Rebecca J. Schell

The board reviewed several project applications. They granted a one-year extension for construction deadlines for the Hyde Park Quick Stop. Site plan approval was granted for the Overdorf second dwelling unit project. A continued public hearing was held for Rent Space Self Storage, where the board discussed landscaping plan revisions, fire hydrant requirements, and drainage plans. Additionally, the board conducted a workshop to review the progress on the Sterling PUB phase 2 development.

The board discussed a resolution regarding the leasing of office space at the Union Cemetery and presented an acknowledgment to a long-serving community member for their years of service. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an educational presentation by the town engineer regarding MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) compliance requirements. This included discussions on the town's annual MS4 report, the development of a tailored storm water management plan, and upcoming GIS mapping projects to document and manage local storm water infrastructure.

The workshop provided a detailed presentation on the New Guinea community project, focusing on the preservation and interpretation of archaeological resources at Hackett Hill Park. Key discussion topics included the site's history, the archaeological significance of the remains found along Fredonia Lane, and the proposal to designate the area as an archaeological preserve. Attendees explored existing conditions, opportunities for signage and public accessibility, and the management of archaeological collections and materials. Concerns regarding the impact of recreational activities on the site were also addressed.

The Special Meeting and Public Hearings involved discussions and resolutions concerning zoning and grant applications. Two public hearings were held: one for Introductory Local Law No. A of 2026 concerning an amendment to the Zoning Map related to the NRI Hyde Park, LLC/CIA Resort Project, and another for the submission of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for improvements at Dinsmore Park, including new pickleball courts and an ADA-compliant pathway. The Town Board adopted Local Law 1 of 2026, which amends Chapter 108 of the Town Code to modify the boundary between the Saint Andrews District (SAD) and the Corridor Business District (CB) to align zoning with the refined resort hotel project details. Furthermore, the Board authorized the submission of the CDBG application for Dinsmore Park recreational enhancements. Legislative Aide updates advised residents to drive carefully following snow storms and clear snow from fire hydrants.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. Key discussions involved two new public hearings. The first concerned Cool Sunny Retail Cannabis, a dispensary proposed for 701 Violet Avenue. Discussions focused on modifications to elevations, site plan details including security, lighting, and landscaping adjustments, as well as complexities surrounding scale calculations, parking space dimensions, and impervious surface area requirements. A waiver for sidewalk requirements was also noted. The second public hearing addressed the Bellefield Phase 4A FDP for grading and tree felling, which necessitated adherence to specific seasonal windows for the Indiana bat and Blanding turtle. Concerns regarding erosion control and wetland resources were addressed through updated documentation provided by the applicant. The board acted to classify the cannabis project as a Type Two action under SEQR and referred it to various county and state agencies, adjourning that hearing to April 15th. The Bellefield project public hearing was closed, and a resolution to reaffirm SEQR and grant final development plan approval was presented.