CLERMONT PLANNING BOARD
MARCH 11, 2009
The Clermont Planning Board held its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at 7:30 P.M. at the Town Hall. Those present were Chairman Laurence Saulpaugh, Clayton Andrus, Nancy Sperry, Aldo Dusman, Robert Queirolo, Tom Jantzen and Garret O'Connor.
Also present were Ross Fenn, Robert Desmond, George Schmitt of Morris Associates and Andy Howard, Freeman Howard, P.C.
MINUTES: A motion was made to approve the February minutes by Nancy Sperry, seconded by Clayton Andrus. All in favor. So carried.
FAMILY SWEETS: A letter was sent to Ross Fenn, owner of the property at Route 9 and Route 6, regarding the Family Sweets retail store operated by Joyce and Jim Shaw.
The letter outlined what must be completed by May 1st in order for the use to continue. A light has been affixed which shines into the parking lot, Item #4 will be filled in parking lot and all but one tree has been removed. The secretary sent a letter also regarding the escrow fees, which are due. He will have to talk to the Shaw's regarding these charges.
(Add: Ross Fenn asked for an explanation of escrow fees.)
Andy Howard explained about the escrow and how it works. It is not the building, it is the site plan that is being reviewed to be sure that it conforms with the zoning. Chairman Saulpaugh has done a lot of the reviewing. Mr. Fenn met with the state DOT about the front of the store. He also met with the County about Route 6 entrance. They have extended the parking lot 40 feet and put up barriers in the front of the store so that no one could park on Route 9. Chairman Saulpaugh did also talk with the State and County and what was in the letter are the instructions he was given. Nancy Sperry told Mr. Fenn that the Shaw's came in representing Mr. Fenn and they were aware of the escrow fees. Mr. Fenn will speak to the Shaw's about the fees and when he has completed the work will let Chairman Saulpaugh know.
HUCKLEBERRY CROSSING: Updated plans were sent to Morris Associates for review. They have sent a letter to the planning board concerning the areas to be reviewed and expected escrow fees.
ZONING UPDATES: Councilwoman Carol Lent has been working with the Zoning Board of Appeals on changes to the zoning ordinance, in particular, wind power, solar panels, application and criteria for business permits and accessory apartments. She has come to the planning board for their input. She has spoken to Patrice Perry of the Columbia County Planning Department, who is very interested, as a section on alternative energy has not been done in any other Columbia County zoning. Minutes of this portion of the meeting will be emailed to the planning board members. It is expected that a public hearing can be held until May on these changes.
A motion was made to adjourn by Nancy Sperry, seconded by Clayton Andrus. All in favor. So carried.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Helen Shannon
Secretary