James Oberst

Key discussions included an update from the Code Enforcement Officer regarding the Millstone project at Gateway Plaza, specifically concerning shell permits for buildings A and B and interior building permits. A report was given on the recent County Planning Board meeting, noting items from the Towns of Avon, York, Groveland, Livonia, and Lima, covering topics such as moratoriums on battery storage, site plan reviews for retail and storage facilities, erosion control, and zoning amendments. The primary focus of the meeting was the Public Hearing and final approval for the Wrightman Subdivision, which involved reviewing new survey maps with slight changes to wetland locations. Following the public hearing closure, the Board conducted the SEQR review, unanimously voting for a Negative Declaration for the subdivision, and subsequently granted final approval for the subdivision.

The Town Board meeting included the approval of Abstract #12 of 2025, totaling $263,225.30 across various funds, and the acceptance of the Town Clerk's Monthly Report for November 2025. A major discussion point involved supporting a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant application for a proposed sidewalk construction along Route 20A, which requires a 20% local match. The Town Historian provided an extensive annual report detailing the organization, cataloging, and relocation of historical documents and collections. The Board also acted on personnel matters by reappointing Carlton Maxwell to the Board of Assessment Review and setting the date for the 2026 Organizational Meeting. Further items addressed included allowing the Supervisor to sign the Boathouse Agreement and initiating the process to update the Comprehensive Plan adopted in 2009. The Board also began discussions on strengthening the Short-Term Rental Law and the legal steps required to permit marijuana dispensaries.

The 2022 Village of Geneseo Comprehensive Plan serves as a 15-20 year roadmap for community growth and vitality, aiming for a unified vision of Geneseo by 2040. Its mission is to "protect what we have while being purposeful in what we change and how we grow." The plan is founded on a vision for Geneseo as a community that respects its natural environment and historic character, fosters strong communications, and functions as a vibrant cultural hub. To achieve this, it outlines four key initiatives: implementing active transportation recommendations, improving communications with residents and stakeholders, enhancing parks and public spaces, and improving housing and enhancing livability.

The Planning Board meeting included discussions on the code enforcement report, which highlighted the efficiency of the new iWorQ permit system. The board reviewed a report from the County Planning Board meeting, covering a Livonia board approval for a subdivision and site plan, and a Mt. Morris zoning referral concerning large-scale solar installation. The board granted final approval for site plan modifications and a special use permit for a preschool, limiting student enrollment to 15 per session. They also addressed permit violations by a food truck operator, deciding to contact the property owner for intervention.

The meeting included a code report covering building permits and property setbacks, as well as updates on county planning board meetings. There was a conceptual review of the Laidlaw subdivision, involving the transfer of a lot to the applicant's son for building a house. The board discussed and granted preliminary approval for the subdivision, scheduling a public hearing for November 10, 2025. Additionally, the chair was authorized to sign the Jacox Creek 1 final site plan, with the final approval date noted as September 11, 2023.