Michael Ragaini

The Village and Town of Coxsackie are updating their 2007 Joint Comprehensive Plan to build on recent community investments and address future growth. This plan will analyze current conditions, opportunities, and challenges to guide future development. It will serve as a 'work plan' to achieve overarching goals in economic development, community attractiveness, sustainability, and resiliency.

The Village of Coxsackie's Strategic Investment Plan aims to transform its natural beauty and historic downtown into a safe, vibrant 'front porch' on the Hudson River, serving as a dynamic destination for visitors and a nurturing home for families. Key strategic pillars include developing arts and cultural activities, expanding housing options and affordability, leveraging the Hudson River for recreation, enhancing pedestrian and bicyclist accessibility and safety, addressing youth needs, and stimulating local commerce. The plan outlines 11 ready-to-implement projects to attract investments, promote sustainable tourism, and drive economic growth, ultimately enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors.

The Planning Board Meeting included public hearings and discussions on several key projects. The board reviewed the proposed Site Plan for Schoolhouse Road Pediatrics PC, focusing on parking, lighting, and fencing details, and approved the issuance of a Negative Declaration and conditional approval of the Site Plan. The board also reviewed and approved the Site Plan application and signage permit for Coxsackie Creamery. Additionally, the board conducted a SEQRA review of Empire Riverfront Ventures, LLC's Site Plan application, discussing potential conditions related to operating hours, sound restrictions, and lighting, and approved the issuance of a Negative Declaration.

The Planning Board meeting included discussions and actions related to several key items. A Site Plan review and Public Hearing were held for Ravish Liquors, focusing on a proposed Speakeasy. The board reviewed the Site Plan application, discussing trash collection, fire hydrants, shrubbery, and required permits. The public hearing addressed concerns about noise levels from outdoor tables. The board also discussed a property dispute issue and the upcoming Public Forum hosted by the Village Board regarding a hotel project.

The Planning Board discussed several key items, including an application for consolidation of two parcels into one at 17 Riverside Avenue, and a sketch plan conference for the renovation of a building at 270 Mansion Street to be used as a pediatric office. UMH gave an informational presentation on their project overview, including a discussion of procedural issues, conceptual plans, and the annexation petition. The Board also reviewed the Site Plan application received from Empire Riverfront Ventures, LLC for 22-34, 52, 60 and 66 South River Street, including a discussion of property ownership issues, SEQR classification, and stormwater management.