Town of Richmond

The meeting included the review and approval of minutes from the May 21, 2024, and June 5, 2024 meetings, with a technical correction noted for the Lowry matter in the May minutes regarding deck square footage. A new application was discussed concerning a request by Mary and William Costu to construct a 30 by 32 garage with a 10-foot relief of front setback, which was set for a public hearing on July 16, 2024. The board held a public hearing for an area variance application by Julia Lowry to replace an existing deck with a larger one, which was approved despite concerns regarding zoning code limitations for accessory structures in a residential district, noting the pre-existing non-conforming use of the house setback. The second part of the meeting involved reopening the public hearing concerning the application by Ian Bonai and James Maddock to permit live outdoor music at the Marina on Honey Lake. The board addressed findings related to the Short Environmental Assessment Form (SEAF), determining the impact would be moderate, and discussed proposed restrictions on entertainment times and the use of a decibel meter to control noise levels in the residential zone.

The meeting commenced with a moment of silence for a family in mourning. Key agenda items included the approval of bills and vouchers totaling $93,552. The minutes from April 8th and April 22nd were accepted. Reports covered several areas: the Lake Watershed Task Force decided to place a boat cleaning station at the boat launch, and an annual trash cleanup was held despite poor weather. The Main Street Enhancement Committee provided updates on the community kiosk map and discussed a site evaluation for landscaping along Main Street, emphasizing the use of native plants. They also proposed a plan to install hometown hero banners to honor local veterans at the town entrances and discussed using the central district for banners highlighting arts and recreation. Concerns were raised regarding the operation of golf carts, e-bikes, and scooters on public roads, prompting a request for increased patrol. The ZBA unanimously approved an area variance for a fence height at 8518 Brookview Drive. The Highway department reported on completing the roadside cleanup, receiving a new backhoe, and starting paving work. The Community Garden reported that all 26 garden beds are full. The Climate Smart Committee is awaiting a response on their application and is working on a climate adaptation plan.

The meeting involved discussions regarding subdivision requirements, specifically mandates for new surveys prior to subdivision taking place. Key concerns raised during the public hearing segment related to property development issues, including water runoff from an addition onto a pre-existing non-conforming lot, which was channeling water onto adjacent property. Another significant concern involved unapproved structures resembling a temporary deck built on blocks, which may violate setback requirements or coverage limits. The Board also discussed existing variances, potential issues with building coverage percentages relative to the 30% maximum, and the requirement for current surveys when applying for coverage area variances. There was a reference to escalating certain unresolved matters to Ontario County for review.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding the establishment of a local law to enact a 12-month moratorium on large-scale battery energy storage systems. Following the public hearing, the Board heard from a representative of the Festival of Liberty, who discussed plans for reimagining the Honeywell Hometown Event amidst current restrictions, including financing strategies and potential scheduling adjustments. A resident also presented a proposal for establishing a community garden in the local park, detailing potential benefits such as improving physical/mental health, air quality, and providing access to fresh vegetables for residents without garden space. The Board acknowledged the proposal, noting discussions within the Parks and Recreation Committee and current constraints such as existing land leases. Finally, the Board reviewed and approved the distribution summary for paying bills from March, totaling $38,214 from the General Fund and $80,670 from the VA Highway Town Wide fund.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding the Honeywell Hamlet Eric Area Transportation Study, intended as an amendment to the Town of Richmond Comprehensive Plan. Discussions addressed dozer rental costs from the sewer plant and ensuring proper documentation, including certificates of insurance, for town contractors. The board also reviewed budgetary transfers totaling $617,350, including appropriations for highway equipment and personnel services, and noted unanticipated revenue from the state aid consolidated highway fund. Further discussion covered inadequate paving work, which caused water pooling and safety hazards, resulting in the town withholding payment pending a corrective plan from the contractor. Additionally, updates were provided on the solar moratorium extension and a local law proposed to amend the Richmond Town Code concerning licensing for adult cannabis retail dispensaries and on-site construction sites, which was set for a permissive referendum. Finally, community updates included plans for a drive-through Christmas event utilizing solar-powered lights, and a note regarding issues with disappearing phones.