Andrew Cole

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting addressed a public hearing for an applicant requesting variances for an accessory structure at 15 Walker Road, which is zoned R90. The required variances concerned the structure's area, as the proposed 4,824 square feet exceeds the 25% threshold, and height, as the proposed 26 ft height exceeds the principal structure's height of approximately 14 ft, despite being under the 35 ft maximum. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the substantial height variance (approximately 10 ft difference between the accessory structure and the principal structure's highest point), which requires determining the exact height of the primary residence. The board also addressed concerns regarding potential neighborhood character impact, fire safety risks related to storing gasoline items near a proposed wood-burning stove, and the rationale for the large square footage requested, including examples of other properties with disproportionately large accessory structures. The meeting was adjourned to allow board members the opportunity to review the site and the applicant agreed to provide specific property comparisons and documentation regarding the structure's use and layout.

The primary discussion involved the continuation of a public hearing for an area variance application concerning the Stani Poleb Barn at 15 Walker Road. The applicant requested relief for square footage (482 sq ft over the 25% threshold of the principal structure) and a height variance (approximately 20 ft due to elevations). Board members reviewed provided examples of larger structures (including agricultural buildings and a horse barn), noting differences in zoning districts and timeframes (some predating current regulations). The board debated the significance of these precedents versus the potential future impact of such a large structure. The town's zoning administrator, Jessica Peterson, formally recommended that the variance be granted, citing that the structure would not change the character of the neighborhood due to the property's 17 acres and heavy wooded nature, and that housing equipment indoors is preferable to outdoor storage. The applicant emphasized a willingness to implement screening or vegetation as conditions for approval.

The regular town board meeting addressed numerous resolutions. These included renewing an agreement with the county department of planning and development for reviewing planning and zoning applications, authorizing payment for HVAC improvements to the town hall lower floor, and renewing the shared animal control officer agreement for 2026. The board also established a Contingency and Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund, transferring $1 million from the unrestricted fund balance, which generated public concern regarding statutory limitations. Approvals were granted for contracts related to the 250th anniversary of America celebrations. Furthermore, the board approved revisions to the town fund balance policy, created a capital project fund for townwide reassessments, approved monthly budget revisions, and revised funding for the salt shed capital project. The board also addressed Cabling upgrades for the new phone system and revised ARPA funds related to the salt shed and Dorothy Day Park. Finally, the board acknowledged receipt of an advisory opinion from the town board of ethics and entered into executive session regarding a confidential ethics board inquiry.

The meeting commenced with introductory remarks, including fire exit information, and a review of productive initial weeks involving team-building meetings across all departments, including Highway. Board members were assigned liaisons to various departments. Discussions covered the beginning stages of planning for Community Day and the ongoing review and amendment of the town's procurement policy with legal counsel. Updates were provided on the town's Facebook page revitalization and plans to launch a town newsletter detailing community events, important discussions, and local happenings. Appointments were made for the chairs of the Zoning Board and Planning Board for 2026. Resolutions were approved concerning the change of the second town board meeting date in May due to Grievance Day, designating the official newspaper, approving an inclement weather policy, and establishing paid holidays for town employees. A resident raised concerns regarding the accessibility of a handicap railing following a recent snowfall, which was addressed by confirming maintenance procedures would ensure proper clearing and salting going forward. Another resident brought up the calendar listing for Columbus Day and advocated for its recognition as Indigenous People's Day to acknowledge local Native American history.

The special board meeting included introductory remarks expressing honor and commitment to better communication. The Highway Superintendent provided a report detailing extensive drainage pipe replacements (over 2,500 ft of HDP pipe) on Wooden and Washurn, as well as 350 ft on Forest Road. Work included preparing roads for paving on Roosevelt Drive, Harden Drive, Bow Lane, Dorne Road, Furnace Road, and Gardener Hollow Road, utilizing New York State funding including CHIPS monies. The highway department also assisted with widening roads and installing pipe at Dority Park and rebuilt the weir at the swimming lake. Key resolutions approved included the appointment of the Town Attorney following a rigorous RFP process favoring a firm with a team, renewal of rules for public comment (removing the signup sheet), the appointment of Kate Blake as Deputy Supervisor, the appointment of Alicia Torchuk as Town Clerk, and the extension of a full-time laborer position for the highway department. The board also designated the time and place for 2026 board meetings, moving the start time from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Finally, approval was sought for the 2026 highway materials bid.