Public Hearing Information
Town of Queensbury Planning Board
Public Hearing Information
Welcome!
This handout is provided by the Queensbury Community Development Office to help members of the public
participate in meetings of the Planning Board. We recognize that members of our community may rarely, if
ever, attend meetings of the Planning Board until they realize issues coming up for review may affect their
neighborhood or the Town as a whole. When that occurs, citizens are provided a forum to communicate
their concerns to the Town, either for or against an issue before the board. We welcome this input. In the
language used to organize meetings of the Planning Board, this forum is called a Public Hearing.
How does the Planning Board Prepare?
In preparation for hearing an application, the Town Planning office and the Planning Board review a great
deal of information. The application is checked to ensure it’s complete before the item gets on the agenda
for review. Before the meeting members of the Planning Board typically drive to the project site to ascertain
for themselves the context and impact of the project. Information from professionals is also reviewed on all
aspects of the application including traffic studies, environmental reports, engineering comments and peer
reviews on the technical designs, etc. These additional reports vary according to the nature of the project,
however, as much of this advance study as possible is completed prior to the night of the meeting.
One aspect of a proposed project which is difficult to obtain in advance is the impact of the project upon the
Public Hearing.
residents of the Town. This is the reason for the
What it is:
The public hearing provides a means for Town residents to present information to the Planning Board about
how they feel the project impacts them. This is very valuable, though subjective, information for members of
the Planning Board.
What it is :
NOT
The public hearing is not an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions of the applicant, or to be
critical of the applicant for making the application.
Tips for Presenting Comments:
1) Remember that members of the Planning Board may not live in your neighborhood. Try to explain
your comments in a way that can be understood by someone unfamiliar with the area.
2) Be specific, accurate and concise. There may be many who wish to speak so the Planning Board
Chairman will advise everyone of the time limit for participation.
3) Avoid repeating comments made by others. Due to time limitations, you may prevent someone else
from speaking who has something new and important to say.
4) Avoid personal attacks and impolite language. You might unintentionally discredit the important
information you are presenting.
5) Please turn off your cell phone so you will not disturb others.