James Presutti

The Planning Board meeting addressed several subdivision and site plan applications. The board closed the public hearing for the Poppy Lane three-lot subdivision after discussing drainage improvements, including the installation of a 24-inch pipe within town easements and the requirement for additional survey information. For The Leaf New York, LLC, the board authorized the circulation of the application to the Orange County Planning Department and scheduled a public hearing. Finally, the board reviewed an amended site plan for Overlook Farms, which includes modifications to the clubhouse footprint, the replacement of tennis courts with pickleball courts, and the addition of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the site.

The board meeting covered a wide range of administrative and operational topics. Key agenda items included establishing 2026 water rates for the Stewart Air National Guard Base and scheduling spring hydrant flushing. The board approved an audit and budget status reports, and authorized expenditures for veterinary services from two animal hospitals. Additionally, the board renewed workers compensation insurance, reappointed the town prosecutor, and addressed various personnel actions within the highway department, including promotions and position changes. A resolution was passed to request a feasibility study for West Shore Passenger Rail Service. Other business included appointments to the Assessment Review Board, approval of a GIS mapping services proposal, and naming a private road in a subdivision. The meeting also included department reports, a public comment session regarding election integrity and rail service, and the creation of a sick bank for an employee following an executive session.

The board approved several financial matters, including the audit and a budget increase for legal-litigation defense. They authorized the disposition of unclaimed bail funds and approved various personnel actions, including hiring new staff in the recreation department and appointing a park attendant and laborer. The board awarded the 2026 drainage district maintenance contract and approved multiple securities and agreements related to the Gardner Ridge development, covering roadway improvements, stormwater erosion and sediment control, landscaping, and tree preservation. Additionally, they approved veterinary service payments for animal control and authorized a search for a part-time animal shelter helper.

The Planning Board meeting covered multiple development projects. Key items included the initial appearance for an EV charging station at 142 Route 17K, where site plan details and landscaping were discussed. The board granted conditional final approval for the 11-lot Rockwood Drive Subdivision after reviewing engineering details, drainage districts, and tree preservation plans. Additionally, the board approved vantage points for a visual assessment related to the Elkay Partners Development multi-family site plan. Finally, the board reviewed the status of the CFB Realty, LLC 14-lot subdivision, focusing on storm water design, utility extensions, and drainage district requirements.

The board conducted several public hearings regarding property zoning applications. Key actions included approving an interpretation that nursery school and daycare classifications are interchangeable for the Christian Friends Welcome Assembly, granting area variances for a proposed cannabis dispensary for Guru Baba despite community concerns regarding traffic congestion, and approving an area variance to create habitable space on an existing deck for Allen and Deb Monks. Additionally, the board initiated a discussion for a property conversion application by David DePuy, which could not be voted on due to a pending county referral.