Planning Board
Regular MeetingSaratoga Springs, NY · May 14, 2020
Minutes
PLANNING BOARD
MINUTES (FINAL)
THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2020
6:00 P.M.
ZOOM WEBINAR
CALL TO ORDER: Mark Torpey, Chairman called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG:
PRESENT: Mark Torpey, Chairman; Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman; Ruth Horton; Todd Fabozzi; Sara Boivin;
Lexie Bonitatibus; Kerry Mayo
STAFF: Susan Barden, Principal Planner, City of Saratoga Springs
Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development
Vince DeLeonardis, City Attorney, City of Saratoga Springs
ANNOUNCEMENT OF RECORDING OF PROCEEDING:
The proceedings of this meeting are being recorded for the benefit of the secretary. Because the minutes are not a
verbatim record of the proceedings, the minutes are not a word-for-word transcript of the recording.
A. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
Approval of meeting minutes was deferred to the end of the meeting.
B. POSSIBLE CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
NOTE: The intent of a consent agenda is to identify any application that appear to be “approvable” without need
for further evaluation or discussion. If anyone wished to further discuss any proposed consent agenda
item, then that item would be pulled from the “consent agenda” and dealt with individually.
NONE AT THIS TIME.
C. APPLICATIONS UNDER CONSIDERATION
1. 20200155 GUARINO/HANER SUBDIVISION, 21 Park Place, final subdivision review of a proposed two-lot
residential subdivision in the Urban Residential-4 (UR-4) District.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated this project is before the Board this evening for a two lot subdivision. The Board has
reviewed this application for a prior condominium project. This is a new application.
SEQRA:
Action appears to be an Unlisted Action. Part 1 of the Short EAF has been submitted. The property is adjacent to a
historic district. Also, identified on Part 1 the property is located in or adjacent to an area designated as sensitive for
archeological sites. The applicant’s agent will be in contact with SHPO for additional information.
Applicant: David Guarino & Linda Haner
Agent: Tonya Yasenchak, Engineering America
Ms. Yasenchak stated the project is located at the corner of Regent and Park Place. The previous project proposed was
two 2-family homes. We have scaled the project down and the applicants are now proposing a 2-lot subdivision. There
is one lot at 21 Park Place which houses the existing building containing 3 dwelling units. They would like to subdivide
one lot off to Park Place. The new lot would be 17 Park Place, with a separate driveway, and a detached garage.
Proposed lot dimensions were provided to the Board. In the past there was much discussion regarding the trees on the
property. Since that time there were some which needed to be removed. The property owner spoke with the City
Arborist who noted they were rotted from the inside. Currently the setback is 25 feet from the property line but with new
zoning this allows the property to be closer to Park Place. Brick sidewalks run along the perimeter of the property and
they will be repaired, including the area which does not have a sidewalk at this time. The existing hedge which runs
along the east side of the property will also remain. We will be working with the surveyor and obtaining an easement for
any type of utilities which will need to cross over the property.
Mark Torpey, Chairman questioned if the proposed home will be a one family.
Ms. Yasenchak stated the homeowners do not want to limit themselves since two family homes are allowed in this
district.
Discussion ensued among the Board regarding the type of trees on the property and requested confirmation of the
species from the City Arborist.
Sara Boivin questioned if there are conditions in a subdivision like this which would be sensitive to the placement of the
home on the site.
Susan Barden, Principal Planner stated this property is not within a Historic District but adjacent to a Historic District.
Once the Board begins the SEQRA review the impacts of the orientation of a subsequent structure and how that would
impact the historic homes can be discussed.
Todd Fabozzi agrees with Sara concerning the house orientation.
Discussion ensued regarding a home placement on the lot and proximity to the intersection as well as the view shed of
21 Park Place.
Ms. Yasenchak stated a garage is allowed in this district. It would be side loaded. Many carriage houses are located in
this area.
Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman stated in reviewing the neighborhood there are a number of homes in this area that have
detached garages and even attached garages. It wouldn’t be fair to eliminate the garage, however, he agrees with the
concerns regarding the orientation of the home on the lot.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated when this project was reviewed previously during the SEQRA review we did discuss and
have the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation review the design. It is certainly a relevant consideration.
Lexie Bonitatibus stated she feels the new proposed garage is in front of the new structure.
NEIGHBOR COMMENTS:
-email correspondence from John Wood, neighbor on May 12, 2020.
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 2 of 10
Ms. Yasenchak stated a detached garage/accessory structure is allowed in this district. The current owner/applicant
does not have any plans to personally develop this lot. Their plan is to market and sell the property. There are zoning
restrictions which would limit the height. We are trying to keep this as open as possible within the zoning restrictions.
I do not know what those requirements might be at this time. Ms. Yasenchak explained the orientation of the house at
21 Park Place.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated we are still awaiting a decision from the Saratoga County Planning Board regarding this
application. Therefore, we are unable to make a determination or decision this evening. Perhaps the applicant can
review an alternative design before our next meeting to discuss a different orientation that may work for both.
Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman stated historically this home probably had an entirely different façade. He agrees with the
applicant concerning the façade of the home on Regent Street which is logical and consistent. Concerning a
subdivision, one of the goals is to create uniform lots that are squared as much as possible. A different orientation
example might be beneficial as well but he is not totally against this plan either. Also, possibly reducing the number of
parking places off of Park Place might help.
Ms. Yasenchak provided information to the Board concerning parking and the logistics of current parking provided.
Todd Fabozzi suggested perhaps some input from the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation with regard to their
expertise regarding layout and fronting as well as input from the DRC could enhance our understanding of the historic
character and how it can be preserved.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated he would encourage seeking input from the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation as
well as the DRC.
PUBLIC HEARING:
Mark Torpey, Chairman opened the public hearing at 6:42 P.M.
Mark Torpey, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application.
Steve McIntyre, 10 Regent Street. Mr. McIntyre state he has lived in this area for 10-15 years. The original plan
submitted was too much. This plan makes sense. The applicant is not asking for any variances.
Andrea Gardner, Regent Street. The neighbors were not opposed to the development of Mr. McIntyre’s lot because it
was clearly a vacant lot. The lot at 21 Park Place looks like a spacious beautiful lawn. This looks like part of the
property.
Mark Torpey, Chairman asked if there were any further questions or comments. None heard.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated we will review SEQRA at the next meeting.
2. 20190604 THE CLUETT HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST, 2 Clement Avenue, permanent special use permit
for a neighborhood bed and breakfast within an Urban Residential-1 (UR-1) District.
Agent: Mike Toohey, Attorney
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated this project was heard previously by this Board. The application was denied on
November 7, 2019. The decision was challenged in an Article 78 hearing and then remanded back to the Board for
approval and consideration of appropriate conditions. Vince DeLeonardis, City Attorney will provide some information for
the Board and help set the stage for this application.
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 3 of 10
SEQRA:
This is a Type II action and exempt from further SEQRA review. Following issuance of SEQRA determination, the
application was denied on November 7, 2019. The decision was challenged and then remanded back to the Board for
approval and consideration of appropriate conditions.
Vince DeLeonardis, City Attorney stated there was an application last year before this Board for a Special Use Permit to
operate a Neighborhood Bed and Breakfast in a UR-1 Zoning District. The Planning Board heard that application on July
25th, September 19th, and November 7th, 2019 and ultimately rendered a Notice of Decision on November 21, 2019
which by vote of 5-2 denied the application for a Special Use Permit. The applicant ultimately challenged that
determination in Saratoga County Supreme Court by an Article 78 proceeding. Judge Crowel after reviewing and
considering the papers including our answer and objections and point of law by certified return which is the entire record
submitted to the Supreme Court. She issued a decision effectively annulling the Planning Boards denial of the Special
Use Permit and remanded the matter back to the Planning Board for the issuance of a Special Use Permit and for the
consideration of applicable conditions. Ultimately what is before this Board is not a determination on whether or not to
issue a Special Use Permit, this Board is required to do so via the court’s decision. It is up to this Board to determine the
appropriate conditions to be associated with the Special Use Permit.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated for this particular application this evening there is no public hearing required. However,
members of the public can provide comments during the public comment period. The comments we expect are to deal
with the conditions. We are required to issue a Special Use Permit.
Vince DeLeonardis, City Attorney stated pursuant to our zoning ordinance there are three types of Special Use Permits
that are available, a Permanent Special Use Permit, a Temporary Special Use Permit which runs to a specified date and
expires and an Renewable Special Use Permit which runs to a specified date and unless renewed expires.
Mr. Toohey stated the applicant did pursue an Article 78 hearing, which has allowed them obtain a Special Use Permit
from this Board. Mr. Toohey spoke about providing the neighbors another opportunity to speak regarding this permit
following several public hearings and their attempt to intervene at the Article 78 hearing is not fair to the applicants.
Discussion ensued among the Board regarding the types of Special Use Permits.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated what we will do is work through the conditions and discuss what is acceptable.
Discussion ensued among the Board regarding imposing restrictions on events or community activities.
Vince DeLeonardis, City Attorney stated the zoning ordinance language does allow for some commercial activity, it
doesn’t preclude it entirely. If you are going to utilize the definition of a B&B then you would do so understanding there is
some allowance in there.
Todd Fabozzi stated if we use the original language it would not be a condition it is simply an aspect of a B&B.
Vince DeLeonardis, City Attorney stated that is correct. There is no definition of what constitutes an event.
Mr. Toohey questioned if the word commercial is giving the Board difficulty. Perhaps removing commercial. A paid
party, a catered event.
Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman stated he would be fine with that if the applicant is willing to have that included.
Mr. Toohey stated that eliminates the commercial nature of events on that property.
Kerry Mayo questioned if there is only one kitchen on the site that itself is limiting.
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 4 of 10
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated this is a 5 bedroom B&B. We have spoken about the limitation of 10 adult occupants and
1 resident manager, with one kitchen within the property.
Mr. Toohey stated an occupant can invite people over but the limitation remains at one kitchen and 5 bedrooms.
Mr. Toohey asked if there is a limitation on how many people a neighbor in this area can invite to their home.
Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman stated he feels the Board should be careful around limiting the number of people allowed
on the site. If the applicant is willing to propose no catered events that we should leave it to them and consider this a
condition. There are 5 bedrooms to rent plus a resident manager and revisit the number of occupants or people allowed
at one time.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated he we will now move onto the operation of the B&B. Originally we spoke about April-
October and now the applicants are requesting full year operation.
Mr. Toohey stated that is what they are asking. If the Board feels this is more seasonal then the applicant will
accommodate that. These concessions are an accommodation which has gained the applicant nothing.
Operation – Full year.
Todd Fabozzi stated he is not supportive of restricting it by season. We should remove that restriction. We are a year
around community.
Lexie Bonitatibus agrees with Todd.
Mr. Toohey stated the seasonal operation was a way to attempt to appease the neighbors.
Sara Boivin stated she is in favor of a renewable permit. She does however; agree with Todd regarding the seasonality.
Kerry Mayo stated he also is in favor of removing the seasonality restriction.
Ruth Horton also agrees regarding removing the seasonality restriction.
Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman agrees with fellow board members regarding the seasonality. He also agrees with Sara
with the imposition of a 3 year renewable permit. This allows for the applicant and the property owners to work together.
Todd Fabozzi stated a condition which was offered by Mr. Toohey noting a condition of no outdoor activities after 10 PM,
should be included.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated he would like to review the site plan issues at this time with the Board.
Sara Boivin stated the Site Plan should be discussed separate from the Special Use Permit.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated the applicant has not submitted a site plan request simply the Special Use Permit.
This would require a separate application.
Site Plan Related Items were discussed – the first was sidewalks to connect safely to the park across the street at
Clement.
Mr. Toohey stated we sought a waiver on this since there are no sidewalks on Clement. You are trying to connect
something that does not have a connector to it. With regard to a crossing that would be fine. This is a severely
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 5 of 10
restricted B&B. The idea that we are required to make permanent Site Plan communal improvements again does not
make sense.
The typical site plan standards are going to be imposed on this than let us have the use and utilization of this property.
If we are going to have a limitation, and are required to install sidewalks, street trees and lighting or any other standard
requirements which could revert to a single family home do not seem fair.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated Special Use Permit and Site Plan approval from this Board feels it is appropriate for the
Board to speak about some of these issues. Regarding the sidewalk is an extension up from State Street, wrapping the
corner to get to the crosswalk would provide benefits to someone staying there with children to get to the playground. It
really is something from a pedestrian standpoint safer. It does seem relevant.
Todd Fabozzi spoke regarding having the applicant install sidewalks, etc., this should not be a temporary Special Use
Permit it should be a Permanent Special Use Permit.
Sara Boivin stated she does agree with the Todd and the sidewalk issue. It does seem to be a lot to ask for with a
Temporary Special Use Permit. She does however, agree with Site Plan Review.
Mr. Toohey stated the house is not changing at all.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated directional signage is proposed regarding drop-off and parking. We also spoke about
flooding issues in the area. There had been some work done between the City and Skidmore College and there was a
fundamental issue which has been remedied in this area.
Susan Barden, Principal Planner stated she will speak with DPW and confirm. Skidmore did indicate previously that they
had done some work in this area in submitting their stormwater management plan to assure it was working correctly.
During the last discussion we reviewed this issue the only site change being the addition of 3 permeable parking spaces
This particular project would not contribute to the existing condition, flooding or runoff issues.
Discussion ensued among the Board regarding waiver of site plan. It was the consensus of the Board that a
determination in the type of Special Use Permit granted would determine the outcome of either Waiver of Site Plan or
Site Plan Review.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated he will open the meeting for public comment. Our discussion this evening relates
specifically to the conditions. These should be concise and limited to 2 minutes.
Robert Coughlin spoke regarding the sidewalks. It is an important issue and safety feature.
Mark Torpey, Chairman spoke regarding imposing the site plan regulations on the applicant. This determination will be
made once a determination is made on the type of Special Use Permit granted by the Board.
Susan Barden, Principal Planner stated the sidewalks are an offsite improvement. With a renewable or temporary
Special Use Permit the Board would still want the onsite improvements with the parking.
Peter Belmonte, spoke regarding correspondence from the neighbors and not hearing their concerns being reviewed.
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED BY THE BOARD
-Letter from Nadine Shadlock, dated May 14, 2020.
-Letter from Gary and Elizabeth Parker, dated May 11, 2020
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 6 of 10
-Letter from Jennifer & Jill McMahon, dated May 11, 2020.
-Letter from Robert Coughlin, dated May 11, 2020
-Letter from Kathryn & John Benaquista, dated May 17, 2020
Discussion ensued among the Board concerning the conditions to be imposed on the Special Use Permit.
It was the consensus of the Board to defer this application to the next meeting providing each Board Member the
opportunity to review and collectively determine a list of conditions as well as the type of Special Use Permit to be
issued.
Mark Torpey, Chairman requested the applicant’s agent to also compile a list of conditions as well. This will be
discussed and reviewed at the next Planning Board Meeting.
3. 20200188 CHOW BELLA, 50 West Avenue, special use permit for reuse of an existing building for dog
Related retails and services in the Transect-5 (T-5) District.
4. 20200187 CHOW BELLA, 50 West Avenue, site plan review for reuse of an existing building for dog
Related retails and services in the Transect-5 (T-5) District.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated this is a re-use of a commercial building. Before the Board this evening is an application
for a Special Use Permit as well as Site Plan Review. This is located in the T-5 District. This application requires
Saratoga County Planning Boards approval so no action will be taken on this project this evening.
SEQRA:
Type II action and exempt from further SEQRA review.
Applicant: Marijo English
Agent: Michael Bianchino, Lansing Engineering; Matt Chauvin, Attorney
DISCLOSURE:
Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman disclosed that Marijo English is the sister of my immediate neighbor. Early on I discussed
the process of application for the Planning Board with her. We did not discuss the project.
Mr. Bianchino stated the site is located at 50 West Avenue. This is a single parcel located in the T-5 Neighborhood
Center Transect Zone which permits this use with a Special Use Permit. The site is a 7,500 square foot single story
building. There is an existing paved unstrapped parking area along with an accessory shed structure. The applicant
is proposing to lease this building specializing the sale of dog food, supplies and services called Chow Bella.
The interior of the building is being modified to accommodate the new use. No exterior or site improvements are
proposed except for stripping the parking lot. Mr. Bianchino provided a visual of the floor plan for the Planning Board’s
review noting the office area, grooming area, training area, several self wash stations, dog park area and a café bar
waiting area that will serve customers. Mr. Bianchino provided a visual of the City’s Parking Code noting the calculation
of parking spaces required. Based on square footage, the café area and employees 12 parking spaces are required,
and the applicant is proposing 13. The existing building has water and sewer connections which is adequate to meet the
needs of the proposed business. Stormwater management and the amount of impervious surface on the site will not be
changed. There will be no impact. No outdoor activities are proposed. Hours of operation will be 9am to 9pm.
There is NYSDEC wetlands north of the parcel; the 100 foot buffer appears to encroach on the parcel. As a result we do
not offer a landscaping plan. A visual of the existing site frontage was provided and the applicant is proposing the
installation of some concrete planters and flower and scrubs in front of the building without disturbing or violating the
buffer for the wetland. Examples were provided. Mr. Bianchino reviewed the criteria for exemption of site plan review
and requested the Board consider waiver of site plan review.
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 7 of 10
Mark Torpey, Chairman, thanked the applicant and applicant’s agent for addressing all of the Board concerns noted at
the workshop. If the Board were to approve a Special Use Permit for retail sales and service uses for the property and
the property changes hands do the uses sunset and the next property owner or lessee start from scratch.
Susan Barden, Principal Planner stated the Board would grant the Special Use Permit for retail service uses for that
particular property. If the property were to change hands or if another lessee wanted to use that property or site and
building we would look at whether or not those uses were consistent with what the next person would want to do. So it
could be flexible. There is a section in the Code 7.1.2 Special Use Permit or Exemptions does note that a property
would be subject to Special Use Permit if there was either an increase in the number of parking spaces or the proposed
action altered impermeable or building coverage by more than 2% or 1200 square feet. So, we would review that as well
to determine if it would require a new or modified Special Use Permit for any new or different use.
Mark Torpey, Chairman questioned the previous use which was retail versus the proposed use.
Susan Barden, Principal Planner stated staff reviewed the proposal and determined the previous use was more
wholesale rather than retail operation. We encourage the Board to be flexible so that when a future applicant were to
propose something to that particular site a future use could be allowed without requiring a Special Use Permit.
Discussion ensued among the Board regarding proper signage indicating a wetland area.
Mr. Bianchino stated they will install proper signage outside indicating the wetland area and not to be used by the dogs.
Inside area available for dog use.
Ruth Horton questioned if the dog uses being co-located with the café area are there any health department concerns.
Ms. English stated this is not going to be a restaurant per se. It is not the largest part of the business. Coffee or wine
while waiting for the dog to be groomed.
Mr. Chauvin, Attorney for the applicant stated any applicable Department of Health regulations for service of food or
drink would be required and adhered to. The applicant would be subject to permitting and review by the DOH. Any
deviation from those regulations would necessitate the revocation of the permit.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated everything you have proposed seems appropriate. You have answered all the concerns
voiced by the Board. Installation of proper signage denoting the location of the wetlands and proper area for dog use
was addressed.
PUBLIC HEARING:
Mark Torpey, Chairman opened the public hearing at 8:17 P.M.
Mark Torpey, Chairman asked if anyone in the audience wished to comment on this application. None heard.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated the public hearing will remain open. The application will be heard at the next Planning
Board Meeting scheduled for May 28, 2020.
5. ZBA 20200208 STEWART’S SHOP REDEVELOPMENT, 402 Lake Avenue, consideration of SEQRA
Lead Agency (area variances) for the redevelopment/expansion of this facility for a 4,130 sq. ft. convenience
store with two self-serve gasoline canopies in the Rural Residential (RR) District.
Mark Torpey, Chairman stated the Board is in a position this evening to seek Lead Agency Status for SEQRA.
Tonight we will become familiar with the project and provide the applicant with some feedback relative to the
SEQRA analysis. We are familiar with this intersection and the traffic in this area and how any transportation
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 8 of 10
traffic issues can be mitigated.
Applicant: Stewart Shops
Agent: Chuck Marshall, Real Estate Representative, Stewart Shops
Mr. Marshall stated the applicant is proposing the redevelopment of this store at the corner of Lake and Gilbert in the
City. This store is located in the Rural Residential District that received a use variance in 1990. At that time the
ZBA issued a SEQRA Negative Declaration. Because the application has changed and it is now an unlisted action a
new SEQRA determination is required. The increase from a 2300 sq ft. to a 4100 sq ft store and the change from 8
fueling stations to 12. We are proposing utilizing the existing driveways one off of Gilbert Road and one off of Lake
Avenue. We are not proposing any traffic mitigating proposals as our driveways are compliant with NYS-DOT
standards and we believe have adequate sight distance. We are seeking three area variances from the ZBA.
They generated the referral to the Planning Board for Lead Agency Status.
Mark Torpey, Chairman questioned if the applicant could acquire more property to allow the project to align better
with Weibel Avenue and provide easier turning radius for truck deliveries.
Mr. Marshall stated the current understanding between Stewarts, the DOT and the City is this is not something
Stewart’s is going to pursue and bear the costs of. At this current time this is not on the table. The acquisition of
additional land at this time is to accommodate store development.
Mark Torpey, Chairman questioned the increase in pedestrian traffic as well as vehicular traffic to the new store.
Mr. Marshall stated they believe 45 new cars in the AM and PM peaks. Stewart’s is not a destination location.
It is 65% pass by use. All or most of our existing customers are on the road. There is not a high trip generation
assignment with our stores. We have
Mark Torpey, Chairman questioned due to the 1.25 acres of disturbance will a SWWPP be required, and what is the
duration of this project.
Mr. Marshall stated a SWPPP is required. The project will take 14-18 weeks once a shovel is in the ground to
opening in full capacity. The new store will be built, the gas pumps will be added and the new store opened.
Mark Torpey, Chairman questioned if we will require a deferral from the DOT for SEQRA.
Susan Barden, Principal Planner stated a letter was sent to the DOT requesting the Planning Board be granted Lead
Agency Status for SEQRA and that was dated today. They have 30 days to respond. The ZBA and DRC have
deferred Lead Agency Status to the Planning Board and these are the only involved agencies.
Bradley Birge, Administrator, Planning and Economic Development stated there are a number of newer Stewart’s
Facilities in the area. Jones Road, and Schuylerville as well just to provide a sense of what is changing.
What is the size in comparison to those stores.
Mr. Marshall provided information to the Board Jones Road is a good comparison but for a new store Schuylerville
would be the better comparison except that store is right on the road. This store is about 4,000 square feet and
at this vicinity the attached shed will allow for storage of equipment.
Discussion ensued regarding input from DOT regarding increased traffic and safety for this intersection.
Mr. Marshall stated he will have Creighton Manning provide information to the Board regarding traffic.
Mark Torpey, Chairman made a motion in the matter of the Stewart’s Shop Redevelopment, 402 Lake Avenue,
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 9 of 10
for the Planning Board to seek Lead Agency Status for SEQRA Determination. Ruth Horton seconded the
motion.
Mark Torpey, Chairman asked if there was any further discussion. None heard.
VOTE:
Mark Torpey, Chairman, in favor; Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman, in favor; Ruth Horton, in favor; Todd Fabozzi, in
favor; Sara Boivin, in favor; Lexie Bonitatibus, in favor; Kerry Mayo, in favor
MOTION PASSES: 7-0
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
Mark Torpey, Chairman made a motion to approve the minutes of the March 12, 2020 Planning Board Meeting as
submitted. Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman seconded the motion.
VOTE:
Mark Torpey, Chairman, in favor; Jamin Totino, Vice Chairman, in favor; Ruth Horton, in favor; Todd Fabozzi, in favor;
Sara Boivin, in favor; Lexie Bonitatibus, in favor; Kerry Mayo, in favor
UPCOMING MEETINGS:
Planning Board Workshop, Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 5:00 P.M.
Planning Board Meeting, Thursday, May 28, 2020 at 6:00 PM.
MOTION TO ADJOURN:
There being no further business to discuss Mark Torpey, Chairman adjourned the meeting at 8:43 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane M. Buzanowski
Recording Secretary
APPROVED 6-11-20
City of Saratoga Springs – Planning Board May 14, 2020 - Page 10 of 10
Agenda
CITY OF SARATOGA SPRINGS Mark Torpey, Chair
Jamin Totino,Vice Chair
P LANNING B OARD Lexie Bonitatibus
Todd Fabozzi
City Hall - 474 Broadway Ruth Horton
Saratoga Springs, New York12866 Sara Boivin
Tel: 518-587-3550 fax: 518-580-9480 Kerry Mayo
Shawna Jenks, Alternate
PLANNING BOARD MEETING - THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2020
RECREATION CENTER, 15 VANDERBILT AVE
DRAFT AGENDA
6:00 PM
NOTE: THIS MEETING IS BEING HELD VIRTUALLY USING ZOOM VIDEOCONFERENCING
- To view the webcast live, or once recorded, go to www.saratoga-springs.org. - To
participate or provide input during the meeting, register here. - Input may also be emailed,
no later than 12PM of the day of the meeting, to jennifer.merriman@saratogasprings.org.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
A. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES:
B. POSSIBLE CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Note: The intent of a consent agenda is to identify any applications that appear to be ‘approvable’
without need for further evaluation or discussion. If anyone wishes to further discuss any proposed
consent agenda item, then that item would be pulled from the ‘consent agenda’ and dealt with
individually.
C. APPLICATIONS UNDER CONSIDERATION - Note: agenda item discussion will not begin past 10:00pm
1. APP. #20200155 GUARINO/HANERSUBDIVISION, 21 Park Pl., final subdivision review of a
proposed two-lot residential subdivision in the Urban Residential – 4 (UR-4) District.
2. APP. #20190604 THE CLUETT HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST, 2 Clement Ave.,
permanent special use permit for a neighborhood bed and breakfast within an Urban
Revised 05/13/20 - Page 1 of 3
Residential – 1 (UR-1) District.
3. APP. #20200188 CHOW BELLA, 50 West Ave., special use permit for reuse of an existing
building for dog-related retail sales and services in the Transect-5 (T-5)
Neighborhood Center District.
4. APP. #20200187 CHOW BELLA, 50 West Ave., site plan review for reuse of an existing
building and site for dog-related retail sales and services in the Transect-5 (T-5)
Neighbor Center District.
5. ZBA APP. #20200208 STEWART’S SHOP REDEVELOPMENT, 402 Lake Ave, consideration of
SEQRA Lead Agency (area variances) for the redevelopment/expansion of this facility
for a 4,130 sq.ft. convenience store with two self-serve gasoline canopies in the
Rural Residential (RR) District.
D. UPCOMING MEETINGS:
May 28 (workshop: May 21 5pm)
NOTE: This agenda is subject to change. Please check www.saratoga-springs.org for latest version.
SARATOGA SPRINGS PLANNING BOARD
- GUIDELINES FOR PUBLIC INPUT -
The Planning Board reviews a wide variety of applications and its primary
responsibilities include four land development decisions including New York State
Environmental Quality Review (SEQR), Special Use Permit (SUP), Site Plan (SP) and
Subdivision (SD).
The rules regarding public input depend on the type of application before the
Planning Board.
SEQR and SP: The Planning Board reserves the right to allow public commentas
deemed necessary. The total duration for all public comments should not exceed
fifteen (15) minutes with each individual speaker limited to a total of two (2)
minutes.
SUP and SD: The Planning Board is required to conduct a public hearingwith proper
notice to all neighbors residing within 250 feet of the project. Each individual
speaker will be limited to a total of three (3) minutes.
For all applications: Speakers providing public input will be timed to ensure
Revised 05/13/20 - Page 2 of 3
compliance. Applicants’ initial presentation to the Board will be limited to 15
minutes.
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR SPEAKERS:
Planning Board members are volunteers appointed by the Mayor to serve seven-year
terms. Each member has a single vote and a quorum (4 or more members) is
required to vote on an application.
• All meetings are video recorded and webcast; please provide public input in a
respectful manner.
• Public input will occur after the Applicant has presented the project to the
Planning Board.
• Speak clearly into the microphone and state your name and address.
• Speakers will be timed – two (2) minute limit for public comment and three (3)
minute limit for public hearing. Be concise, it’s OK to speak for less than the
time limit.
• Individuals may not donate their allotted time to other speakers.
• Face the Planning Board at all times, do not engage in direct discussions with the
audience.
• Do not repeat points made by previous speakers.
• No laughing, heckling, speaking or clapping from the audience.
• Comments to the Board should specifically relate to the application under
consideration and be directly relevant to the evaluation criteria.
• It is best to identify a designated speaker to summarize comments from multiple
individuals.
• Written comments will be distributed to the Board and made part of the public
record.
• Please note that the Planning Board has no jurisdiction over code enforcement.
The Planning Board appreciates meaningful and thoughtful input from the
community.
To learn more about the application review process, please contact the City Planning
Department.
Susan Barden: 518-587-3550 x2493 susan.barden@saratoga-springs.org
Revised 05/13/20 - Page 3 of 3
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