Town of Arietta

The Zoning Board of Appeals convened to discuss a case regarding Shawn Taylor's request to subdivide his property. The request was initially denied by the Planning Board due to the house sitting on a non-conforming lot. The discussion involved the history of the property, changes in APA policy regarding natural subdivisions, and the applicant's intent to sell the house and retain the vacant property for hunting. The board members considered the variance criteria, including the potential impact on the neighborhood and environment. Ultimately, the board voted in favor of the motion to approve the subdivision, pending a response from the APA.

The Arietta Town Board meeting included discussions and resolutions regarding the reappointment of the Town Assessor and a new phone system agreement with Frontier. Reports were given on snowmobile trails, town buildings and grounds, recreation, the website and campsite, the lake, dam, cemetery, finance, the airport, internal management, insurance, the Superintendent of Highways, and zoning codes. The board discussed the savings of updating the phone system for the town and approved the installation of a firewall for cybersecurity. It was noted that Board Member John Rajca will be resigning, and suggestions were made for a replacement. The board also addressed why a citizen was not notified about the decision to eliminate one Justice position.

The meeting included discussions and resolutions regarding an inter-municipal agreement with Jefferson-Lewis-Hamilton-Herkimer-Oneida BOCES for drug and alcohol testing, and the adoption of legislation on public access to records (FOIL). Committee reports covered snowmobile trails, town buildings and grounds, recreation, website, campsite, lake, dam, cemetery, finance, internal management, airport, and insurance. The Superintendent of Highways provided a report, and the Zoning Codes and Zoning Officer discussed training updates. New business included a Memorandum of Understanding for the pre-development phase of the 370 Old Piseco Rd property and discussion about filling a councilman seat. The board also discussed the town's FOIL policy and meal allowances for town officials. The meeting concluded with the approval of bills and financial statements, public comments, and setting the date for the next meeting.

The Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing to consider a variance application for an addition to a camp at 909 Old Piseco Rd. The application was denied by the zoning officer due to non-compliance with shoreline setback requirements. Discussion centered on the interpretation of relevant codes, the proposed addition's size and height, septic system plans, and concerns from a neighboring property owner regarding well water purity. The variance was ultimately granted contingent upon approval from the APA and DOH.

The board reviewed the Vedder Project APA response, a two-lot subdivision creating a seasonal dock across wetlands. Discussion points included insufficient parking, lack of dock details, inspection and enforcement responsibilities, potential shed construction, vegetation removal, and dock hoisting mechanisms. A letter summarizing these issues will be sent to the APA.