Daniel X. Welsh

This report, presented by the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, details the consultant search process and recommendations for updating the Town of Lewisboro's 1985 Comprehensive Master Plan and Zoning Code. The plan emphasizes engaging the Lewisboro community to inform the future vision of the town, ensuring fair and equal opportunities for input throughout the multi-year process. It outlines the committee's formation, mission, work to date, project phases (introductory, community engagement, and plan update), and the methodology used for consultant selection, ultimately recommending a specific consulting firm.

Key discussions during the meeting included significant public comment regarding a proposed Fourth Amendment Resolution, where residents voiced concerns about federal overreach and suggested focusing on local issues. Other topics included a resident's suggestion to install a guardrail on Flintlock Ridge, an update on the Senior Bus funding delay due to federal grant cuts, and a suggestion to pass a resolution opposing state legislation that removes home rule concerning Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), leading to a directive for the attorney to draft a moratorium for a future public hearing. The Board received a presentation from Optimum regarding service commitments, and appointments were made to the Landmarks Advisory Committee and the Advisory Committee for the Disabled. Furthermore, the Board authorized the Supervisor to sign agreements with Kellard Sessions Cermele & Johannessen Consulting for Stormwater Management Program services and field inspections. A subsequent discussion on the Fourth Amendment Resolution reaffirmed the desire to support local police upholding their oaths but did not result in a resolution being passed. The Board also discussed proposed local laws for Short-Term Rental Regulations and set a public hearing for March 23, 2026. New Business comments touched upon illegal activity at a tobacco shop and the complexities of STR regulations. The meeting concluded with acknowledgments for the Veterans' gathering, a request for future committee and financial report discussions, remembrance for K9 Zane, and an executive session to discuss real estate and attorney-client privilege matters.

The meeting focused on discussions regarding the Town's draft Short Term Rental (STR) regulations and the Committee's recommendations, noting concerns about the draft's handling of STRs used for events and the lack of regulation on maximum assembly. Enforcement by the Building Department was questioned. There were no new reports on affordable housing initiatives, although a New York Times article concerning 'granny flats' was referenced. Discussions covered ADU+1 housing, noting that the application window and financial support is closing in March, requiring outreach efforts. A report was provided on middle income (MI) housing at Oak Ridge in Vista and its mandated annual survey.

The meeting primarily addressed two agenda items requiring board review. The first item concerned a wetland permit review for the Bua residence, involving improvements including a pool, patio, and porch within the 150 ft buffer. Discussions focused on the required mitigation ratio, conversion from a rain garden to an infiltration system, invasive species removal (specifically Japanese knotweed and mugwort), and details regarding tree replacement, deer protection, and the pool wall specifications, with the item ultimately moved to administrative action. The second item involved a waiver of site development plan approval for a change of use application for The Creary at the Burrow, changing the use from indoor recreation to a fast food establishment. Key points covered included confirming compliance with cross slope requirements for ADA and non-ADA parking areas, and detailed proposals for updated site lighting, including three fixtures for the parking lot and two for a shed, along with ambient string lighting in an ornamental tree.

The meeting proceedings were delayed due to initial technical difficulties related to audio feedback and participant connections. The primary discussion centered on the resolution for authorizing the submission of an application for the Transportation Program Grant (TAP) for the Cross River sidewalk and pedestrian safety improvements. Concerns were raised regarding the significant projected cost increase from an initial estimate of $715,000 to $4 million, the necessity of a 20% local match, and the fiscal impact on residents already facing rising costs for other town projects. Members discussed the lack of concrete engineering and final cost data for the proposed 2/3 mile of sidewalks and the need for a better justification, such as density or economic benefit analysis, citing previous unsuccessful grant applications. Counterarguments highlighted that the project aligns with several existing town plans, including the Comprehensive Plan, Complete Streets Policy, and Bike and Pedestrian Plan, which should strengthen the current application. There was also a proposal to consider creating a Business Improvement District to manage localized investment. The consent agenda, which included the minutes of February 9th and the monthly financial report, was approved.