Michael Ross Baldwin

The board discussed a proposed town land disturbance ordinance aimed at preventing unauthorized site clearing and managing significant grading changes. Key discussion points included the need for an educational program to inform the public and industry professionals about permit requirements, the importance of clarifying definitions related to topography and drainage, and the establishment of thresholds for administrative versus board-level oversight. The board also addressed strategies for better compliance enforcement and the potential for leveraging existing tools like aerial mapping for tracking property changes.

The board conducted a public hearing regarding a pre-application for Scuttlebridge LLC. The proposal involves a four-lot subdivision on a 16-acre parcel, utilizing a common driveway to minimize curb cuts. A significant portion of the land, approximately 50%, is designated as open space to preserve existing wetlands. Discussion points included the history of the site, previous clearing and farming activities, compliance with the aquifer protection overlay district, and potential ownership arrangements for the protected open space. Public feedback was solicited and heard during the session.

The board discussed the 2026 contribution to the Peconic Estuary Partnership, including federal and state funding matches and management committee roles. The proposal for program office support was reviewed, focusing on staff travel and community resources for septic improvement outreach. The board also addressed new land care training initiatives for homeowners and landscapers to promote environmentally sensitive practices, as well as a partnership with the Peconic Baykeeper to install a litter trap in the Peconic River to reduce marine debris.

The board conducted a public hearing regarding two primary agenda items. The first item addressed a pre-application for a two-lot subdivision at 11 Anderson Road, which was moved to a closed session with a 10-day comment period. The second item involved a pre-submission conference for the Topping Rose property, focusing on proposed plans for an underground parking garage, a new wastewater treatment system, additional guest cottages, and the expansion of guest accommodations. Key discussions centered on environmental impacts, construction details, traffic engineering, fire safety, and drainage protocols for the proposed infrastructure.

The board discussed resolutions previously scheduled for a cancelled meeting. Communications regarding various public notices, bid submissions, and proposed town code amendments were reviewed. Walk-on resolutions were added to the agenda, including the authorization to sign a stipulation of agreement, approval of a financial warrant, and the termination of a contract. Two public hearings were conducted: one concerning an amendment to the town code regarding parking permits, and another to consider an update to the community preservation fund water quality improvement project plan, including the expansion of priority area maps for sanitary system grant funding.