve
60% above.
MR. TRAVER-Well, this is I believe what they’re proposing.
MR. MAGOWAN-And we can bump it up a little bit more.
MR. TRAVER-Well we can certainly provide that advice.
MR. MAGOWAN-You have a lot up the hill and everything’s downhill. So all we can do, and this is a give
and take. This is really an overdeveloped lot. So the more we can put back in, and if Mr. Rosenberg, as
he stated, you know, is the true steward that he wants to be, then that’s what I’d like to see.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Well I’m sure he’ll take that into account. So we have a tabling motion.
MR. DIXON-We’ll give it a shot here.
RESOLUTION TABLING SP # 58-2020 BONNIE ROSENBERG
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant proposes to construct two
residential additions. Northside addition of 64 sq. ft. is on upper level. Southside addition is two story,
370 sq. ft. footprint with 740 sq. ft. floor area. Project includes new wastewater, stormwater management
and reduction of decks and floor area. The site has one main house and two cottages – 1,855 sq. ft. footprint.
No changes to existing cottages on site. Pursuant to Chapter 179-3-040 & 179-6-065 of the Zoning
Ordinance, new floor area in a CEA shall be subject to Planning Board review and approval.
MOTION TO TABLE SITE PLAN NO. 58-2020 BONNIE ROSENBERG, Introduced by Michael Dixon
who moved for its adoption, seconded by Brad Magowan:
Tabled to the February 16, 2021 Planning Board meeting, with the applicant to provide updated stormwater
management plan in response to public comment.
nd
Duly adopted this 22 day of December, 2020, by the following vote:
rd
MR. VALENTINE-I thought we did February 23?
MRS. MOORE-No, that’s an alternate date.
MR. VALENTINE-I’m sorry, then.
MRS. MOORE-So, as part of your discussion, I apologize for not interjecting earlier, but with public
comment, are you going to leave the public hearing open?
MR. TRAVER-Yes, we will leave the public hearing open because we’re tabling the application, yes. Yes,
I’ll state that now for the record. The public hearing will remain open on this application because we are
tabling it.
MR. COLLINS-Sir, is there any opportunity to ask to clarifying questions that I think will be helpful to
you as well?
MR. TRAVER-There will be when we see the updated application.
MR. COLLINS-Okay. One of the two questions might be creativity, on top of trying to solve some of the
issues.
MR. TRAVER-I’m going to have to ask you to come up on the mic, sir, to make sure your comments are
on the record.
MR. COLLINS-Thank you very much. John Collins. So one of the proposals I had was if a cabin wasn’t
taken down, whether you could put a deed restriction or an agreement running with the property not to
rent cabins out in lieu of disconnecting plumbing. That way the family could continue to use all of the
three cabins on the property.
MR. TRAVER-Yes. I’m not certain that, I don’t think you could place a deed restriction on potential future
use of a piece of property.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. COLLINS-I’m not so sure about that, because you have a non-conforming property here that they’re
asking to make more non-conforming and talk about give and take, that could be a potential, too.
MR. TRAVER-Thank you for those comments, and when they return in February you’ll be able to make
more comments.
MR. COLLINS-Thank you.
MR. TRAVER-I would just add that the applicant has taken a lot of public comment tonight and has
agreed to make it more conforming, and we’ll see to what extent it’s more conforming when they return in
February. I think we need to give them an opportunity to go back and update their plans, re-submit them.
We’ll look at them. There will be an opportunity, continued opportunity for more public comment at that
time, and let’s see what they come up with. I’m sorry. Any other comment on the motion? Yes, John.
MR. SHAFER-The way it’s written now, it’s limited to only stormwater changes?
MR. TRAVER-Those are what we’re requiring, but they can make whatever changes they want. Any other
comment? All right. Maria, can you call the vote for us, please.
AYES: Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-All right. Thank you very much. The next item on our agenda is under New Business,
and the item is Luxury Box, LLC, Site Plan 54-2020.
NEW BUSINESS:
SITE PLAN NO. 54-2020 SEQR TYPE: TYPE II. LUXURY BOX, LLC. AGENT(S): SCHODER
RIVERS ASSOCIATES. OWNER(S): GAM OF THE ADIRONDACKS. ZONING: CM.
LOCATION: SOUTH OF 1048 STATE ROUTE 9. APPLICANT PROPOSES TO INSTALL SEVEN
SEPARATE BUILDINGS CONNECTED BY A COVERED WALKWAY AND FAÇADE FEATURE
4,685 SQ. FT. TOTAL. PROJECT INCLUDES SITE WORK, GRADING, STORMWATER
MANAGEMENT, LIGHTING, LANDSCAPING AND CONNECTION TO MUNICIPAL WATER
AND SEWER. THE PROJECT WILL BE FOR INTERIOR COMMERCIAL RECREATION
FACILITY. PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 179-3-040 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE, NEW
COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION SHALL BE SUBJECT TO PLANNING BOARD REVIEW AND
APPROVAL. CROSS REFERENCE: SP 33-2012. WARREN CO. REFERRAL: DECEMBER 2020.
LOT SIZE: 1.01 ACRES. TAX MAP NO. 296.9-1-13. SECTION: 179-3-040.
ERIK SANDBLOM & DAVID BRINDLE, REPRESENTING APPLICANT, PRESENT
MR. TRAVER-Laura?
MRS. MOORE-This applicant proposes to install seven separate buildings connected by a covered
walkway and a façade feature at 4,685 square feet. The project includes sitework, grading, stormwater
management, lighting, landscaping connecting to municipal water and sewer.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Thank you. Good evening.
MR. SANDBLOM-Good evening. My name is Erik Sandblom from Schoder River Associates. I’m the
engineer on the project, and in the audience also is, I guess I don’t have to point him out because he’s the
only one left, Dave Brindle from Luxury Box, LLC. So what is proposed, it’s a currently undeveloped lot
on Route 9. It’s right across from I think it’s called the Fun Spot and brewery.
MR. HUNSINGER-Northway Brewery.
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes. Across the street from. Okay. People know what that is. So it’s in a commercial
area where other recreational facilities are. This happens to be a recreational facility that is proposed. The
seven individual buildings will serve as individual gaming stations so to speak. So it’ll be like a virtual
gaming type of experience, like virtual golf or virtual football. David will be up later if you have specific
questions about that.
MR. DIXON-If I could just interrupt for just a moment. So I do know Mr. Brindle. So for disclosure I
don’t see any complications or conflicts.
MR. TRAVER-Because you know him?
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. DIXON-Well, I’m friends. We’re not close friends. I’m not over at his house every day, but maybe
once a year I’ll go over there.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MR. DIXON-So it’s up to the Board’s discretion.
MR. HUNSINGER-It’s up to you.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, I mean you have disclosed what you feel is a potential conflict of interest. It’s up to
you whether you abstain or not, but disclosing, I don’t think it’ a disqualifying conflict of interest that
you’re merely acquainted with someone, but that’s entirely up to you.
MR. DIXON-I don’t see any need to recuse myself. Fortunately or unfortunately in Queensbury we know
a lot of people, and that’s kind of how it goes sometimes.
MR. TRAVER-That’s right.
MR. HUNSINGER-You don’t have any financial interest in this project?
MR. DIXON-No.
MR. HUNSINGER-There you go.
MR. DIXON-And he probably doesn’t even realize until tonight that I’m even on the Board.
MR. TRAVER-Well thank you for sharing that. All right. So we’ve clarified that. I must say when I saw
this application that I thought it was one of the more interesting projects that I’ve seen in a while.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes.
MR. TRAVER-I was trying to think of an experience, perhaps, that I had to try to visualize what it was
you were designing and developing, and I did participate, actually, with the Lake George Rotary Club. We
got together, I guess it must have been on a weekend, and we went to a similar small space in Lake George
Village that was like a mystery type thing. So you all got locked in this room basically and there were
clues around and it was a very small space and you had to look for these clues and figure out, solve a puzzle
basically. It was really quite, a little different than what you have, same concept is that you’re going into
space and now you’re transformed into an unusual environment. It’ a very clever idea.
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes, it certainly has a lot of potential, and so because of the seven separate buildings,
the construction of them is unique as well. They’re going to be essentially built off site and then
transported on wheels and so it’s kind of hard to describe without the structural drawings, but essentially
there’ll be a wooden walkway that is used to connect all the buildings, to walk from one building to the
next. There’ll be a retaining wall under that, and then the building itself would then be set at the lower
level, at the low end of the retaining wall. The walkway will be on the top of the retaining wall so to speak.
So the way that the property is kind of divided there that walkway, so the left side of the property, the
north end, will be, you know, at pretty close to existing grade. It’ll be a little bit lower than on the other
opposite side of the buildings, and so that poses some definite challenges from an engineering standpoint
on how to grade the site, but we figured it out. Essentially we’ll basically split the flows from the
impervious surfaces to flow on either side of the property and flow off vegetative channels, each to two
separate four bays and then those two, four bays would flow into one infiltration basin and we’re proposing
to treat all the stormwater on the site. We’re not requesting any variances in that regard. The site itself
is, it currently all drains and infiltrates, it’s very favorable conditions for an infiltration project, or for
stormwater infiltration. It’s very deep to ground water. It’s course sand at the site. So that’ll work very
well to ensure that the stormwater is treated from the site. From a layout and traffic circulation
standpoint, there’s an existing curb cut there now and a little bit of pavement, and the plan is to re-use all
of that. The existing opening, or the curb cut is 21.75 feet wide, which is slightly less than what the Code
requires, what the Queensbury zoning requirements are for a two way access. So for now we have
represented it as a one way access with just a one way in, and then the property to the north it would
adjoin that property. David has spoken to that owner and they’re agreeable to having the sites connect.
So that’ll improve the traffic circulation on the site. We think that it would be acceptable for that exiting
curb cut to actually be two way. It could work as just one way in, and then the, you know, to exit the
property you’d have to go through the property to the north, but we wanted to just make sure that we
could absolutely meet standards and if the Board felt that we should hold it to that we will. If it can be
used as a two way we think that would be acceptable.
MR. VALENTINE-Have you talked to DOT about a curb cut permit?
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MR. SANDBLOM-No, we haven’t. We’re just talking about re-using the one that’s there now. We’re
not making any changes to it.
MR. VALENTINE-Yes, but that’s going to be their decision, though. So you should make contact with
them. If you have an existing one does it meet their standards now for commercial driveway entrances is
what I’m saying.
MR. TRAVER-It would be good to get some kind of acknowledgment.
MR. SANDBLOM-We can, I’ll be happy to reach out to the DOT regional office on that to get their opinion.
My understanding is that a permit would not be required if we’re not making a change, a physical change.
MR. VALENTINE-That’s a sort of, in discussion amongst ourselves, that’s something that is an agreement
that people usually have. They have their standards that require a permit.
MR. SANDBLOM-Sure. I do know that commercial driveway entrance DOT is quite a bit, the allowance
is to be quite a bit wider than what’s there now, which certainly isn’t necessary for this type of a use, and
it just helps control the access management on the site. This has been looked at by the Fire Marshal. The
only significant comment there was to make sure that the surfaces are substantial enough for emergency
vehicles, because what is proposed there now is a gravel surface for now. It could be upgraded to asphalt
in the future. So the request from the Fire Marshal was to either make it, I think the word was hard
surface. I would take that to be an asphalt type of material, or to do testing.
MR. MAGOWAN-You’ll have to come up with a compaction rate test for them. So they can see the
compaction rate of your ground underneath.
MR. SANDBLOM-That was what was requested, and I mean I can tell you with the really excellent sand
that’s there now and the sub base material that’s being specified in our design drawings, there’s no
concerns about the ability to provide adequate support for emergency vehicles there, and whether
compaction testing is done in time, but that’s something that the applicant is willing to do.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes. I don’t know how hard it is. You’re a pretty big guy. You could probably go over
there and jump up and down in front of Mr. Palmer and he’d say that’s enough, I don’t know.
MR. SANDBLOM-I haven’t tested that one yet, but that’s a good suggestion. I guess, what’s other aspects,
I’ve covered traffic circulation. Parking meets standards. It’s a little bit more. We thought about snow
removal, made sure we kept enough room on the side of the parking proposed here. There’s a dumpster
enclosure identified, although it’s not believed that this is a site that’s going to generate very much trash at
all, and then there’s a landscaping plan as well which we believe meets the landscaping standards for the
Town, and provided with that are some actual pictures of the spec sheets that are proposed as well as a
schedule. David would like to maintain as much of the existing trees that are there as possible. It is going
to require clearing most of the lot, but there’s an opportunity to maintain a lot of the trees that are right on
the edge of the property.
MR. TRAVER-There is a 50 foot buffer requirement to the residential zone.
MR. SANDBLOM-Correct.. We understand that, and that is a bit of a challenge for us. So what has been
proposed is the construction of a fence on that southeast corner I believe it is. If you look at C-103, the
landscaping plan, it shows the extent of the fence, and then also to maintain those trees there, but then
also if you look at C-102, which is the grading plan, that shows the, up on the screen now that’s the layout
plan. At any rate, C-102 is the grading plan, that shows the infiltration basin that’s going to be located
there, and so that’s basically really needed for that. It’ll all be, you know, it’ll be green. It’ll be green
surface, and then it’s also maintained the trees that are on that property line or on that corner, and then
also the fence, in order to compensate for the removal of any vegetation within that buffer. There is one
comment that we got from Laura on the lighting plan that what was proposed was just slightly under the
recommended two and a half foot candles, and so we actually had prepared a revised lighting plan to meet
that requirement, but then it was also suggested if it’s just under that the Board may consider that
providing adequate lighting for security, but making sure it’s not excessive.
MR. TRAVER-We can discuss that.
MR. SANDBLOM-I think that it would be in the interest to maintain the original proposal that was
submitted if it’s acceptable to the Board.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Is there anything else?
MR. SANDBLOM-I believe that’s it. We did get comments from the Town Engineer on the stormwater
management plan. There were two pretty minor comments. One was we forgot to show the stabilized
construction entrance on our erosion control plan. That has been corrected, and we submitted that, and
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the other was that they wanted to see us include the watershed outside of just the boundaries of the
property, but they don’t extend outside the boundaries of the property. There is no stormwater that
currently flows onto the property from off site. So we are treating everything that would actually be
flowing into these stormwater treatment practices, and I don’t know if Chazen’s responded to that or if
they will.
MRS. MOORE-They will, but the idea is that the Board gets that first blush of information and then if the
Board feels it’s necessary, sometimes it’s a condition to obtain that signoff, or if the Board wishes to table
that until the signoff is given.
MR. SANDBLOM-Okay. Our hope is that those are minor and we don’t need to table for that item.
MR. TRAVER-The signoff from the Town Engineer is typically a condition of approval in any case. So if
you don’t feel that you have any difficulty in complying with the request that the Town Engineer has
provided you, then you’re probably comfortable, but we’ll see what the Board says.
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes, we submitted our response to, back to the Town at least almost two weeks ago
and we feel comfortable that we can comply with them.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MR. MAGOWAN-Did you mail it?
MR. SANDBLOM-We e-mailed it.
MR. MAGOWAN-That’s quicker.
MRS. MOORE-I just want to identify, there is a question about signage, and there was information within
the application that it was to be ground lights and the Board’s aware that you’ll need to have downcast
fixtures. There’s no up lighting allowed in the Town Code unless you go for a variance at this time.
MR. SANDBLOM-And I forgot to mention that. So thank you very much. In my discussions with David
that’s fine. He’ll change that so it’s downcast on the sign.
MR. TRAVER-Yes. We try to reduce light pollution to the extent that we can.
MR. SANDBLOM-Of course.
MR. TRAVER-And we will be having a public comment on this application as well, and with the unusual
circumstances of the COVID pandemic I want to alert the viewing public that if you wish to comment on
this application by phone you may do so at the following number, 518-761-8225, and I’ll open it up for
questions, comments from members of the Planning Board.
PUBLIC HEARING OPENED
MS. WHITE-I just have a lot of questions more related to economic development, like, currently this type
of entertainment you can’t even go in it now. All these types of businesses are closed because of COVID.
So, you know, what is your timeframe for opening? Do you have any kind of plan? Am I allowed to ask
that?
MRS. MOORE-You can generate questions that relate to hours of operation, phased planning, when that
starts. Whether the project is successful monetarily is not typically something the Board gets into.
MS. WHITE-Sorry.
MR. TRAVER-They do also have a year from a theoretical approval, they have one year.
MR. HUNSINGER-To start the construction.
MS. WHITE-All right. Yes. I just have some concerns that are more business related.
MR. SANDBLOM-I’m just the engineer, but we’re all living through this COVID stuff, and I can tell you
that these are individual buildings for individual parties. So at least from a safety standpoint there’s a lot
of potential there for this to be a safe activity, but like I said, that’s not my area.
MR. HUNSINGER-So that’s how the buildings would function is like a group of people would just go into
one building? I kind of envisioned that it was like different game rooms or something.
MR. SANDBLOM-So that first building further down to the west is like the office.
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MR. HUNSINGER-Right, yes, I understood that.
MR. SANDBLOM-People would move to another building to play their game, but Dave’s offered to give
you his vision. He’s the businessman here.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes.
MR. SANDBLOM-I’m happy to step aside and give him the podium.
MR. TRAVER-Sure, that would be fine.
MR. BRINDLE-Thank you, everyone.
MR. TRAVER-Good evening.
MR. BRINDLE-David Brindle. So to answer that question first, then I’ll get back to the other question.
So from all my research I’ve come up with, there’s nothing precluding me from opening because it is a small
unit. So you’re not getting 30, 40 people in there. The maximum is six people. So I haven’t found
anything. If you find something I’ll be more than willing to take a look at it.
MS. WHITE-My issue is I’m currently doing lending under the CARES Act and there are several businesses
who fully anticipated they would be able to open and they have not been able to open and they are under
similar type, you know, small rooms, thought they were safe, thought they did everything they needed to
and they have not been allowed to open.
MR. BRINDLE-Like I said, my research doesn’t show that there’s anything that’s stopping us.
MS. WHITE-Neither did theirs.
MR. TRAVER-Okay, and we’re looking at something in the future, not something in the past, too, which
makes a difference.
MR. BRINDLE-So, hours of operation you said. I’ll answer that question. So it’s nine to nine seven days
a week. That’s for the general public. I’m also going to have it where you can become a member and
members would have 24 hour access to it, but it’s only limited amount of people. So it’s not like we’re
going to let everybody become a member and have 24 hour access.
MR. TRAVER-Interesting.
MR. DIXON-I do have a question So as far as the color schemes go, what we see in the rendering, is that
the colors that are being proposed?
MR. BRINDLE-I think I’ve changed it a little bit from the blue to more of like a neutral kind of khaki kind
of color.
MR. DIXON-Okay.
MR. BRINDLE-And it’s probably going to be clapboard, not cedar shakes.
MR. DIXON-Is that something that we would want to review or see the color schemes before approving?
MR. TRAVER-Well, we don’t always have the benefit of color renderings but we do often discuss certainly
the visual impact and so on, how it fits with the character of the commercial area it’s located in. It’s entirely
appropriate.
MR. DIXON-All right, and then the only other question I’m going to throw at you is have you considered
any charging stations for electric vehicles as everybody is starting to transition? Well I shouldn’t say
everybody, but there is a transition to electric vehicles. Are you looking at any charging stations to add?
MR. BRINDLE-To be honest I haven’t even given it a thought. I mean I do notice that they’re putting them
in malls, places of recreation.
MR. DIXON-Typically people with money have electric cars and they’re shopping. Route 9 just put in
several electric charging stations.
MR. TRAVER-I would add, too, the Town of Queensbury occasionally does get grant funding for electric
charging stations. So I would say at this point if you even would consider that, if you would advise the
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Town that should the Town be looking for a site to install a charging that you would be open to doing that,
and then they could reach out to you if they get to that point. That would be one way to handle it.
MR. BRINDLE-Yes, that’s fine with me. I’m sorry, what was your question? I forget. I think you asked
it earlier.
MR. HUNSINGER-My question? I don’t remember.
MR. SHAFER-I have one. Your application talks about the portability of these different, unique buildings.
Could you explain how that would work and under what circumstances?
MR. BRINDLE-So the structures are made on a trailer. So they fold up and they sit on a trailer that’s eight
and a half feet wide. Some of them are 35 feet long but most of them are 20 feet long. So they are legal
limit they can go down the road. So the design of the project is that it can go off site. More than likely
those are not going to go off site. They’re probably going to stay there, but it does have that functionality
to move off site. So if somebody wants to rent it for a month at a restaurant, let’s say, then we could bring
it to a restaurant for a month and rent it to them.
MR. SHAFER-Or a State fair or a County fair, whatever.
MR. BRINDLE-Exactly.
MR. TRAVER-Interesting.
MR. BRINDLE-But if we do that it’s more likely that that’s going to be something that I’ll keep off premises
and will deliver it to them.
MR. HUNSINGER-My question was what are you doing on site?
MR. BRINDLE-That’s right.
MR. HUNSINGER-What are the buildings? What do you do in the buildings?
MR. BRINDLE-So it has, it’s not quite virtual. Basically have you ever played golf on simulator?
MR. HUNSINGER-Okay, yes.
MR. BRINDLE-So that’s what it is. Mine is a little different than everybody else’s. It’s, you can play golf,
but I have a lot more variety, a lot more different software that people can use that they can work on their
game. They can have fun with their kids, things like that.
MR. HUNSINGER-So is it all golf?
MR. BRINDLE-It’s not all golf. You can play golf there. You can play other sports.
MR. HUNSINGER-Okay.
MR. BRINDLE-You can play baseball, hockey, soccer, foot golf, Frisbee, bowling. So there’s different
activities like that, a shooting simulator that’s in there. So people can go in there and hunt things, shooting,
things like that.
MR. MAGOWAN-So it’s kind of like a play station Wii type thing. My gosh that’s exciting.
MR. BRINDLE-So it’s all real golf balls, baseballs, hockey pucks. So you’re actually using the equipment.
So it’s not like a Wii system.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes, I can see that, because I know like when you used to be able to go out like Bogey’s.
I’m always interested in watching them play on the screen there and it’s just amazing and the crack of the
ball and then you sit there and watch it and then you see them, really, it’s amazing, but when you see it go
straight. This virtual gaming now is just really great, and then you can pull the units out and transport
them if you need them. So I mean obviously you’re going to have them on a slab and tie downs and that
kind of thing.
MR. SANDBLOM-Exactly. So the other thing is the screen is 16 feet wide, 9 feet tall. So you’ve got
basically a movie theater. So we’ll also have seats in there, movie theater seats. So if somebody wants to
log onto Netflix then they can watch movies or if they want to watch a sporting event, things like that. So
it’s not just, it’s more entertainment is what it is. It’s not just playing sports.
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MR. HUNSINGER-So like if I wanted to go there, I would rent one of these buildings for so many hours
or a day or whatever.
MR. VALENTINE-If your wife told you to leave the house for a Sunday, you’d go watch a movie there
instead.
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes, exactly.
MS. WHITE-That’s why I don’t understand it.
MR. VALENTINE-The other thing I thought about is okay what about a Blockbuster syndrome when the
whole concept of Blockbuster going to rent movies fades away. You’ve got a business that just dies out,
and I’m just thinking this. Again, this has nothing to do with approval stuff, but I’m interested, the same
say Jamie’s looking at it. I’m going what happens when it dies out and people don’t go to this visual aspect
of sport entertainment.
MR. TRAVER-Change the software.
MR. BRINDLE-Yes, I mean I don’t want to get into the business side of it. I get what you’re saying, but
look at bowling alleys. They’ve been around for umpteen years, and people use it as entertainment.
They’re not professional bowlers. So that’s what this is.
MR. VALENTINE-This is just something rummaging around in my head as you’re going through it. I’m
sort of thinking about, like I said, it has nothing to do with the Site Plan or anything. It’s just an interesting
thing, that’s all.
MR. MAGOWAN-Do you game with your grandchildren?
MR. VALENTINE-No.
MR. MAGOWAN-Obviously you’re going to have to start that this year. You’ll see. You’ll get into it .
MRS. MOORE-So I do have a public. Since he’s up there I may as well read it in case you have a response
or questions.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, we did open the public hearing. I haven’t gotten any phone calls, but are there written
comments?
MRS. MOORE-There is.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MRS. MOORE-There’s one in here. So this is addressed to Mr. Traver and the Planning Board members.
“As owner of 14 and 16 Twicwood Lane, I have deep concerns regarding the proposed commercial
development of Tax Map # 296 .9-1-13 . I understand commercial brings more to Queensbury's coffers than
residential, but must it be at the expense of residential areas? I have owned my home since April of 1973
and seen many changes through the years, beginning in the mid 1980's due primarily to substantial clearing
of mature trees and underbrush after town-wide rezoning. The concept of clearing trees and grading on
this subject property is distressing. My property, as do most homes backing along Route 9 on Twicwood
Lane, sits on a ridge. The proposed clearing on this project is likely to allow noise and light pollution. There
is no fence nor new plantings that can replace 60' oaks, maples, and dense underbrush. They help absorb
noise and deflect or block light. I bring before the Town Planning Board six issues: 1. I request the board
require the applicant leave all vegetation to the rear of these proposed new buildings and relocate the storm
water management system to the front of the building under a permeable surfaced parking lot. 2. The
proposed lighting by this applicant looks to have exposed bulbs on the back side facing our neighborhood.
Please require a different type of lighting which would not allow lights to spill into our backyards. This
time of year, when leaves are off the trees, is particularly problematic. 3. If you allow clearing on this
property for rear property drainage, I request the applicant be required to construct an 8'-12' high, dense
cement retaining wall, not wood or metal fence, and built in such a manner 6' tall Thuja Green Giant
Arborvitae trees are to be planted at this height, not ground level. Please require Thuja evergreens.
Initially, these are more costly, but they are resistant against damage from deer which reside in these
woods. Stipulation also needs to be included requiring that any property owner, present or future, will
maintain this barrier. 4. Construction of these buildings needs to be built in such a manner that they are
soundproof . Previous experience involving noise issues from an entertainment business along Route 9,
took years of battling with the Town and owner to resolve. Let's prevent that. 5. Any type of external
public address system or music speakers is to be banned. 6. Lastly, restricted hours of operation should
be included and stipulate that the business will not operate earlier than 8 AM or later than 10 PM. Thank
you for your time. Respectfully submitted, Linda S. McNulty”
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-Thank you, Laura. I don’t see anyone in the audience that wants to comment in person
and we’ve received no phone calls. We’ve heard written comment. So we’ll go ahead and close the public
hearing.
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
MR. TRAVER-Let’s see. The comments were hours of operation. You’ve addressed that, nine to nine,
which complies with the one concern that was mentioned about eight and ten. Would you be turning off
the lighting at nine o’clock at night when you close?
MR. BRINDLE-I honestly didn’t, I was probably going to just lights for dusk to dawn, but I mean we could
turn them off when we leave. I just see it as a security issue.
MR. TRAVER-Well if they’re on all night you can imagine that if there’s someone that has a home nearby
that light is going to be on all night long, it’s going to be.
MR. SANDBLOM--Yes, I’ll address that. Can you pull up the lighting?
MR. MAGOWAN-Well you’re going to have the covered porch, you know, walkway, right?
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes, so they’re not going to see.
MR. MAGOWAN-It’ll be up in the soffit, and it does go to a hill in the back. So I guess my concern is I
mean I know we have, there is some land back in there, and you basically butt up pretty much to Furniture
House, and I know it’s kind of an odd shape because when we subdivided there for the Furniture House,
you’ve got that boot leg over there for them to get the green space. So I see if there’s anything we can do
with the well-drained soils and that, to keep that buffer along that back is challenging as it may be, if that’s
something you can do.
MR. SANDBLOM-Now, what I do, first the light, they wouldn’t really see any light because where they
are is up here. Where the light is is down here. So for the chances of them having light in there is small.
Now I do have the fence going along the residential side, but I also have another section of it going like 10
or 15 feet back. It’s not the whole length of the property, but there is something.
MR. MAGOWAN-Now how high is that fence?
MR. SANDBLOM-The Town says it’s six feet. If you’re requesting something different, then I can look at
that.
MRS. MOORE-I was going to say, fences are reviewable by the Planning Board in commercial zones. So
if you propose something higher than six feet, that’s reviewable by the Planning Board. It’s something that
the Board could discuss. It may be something that needs to be presented to them.
MR. BRINDLE-I mean I’m open for suggestions. If it’s got to be eight foot, then I’ll make it eight foot. I’d
prefer not to go much higher than eight feet just because I’ve got a commercial building in Kingsbury and
I’ve dealt with, they made me put up a 10 foot fence. It keeps falling down because of the wind.
MR. HUNSINGER-Your buildings are only 12 feet tall.
MR. BRINDLE-Correct.
MR. HUNSINGER-So I mean a six foot fence is going to block half the building.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes, and usually they’re set down in.
MR. HUNSINGER-And you do have that buffer from the Furniture House.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes, but that’s the Furniture House buffer, too. So we can’t count that buffer.
MR. HUNSINGER-No, no, no. I’m not counting it. I’m just saying that the woods are still there.
MR. BRINDLE-Yes, and I am keeping the trees as many trees as I can, because I can’t impede on the
stormwater in that corner. I believe there was six trees that were going to be saved.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes, along the side there.
MR. DIXON-I mean looking at the lighting plan, I don’t have any issues specific to the lighting. It’s
minimal.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes, but what’s concerning is you’re leaving them on the sides there. The people that
are complaining are in the back.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes.
MR. MAGOWAN-So I don’t know if your engineer can hop up here so we can drill him just as hard as
you.
MR. BRINDLE-No problem.
MR. MAGOWAN-What can we do? Because it’s always been a concern along there and I just, we grew
up on the backside of that, or I did, on Greenwood, way back on the backside, and I know Twicwood and
I know all about the noise, the go karts and those things, Suttons and Dream House, and I’m not against
growth. I like the growth. So whatever we can do to help maintain because I know you do get a lot of
reflection off of Route 9, the car noise, the go karts. Now with the brewery across the street, all the
whooping and hollering going on. So if there’s anything we can do to mediate that, because you really are
going right to that back one, and we have buffer zones there for a reason. It is kind of tight what you’re
doing here/
MR. SANDBLOM-Certainly, and I do have to reiterate the thinking that that fence is going to do an awful
lot to help buffer that, but so are the buildings themselves. Where the lighting is going to be in mostly the
parking area, you know, the buildings are between that and the residential area, and also I guess there was
mention about noise and these are, the activities are to be conducted indoors. So the buildings themselves
should do an awful lot to mitigate that. There was a suggestion about flipping drainage with having the
stormwater at the front of the site, and that would be a significant challenge from a grading standpoint.
We would basically, you know it would be exceptionally costly and much more environmentally
impactful, I think, to raise up that site in order to push the stormwater the other way. What we generally
try to do is maintain existing drainage patterns and that’s what we’re doing here. So from a stormwater
environmental standpoint, I have to say that really what we’re proposing is the best solution. Other
potential mitigating factors could be to modify the landscaping a little bit and maybe consider different
types of plantings in that buffer area. Now we can’t go in the infiltration basin or the four bays for instance,
but there can be plantings allocated to the edges of those.
MR. MAGOWAN-I mean I know you can get large shrubs, and we always talk about six footers, but you
take a six footer in a ball and you put it in the ground you end up with a four foot tree. Do you know what
I’m saying? So what I say is well I’d like to see an eight footer or a ten footer, but I know they do sell some
robust green trees, depending on your clearing in the back, if you can fill that in, you know, beyond the
fence, so you’ll have your fence, I don’t have a problem with an eight foot high fence, because you still have
that right of way path there that’s next to you there for Dan Mullins there. That actually is a residential
hump there. So I think it’s a great project. Whatever you can do to increase that buffer in the back would
be great, and I understand about the movement of the water, but like I said I know that area and I know
the sands and you’re spot on.
MR. SANDBLOM-So I guess once again we think we are mitigating that with the fencing and the way the
buildings are situated and that. So one additional thing that’s been discussed here is maybe increasing
that fence to eight feet and the only other thing I can think of is to talk about the landscaping.
MR. BRINDLE-Yes, I mean we can put some other plants in there, put an eight foot fence up and maybe
taking some of the species that are being presented and rearranging them or potentially going with
something that’s going to be more of a screen.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, I think those suggestions would definitely help.
MR. DIXON-Are there any mature trees that can be kept on the, I guess it would be more towards the
northwest?
MR. SANDBLOM-Not really. It’s really on the sides because towards the back is where it thins out. So
there’s really nothing back there.
MR. HUNSINGER-Well and you already said you really can’t put trees in your sediment basin.
MR. SANDBLOM-Correct.
MR. VALENTINE-You’re only dealing with a one acre site.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-All right. Well those improvements I think make quite a difference.
MR. HUNSINGER-So one of the things you talked about was the egress and access out front, and I mean
we actually have it in the Code to encourage cross lot access. So that’s a good thing, but we haven’t really
talked about the, other than Mike’s comment about what DOT might say about the width of your
driveway, but I think we should talk about it and I don’t have strong feelings one way or another.
MR. SANDBLOM-And perhaps that’s an oversight on my part, but if DOT’s going to require a permit, a
permit’s going to have to be obtained. Now we have coordinated with water and sewer. We’ve gotten
some comments back there. I didn’t mention that before. There is a manhole already. There’s an
easement that’s right in front of the property there and there’s a manhole right there. So the plan is to tie
into that but for the water, water is just off the curb. So that is in the DOT right of way. So in order to
make the water connection, that will require a DOT permit but the Town obtains those permits and it’s
actually a requirement that the Town do the work and obtain that permit for that. So there will be some
DOT coordination on that aspect. So they will be looking at the parcel, but we’ll, right after this, tomorrow
we’ll be in contact with the office up in Warrensburg and just make sure they’re aware of the project ahead
of time to see if they have any comments on that existing curb cut and just being used as a commercial
access.
MR. VALENTINE-I’ve just found with some of them if a driveway is not used for a while or a change in
use that they say, no, you’ve got, there may be a permit for that one already on record and that’s what
they’re going to say.
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes, I’ve experienced that, too, and I’ve also, you know, been in situations just like this
where they’re like, you know, as long as, if we’re not touching it, we don’t require a permit. The minute
we have to touch it, all of a sudden they want us to completely re-design it and analyze all of our
stormwater flows and all that.
MR. VALENTINE-Your first parking stall on the left as you go in, is that going to be problematic with
people coming into the site from that driveway?
MR. SANDBLOM-It shouldn’t be. There’s quite a bit of room. If you see how much space there is from
that parking space to across the rest of that lot right there. This area right here there’s really, you know,
so for a vehicle to come in here there’s plenty of room for making maneuvers in the property that way.
Nevertheless by most standards I think that there’s plenty of room there.
MR. BRINDLE-That’s got to be 60 feet.
MR. SANDBLOM-It is. It’s about 60 feet. That’s purely a nature of, you know, the site and the way it
turns out. It didn’t need to be made that wide, but just give it the way out of the buildings and to maintain
parking and most importantly to maintain that cross connection with the neighboring parcel.
MR. MAGOWAN-And I really appreciate you reaching out and asking the neighbor, and I know we’re
always happy to see a share like that. We just did that right down there with UNOS and the Subway. It
really makes it work out nice and keeps our curb cuts down.
MR. SANDBLOM-Right. That keeps the traffic from just one access, more distributed.
MR. DIXON-So, Mr. Chairman, what I’m hearing the fence that’s denoted as six foot is going to become
an eight foot fence?
MR. TRAVER-Yes.
MR. DIXON-Is the requirement.
MR. TRAVER-Yes. So how does the Board feel? The applicant’s offered some additional buffering, the
fence a little taller. I think we’ve addressed most of the public comment. Does the Board feel comfortable
moving forward?
MR. DIXON-Do we want to detail the buffering or are we just taking the buffering as it is and just noting
the fence?
MR. TRAVER-Well they mentioned the fence and some additional plantings I think.
MRS. MOORE-So can I, if you look on the plans, the fence is only a portion of that back corner. So are
you looking at a higher property line or are you just looking at as it is proposed? And I just want to step
back to the drive aisle entrance. So this is maybe another additional discussion with the Town in reference
to we require a 20 foot or two way access. It’s typically to access the parking stall. I don’t know, and I’d
have to look a little bit deeper, if we require a width for a two way access point. I just know that to access
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
the parking stall it has to be 24 feet and two bays, and that’s something you can address, but I don’t think
we ultimately discussed whether the entrance area needs to be 24 feet and I don’t have an answer to that
at the moment.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MRS. MOORE-The actual width of the curb cut.
MR. SANDBLOM-You’re talking here. So that’s 21.75 and I mean I can tell you as far as the travel lane
goes, I mean I’ve seen highways on the national highway grid with nine foot lanes. That’s not ideal, but
you can function. That’s my point. You can function. Now the standard of 24 foot width, that is very
standard across many, many jurisdictions. You’re going to have perpendicular parking for two way traffic
that would be a 24 foot width, and that’s not necessarily what’s happening right here. This is just the
access onto the property. What we would be talking about is 24 like up here or here, and we do have one,
we have at least 24 feet in both of those scenarios. So, I guess from an engineering standpoint we think it
would be acceptable for that to be a two way entrance, but just have to.
MR. TRAVER-You’re going to be having discussions with DOT anyway.
MR. SANDBLOM-True.
MR. TRAVER-And if you present that you’re going to be in compliance with what they require, I think
that’s acceptable to us.
MR. SANDBLOM-Okay.
MR. TRAVER-Anything else from members of the Board?
MR. HUNSINGER-So I think we need to be clear, though, on where the buffer is required. Because clearly
it’s not required in the back. It’s only required on the side. Right?
MRS. MOORE-It’s required where it adjoins residential, like the residential property, and as I pointed out,
or Brad pointed out it’s kind of a strange lot here.
MR. MAGOWAN-A lot of L’s.
MRS. MOORE-Yes, there’s a lot of L’s. So this lot is residential. This lot is not and this lot is not. This
lot is.
MR. HUNSINGER-But it’s just that flag shaped lot that’s residential. Correct?
MRS. MOORE-Correct. It’s not just the flag shaped lot. It would be t is lot as well. These three lots.
MR. HUNSINGER-But he’s not adjacent to that lot. There’s property between them.
MRS. MOORE-Yes, but he’s still within 50 feet of that lot. So the flag lot and the lot that.
MR. SANDBLOM-So that’s precisely why the fence is proposed to wrap around that corner, to buffer from
those residential properties.
MRS. MOORE-Which is fine.
MR. HUNSINGER-I just wanted to clarify for the record that we had the conversation and exactly what
it was that was required. So that it would be on the record and so that we would all understand that
that’s.
MS. WHITE-So this spot right there, can that be built. Can that be cleared at any point in time?
MR. MAGOWAN-That lot behind is Dream House, Dream House Furniture which was part of Suttons.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes, it’s commercial.
MR. MAGOWAN-That’s commercial.
MRS. MOORE-At the moment, and I’d have to look back at the condition, I think that was to be left the
way it’s presented here, but it doesn’t mean that the applicant couldn’t come back in and change that.
MR. DIXON-So are we still looking for additional buffer plantings in the north, what is it, the northeast
corner, and if so, what type and how many?
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. MAGOWAN-Well he’s leaving a lot of trees along that side, but you’re talking up there in that corner.
I mean if they could leave as many trees as they can all the way up there I don’t have a problem with that.
Yes, because that’s far away. Your retention bin kind of goes across like this. Right?
MR. SANDBLOM-Yes, there’s a swale that goes to that.
MR. MAGOWAN-I mean you could leave more trees there. Correct?
MR. SANDBLOM-I think the point is that there aren’t really many existing trees there right now.
MR. MAGOWAN-Well in the picture it looks like there’s something there.
MR. VALENTINE-Are there any setback requirements between the buildings? Or just from the property
lines?
MR. TRAVER-Just between the property and the residential property.
MRS. MOORE-Right. So that’s a discussion with Building and Codes. I believe they’ve already discussed
some of these aspects with Building and Codes. That didn’t come across to me as being, Dave didn’t
approach me and say there’s an issue with building.
MR. SANDBLOM-The only thing was it’s 25 feet from the side lot which is plenty there, and it has to be
five feet, the buildings have to be five feet apart, which they are.
MR. VALENTINE-Five? Okay. And that satisfies ISO standards for insurance and stuff then?
MR. SANDBLOM-It satisfies Dave. So I don’t know. That’s what he said it has to be for building.
MR. VALENTINE-Okay.
MR. DIXON-All right. So we’ve got the fence. We’ve got the south entrance is to be reviewed by DOT,
but I’m still confused on the buffer as far as are we asking for additional plantings and what type, or are we
leaving it? What are we looking for?
MR. TRAVER-Well, let’s ask the Board. Are we asking them for additional plantings or fencing?
MR. MAGOWAN-You’re coming how far across over there?
MR. SANDBLOM-So the fence it goes off the, page down here, up to here, and then it ends right about
there. Maybe a little less than that. I think about 15 feet or so I was coming off the back side.
MR. MAGOWAN-Well it looks like you’ve got four and you’re missing the fifth post at the end. You’ve
just got your fence dangling out there.
MR. SANDBLOM-Okay, that’s my fault. That’s our drafting. I apologize.
MR. MAGOWAN-I’m happy because that protects the residential zone and if we could get plantings right
along from the edge of that plant, you know, across, of some substance that will put up that berm and high
enough.
MR. TRAVER-That’s the stormwater area. You’re talking about in here?
MR. MAGOWAN-I’m talking in between the stormwater, no, the stormwater is down where the dotted
line is. That’s tapered in. Right?
MR. SANDBLOM-So this is sediment is in the four bay and then this is the infiltration basin.
MR. MAGOWAN-So above the dotted lines, between that, the small dots and the big dots.
MR. SANDBLOM-So this little space here between the top of the four bay and the property line, there is a
small amount in there.
MR. MAGOWAN-All right. How much do you think? So you could put a nice clump of maybe big
hemlocks?
MR. TRAVER-That might be easier to just extend the fence.
MR. BRINDLE-I mean do you want me to just put the fence all the way across?
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-How does the Board feel about that?
MR. MAGOWAN-All right.
MR. TRAVER-That would be easier, and the maintenance of it.
MR. MAGOWAN-I’m happy with that, if everybody else is.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
MR. VALENTINE-That works. You’ve got vegetation existing on the other side of the property line.
MR. TRAVER-Right. All right. So extending that would be the northeast border. Anything else?
MRS. MOORE-Can you go over some of the items that you were discussing that you may put into the
conditions?
MR. DIXON-So we’re talking about the fence noted on the site plan to be eight feet versus six feet as shown
on Drawing Detail Number C-501 and extend across entire northeast border. That was one of them. The
second one is the south entrance currently denoted as 21.75 feet wide is to be reviewed by DOT.
MR. HUNSINGER-So I looked up the Town Code. Town Code says, and this is under Parking and
Loading regulations.
MRS. MOORE-Right. That’s where I got it.
MR. HUNSINGER-Each parking space shall be reached by an access driveway at least 24 feet clear in
width for two way traffic or 12 feet clear in width for one way traffic.
MR. TRAVER-And they’re making a provision for connection to the other lot. So they’re saying one way
traffic.
MR. HUNSINGER-Well they’re saying it could be one way traffic.
MR. TRAVER-Right.
MRS. MOORE-I think the question is whether that entrance could be a two way point. So I think you
want an answer from DOT of whether that could potentially be a two way.
MR. HUNSINGER-Well it sounds like it wouldn’t be acceptable to Town Code is what I’m suggesting.
MRS. MOORE-Right. So that may come back and be a variance request for the Town Code, but again if
DOT is controlling that, I don’t know who supersedes.
MR. SANDBLOM-How about we just make it one way and the two way is on the other side?
MR. VALENTINE-That was going to be a recommendation. If you got the cross connection.
MR. HUNSINGER-Okay. That’s fine with me.
MR. DIXON-Then it’s just going to be a one way, one way in or one way out?
MR. BRINDLE-One way in.
MRS. MOORE-So I’m not quite certain if the Planning Board can say it needs DOT review because it would
be subject to a regular, because we don’t have control over their conversations with DOT.
MR. MAGOWAN-Well I would just like to make sure that we know that DOT is okay with it and that
way it doesn’t hold you up.
MRS. MOORE-Okay.
MR. HUNSINGER-If DOT says it’s okay for two way, is that okay with the Board?
MR. VALENTINE-The applicant sounded like he wanted it one way.
MR. BRINDLE-We can just make it one way in and that way we don’t have to worry about it.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. MAGOWAN-One way. Don’t even talk two way now.
MR. DIXON-Okay. So the south entrance that is currently there is to be a one way entrance and meets
DOT approval.
MR. TRAVER-Right.
MR. MAGOWAN-That sounds good.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, I think that covers everything.
MR. HUNSINGER-I don’t see any reason why they wouldn’t approve it if it’s just one way.
MR. TRAVER-Right.
MR. HUNSINGER-There’s plenty of width.
MR. TRAVER-All right. Anything else, or are we ready to hear that resolution?
MR. DIXON-The SEQR is first.
MRS. MOORE-So another item was to confirm that you wanted the original lighting plan and not the
alternate one.
MR. SANDBLOM-So our original approval had the just under two and a half foot candles and we came
prepared with another one, but if the Board’s okay with it, we’d like to stick with the original proposal.
It’s slightly under the recommendation of two and a half foot candles, but we feel it’s adequate to provide
the security and at least it keeps the brightness down a little bit.
MR. HUNSINGER-So one of the things that lighting plans never show is the existing background lighting,
and Route 9 is lit.
MR. VALENTINE-And you’ve got Cumberland Farms right there.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes, Cumberland Farms.
MR. TRAVER-Yes, I would rather have it lower.
MR. HUNSINGER-And when you look at the actual plan, even though it doesn’t meet the minimums, the
average min, where the lighting is needed they have it.
MRS. MOORE-Just a side note that one of the comments from the public was it looked like there were
lights on the rear of the buildings, but I didn’t seem to see that, and I just wanted to confirm that there isn’t
rear light.
MR. BRINDLE-No.
MR. HUNSINGER-And they’re not open late anyway.
MR. TRAVER-Right.
MR. MAGOWAN-I’m a little confused here. You guys think this is going next to Cumberland Farms?
Cumberland Mine is a cigar shop.
MR. VALENTINE-Yes.
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes, that’s right.
MR. MAGOWAN-So I just don’t want you thinking that this is parking next to the big white building.
MR. HUNSINGER-No, it’s the street lights on Route 9 that make all the light. It’s the street lights on
Route 9.
MR. MAGOWAN-But it’s not Cumberland Farms. It’s next door. It’s Cumberland Mine which is
Smokin’ Joe’s there
MR. DIXON-So are we doing the original lighting plan or the?
MR. TRAVER-Original lighting plan. Yes.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. TRAVER-So we have to consider SEQR. We have to do a SEQR resolution. Do folks have
environmental concerns on this application?
MR. HUNSINGER-No.
MR. TRAVER-It seems like we have a robust stormwater plan. People feel comfortable going ahead with
SEQR?
MR. HUNSINGER-Yes.
MR. MAGOWAN-Yes.
MR. TRAVER-Okay.
RESOLUTION GRANTING A NEGATIVE SEQR DECLARATION SP # 54-2020 LUXURY BOX, LLC
The applicant proposes to install seven separate buildings connected by a covered walkway and façade
feature 4,685 sq. ft. total. Project includes site work, grading, stormwater management, lighting,
landscaping and connection to municipal water and sewer. The project will be for interior commercial
recreation facility. Pursuant to Chapter 179-3-040 of the Zoning Ordinance, new commercial construction
shall be subject to Planning Board review and approval.
The Planning Board has determined that the proposed project and Planning Board action is subject to
review under the State Environmental Quality Review Act;
The proposed action considered by this Board is Unlisted in the Department of Environmental
Conservation Regulations implementing the State Environmental Quality Review Act and the regulations
of the Town of Queensbury;
No Federal or other agencies are involved;
Part 1 of the Short EAF has been completed by the applicant;
Upon review of the information recorded on this EAF, it is the conclusion of the Town of Queensbury
Planning Board as lead agency that this project will result in no significant adverse impacts on the
environment, and, therefore, an environmental impact statement need not be prepared. Accordingly, this
negative declaration is issued.
MOTION TO GRANT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR SITE PLAN 54-2020 LUXURY BOX,
LLC. Introduced by Michael Dixon who moved for its adoption.
As per the resolution prepared by staff.
1. Part II of the Short EAF has been reviewed and completed by the Planning Board.
2. Part III of the Short EAF is not necessary because the Planning Board did not identify potentially
moderate to large impacts.
nd
Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Ms. White, Mr. Shafer, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-Next we can consider the Site Plan approval resolution with the conditions that we’ve
added.
RESOLUTION APPROVING SP # 54-2020 LUXURY BOX, LLC
The applicant has submitted an application to the Planning Board: Applicant proposes to install seven
separate buildings connected by a covered walkway and façade feature 4,685 sq. ft. total. Project includes
site work, grading, stormwater management, lighting, landscaping and connection to municipal water and
sewer. The project will be for interior commercial recreation facility. Pursuant to Chapter 179-3-040 of
the Zoning Ordinance, new commercial construction shall be subject to Planning Board review and
approval.
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
Pursuant to relevant sections of the Town of Queensbury Zoning Code-Chapter 179-9-080, the Planning
Board has determined that this proposal satisfies the requirements as stated in the Zoning Code;
As required by General Municipal Law Section 239-m the site plan application was referred to the Warren
County Planning Department for its recommendation;
The Planning Board opened a public hearing on the Site plan application on 12/22/2020 and continued the
public hearing to12/22/2020, when it was closed,
The Planning Board has reviewed the application materials submitted by the applicant and all comments
made at the public hearing and submitted in writing through and including 12/22/2020;
The Planning Board determines that the application complies with the review considerations and
standards set forth in Article 9 of the Zoning Ordinance for Site Plan approval,
MOTION TO APPROVE SITE PLAN 54-2020 LUXURY BOX, LLC; Introduced by Michael Dixon who
moved for its adoption.
According to the draft resolution prepared by Staff with the following:
1) Waivers requested granted: an 8 foot fence in lieu of a 50 ft. vegetative barrier between commercial
and residential use;
2) The approval is valid for one (1) year from the date of approval. Applicant is responsible for
requesting an extension of approval before the one (1) year time frame has expired if you have not
yet applied for a building permit or commenced significant site work.
3) Adherence to the items outlined in the follow-up letter sent with this resolution.
a) The limits of clearing will constitute a no-cut buffer zone, orange construction fencing shall
be installed around these areas and field verified by Community Development staff;
b) If applicable, the Sanitary Sewer connection plan must be submitted to the Wastewater
Department for its review, approval, permitting and inspection;
c) If curb cuts are being added or changed a driveway permit is required. A building permit will not
be issued until the approved driveway permit has been provided to the Planning Office;
d) If application was referred to engineering then Engineering sign-off required prior to signature of
Zoning Administrator of the approved plans;
e) Final approved plans should have dimensions and setbacks noted on the site plan/survey, floor
plans and elevation for the existing rooms and proposed rooms in the building and site
improvements;-
f) If required, the applicant must submit a copy of the following to the Town:
a. The project NOI (Notice of Intent) for coverage under the current "NYSDEC SPDES
General Permit from Construction Activity" prior to the start of any site work.
b. The project NOT (Notice of Termination) upon completion of the project;
c. The applicant must maintain on their project site, for review by staff:
i. The approved final plans that have been stamped by the Town Zoning
Administrator. These plans must include the project SWPPP (Storm Water
Pollution Prevention Plan) when such a plan was prepared and approved;
ii. The project NOI and proof of coverage under the current NYSDEC SPDES General
Permit, or an individual SPDES permit issued for the project if required.
g) Final approved plans, in compliance with the Site Plan, must be submitted to the Community
Development Department before any further review by the Zoning Administrator or Building and
Codes personnel;
h) The applicant must meet with Staff after approval and prior to issuance of Building Permit
and/or the beginning of any site work;
i) Subsequent issuance of further permits, including building permits is dependent on compliance
with this and all other conditions of this resolution;
j) As-built plans to certify that the site plan is developed according to the approved plans to be
provided prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
k) This resolution is to be placed in its entirety on the final plans.
l) Fence noted on Site Plan to be eight feet tall versus six feet as shown on Drawing Detail
Number C-501 and to extend across the entire northeast border.
m) South entrance currently noted as 21.75 feet wide is to be a one way entrance and needs DOT
approval and that correspondence included in the Town Planning file.
n) Lighting plan is to be of the original proposal.
nd
Motion seconded by Brad Magowan. Duly adopted this 22 day of December 2020 by the following vote:
MR. TRAVER-Any discussion on the motion?
MRS. MOORE-I have two comments. The fence, and I didn’t look at the plan right this minute. Is it to
be a privacy fence versus a chain link fence?
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
MR. HUNSINGER-It’s wooden fence.
MR. SANDBLOM-There’s a detail on the drawing.
MRS. MOORE-And then in reference to the DOT, a correspondence to be included with the file. So it’s
not just them approving it. We would like a copy of the correspondence that has that discussion, and it’s
not necessarily an approval it’s just confirming that the entrance is an acceptable entrance or access point.
I just want to clarify, because I don’t know whether DOT officially says we approve this entrance. We
just want to confirm that this is acceptable. So it’s a DOT correspondence that you’re looking for.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. So we have an amended condition.
MR. DIXON-Amended condition Letter M. South entrance currently 21.75 feet wide is to be a one way
entrance and needs DOT approval and that correspondence included in the Town Planning file.
MRS. MOORE-Okay.
AYES: Mr. Shafer, Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Mr. Dixon, Mr. Traver
NOES: Ms. White
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-You’re all set.
MR. SANDBLOM-Thank you so much.
MR. TRAVER-That’s the last item on our agenda this evening. Is there any other business before the
Board?
MRS. MOORE-I just wanted to identify something that was provided to you. There was a resolution
setting a public hearing from the Town Board to amend the Queensbury Town Code to add allowed uses
in residential zones and in reference to allowing tree service or landscaping companies, and I apologize. I
didn’t get a chance to look at this yet and this is probably the first time that you’re looking at this
information. The Town Board did ask for a referral or a recommendation on this and at the moment I don’t
have enough information to provide to you. I would ask that you look at it. There is an opportunity for
comment. If you do have additional comment, maybe I can forward it that way to the Town Board.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. Maybe we can discuss it next month after we’ve had a chance to look at it.
MR. MAGOWAN-There’s nothing pressing on it, is there?
th
MRS. MOORE-So unfortunately the Town Board’s public hearing is on January 11, and at this point again
the Town Board can refer information or they can make decisions on their own. So it’s not quite clear
whether they would just move forward on this public hearing or make a decision on this referral, or a
decision on this re-zoning, adding this use to that zone. So I just want to make sure you’re aware of it.
It’s in your hands now, but I’m not quite sure how to proceed other than to ask you to refer your comments
if you get a chance to read it.
MR. TRAVER-Okay. So if members of the Board have comments they should forward them to you as soon
as possible. Right?
MRS. MOORE-Yes.
MR. TRAVER-All right. We will do so. Thank you, Laura? Anything else before the Board this evening?
All right we’ll entertain a motion to adjourn.
MR. HUNSINGER-So moved.
MOTION TO ADJOURN THE QUEENSBURY PLANNING BOARD MEETING OF DECEMBER 22,
2020, Introduced by Chris Hunsinger who moved for its adoption, seconded by John Shafer:
nd
Duly adopted this 22 day of December, 2020, by the following vote:
AYES: Mr. Hunsinger, Mr. Dixon, Mr. Magowan, Mr. Valentine, Ms. White, Mr. Traver
NOES: NONE
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(Queensbury Planning Board 12/22/2020)
ABSENT: Mr. Deeb
MR. TRAVER-We stand adjourned for 2020, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you very much.
On motion meeting was adjourned.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
Stephen Traver, Chairman
45